Responsible Travel

What is Responsible Travel
Responsible travel is about minimising your impact and maximising your connection with people and the environment. It’s about making a positive contribution and having the most rewarding and inspiring travel experiences of your life.

Washing and water pollution
If bathing or swimming, consider the sensibilities of local people – both regarding what you wear and the fact that you’re using ‘their’ water.

Wildlife watching
Be aware of suggested or legal approach distances and other recommendations for observing wildlife. A basic rule of thumb is if the animal is altering its behaviour due to your presence, then you’re too close.

Toilet Hygiene
Tent pegs make good shovels: if you get caught short on the trekking trail, dig a hole at least 15cm deep (or 30cm in hot areas), on the lower side of the trail, preferably at least 100 metres from it.

Hiking
Keep erosion to a minimum: don’t be tempted to create a new track or take a shortcut. Stay on the existing trail where possible even if it’s muddy or there’s room to walk alongside. While you’re admiring the view, try to keep one eye on your feet! Particularly at high altitudes and latitudes, native flora can be very slow-growing. It can take years to regenerate after being crushed by your muddy boots.

Wilderness Wanderings: How to minimise your impact on fragile places
No matter what you do, your mere presence will make some impact on any given environment, so keep that impact short term and minimal. These tips apply to remote wilderness as well as your own backyard.

Culture Shock vs Cultural Connection
One of the best things about travelling is making connections with people from different cultures, in an authentic and mutually enjoyable way.