Responsible Travel

We care for the planet and the local population. We travel responsibly.

Commitment to Responsible Travel in West Africa

At Meet Africa, we believe in the power of sustainable tourism to create meaningful connections between our guests and the cultures they visit. Our principles focus on minimizing environmental impact, supporting local communities, and providing authentic experiences that reflect the rich heritage of West Africa. Below, you'll find our commitment to responsible travel across various categories.

Bungalow with a thatched roof on a beach

Eco-friendly Accommodation

We prioritize eco-friendly accommodations whenever possible, partnering with locally owned hotels, lodges, and guesthouses that reflect the cultural and environmental heritage of the region. These accommodations often include earthen dwellings, inspired by traditional African architecture and updated to meet modern needs. Built from sustainable materials like mud and clay, these structures offer natural insulation that keeps them cool in the heat and warm in cooler weather.

While eco-friendly options are not available in all locations, we strive to ensure your stay is both comfortable and aligned with our commitment to sustainability. Our selection process emphasizes properties that minimize their environmental impact while providing a welcoming atmosphere.

Transport & Waste Reduction

As part of our commitment to responsible travel, we reduce our environmental footprint through thoughtful transportation choices. Our tours utilize well-maintained, fuel-efficient vehicles tailored to the size of your group, ensuring a comfortable journey while minimizing carbon emissions. As electric and hybrid vehicles become available in the regions we operate, we will integrate them into our tours.

We also focus on responsible waste management. For example, we provide water in 5-liter bottles along with coconut shell glasses instead of individual water bottles, thus minimizing plastic use throughout your journey. Our collaboration with local partners ensures waste is managed responsibly and recycled where facilities exist, supporting both environmental sustainability and community well-being.

Big water bottle with bamboo and coconut
a man holding a large round calabash

Local Guides & Businesses

Meet Africa is committed to enhancing local economies by ensuring that our tours benefit the communities we visit. Our passionate local guides offer authentic insights into the heritage of the places you’ll explore. Fluent in English and French, as well as some local languages, they accompany you throughout your journey, enriching your experience with personal stories and historical context.

In addition to guides, we support local artisans by visiting craft centers and markets where you can purchase handmade products that showcase unique regional skills. For instance, calabash carving is a traditional craft in West Africa. By interacting with artisans, you can appreciate their artistry while making a positive economic impact. These experiences not only provide authenticity but also contribute to the preservation of local cultures.

Cultural Heritage & History

West Africa boasts a rich cultural heritage and history, and responsible travel means honoring the diverse traditions that have flourished over centuries. Many kingdoms, such as the Ashanti, Ewe, and Dahomey, prospered during the pre-colonial era, each contributing to the vibrant tapestry of cultural identity. Our tours delve into this fascinating history, visiting significant sites that tell the stories of these influential civilizations.

Spirituality plays a vital role in West African culture, with vodun exemplifying the deep-rooted beliefs of the people. Through carefully curated experiences, you will gain insights into spiritual practices, rituals, and festivals that continue to shape the lives of West Africans today. Engaging with local communities and learning about their customs will deepen your appreciation for the region’s rich cultural heritage.

A man in an entry in the shape of a panther's head
A hippopotamus with calves in a lake

Wildlife Viewing & Conservation

Meet Africa is committed to ensuring that wildlife experiences are not only unforgettable but also respectful of the environment and local ecosystems. Our tours allow you to observe West Africa's unique wildlife in its natural habitat, primarily in national parks and reserves dedicated to conservation efforts.

There are few things more rewarding than spotting a hippopotamus in a lake at sunrise. Even when we don't see any hippos, witnessing their large footprints in the mud is a remarkable experience, far surpassing capturing a photo of an elephant in captivity.

Local Cuisine & Dining

Food is an integral part of West African culture, and we celebrate its rich diversity through our responsible travel experiences. Our tours emphasize dining in local restaurants that prioritize the use of fresh, organic ingredients sourced from regional markets. Vegetarian options are always available, ensuring everyone can explore the vibrant flavors of West African cuisine.

We also partner with farms to offer farm-to-table experiences, allowing guests to learn about sustainable farming practices while enjoying delicious meals. By choosing local dishes, we support the community and promote the appreciation of West African culinary traditions, which are among the best in the world.

Jollof rice plate

Our Community Actions

A woman and kids walking in a broad street carrying big bags

Waste Collection

We contribute to keeping our community clean by organizing regular street clean-ups in Lomé, Togo. During these clean-ups, we collect plastic, paper, and metal. The waste we gather is given to local NGOs and entrepreneurs who specialize in recycling, turning waste into valuable resources that support sustainable businesses and environmental initiatives.

Partnership with Villages

We partner with the communities we visit. Before bringing tourists, we meet with the village chief to explain our mission and seek permission. Once authorized, we contribute to the village’s development by making donations during each visit, supporting local initiatives and fostering a positive relationship between the community and our travelers.

4 people posing for a group photo

How You Can Help

Everyone is an agent of change. Keep these tips in mind when preparing for responsible travel and on the trip. 

Waste

  • Bring back waste that cannot be recycled or safely disposed locally (batteries, etc.)
  • Use our filter bottle to drink water instead of buying plastic bottles

Water

  • A shower usually consumes less water than a bath. Opt for showers and keep them short. Turn off the tap when you are lathering up, shampooing, or shaving.
  • Use eco-friendly soap to avoid polluting the water.

Energy

  • Choose natural ventilation over ACs whenever you can.
  • Use solar batteries to charge your electronics.

Flight

  • If possible, use direct flights, minimizing the miles flown as well as the number of take-offs and landings, which consume the most energy.
  • Pack light, the lighter are your bags, the lesser is the energy required to transport them.