Sustainable Travel in Africa

Together with the World Tourism Organization, the United Nations officially declared 2017 the International Year of Sustainable Tourism for Development. As tourism continues to grow, with more than 1.2 billion people traveling internationally and more than 6 billion traveling domestically, it’s more important than ever to actively pursue and support sustainable tourism.

The two organizations plan to promote tourism respectful not only of people, cultures and religions but the environment as well, in hopes of preserving countries’ resources and natural beauty.

With its expansive wealth of flora and fauna, its breathtaking natural landscapes and cultural heritage, Africa offers a largely untapped tourism potential, but one the UN and WTO feel needs to be handled carefully and consciously.

The African continent represents more than 15 percent of the world’s population, but only attracts a small share of the world’s tourists. Africa saw 65.3 million tourists in 2014, compared to the 17.4 million international tourists in 1990, marking exceptional growth in recent years. With tourism growing so quickly, it’s more important than ever that sustainable travel practices are put in place.

Three of the Sustainable Development Goals for 2030 target tourism, including the conservation and sustaining of oceans, seas and marine resources. In November 2016, the African Charter on Sustainable and Responsible Tourism was signed by 20 countries, marking a continued effort to respect and promote sustainability as the nation continues to see more international travelers. While these types of initiatives are put in place, we as travelers can make efforts at choosing sustainable travel choices, from eco-conscious accommodations to environmentally friendly tours and experiences.