community tourism

Planeterra & Regional Cooperation Council Partnering to Build a Sustainable Future for Western Balkans Tourism

Precious Phyllis Apolot
Written by Blerina Ago, Regional Manager for Europe at Planeterra

Planeterra took an exciting step to deepen our partnership with the Regional Cooperation Council (RCC), the EU-co-funded intergovernmental body dedicated to coordinating the tourism agenda across the Western Balkans.

As part of this collaboration, Planeterra successfully co-organized a crucial 1-day workshop on Community Tourism alongside the RCC’s annual Tourism Expert Group (TEG) meeting in Paris, France. The event was hosted at the Evaneos venue.

The workshop successfully advanced the regional dialogue on smart and sustainable tourism, with a sharp focus on how Planeterra’s Community Tourism model can drive positive, lasting impact. The event gathered government representatives from across the Western Balkans Six (WB6).

Why the Western Balkans is Prime for Community Tourism

The Western Balkans (WB6) has been gaining global recognition as one of Europe’s most dynamic and fast-growing travel destinations. With its rich culture, stunning natural landscapes, and incredible potential for rural experiences, the region is a perfect fit for Planeterra’s mission. The consensus was that strong institutional backing from the EU and the RCC makes it a prime region for strategic partnerships and investment in impact-driven tourism.

The importance of a collaborative approach and the Community Tourism model was a central theme throughout the day:

Marlene Bartes, Policy Officer, DG MOVE, EC, highlighted the need for international support, noting: “The future of the tourism sector is inherently tied to the success of the Green and Digital Transitions. For the Western Balkans to realize its full potential, strong European & regional collaboration—providing strategic alignment and support—is essential to harmonize policies and scale up smart, sustainable investments.”

Evisi Kopliku, Expert on Competitiveness, RCC, highlighted the importance of knowledge sharing and learning about best practices from different partners in Europe and beyond, through building partnerships and networks. “In addition, tourism remains an important sector for the Western Balkans Six as well as a priority agenda of the Common Regional Market, as demonstrated again in the WB6 Leaders’ Summit in London, who adopted the Regional Declaration on Regional Tourism Branding”.

Blerina Ago, Regional Manager – Europe, Planeterra, underscored the community-first approach, stating: “The Western Balkans’ tourism growth is a shared opportunity, but to make it truly sustainable, we must ensure the core principles of Community Tourism are embedded. This means granting the community significant say in development and management (Agency & Control), designing models to ensure fair profits and value stay local (Fair Benefits), and always prioritizing the welfare of residents, culture, and nature (Prioritizing Well-being). This is how we move beyond competition and embrace genuine regional cooperation.”

Laura Kotyga, B2B Sustainability Manager, Evaneos: “The meeting in Paris was a powerful demonstration of why public-private partnerships are crucial for sustainable growth. At Evaneos, we recognize that the scale of the green and digital transitions in the Western Balkans requires a harmonized effort. Our work on sustainability management and sharing effective models with the RCC’s Tourism Expert Group shows that by connecting the expertise of the private sector with the strategy of public bodies, we can help destinations in the WB6 not just grow, but grow responsibly, ensuring that tourism truly benefits the environment and local communities.”

Key Discussions: Putting Communities at the Center

At the workshop, which included presentations from Planeterra and Evaneos, in-depth discussions focused on how community tourism could address both social and environmental challenges in the region.

  • Sustainability & Green/Digital Transitions: Attendees introduced key challenges and effective models for navigating the digital and green transitions, sharing examples from Planeterra and Evaneos’ work in the WB6 and beyond. This session strongly connected destination stewardship directly to community tourism models and discussed the relevance of the EU Transition Pathway for Tourism.
  • The Power of Community Tourism: The session defined Community Tourism and its strategic role in fostering inclusion and empowering local populations. Discussions showcased successful case studies, identified key barriers to implementation, and explored the emerging sub-session on digital nomadism.
  • Climate & Biodiversity Action: This critical session, led by Thomas Armitt, Senior Manager, Climate and Biodiversity at Planeterra, demonstrated how community tourism served as a powerful tool for addressing the urgent challenges of biodiversity loss and climate change. Discussions highlighted how environmental shifts impact the WB6 tourism industry, such as changing the appeal of coastal destinations due to extreme heat and the viability of winter sports due to lack of snow. Innovative models were presented that actively linked tourism revenue to environmental conservation and building climate resilience.

