Responsible Travel

Responsible Travel
Responsible Travel or Tourism is a term that places emphasis on the responsibility of the traveller to be respectful of the host country, its history, and its cultural and natural resources. As such, every precaution should be taken to avoid any activities that may negatively impact local economies, cultures or natural resources.

Responsible tourism was first defined in Cape Town in 2002 where world leaders were gathering for the World Summit on Sustainable Development. The resulting definition was published in the Cape Town Declaration:

Responsible Tourism:

• minimizes negative economic, environmental and social impacts;
• generates greater economic benefits for local people and enhances the well-being of host communities, improves working conditions and access to the industry;
• involves local people in decisions that affect their lives and life changes;
• makes positive contributions to the conservation of natural and cultural heritage, to the maintenance of the world's diversity;
• provides more enjoyable experiences for tourists through more meaningful connections with local people, and a greater understanding of local cultural, social and environmental issues;
• provides access for physically challenged people;
• is culturally sensitive, engenders respect between tourists and hosts, and builds local pride and confidence.