Sustainable tourism is a great opportunity for development. This was also confirmed by the international year of sustainable tourism for development 2030, which was declared as part of the UN Agenda 2017. Sustainable tourism promotes that Economic growth, helps to reduce poverty and creates awareness for the preservation of cultural and ecological riches.
If you are thinking about South Africa travel, you will find many sustainable hotels in South Africa. Sustainability and luxury are not mutually exclusive: these accommodations offer the perfect luxury to support social and environmental initiatives.
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1. Karongwe portfolio in Limpopo
Sustainable tourism is very important here. In the 9.000-acres of the Karongwe Private Game Reserve, there are six luxurious lodges that can accommodate both family and couples, from the classy chalet to the cozy tented room. The lodges offer guests on their South Africa travel pools, internet, bars and a spa offering with flavors and herbs from the area.
The lodges work with the surrounding settlements to raise awareness of the preservation of the ecosystem and to reduce the poverty of the population as an employer. They were built around the trees in order to intervene as little as possible in nature. Karongwe Portfolio maintains projects with schools and an orphanage and has a training program for unemployed adults.
2. Jaci's Lodges in North West Province
If you are looking for sustainable hotels in South Africa, you can not miss Jaci's Lodges. The first address for luxury safaris is ideal for weddings, honeymoons, photo safaris and family vacations. The accommodations have authentic safari facilities such as outdoor showers and offer all the luxuries you can travel on South Africa. A highlight are the designer tree house suites with spectacular views!
Jaci's Lodges is committed to the preservation of wildlife and is committed, inter alia, for an end to rhino poaching. In addition, only environmentally friendly cleaning agents are used, waste deliberately reduced and implemented various measures to preserve the waters.
Safari Tour in Madikwe Game Reserve, Image by Jaci's Lodges
3. Grootbos Forest Lodge in Western Cape
Nestled in an 2.500-hectare forest, Grootbos offers an indescribable panoramic view. Guests can choose between the modern Forest Lodge and the picturesque Garden Lodge. There are also two private villas, where a private chef and a butler are available. Optimal conditions for luxury South Africa travel.
Like many sustainable hotels in South Africa, Grootbos focuses on preserving nature, but also promotes development through sport and runs a program for creating sustainable lifestyles. The nature reserve was a pioneer in creating sustainable tourism offers and helps to sustainably manage other companies through its own NPO.
4. Sibuya Game Reserve & Tented Camps in Eastern Cape
Also, the Sibuya Reserve is one of the most sustainable hotels in South Africa and is beautifully situated on the coast of Kenton-on-Sea. It is only accessible via an 45-minute boat ride. In the Forest or River Camp, there are luxuriously furnished tented accommodations, each with only a few beds. So guests can enjoy an exclusive and personalized stay. The Bush Lodge offers four suites and personalized service.
Sustainable tourism enables the local population to be promoted by training employees and sourcing goods and services from local businesses. The waste is composted or recycled, the electricity comes from solar power.
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5. Tswalu Kalahari Game Reserve in Northern Cape
In the 1.000 km2 large Tswalu Game Reserve is one of the most beautiful sustainable hotels in South Africa. Guests can choose from state-of-the-art accommodations: family rooms, luxurious suites with pool, and even outdoor rooms that will allow for romantic nights under the stars.
Sustainable tourism supports research here, eg studies on the impact of climate change on endangered species. There are only 30 beds and the safaris are done under strict environmental conditions. This supports the goal of regenerating and sustaining the Kalahari ecosystem.