The importance of the regional approach was highlighted by TEG members:

Jiljana Vuksanović, Head of the Directorate for Strategic Planning, Ministry of Tourism, Montenegro: “Community Tourism is very important for the people who live in the area because it offers a good job and other benefits for development of the community. It is very important to boost community tourism through funding support for community tourism enterprises who want to do something and to improve, to develop all the area.”

Jelica Grujic, Head of Department, Tourism Department, Ministry of Foreign Trade and Economic Relations, Bosnia and Herzegovina: “The experience that we heard today will be of much importance for us in the future. How to advocate for more community tourism and actually how to develop community tourism based on the main sustainable tourism principles in the future.”

Matina Hyka, Head of Sector of the Development Program, Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sports, Albania: “This event was very comprehensive, because Albania has just approved her national tourism strategy and all the topic discussed relating to the green tourism, community tourism and related are very important for us in this space. We can use them as a tool to drafting our bylaws and our secondary legislation.”

Jasmina Leskarovska, Advisor for administration and tourism, Ministry for Culture and Tourism, North Macedonia: “Our goal is to ensure that national tourism policies are fully aligned with the principles of sustainability and local empowerment. Regional cooperation is the most effective way to share best practices and guarantee that the WB6 moves forward with one harmonized and resilient strategy.”

The day concluded with TEG members advancing the development of Smart Tourism Destination scorecards for the WB6.

Lumturije Geci, Ministry of Industry, Entrepreneurship and Trade, Kosovo: “Beyond discussing Community Tourism as a path to local empowerment, a major focus was on advancing the Smart Tourism Destinations framework for the WB6. The goal is to move from strategy to action by agreeing on the Destination Scorecards and setting a harmonized, regional roadmap for sustainable and digitally-enabled tourism development.”

Aleksandra Dolapčev, Tourism Organisation Serbia: “Building Smart Tourism Destinations is essential for the Western Balkans to proactively meet the new challenges of the tourism industry, particularly the accelerating digital and green transitions. Our focus now is on moving beyond strategy, improving and utilizing the Destination Scorecards to identify immediate gaps and challenges in our pilot destinations, and agreeing on a regional roadmap that ensures sustainable, competitive growth across the WB6.”

This final session aimed to agree and prepare one-pager Destination Scorecards, for further promotion and visibility of the WB6 tourism potentials.

By facilitating this cross-border exchange and promoting community-owned models, the workshop reinforced the collective commitment to ensure the Western Balkans’ tourism growth benefits everyone.

In the Media

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Anoothi India

How Collaboration Created a Bigger Impact: Anoothi India’s Story

Selene Orellana

It all started with a beautifully crafted stuffed elephant, handmade by the talented women of Anoothi India—a social enterprise that empowers marginalized women through skills training and economic opportunities.

When Ant Stone, G Adventures’ Director of Marketing, EMEA, came across one of these elephants, it sparked an idea that would lead to a powerful collaboration. What if Anoothi India could create a special batch of elephants to be showcased at travel events? The idea took off, and soon, a limited-edition herd of G Adventures elephants stole the show at Destinations: The Holiday and Travel Show—one of London’s biggest travel events.

Over 1,000 G Adventures-branded elephants were handcrafted by the women of Anoothi India. It took months of dedication, but it paid off, the elephants became one of the most talked-about features of the event!

Stuffed elephants in progress—handmade with care by Anoothi in India. 📷 Ant Stone

Visitors could take home an elephant by donating to Planeterra, making a G Adventures booking, or simply engaging in a meaningful conversation with the team at the booth. Each elephant came with a tag sharing its Anoothi India’s powerful story, bringing this meaningful connection to their new owners’ home.

