Africa is known for its stunning natural beauty, diverse wildlife and unique cultures. And in recent years, eco-tourism has become increasingly popular. Eco lodges offer travellers the opportunity to experience the continent’s wonders in a sustainable and responsible way.
Eco lodges provide a unique and authentic way to connect with nature, minimise your impact on the environment and learn about the importance of conservation. If you are planning a trip to Africa, consider staying at an eco lodge to experience this rewarding type of travel. There are a few important factors to consider when choosing the eco lodge that will best suit your personal preferences and ensure you have a once-in-a-lifetime African safari.
Location
Eco lodges that are located near protected areas or wildlife reserves are ideal as they offer guests the opportunity to experience the natural environment while supporting conservation efforts. Some popular locations in Africa for eco lodges include Hwange National Park, Mana Pools National Park, Chobe National Park and Khwai River.
Accommodation
Eco lodges come in all shapes and sizes, from luxury tents to treehouses and traditional huts/rondawels. You should choose one that offers comfortable and sustainable accommodation that suits your needs and budget. Eco lodges that use renewable energy sources such as solar panels and wind turbines to power their facilities should be at the top of your list.
Food
Eco lodges often have a focus on locally sourced, organic and sustainable food. They may grow their own food on-site, source from nearby farms or support local communities by purchasing their produce. By eating locally sourced food, you can help reduce your carbon footprint, support local communities and experience the unique flavours of the region.
Activities
Eco lodges offer a range of activities to help guests connect with nature and the local culture. They include game drives, guided nature walks, bird watching and cultural tours. Be sure to choose one that aligns with your travel goals.
Conservation efforts
One of the main goals of eco lodges is to support conservation efforts. Look for ones that have a proven track record of supporting conservation efforts in the area. This could include partnerships with local conservation organisations, supporting local community conservation initiatives or implementing sustainable practices on-site.
Social Responsibility
Eco lodges often have a strong commitment to social responsibility, which includes supporting local communities and providing employment opportunities. Support eco lodges that have a positive impact on the local community and offer employment opportunities to local people. Some eco lodges even offer guests the opportunity to engage in community development projects, which can be a rewarding and educational experience.
Reviews
Before booking your stay at an eco lodge, read reviews from previous guests. This will give you an idea of the quality of the accommodation, food and activities on offer. Be on the lookout for reviews that mention the eco lodge’s commitment to sustainability and conservation efforts.
No matter which eco lodge you choose, you’re sure to have an unforgettable African safari. In addition to seeing incredible wildlife and breathtaking landscapes, you’ll also be supporting sustainable tourism practices and making a positive impact on the local community.
Nestled in some of Africa’s most spectacular natural settings, the Hideaways eco lodge collection provides luxurious accommodations that are environmentally sustainable and eco-friendly. These eco lodges offer superior service, delectable gourmet cuisine, and opulent accommodations, all while maintaining a sustainable and eco-friendly approach.
At Hideaways, we take pride in our commitment to sustainable tourism and our eco lodges are a model for responsible travel. Through our efforts to reduce energy consumption and non-biodegradable waste, we encourage guests to embrace “off-the-grid” luxury. Thus, allowing us to enjoy a connection with the natural world that is truly unparalleled.
Elephant’s Eye Tented Camp
Elephant’s Eye Tented Camp is an exquisite eco lodge located on a private concession bordering Hwange National Park in Zimbabwe. Accommodation are provided in the form of eco-friendly tented thatched chalets built on stilts with the camp using a combination of solar and electric power. Guests can relax at the natural ozone eco swimming pool or eco spa. The Community Upliftment Experience and cultural village tour provide inspiring encounters with the local community.
Camp Mana
Camp Mana is a seasonal camp which gets set up at the beginning of the safari season and taken down at the end of the season. Thus, the land has time to replenish and be fresh for the next season. The camp’s ethos of touching the earth lightly is put into practise with the camp running entirely on solar energy. Safari with Camp Mana for a truly immersive experience in nature.
Nantwich Lodge
Experience the ultimate eco-friendly African safari at Nantwich Lodge. A unique and intimate eco lodge in Zimbabwe’s renowned Hwange National Park. Nantwich is a true oasis of sustainability and embodies the very essence of conservation and responsible tourism by repurposing, preserving and celebrating the natural heritage of this great wilderness. The natural swimming pool boasts grand views over the plains, just the spot to spend your days wildlife-watching.
Fothergill Island
Nature conservation is a strong element of the ethos at Fothergill Island with this eco lodge running off of 95% solar energy. Guests can also participate in sustainable activities such as catch-and-release fishing. When you stay in this Zimbabwe wildlife paradise surrounded by water, take pride in the difference you are making with your minimal environmental impact.
Mogotlho Safari Lodge
Mogotlho Safari Lodge offers an authentic African experience with a focus on sustainability and eco-friendliness. Located on the Khwai River, this luxury eco lodge was designed for conscious safari enthusiasts and constructed off-grid, seamlessly blending into the lush natural surroundings. Mogotlho Safari Lodge is also committed to engaging with the local Mababe Community. The lodge helps to implement sustainable and integrated projects that benefit both the community and conservation efforts.
Camp Kuzuma
Nestled between Chobe National Park in Botswana and Hwange National Park in Zimbabwe, Camp Kuzuma is renowned as one of the region’s top eco lodges. Camp Kuzuma offers guests a sustainable safari experience. The lodge takes great pride in minimising its carbon footprint and operates entirely off the grid. The lodge is powered by 100% renewable solar energy systems.
For Bookings Contact Us at:
WhatsApp: +27 (0) 724 903 287
Call: +27 (0) 21 671 7729
Email: info@hideawaysafrica.com
