Zimbabwe tailor made holidays

Planet

CARBON REDUCTION Our commitment to offering holidays with a positive impact is exemplified through our innovative approach and our groundbreaking carbon scoring system, a world-first initiative enabling us to meticulously evaluate the environmental footprint of each tailor-made trip. Actively engaging with our suppliers, we encourage their participation in our carbon-scoring survey, fostering collaboration that yields valuable insights into unique carbon scores and identifies areas for sustainability excellence and improvement. Transparency is paramount, and we extend it to our customers by individually assessing each trip, providing a personalised carbon score for your tailor-made holiday. This empowers you to make informed choices aligned with your values. The host prioritises low-carbon travel options, collaborating with partners like Somalisa Camp and Bumi Hills Safari Lodge, both of which are entirely solar-powered. These efforts significantly reduce the trip's carbon footprint. The lodges also employ sustainable building practices, including using recycled materials in their construction and planting 20 trees for every one used in the rebuild of Somalisa. Additionally, the trip includes activities like walking safaris, canoeing, and boat safaris, all of which promote human-powered transport, reducing reliance on vehicles. ENVIRONMENT AND WILDLIFE This trip supports both conservation and wildlife protection efforts by partnering with eco-conscious lodges, such as Somalisa Camp, which has received the Gold Green Tourism Certification for its sustainability practices. Activities such as walking safaris and canoeing along the Zambezi River immerse guests in the wildlife while reducing environmental impact. Zambezi Expeditions, with its focus on tracking game on foot, also supports local conservation by employing expert local guides and contributing to wildlife preservation in the region. The trip supports protected areas like Hwange and Matusadona National Parks, where the fees help fund ongoing conservation and rewilding projects. Ahead of your departure, we ensure you are well-prepared through our pre-travel online 'travel pack.' This comprehensive, paper-free resource acts as your guide, providing essential details and valuable insights for the upcoming adventure. Practical guidelines on mindful packing are included to minimise luggage and reduce overall weight, contributing to lower fuel consumption.

People

LOCAL ECONOMY
We are absolutely committed to the principle of responsible travel, and part of this means ensuring that local communities are at the centre of our supply chain on every facet of our itineraries. To enhance our customers' experiences and foster a deeper understanding of the delicate ecological balance of the regions they visit, our partners primarily employ local guides. These knowledgeable guides possess valuable insights into the land, wildlife, and environment.

This tailor-made holiday supports local communities by engaging with initiatives driven by the African Bush Camps Foundation. Guests at Somalisa Camp can participate in cultural visits to nearby villages, gaining insights into Zimbabwe’s rich heritage while contributing to the region’s economy. The foundation actively works with rural communities surrounding wildlife areas to help them achieve economic sustainability through education, conservation programs, and partnerships with local schools. By staying at camps like Somalisa, guests directly support these initiatives and help fund long-term community development.

EMPLOYMENT, INCLUSIVITY AND DIVERSITY
Somalisa Camp is part of African Bush Camps, which is committed to creating employment opportunities for individuals in local communities across Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Botswana. Skills development and conservation programs are integral to their operations, ensuring that marginalized groups also benefit from tourism. The camp provides accommodations tailored for guests with disabilities upon request, reflecting a commitment to inclusivity.