Ant Stone and team showcasing handcrafted stuffed animals at the G Adventures booth. 📷: Ant Stone
Using community tourism to expand Anoothi India’s impact

Anoothi provides women—many of whom are survivors of violence—with opportunities to build a better future through vocational and life skills training. While selling handmade products helps, adding community tourism to their work gave them a new way to create sustainable income.

However, to host visitors and offer meaningful experiences, they needed additional funding to improve infrastructure and facilities. In 2024, Planeterra partnered with Anoothi India to support these goals, providing a grant to address their most pressing needs. The funds helped add a shaded seating area, upgrade walking paths, and improve visitor facilities—making the experience more comfortable for both travellers and artisans.

The grant also helped upgrade Anoothi India’s screen printing unit, something they had been wanting to do for a long time. Now, travellers visiting them can take part in a hands-on block printing workshop, learning the traditional techniques behind these beautiful textiles. And yes—they can also purchase iconic souvenirs, including those beautiful stuffed elephants!

Anoothi India
Anoothi India hosting one of their first G Adventures groups

Since September 2024, more than 1,800 travellers from G Adventures tours have visited Anoothi India, bringing direct support to the women behind this incredible initiative.

“I cannot thank Planeterra enough for opening up this possibility for us. We had this skill—a treasure of artisans working with us. More (women) wanted to join and we wanted to take them but we needed an outlet for them and for their products and Planeterra has provided that to us- We have expanded since.” — Jaimala ji, Founder & Managing Director, Anoothi India

Coming together to celebrate community tourism in India

Anoothi India has been an amazing community partner in more ways than one. At GX India 2024, they generously hosted the Planeterra Marketplace, where nine community partners showcased their products and shared their stories with travellers, industry leaders, and supporters. Read more about GX India, here.

Fun fact: “Anoothi” means unique and extraordinary in Hindi—a perfect name for a social enterprise that helps women realize just how incredible they are. We think their work is truly Anoothi. Don’t you?

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World Community Tourism Summit 2024 at GX India

Selene Orellana

This year, GX made a grand return, taking us to vibrant India. Hosted by G Adventures and Planeterra, the event brought together nearly 500 travel industry representatives from around the globe, including travel agents, media, content creators, partners, suppliers, and travellers.

But GX India wasn’t just about welcoming event attendees—it also brought together nine inspiring community tourism enterprises and organizations supported by Planeterra from across the country. These included Women with Wheels, Sheroes, Anoothi, Sunder Rang, Together We Earn (TWE), Tenacious Bee Collective, Odisha Ecotourism Foundation, Pink City Rickshaw, and Salaam Baalak Trust. (Check this page to learn more about our community partners).

These organizations had the opportunity to share their incredible work by hosting GX attendees and participating in the first-ever Planeterra Marketplace, where they showcased unique products and offered insights into their inspiring initiatives.

Our community partners celebrating their successful journey at the Planeterra Marketplace during GX India

On September 27th, 2024, everyone gathered for the World Community Tourism Summit. This pivotal event sparked important conversations about travel, community tourism, and the environment through insightful panel discussions and keynote presentations. Keep reading to learn more!

Celebrating Tourism at the World Community Tourism Summit

The summit opened with remarks from G Adventures and Planeterra Founder Bruce Poon Tip and Planeterra President Jamie Sweeting, who highlighted how community tourism has the power to foster deep connections.

Jamie shared exciting updates on Planeterra and G Adventures’ Project 300, noting that since last year’s GX in Peru, 13 new community tourism enterprises have been supported, bringing the total to 130 worldwide. 

He also announced a new five-year partnership between Planeterra and G Touring to further expand community tourism across the globe.

 

Fireside Chats and Empowering Panels 

One of the summit’s most anticipated moments was the fireside chat between Bruce Poon Tip and Tony Wheeler, co-founder of Lonely Planet. They reflected on the evolution of responsible tourism and how community tourism is shaping the future of travel. 

Tony emphasized that “travel is not just about seeing beautiful places but about getting to know the people and cultures behind them.”

