Green, Socially Responsible Travel

Simply by reading this and learning about Tanzania, you have taken the first step toward being a responsible and ethical traveler. Trying out just a few Swahili phrases works wonders in making an effort to truly connect with Tanzanians, but there’s more you can do to be a responsible traveler:

Follow the “take only photographs, leave only footprints” rule; do not litter, disturb plant life, or take anything from the wild.
Please ensure that no trash is left in the campsites or on trails. If you bring it, you must pack it out.
All toilet paper used on the trail must be packed out in biodegradable dog waste bags. Our staff will collect your trash each day and bring it to the base for proper disposal.
Be aware of the fragility of your surroundings. The mountain wilderness is a fragile ecosystem, especially above the treeline. A carelessly discarded piece of trash or toilet paper above 12,000 feet will be there for many years, and a step into the vegetation off the trail can undo a century’s worth of growth.
Remove any unneeded packaging from items you are bringing on your trek before you leave home. You can recycle packaging such as cardboard or plastic in your home country; you cannot do so in Tanzania.
Keep any used batteries until you return home. Tanzania does not yet have recycling programs that will handle hazardous materials such as rechargeable batteries. There are many resources for properly disposing of old batteries in North America.
Bring only biodegradable soaps, shampoos, and conditioners.
Set realistic expectations! Tanzania is a developing nation, and certain small luxuries that we take for granted are not always available. For example, diet soda, ice cubes, certain foods (like cold cuts or cheeses), hairdryers, etc. are not readily available. But these little things don’t amount to much when you put them into perspective. Relax. Enjoy the trekking experience!
Communicate openly with your guide if you feel conflicted. You may experience culture shock, but there is no need to feel uncomfortable during your trek or safari. Your guide understands that you are far from home, and he welcomes your questions. You will more thoroughly enjoy your trip if you voice your questions and clear up any social or cultural misunderstandings.
Look beyond the surface. Thomson Safaris continues to be a leader in ethical, community-based travel. Keep in mind that just because someone is wearing second-hand clothes or living in a house without electricity, that does not mean he or she does not lead a rich and fulfilling life. You will be hard-pressed to meet many people in the world as hospitable and joyful as Tanzanians.
Support porters’ rights and be aware of Thomson Safaris’ porter ethics. Thomson Safaris has the highest standards in supporting your hard-working porters. Your Kilimanjaro porters receive one of the largest compensation packages on the mountain, heavy-duty all-weather uniforms, cold-weather sleeping pads, sleeping accommodations, guaranteed salaries, medical treatment, and free transportation to and from all treks. More information on how you can support porters’ rights.
Know that tourism is a valuable resource in Tanzania. While no one could ever claim that travel is the sole solution for Tanzania’s financial challenges, fair and sustainable tourism plays an important role in Tanzania’s economy. By traveling with Thomson Safaris, you can feel confident in your contribution to responsible and culturally sensitive practices. We are committed to empowering Tanzanians as colleagues, friends, and compatriots.