Travel Sommelier is committed to the preservation of animals and their environment.
Travel Sommelier believes in giving back. Since our inception, we have donated trips or otherwise contributed to a variety of charities, many to which our clients are deeply connected. We will continue to expand our philanthropic reach.
We make concerted conservation efforts as a company through membership in groups such as Safari Professionals of the Americas and through partnerships with like-minded companies on the ground. All safari travelers should be aware that just by going on safari, your tourism provides impactful funding for local conservation.
RHINO POACHING
The rhinoceros is at particular risk of becoming extinct in the next twenty years due to extensive poaching. Multiple approaches are being taken to save the rhinos, whether it be relocating them to more secure areas or “notching” and “micro-chipping” them to gather DNA in order to prosecute poachers. Darren and Caitlin were fortunate to spend time with journalist Todd Pitock in Botswana while he researched the following informative article that was published in the Smithsonian: The Dangerous Work of Relocating 5,000-Pound Rhinos
You may also view the following impactful video to learn more about rhino relocation efforts.
BLOOD LIONS
We pride ourselves on our product knowledge, and advising our clients on which charitable causes to spend their time or money on is no exception. A large and growing interest is developing among guests who wish to interact with or support predator-focused platforms including, but not limited to, lion rehabilitation and leopard rescue. We are circumspect about many of these platforms. This link to Blood Lions, an entity whose recent film exposed the canned lion hunting industry, is instructive. Please visit the site and watch the documentary. bloodlions.org
VOLUNTOURISM
Travel Sommelier is heartened that so many clients ask about seeing and aiding local communities. Many safari camps are involved in community outreach, whether it is teaching locals to farm and providing them with land and vegetables to sell or whether it is helping teach local children to read English. Combining just a half-day of your time helping with one of these programs can make a huge difference. Travel Sommelier is happy to advise departing clients regarding what supplies, such as pencils, would be welcome on assorted voluntourism platforms.
Travel Sommelier believes in giving back. Since our inception, we have donated trips or otherwise contributed to a variety of charities, many to which our clients are deeply connected. We will continue to expand our philanthropic reach.