Panels throughout the day addressed pressing issues in community tourism. Here are some key highlights:

 

Community Tourism in India

During the discussion on “Community Tourism in India,” moderator Julie FitzGerald (G Adventures) led a conversation with Shivya Nath (The Shooting Star), Tanya Alag (Salaam Baalak Trust), and Priyanka Singh (Planeterra) about the importance of adapting tourism to meet local community needs. Tanya emphasized that tourism should go beyond seeing iconic landmarks—it’s about hearing people’s stories and understanding their lives.

Shivya Nath called for a major shift in the tourism industry, advocating for a future where “all tourism by default supports local communities.” Her sentiment resonated with many attendees, sparking a call to action to make responsible travel the standard, not the exception.

 

Tackling Global Challenges Through Tourism

The summit also addressed global challenges. In a panel titled “Climate & Biodiversity,” participants discussed how community tourism can help mitigate the impacts of climate change. Moderated by Jamie Sweeting, the panel featured Michelle Degenhardt (Flight Centre Travel Group), Jaideep Bansal (GHE), Thomas Armitt (Planeterra), and Michelle Hudema (G Adventures). They emphasized how empowering people within their communities can lead to lasting environmental solutions.

The urgency of the moment was captured with the statement, “We are one of the first generations to witness the effects of climate change, but also one of the last that can do something about it.”

 

Fundraising for Good

Brian Young, G Adventures Managing Director for UK & Europe, shared the success of  “G Trek for Good”, an initiative that has raised over $160,000 USD through treks up Kilimanjaro, Mount Toubkal, and Colombia’s Lost City. 

The funds support both Planeterra and ABTA Lifeline, with next year’s trek set for Peru.

 

Helping Women to empower themselves through Community Tourism

A powerful panel on “Women & Community Tourism” highlighted initiatives like Women With Wheels, which are challenging the status quo in India. By training women to become professional drivers, these programs are not only providing job opportunities but also reshaping societal perceptions of women in public spaces. 

Moderator Kelly Galaski (Planeterra) and speakers Tabitha Lipkin, Meenu Vadera (Azad Foundation), and Aayusha Prasain (Community Homestay Network) emphasized that empowerment is not just about employment—it’s about giving women the space to make decisions, create enterprises, and break down cultural barriers.

 

Other key moments and messages

Journalist and writer Elizabeth Becker reminded attendees of the importance of engaging governments as key stakeholders to ensure tourism benefits everyone. Paras Loomba, founder of GHE and Mountain Homestays, shared insights into how tourism not only enhances destinations but also empowers travellers to become champions of positive change.

Ernest White II, storyteller, explorer, and host of the television docu-series Fly Brother, highlighted the power of personal connection in travel. He reminded attendees about the importance of “looking each other in the eyes and giving compliments.” Songwriter, rapper, and poet Aranya Johar also delighted the audience with her art.

 

A Powerful Closing Moment

One of the summit’s most touching moments came during a surprise presentation by Bruce Poon Tip, who invited Sanju Solanki and his daughter Anshul Singh from Janak Art Studio to the stage. 

Anshul captivated the audience with a powerful statement: “Women don’t need empowerment; we are already empowered. We need space. We need men to step back and give us space.”

 

 Looking Ahead: GX 2025 in Jordan

The day concluded with an exciting announcement from Bruce Poon Tip: the next GX World Community Tourism Summit will be held in Jordan in September 2025. Partnering with the Jordan Tourism Board North America and Royal Jordanian Airlines, this event will continue the legacy of connecting local people and travellers through community tourism.

The GX World Community Tourism Summit 2024 in Jaipur was a day filled with deep reflection, empowering conversations, and meaningful connections. It demonstrated how tourism, when focused on community impact, can be a powerful force for change. Whether through economic empowerment, environmental sustainability, or cultural exchange, community tourism is shaping the future of travel.

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Community Tourism: Bridging Cultures and Fostering Unity

Selene Orellana

In a world that often feels divided, community tourism acts as a powerful bridge, connecting people across cultures and fostering peace and understanding. 

