I was online over the weekend doing some travel-related research when I tripped over an article addressing the importance of choosing a tour operator with strength of character and whose core values or commitments align with your own.  I found it fascinating to read, as so much of what the article was outlining are in lockstep with the mission and core values which Wanderful Tanzania adheres to.  

Here’s a short summary of what the article suggested: 

1. Ethical Practices: Ensure the company adheres to ethical tourism standards, including respect for wildlife and local communities. They should prioritize animal welfare and avoid exploitative practices.

Wanderful Tanzania briefs all of our guests about our commitment to get them up close to countless wild creatures, but never at the expense of the animal’s safety or comfort.  We are a guest in THEIR home, and never want to contribute to interfering with their natural activities and lifestyle.  This often means that when all the other tour companies are busy encircling a pride of lions or a leopard in a tree, we will opt to drive away from that scene in favor of finding our own amazing encounter down one of the side roads, that we can enjoy by ourselves. 

2. Sustainability: Look for companies that are committed to sustainable tourism. This includes minimizing their environmental impact, supporting conservation efforts, and using eco-friendly practices.  

Wanderful Tanzania encourages all guests to bring refillable water bottles, biodegradable soaps and shampoos, and we remind guests that plastic bags are not allowed in Tanzania.  In addition, we provide our guests with reusable, insulated lunch bags that are to be used whenever we are packing our own lunches for our full-day game drives. 

3. Community Engagement: A good safari company will have strong ties to local communities and contribute to their development. This can include employing local guides, supporting local businesses, and participating in community projects.

Wanderful Tanzania does business with service providers who have the same high ethical standards that we hold ourselves to.  We employ the very best local guides and interpreters to enrich our tribal interactions.  We look for ways to give back to the communities we visit, so that we leave a net positive impact in our wake.  We do business with companies who have humanitarian or charitable elements that benefit local citizens, artists, and craftsmen. 

4. Transparency: Choose a company that is transparent about their operations, pricing, and policies. They should provide clear and honest information about what is included in their packages and any additional costs.

Wanderful Tanzania has a whole set of onboarding documentation to help our guests be prepared for all of the costs associated with being on safari.  We also try to include about 95% of the total safari cost in the price of the trip, and guide guests on the costs they will need to cover during the safari itself.  We do this through the Tour Packet and Informational graphics that all guests receive before their safari begins. 

5. Reputation and Reviews: Research the company’s reputation through reviews and testimonials from past clients. Look for consistent positive feedback about their professionalism, reliability, and customer service.

While Wanderful Tanzania is not on Trip Advisor or Yelp, we send out review forms and surveys to every single safari group when they return home. We have GLOWING REVIEWS and we make a point to post those on social media and our website whenever possible.  We also offer guest considering Wanderful Tanzania the opportunity to communicate with past guests if they wish to ask specific questions.  

6. Guides’ Expertise and Passion: The quality of the guides can make or break a safari experience. Opt for a company with knowledgeable, passionate, and personable guides who can enhance the overall experience with their insights and enthusiasm.

Wanderful Tanzania takes this very seriously.  We have the best guides in the industry. Period. End of sentence.   Our guides have decades of experience safely leading safaris through the parts of Tanzania.  They have encyclopedic knowledge of the environment, geography, history, plants, and animals in each region, and have a passion for showing their beautiful country to those lucky enough to visit for a week or two.  They are masters at their craft, and expert in every skill required to be the best of the best.   

7. Safety Record: Verify the company’s safety record and ensure they have proper safety protocols in place. This includes well-maintained vehicles, experienced drivers, and emergency response plans.

Wanderful Tanzania has a perfect safety record, and we are very proud of that.   Our hand-selected guides know their vehicles’ capabilities and have extensive experience driving the roads and byways taken during safari.  Their #1 priority is to ensure the safety and comfort of all of our guests… and to respect the wildlife we encounter as well.  

8. Cultural Sensitivity: The company should respect and honor the cultural practices and traditions of the areas they operate in, ensuring that interactions with local people are respectful and enriching for both tourists and residents.

Wanderful Tanzania coaches all of our guests on appropriate behaviors and respectful actions to be observed whenever we are in the villages or interacting with the indigenous people.  We will offer guidelines for appropriate dress (when needed), and instructions surrounding photography, etc. Again, we wish our guest to travel with intention through our host country, leaving behind the smallest US footprint as possible.  Understanding etiquette and cultural norms is a big part of doing so gracefully. 

Simply put, by choosing a safari company with strong character and extensive experience ensures a more enriching and responsible travel experience, benefiting both the traveler and the destinations visited.