A Sustainable Vacation in Kenya
A vacation in Kenya is bound to be beautiful. From the snow-capped mountains to the Rift Valley to the sandy beaches and the arid Savannahs. Kenya’s natural beauty is truly spectacular. Did you know Kenya is home to 11% of the world’s avian species? There are also 25,000 different animal species in Kenya. There are tons of wildlife and exotic birds flying through the gorgeous African sunset. Kenya’s diverse culture and heritage are also widely admired. Despite various ethnic groups, the Kenyan people embrace unity, peace, and acceptance as one country. And so, a Kenya trip is much needed for everyone to experience.
Kenya’s ecotourism not only conserves the environment but its local communities. It is fueled by both public and private initiatives and revolves around Africa’s rich wildlife. So, travelers can contribute to the greater good and still see the beauty of this marvelous African country.
About Ecotourism in Kenya
In Kenya, there are over 23 National Parks, 28 National Reserves, and 6 Marine Reserves just waiting for you to be explored in your vacation in Kenya. About 8% of the country is designated for wildlife conservation, and Kenya alone has 6 UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Ecotourism Kenya, one of seven private-sector associations that make up the Kenya Tourism Federation (KTF) has 4 principles: Environmental conservation, education and empowerment, social responsibility and culture and heritage preservation. Ecotourism Kenya has their eco-rated certification scheme as Gold, Silver, Bronze and those certified facilities can be found on their website. They evaluate tourism accommodation facilities on its environmental, economic and socio-cultural performance against set criteria.
In 2019, Ecotourism Kenya started a collaboration with Travelife for Accommodation. Travelife for Accommodation is an international accommodation sustainability certification scheme. Ecotourism Kenya, as a regional sustainability label, have signed an agreement to collaborate on certification for accommodation providers in Kenya.
Kenya’s national development plan called “Vision 2030” is to lead Kenya and achieve a transformation for the national economy including Kenya’s Ecotourism. As of 2021, there are over 100 eco-rated facilities in Kenya dedicated to following African ecotourism practices. Such as investing in renewable energy sources, waste segregation, and more.
Another is The Millennium Fuel Project which started in 1990. It is a project that encourages women to produce their briquettes to create sustainable businesses and sell the surplus to safari camps or lodges in Maasai Mara. This project aims to save the remaining forests and discourage tree-felling and charcoal burning in Africa’s reserve.
Kenya Ecotourism Initiatives
Ecotourism in Kenya is always sought after by local communities. African ecotourism strives to involve travelers by introducing travelers to local people, customs, and wildlife through local events held to raise money.
The Rhino Charge is a yearly off-road 4×4 competition in Kenya. Whenever travelers participate in these local events, the funds raised are dedicated to supporting activities of the Rhino Ark Kenya Charitable Trust which is an NGO with a goal that works towards the conservation and protection of Kenya’s mountain range ecosystems (Water Towers).
The Lewa Safari Marathon is a yearly event and is rated one of the world’s top 10 marathons. This marathon is a sporting event in Kenya. With individuals enjoying an unforgettable run with some of Africa’s most iconic wildlife joining them. The funds raised are to help wildlife conservation, universities, clinics, and community programs across Kenya.
Unique Ecotours in Kenya
There are different ecotours in Kenya that promote education and protection. From February to April, The East African Whale Shark Trust organizes eco-tours for travelers to dive with scientists in the Indian Ocean to studying whale shark behavior, physiology, and movement. This whale shark safari is an educational eco-tour where travelers can volunteer and observe the ocean and raise awareness about the whale shark species.
Ecotourism in Kenya helps conserve natural resources, provide incentives in local communities, and protect endangered species. Africa’s ecotourism is also a sustainable tourism market that promotes a sense of self-reliance for the culture and to African people. So, for your next vacation in Kenya, ride the eco-friendly way and try Ecotourism in Kenya!
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