This month, in honour of World Tourism Day, we’re excited to showcase how community tourism initiatives not only boost local economies but also promote unity and cooperation across diverse regions. 

Here’s a look at some of our inspiring community partners who exemplify this perfectly:

Berracas de la 13 – Medellín, Colombia

Once plagued by violence and drug trafficking, Medellín’s Comuna 13 has transformed into a vibrant destination, thanks in part to the efforts of initiatives like Berracas de la 13. 

Founded by dedicated women in the community, Berracas de la 13 began by selling handicrafts and has since expanded to include Berracas Restaurant, further boosting local opportunities. 

Follow their inspiring journey and be sure to visit them on your next trip to Medellín!

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Favela Experience – Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Favelas are informal settlements or shanty towns commonly found in Brazil, especially in major cities. Despite challenges like government corruption, gang violence, and widespread discrimination, the unique culture of favelas has gained traction in tourism, offering socio-economic opportunities for local residents.

While there are challenges and controversies, community-driven businesses like Favela Experience ensure that local residents play a key role in creating impactful tours and activities, generating real social benefits.

Planning a trip to Rio de Janeiro? Consider booking a tour with them.

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Migrantour – Europe

With millions seeking refuge in Europe, migrants encounter numerous challenges, including the need for economic opportunities and social support. Initiatives like Migrantour help ease this transition.

Migrantour fosters intercultural tourism through walking tours led by migrants and refugees, offering unique insights into the histories and cultures of European cities. Planeterra supports Migrantour in cities like Rome and Naples, with plans to expand further.

Planning a trip to Europe soon? Explore the cities in the Migrantour network for a meaningful and enriching experience.

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Community tourism is more than just travel—it’s a meaningful way to connect people, foster understanding, and build unity across diverse cultures. By supporting initiatives like Berracas de la 13, Favela Experience, and Migrantour, we contribute to a more inclusive and cohesive world.

Do you know of other inspiring community tourism projects? We’d love to hear about them! Share your thoughts in the comments below.

If you enjoyed this post, please share it with your network and subscribe to our newsletter for more updates on how community tourism is making a difference.

And don’t forget, you can also book your journey with one of our Travel Partners—G Adventures, Evaneos, Iberostar, Travelsphere, or Just You —to ensure your travels benefit the communities you visit.

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Introducing the recipients of the Global Community Tourism Fund 2024

Selene Orellana
Planeterra is thrilled to announce the recipients of the Global Community Tourism Fund 2024.

The Global Community Tourism Fund (GCTF) is a key Planeterra initiative that supports entrepreneurship and innovation in community tourism enterprises within our network.

Through this program, Planeterra provides small grants of up to $3,500 USD, along with tailored training and mentorship, to help local entrepreneurs and communities worldwide enhance and grow their tourism offerings.

We were thrilled to receive so many exceptional applications this year from organizations showcasing impactful projects that use community tourism to uplift local communities. Selecting the recipients was both challenging and rewarding, as it highlighted the significant impact and potential of these initiatives.

After careful consideration, Planeterra has chosen 15 organizations to receive grants this year. Keep reading to discover more about their inspiring work!

This marks the third edition of the GCTF. Thanks to the generosity of our donors and supporters, we have distributed 25 grants in 2022 and 2023, benefiting 25 community-led enterprises and organizations across 16 countries. You can learn more about previous editions here and here.

Africa 

Ruboni Community Development and Conservation (Uganda)

Ruboni Community Development and Conservation (RCCD) is a community-driven initiative and a proud member of the Uganda Community Tourism Association (UCOTA). The organization consists of 35 women and 15 men, working together to promote sustainable tourism and conservation.

Founded in 1998, RCCD leverages tourism to generate resources for conservation and social development. They operate the Ruboni Community Camp, a tourist lodge, and offer up to ten unique community experiences for both staying and non-staying guests visiting the Rwenzori Mountains.

