1. Environmental Stewardship

We recognize the climate crisis and the vital importance of healthy ecosystems for both nature and people. We are committed to minimizing our environmental footprint and actively contributing to conservation and regeneration.

• Climate Action & Net Zero: We commit to measuring our operational carbon footprint (including guest travel facilitated by us) and actively working towards net-zero emissions. This includes:

• Continuing to offset residual carbon emissions for flights, accommodations, and ground transport through credible schemes.
• Prioritizing partners who utilize renewable energy (like solar power) and implement energy efficiency measures.
• Promoting low-carbon transport options, including non-motorized activities, public transport, and electric vehicles where available.

• Biodiversity & Nature Positive: We adopt a “Nature Positive” approach, aiming to leave nature better than we found it.

• We actively support local conservation efforts, including the Mauritian Wildlife Foundation and other initiatives focused on protecting endemic species and critical habitats (coral reefs, mangroves, forests).
• Tours are designed to minimize disturbance to wildlife and habitats, incorporating education on local flora and fauna and responsible interaction guidelines.
• We partner with accommodations and experience providers who demonstrate strong environmental management practices and contribute to conservation.

• Circular Economy & Resource Management: We champion circular economy principles to reduce waste and conserve resources.

• We prioritize waste reduction at the source, promoting reuse and maximizing recycling within our operations and supply chain.
• We encourage guests and partners to minimize single-use plastics and provide/promote the use of reusable items (e.g., water bottles, bags).
• We expect and favor partners who implement robust water conservation measures (e.g., rainwater harvesting, greywater systems) and efficient energy management.

• Protecting Marine & Coastal Environments:

• We actively promote the use of reef-safe sunscreen and educate guests on protecting fragile marine ecosystems.
• We support and organize nature clean-up initiatives where appropriate and feasible.

2. Economic Empowerment

We believe tourism should be a force for good, creating sustainable livelihoods and equitable economic benefits for local communities.

• Supporting Local Enterprises: We prioritize partnerships with locally owned micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), including accommodations, restaurants, guides, farmers, artisans, and community-based tourism initiatives.

• We aim to direct a significant and measurable percentage of tour revenue towards these local businesses, minimizing economic leakage.

• Promoting Authentic Local Products: We actively encourage travelers to purchase authentic, locally produced crafts and souvenirs, specifically promoting items certified under a locally made label where applicable.
• Fair Labour Practices: We strive to partner with businesses that provide fair wages, safe working conditions, and professional development opportunities for their employees, particularly locals.
• Inclusive Opportunities: We actively seek and promote opportunities for women and underrepresented groups to participate in and benefit from tourism, fostering economic inclusion and empowerment.
• Local Sourcing: We encourage partners (especially accommodations and restaurants) to prioritize sourcing local and organic produce, reducing food miles and supporting local agriculture. Our itineraries highlight opportunities for guests to experience authentic Mauritian cuisine at local eateries and markets.
• Building a Conscious Community: We foster collaboration and knowledge-sharing among our partners to promote sustainable practices and shared economic growth.

3. Socio-Cultural Respect & Enrichment

We are committed to fostering respectful and enriching interactions between travelers and host communities, celebrating cultural diversity, and preserving local heritage.

• Authentic Cultural Experiences: We offer experiences that provide genuine insight into the local culture, heritage, and history, ensuring they are delivered respectfully and with community consent and participation.
• Respect for Local Cultures: We provide guests with clear guidance on local customs, traditions, dress codes, and etiquette for visiting communities, religious sites, and private homes, fostering respectful interactions. Responsible photography practices are encouraged.
• Empowering Local Guides: We prioritize hiring and empowering guides from the local communities visited, recognizing their invaluable knowledge and perspective.
• Preserving Heritage: We support initiatives and experiences that celebrate and preserve local traditions, arts, music, gastronomy, architecture, and traditional trades, fostering community pride.
• Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI): We promote principles of DEI in all interactions, ensuring respect for all individuals regardless of background and fostering inclusive environments within partner operations and community engagements.

4. Guest Engagement & Responsibility

We believe our guests are key partners in achieving our sustainability goals. We aim to empower them with the knowledge and opportunities to travel consciously.

• Pre-Trip & On-Site Information: We provide clear information on our sustainability policy and practical tips for guests to minimize their impact and maximize their positive contributions during their stay (e.g., conserving water/energy, avoiding single-use plastics, respecting wildlife, and responsible purchasing).
• Encouraging Participation: We highlight opportunities for guests to engage positively, whether through supporting local businesses, participating in conservation activities (where appropriate), or simply being mindful travelers.
• Feedback Mechanism: We actively solicit guest feedback on the sustainability aspects of their trip to inform our continuous improvement efforts.

5. Governance & Assessment

Our commitment to sustainability is embedded in our operations and decision-making.

• Supplier Assessment: We utilize our “Conscious Travel Assessment” tool to evaluate potential and existing partners based on their environmental, economic, and socio-cultural practices and performance. This assessment is informed by and reviewed periodically for alignment with the latest relevant Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) Criteria and other leading sustainability standards.
• Measurement & Reporting: We commit to monitoring key sustainability indicators across our operations and supply chain (e.g., carbon emissions, waste diversion rates, percentage of local procurement, community benefits). We aim to transparently report on our progress periodically.
• Continuous Improvement: We are committed to ongoing learning and adaptation, continuously seeking ways to enhance our positive impact and reduce negative impacts associated with our travel operations.

Thank you for joining us on this journey towards a more conscious and sustainable way to experience the beauty and culture of the Indian Ocean.