How to travel sustainably in South Africa

Sustainable travel in South Africa offers a unique opportunity to explore the country’s breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity while contributing to the preservation of its natural and cultural heritage. From eco-friendly lodges in the heart of wildlife reserves to community-based tourism initiatives, South Africa is embracing sustainable practices. These ways of how to travel sustainably in South Africa, protect iconic environments such as the Kruger National Park and the Cape Floral Region.

Here are a few sustainable travel tips to consider when travelling in South Africa:

Ethical Safaris

Ethical safaris in South Africa offer a responsible and enriching way to experience the country’s iconic wildlife while ensuring the protection and welfare of animals and their habitats. These safaris prioritise conservation, focusing on sustainable practices that minimise environmental impact and contribute to the preservation of species and ecosystems.

Ethical safari operators work closely with local communities, providing education, employment, and fair economic benefits. They also avoid exploitative activities, such as canned hunting or wildlife interactions that could harm animals. By choosing an ethical safari, you can see South Africa’s wildlife in their natural habitats, and still support conservation.

Here’s how you can help by being an eco-friendly traveller:

• Minimise your flights by staying at one lodge for longer instead of flying between multiple lodges
• Choose walking or bicycle safaris instead of motorised options
• Stay at eco-friendly lodges

Staying Sustainably

Another way of how to travel sustainably in South Africa is by using sustainable accommodation. This is a growing trend and offers travellers eco-friendly options that prioritise environmental responsibility and community engagement. From luxurious lodges to charming guest houses, these accommodations minimise ecological footprint through energy efficiency, water conservation, and waste reduction.

Many of these establishments are built using sustainable materials and are powered by renewable energy sources. Additionally, they often source food locally, support local artisans, and contribute to conservation efforts. By using these, visitors enjoy a comfortable and eco-conscious stay and also support the protection of South Africa’s diverse ecosystems and the well-being of local communities.

These establishments go above and beyond when it comes to offering sustainable accommodation:

Grootbos Private Nature Reserve, Western Cape
Grootbos has been officially certified as carbon-negative since 2018 and runs numerous long-term projects to maintain this status.  Initiatives include reforestation, fire management, investments in renewable electricity generation, the recycling of solid waste, processing of compostable material and poverty alleviation through community development.

Umlani Bushcamp, Timbavati Nature Reserve, Greater Kruger Park Area
Umlani Bushcamp is a member of the Timbavati Association which ensures conservation by maintaining the biodiversity of species.  They also operate 100% with solar energy and have a recycling programme which includes composting of organic waste.  Besides many other initiatives, Umlani also employs from their local community and at least 80% of their employees are local.  Guests also can also participate in the many initiatives Umlani is involved in.

iKhayalamafu, Drakensberg
At iKhayalamafu guests can stay with peace of mind that their carbon footprint is close to zero.  Power is sourced through solar and hydro-generation and all alien species have been eradicated from the property.  Water comes from nature’s fresh mountain streams and with no boundary fence, wildlife roams freely. 

Conservation Programmes

Conservation programmes are vital in safeguarding endangered species, such as rhinos, elephants, and big cats, and preserving their natural habitats. Many conservation initiatives involve local communities, creating sustainable livelihoods through eco-tourism and education. This helps foster a deep connection between people and the environment.

Programmes often include anti-poaching efforts, habitat restoration, wildlife monitoring and cutting-edge technology and research to ensure long-term survival of species. By supporting these conservation programmes, travellers contribute to the preservation of South Africa’s unique ecosystems. This ensures that future generations can experience its natural heritage.

Here are some ways to get involved:

Kariega Conservation Experience, Eastern Cape
As a conservation volunteer on a Big 5 game reserve you will be involved in data collection to aid conservation at the reserve.  This will include elephant impact monitoring, leopard movement camera monitoring, the recording of lion kills, rhino monitoring and the cataloguing of birds for the Birds in Reserve Project.  Volunteers may also be involved in the capturing of wild animals, game introduction and fire management which is important in the management of ecosystems.

Marine Big 5 Conservation, Western Cape
Here volunteers get to work alongside marine biologists to learn about the Marine Big 5 species which include sharks, whales, dolphins, penguins, and the Cape fur seal.  Daily activities will involve educating tourists about marine conservation, conducting research that supports conservation projects and other ethical wildlife tasks and interactions such as bird rehabilitation. 

Rhino Orphan Sanctuary, Mpumalanga
This sanctuary’s team rescues, rehabilitates, re-wilds, releases and protects rhinos.  As a volunteer, you will learn about African wildlife conservation from leading experts, help care for and feed orphaned rhinos, join game drives, night drives and bush walks as well as live and work with volunteers from different parts of the world. 

When thinking about how to travel sustainably in South Africa, put a different spin on your travel itinerary by participating in conservation efforts, supporting local, and enjoying experiences that prioritise environment and culture. By choosing sustainable travel options, you can help to ensure that South Africa’s incredible beauty and diverse ecosystems remain intact for future generations, all while enjoying an authentic and meaningful travel experience at the same time.