At Original Travel, we often have the ‘conservation conversation’ about how tourism and conservation are inextricably linked. Sadly, we’re all too familiar with the impact of climate change on animal extinction. We know that it can be tricky to know where to begin when travelling responsibly and that 'doing our bit' can look different to different people. So, if you’re wondering how to support wildlife conservation on your next holiday, we’ve compiled a few of our favourite ways to contribute, in places where you can make a real impact and help make animal extinction, well, extinct. Read on to find out more…
1. Provide hands-on help
2. Dive into action
3. Philantourism
4. Bask in biodiversity
5. Guilt-free travel
Provide hands-on help
We’re big believers that travel can and should be a force for good, so we’ve partnered with numerous conservation projects across the globe. Animal-loving adventurers can offer hands-on help with wildlife projects, be it joining the AfriCat team, who are field researchers in Namibia and rehabilitate cheetahs, wild dogs and hyenas, or visiting an elephant orphanage in Nairobi, Kenya. Alternatively, those with deep pockets might want to take part in the incredible Rhinos Without Borders initiative, where you can help relocate a rhino from South Africa (where poaching is a real problem) to Botswana.
Dive into action
At first glance, the Maldives may seem like a haven of hedonism. Wondering how to support wildlife conservation here? Visit one of the sumptuous yet sustainable resorts, such as Six Senses Laamu, to balance hedonism with helping out. Inspiring the next generation to care for the planet, the team at Laamu run a dedicated programme for six- to 16-year-olds, pairing them one-on-one with a marine biologist to learn about the underwater world and marine conservation. Pretty cool stuff. Meanwhile, 4,000 miles east in Raja Ampat, Indonesia, the Misool Foundation focuses on protecting sharks and oceanic mantas, whose numbers have increased 25-fold in six years thanks to its work. Guests staying at Misool Eco Resort not only contribute to this foundation as part of their stay, but can join research dives and stays hosted by marine conservation specialists to learn more about the incredible work they’re doing.
-body.jpg)
Image by Francesco Ungaro/Pexels
Philantourism
If cleaning coral reefs isn't your bag, but you still want your holiday to have a positive impact – our concept of Philantourism could be the way to go. Philantourism is the act of choosing a holiday destination that will directly benefit the local economy, including conservation projects. We've curated a number of itineraries in Europe that directly support wildlife conservation and habitat preservation through 'rewilding', whether that’s spotting bears and wolves on an Italy wildlife-watching holiday, embarking on a birding safari in Portugal, or tracking bison through the pristine landscapes of Romania. A little further afield, in Rwanda, Kenya and Zambia, there are several properties and projects where tourism directly funds anti-poaching and conservation, helping to stop animal extinction.
Bask in biodiversity
If Sir David Attenborough has got you passionate about how to support wildlife conservation, and you’re keen to truly appreciate the planet we live on, then we know just the places to recommend. First up, there's the classic nature-filled destination, Costa Rica. Fun fact: it represents around 0.3% of the world's landmass but is home to 5% of the planet's species. The Galapagos Islands are another wildlife winner, hosting a vast array of marine and land animals, some of which aren't found anywhere else in the world. However, if you think you have to travel far and wide to see amazing animals, think again. Our wildlife holidays in Europe focus on the rich fauna that's right on our doorstep. Romania's Danube Delta is a concentrated hub of fascinating flora and fauna, particularly migratory bird species. Our top tip? Pair this trip with bear-watching in Transylvania.
Image by Sam Camp/Getty Images/iStockphoto
Guilt-free travel
All this might sound wonderful, but how can hopping on a plane be anything but damaging to the planet? You'll be pleased to hear that we offset 100% of our staff and clients' carbon emissions for both air and ground travel. Plus, we offer a whole host of train-only itineraries throughout Europe. And it doesn’t stop there. Enjoy your holiday that little bit extra with the knowledge that a portion of our profits go towards our worthy Foundation, which supports numerous wildlife, humanitarian and environmental initiatives across the globe. Bonus.
Header image by Frank Monnot/Fotolia
