Eco-Friendly Safaris.
Eco-Friendly Safaris: How to Travel Responsibly
“Explore Africa’s Wild Beauty Without Leaving a Harmful Footprint”
At Lucky Moon Adventure, we believe that a safari should do more than show you the beauty of Africa it should help protect it. As demand for wildlife tourism grows, so does our responsibility to travel mindfully.
That’s why we design and support eco-friendly safaris that prioritize sustainability, conservation, and community impact.
Here’s your guide on how to travel responsibly on safari, ensuring your journey gives back to the lands and people who make it so special.
1. Choose Responsible Safari Operators & Camps
Start by booking with a tour company that practices ethical tourism. Look for:
- Eco-certified lodges and camps that use solar power, recycle, and minimize waste
- Operators who support local conservation and anti-poaching efforts
- Guides from local communities, fairly paid and professionally trained
- Small-group or low-impact safaris that reduce environmental disturbance
Lucky Moon Adventure partners only with lodges and reserves that meet strict environmental and ethical standards.
2. Support Wildlife Conservation
Every safari should be an opportunity to protect wildlife, not harm it.
Do:
- Visit national parks and private conservancies that reinvest fees into conservation
- Respect wildlife viewing rules—never disturb animals for a better photo
- Choose destinations with rewilding or protection programs for elephants, rhinos, big cats, and more
- Donate or get involved with trusted organizations like the African Parks Network, Save the Rhino, or Big Life Foundation
Don’t:
- Ride animals or support entertainment attractions with captive wildlife
- Buy products made from endangered species (ivory, animal skin, etc.)
3. Stay at Eco-Lodges That Give Back
A growing number of safari lodges are eco-engineered to reduce impact while offering 5-star comfort.
Look for:
- Solar-powered electricity and water systems
- Rainwater harvesting and water recycling
- Zero plastic and composting toilets
- Organic, locally sourced food
- Lodges that hire and train local staff and support schools or health clinics nearby
Many of Lucky Moon’s lodge partners reinvest up to 25% of profits into community and conservation work.
4. Offset Your Carbon Footprint
International flights and long drives have environmental impact. Here’s how to reduce it:
- Fly non-stop when possible (fewer emissions)
- Offset your flights through reliable programs (e.g. My Climate, Gold Standard)
- Choose fly-in safaris that use fuel-efficient aircraft
- Pack light—less weight = lower emissions
- Limit your energy use at lodges (turn off lights, reuse towels, etc.)
5. Respect Local Cultures and Communities
Traveling responsibly also means supporting the people who call these landscapes home.
Do:
- Buy locally made souvenirs rather than mass-produced goods
- Ask before photographing people
- Learn a few words of the local language
- Tip fairly and respectfully
- Choose tours that include authentic, respectful cultural interactions
Don’t:
- Give handouts to children (it encourages begging over schooling)
- Assume “poverty porn” experiences are ethical tourism they often aren’t
Lucky Moon Adventure includes community-focused experiences that are respectful, educational, and empowering for all.
6. Be a Conscious Safari Photographer
Responsible photography helps protect wildlife and the wild places they roam.
Best Practices:
- Don’t use flash around animals
- Stay in your vehicle unless on a guided walk
- Avoid crowding an animal for a shot your guide knows the right distance
- Never post real-time locations of endangered species (e.g., rhinos)
7. Travel Light, Leave No Trace
You’re entering delicate ecosystems. Be gentle:
- Take all litter with you
- Bring a reusable water bottle and avoid single-use plastics
- Don’t collect souvenirs from nature (bones, feathers, shells)
Choose biodegradable toiletries and reef-safe sunscreen
Travel with Purpose
When you choose an eco-friendly safari, you’re not just witnessing the beauty of the African wilderness you’re helping protect it for future generations.
At Lucky Moon Adventure, every journey is designed to respect the Earth, support local people, and protect Africa’s iconic wildlife.
Book a Safari That Makes a Difference
Ready to explore responsibly? Let us help you plan a custom, eco-friendly safari that aligns with your values and leaves a lasting, positive impact.
Contact us today to start your responsible safari journey.