Contributing to Conservation with Ethical Ecotourism
- Shiva Mehta
- Dec 7, 2024
- 2 min read
I had the pleasure of contributing to Volume 6 'Into the Wild' for Viridis Magazine, an environmental publication that explores the intersection of ecology and social issues.
In this edition I talk about how the conscious traveller can engage in responsible, sustainable and ethical ecotourism by taking you on my own personal journey to Ol Pejeta Conservancy in Kenya, where I was immersed into a conservation experience like no other.
What is ecotourism and why is it important?
Global tourism is steadily increasing after a slow recovery post-pandemic. In recent years, attitudes have changed with more people shifting towards ecotourism and away from mass tourism which has negative environmental consequences.
Voluntourism, an outgrowth of ecotourism, is a rapidly growing industry gaining popularity among those seeking an enriching travel experience with purpose. However, finding a truly ethical and sustainable fit that benefits both the location and community can prove challenging.
When the world began to open up its borders again, like many, I was longing to resume travel. However, I was committed to doing so by engaging in conscious, responsible ecotourism with a deep sense of meaning.
Why Ol Pejeta Conservancy?
I had been following the plight of the northern white rhino since the death of Sudan, the last remaining male in 2018, making the species functionally extinct. This story captivated my heart and ignited curiosity and compassion within me, ultimately leading me to my destination of choice, the Ol Pejeta Conservancy in Kenya.
Ol Pejeta is a 90,000-acre conservancy situated on the equator in Central Kenya’s Laikipia County, nestled between the foothills of the second highest peak in Africa, Mount Kenya and the Aberdares mountain range.
It is the largest black rhino sanctuary in the whole of Central and East Africa and home to the last two remaining northern white rhinos. Ol Pejeta not only boasts the big five, but it is also the only place where you can see chimpanzees in Kenya.
As well as offering the ultimate safari experience to suit a range of budgets and desires, Ol Pejeta also offers a unique opportunity for wildlife lovers to participate in a hands-on Immersive Conservation Experience (ICE) – a programme that provides an enthralling behind-the-scenes insight into the day-to-day operations of their wildlife conservancy. I found the perfect fit for my eco-conscious trip!
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