Responsible Tourism

With the growing awareness of Responsible Tourism there is an increasing demand for travellers in supporting local development projects, environmental awareness, eco tourism, conservation & much more. 

Africa Collection’s Contribution

It doesn’t take much to make a difference and we are committed to making a huge difference! By making small changes in our everyday way of life we can reduce, re-use and recycle quite a lot!

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At Africa Collection we:

• Recycle all paper, glass, cans and plastics as well as batteries and out of date brochures

• We recycle our ink cartridges, use low watt light bulbs and have reduced water cisterns

• Our milk is delivered in packets rather than bottles

• During the summer months several of the staff cycle to work!

• We support fair trade products 

• We work with suppliers that are committed in making a difference both environmentally and culturally including Grootbos Private Nature Reserve, Hog Hollow and The Madikwe Collection to name just a few.

• Lights, computers and printers are all turned off when not in use

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In addition to the above we:

• Promote the positives of Africa, and encourage our clients to participate in responsible tourism

• We support several charities

• For all educational trips we contribute by “giving back” – whether it is handing out clothes and school supplies or donating money to the local township schools – every little bit is appreciated.

• We encourage cultural and community participation by visiting townships or cultural villages.

• Supply our clients and travellers with up to date information on local customs, languages and beliefs

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Fair Trade in Tourism South Africa

Fair Trade in Tourism South Africa (FTTSA) is a non-profit organisation initiative that certifies tourism businesses for operating according to the principles of 'fair trade'. FTTSA awards a special Trademark or label to qualifying businesses as a way of signifying their commitment to these principles (fair share, democracy, respect, reliability, transparency, sustainability) and related criteria, including fair wages and working conditions, fair purchasing, fair operations, equitable distribution of benefits and respect for human rights, culture and environment. By electing to stay at or use the services of a FTTSA certified establishment, tourists can be assured that their travel benefits local communities and economies, and that  the business is operated ethically and in a socially and environmentally responsible manner. Fair Trade in Tourism member properties within the Portfolio Collection are Klippe Rivier, Hog Hollow Country Lodge, and Bartholomeus Klip Farmhouse are among several properties who subscribe to Fair Trade in Tourism.

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Green Futures at Grootbos Private Nature Reserve

Each year Grootbos Nature Reserve selects twelve thousand unemployed young people from nearby townships to participate in the Green Future horticulture landscaping and life-skills course. The course combines essential life skills with knowledge on environmental and conservation issues. One of the most encouraging aspects of the course is that all graduates have managed to find employment. 

Africa Collection supports this foundation by participating in the Grootbos Foundations Responsible Tourism Package. Guests will be informed of the foundation with a welcome letter and will each receive a beaded coaster made by the Nolwandle Crafts project or a Fire Flower made by a local empowerment company. The client also participates in a two-hour responsible tourism tour which will include a visit to the Green Futures College, the Gansbaai Sports Project and a township tour. Each couple or family will be invited to provide an opportunity to plant a tree at one of the project sites.

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Township Stays

The Portfolio Collection presents an opportunity for travellers to gain an insight to township life, to experience Unbuntu - the tradition of African Hospitality - as well as the richness of its history, arts, crafts, music and food. Hosts extend an arms-wide welcome and offer modest accommodation. Portfolio had visited and selected homes which have opened their doors to guests. Click here for Western Cape Township B&B's & click here for Soweto Township B&B's.

"Don't blow it - good planets are hard to find"~Quoted in Time Magazine