Sustainability

More Than Just Words

When it comes to protecting the environment, we know that tourism can be either part of the problem or part of the solution, and we strive to promote the type of travel that is part of the solution: small-scale, low-impact tourism that is respectful of local cultures and sensitive to the local environment. We also support organizations like Uthando, Rewilding Europe, Blue Dragon Children’s Foundation, Sustainable Travel International, Pro Mujer, and the Torres del Paine Legacy Fund, to name a few. Over the years, we have raised hundreds of thousands of dollars in funding for worthy causes across the globe. And our founder is a leader in conservation, currently serving as the president of the International Galapagos Tour Operators Association, an organization with 30 member companies that raises funds to protect the Galapagos Islands against unsustainable tourism practices.

Small is Better

We believe in small-scale, low-impact tourism that is respectful of local cultures and ecosystems and helps protect and preserve them. We seek out partners (ground operators, local guides, transportation providers, hotels, and restaurants) that have demonstrated their commitment to sustainability, and the suppliers we choose are often certified by international organizations and have won awards for their environmental efforts. We are committed to doing business in a way that actively supports the preservation of the natural environment. Practiced correctly, this is really what ecotourism is all about.

Sustained Commitment

Over the years we have learned – in addition to the many proactive initiatives we undertake – that it is just as important to know what to avoid. We don’t promote large-scale, resort-style tourism that can overwhelm local cultures and change entire landscapes, and we don’t promote land-based tours in the Galapagos that, while profitable, are a step in the wrong direction in terms of sustainability. These are complicated issues, and we don’t pretend to have all the answers, but our commitment is longstanding and real. We are always looking for ways to more effectively manage our environmental and social impact. If you have any questions, comments, or suggestions, please let us know. We welcome your input and ideas!

We proudly support the following organizations.

  • Rainforest Alliance

    Creating a more sustainable world to protect nature and improve the lives of farmers and forest communities.

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  • Pro Mujer

    A social enterprise that has been working to advance gender equality in Latin America for more than 33 years.

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  • International Galapagos Tour Operators Association

    A nonprofit association of companies dedicated to the complete and lasting protection of the Galapagos Islands.

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  • Sustainable Travel International

    Vaya’s partner on carbon liability, participation in global net zero transition, and strengthening climate adaptation and resilience.

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  • World Elephant Day

    Raising awareness of the issues elephants face worldwide and dedicated to preserving and protecting their habitats.

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  • Rewilding Europe

    A non-profit organization dedicated to creating sustainable and rewilded landscapes throughout Europe.

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  • Uthando

    A Fair Trade in Tourism accredited organization that aims to raise funds for life-changing community development projects in South Africa.

     

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  • Land & Life Foundation

    Ensuring that local communities in East Africa receive revenue and tangible benefits from tourism.

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  • Blue Dragon Foundation

    A charity that aids street kids and rescues victims from slavery and human trafficking in Vietnam.

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  • Gibbon Rehabilitation Project

    Rescuing, rehabilitating, releasing, reintroducing, and repopulating gibbons in Thailand.

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  • Torres del Pain Legacy Fund

    Stewardship of Patagonia’s protected areas to ensure a more sustainable tourism and future for surrounding communities.

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  • Galo Plaza Lasso Foundation

    Education, conservation, and socio-economic development programs that improve the quality of life in Ecuador’s Zuleta region.

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  • The International Ecotourism Society

    Promoting and contributing to tourism as a tool for conservation, protection of bio-cultural diversity, and sustainable community development.

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“Uthando (Love) is incredibly grateful for Vaya Adventures and their travelers, who help transform tourism into a tool for real community impact. Together, we’re proving that travel and tourism can be a meaningful force for change."

James Ferni – Founding Director Uthando

“As the Founder of World Elephant Day, partnering with Vaya for my trip to Kenya was an incredible opportunity. I was deeply impressed by Vaya’s commitment to supporting the health of the environments they share with travelers, as well as their focus on sustainability for local communities and wildlife."

Patricia Sims – World Elephant Day Founder

"Vaya’s dedication to sustainable travel sets a high standard for responsible tourism, creating a balance between exploration and giving back."

Patricia Sims – World Elephant Day Founder

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