Project: “Empowering Small-Scale Women Vegetable Farmers: Integrating Local Agriculture into the Tourism Value Chain of Rwenzori Mountains National Park”

This project aims to empower 20 women in the Ibanda-Kyanya Town Council by enhancing their skills in organic vegetable farming within household kitchen gardens. The initiative provides training in production and post-harvest practices, supplies storage equipment, and establishes partnerships with local hotels for vegetable supply. Additionally, the project will create a unique vegetable farming experience tour for hotel guests, blending culinary and cultural elements to integrate women into the tourism value chain.

Learn more about their work here.

Gabon EcoSafaris (Gabon)

Gabon EcoSafaris is a community-based tourism enterprise that connects travellers with local host families through the Gabon Community Homestay online platform. This initiative offers visitors the chance to immerse themselves in authentic Gabonese culture and biodiversity while directly supporting local communities. Committed to responsible travel, Gabon EcoSafaris collaborates with local groups to develop new community experiences and products, fostering cultural exchange and sustainable economic benefits.

Project: “Raffia Handcrafting Tour and Culinary Experience at Okolassi Village”

Despite its rich cultural heritage, Okolassi village faces challenges as local artisans earn minimal revenue due to a lack of attractive tourism products. The village’s heritage is at risk, with artisans leaving in search of better opportunities and limited access to technology hindering the international marketing of their crafts. The “Raffia Handcrafting Tour and Culinary Experience” project aims to revitalize the village’s cultural economy by offering travellers immersive cultural activities. This initiative will lay the foundation for a community homestay by 2026, enhancing tourism and benefiting the entire community. 

Learn more about their work here.

Tours And Arts Solutions (Ghana)

Tours and Arts Solutions offers artistic, community-based travel experiences with a focus on culture, adventure, art, cuisine, love, and spirituality. The organization is led by professionals in Ghana’s arts and tourism sectors.

Project: “Enhancing Culinary and Gastronomy Tour Experiences in Ghana”

This project aims to showcase Ghana’s rich cultural heritage and diverse cuisine by creating high-quality culinary experiences. By highlighting the unique flavours and traditions of the region, the initiative will enhance the appeal of culinary tours, attract more tourists, and support the local communities that bring these experiences to life.

Learn more about their work here.

Upcycle Impact Tours (Uganda)

Founded in July 2022, Upcycle Impact Tours is dedicated to biodiversity conservation, sustainable tourism, climate action advocacy, cultural and heritage site protection, and community empowerment. They collaborate with 15 women’s groups and 7 youth groups, encompassing over 660 members.

Their mission is to protect and preserve Earth’s most fragile destinations by transforming tourism’s impact on nature and local communities.

Project: “Mpanga Eco-Tourism and Cultural Heritage Initiative”

This project aims to develop market-driven activities, enhance infrastructure, and provide professional development for staff to promote sustainable tourism and cultural preservation. The initiative will partner with local artisans, particularly in drum making and artifact creation, to support sustainable development, economic empowerment, cultural preservation, and environmental conservation in the Mpigi community.

Learn more about their work here.

Muhabura cultural experience and craft Centre (Uganda)

Muhabura Cultural Experience and Craft Centre (MCECC) is a responsible tourism social enterprise dedicated to empowering local artisans, coffee farmers, and site guides in the Mgahinga Gorilla National Park and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park regions. By involving them in community tourism activities and eco-friendly product creation, MCECC supports sustainable livelihoods through fair trade tourism.

Project: “Enhancing Marketing, Production, and Capacity Building for Socioeconomic Empowerment”

This project focuses on alleviating poverty, reducing unemployment, and preserving traditional craftsmanship while promoting sustainable tourism practices. By addressing key challenges such as limited market access and the need for capacity building, the initiative aims to create new opportunities for the community, driving socioeconomic empowerment and fostering a more sustainable future.

Learn more about their work here.

Middle East

Funtasia for Training (Egypt)

Funtasia for Training is a B Corporation specializing in multidisciplinary educational content and curriculum, with a focus on socio-emotional learning for both youth and adults in physical and online communities. They are committed to creating safe and welcoming environments where children and young adults can build meaningful relationships with themselves and their communities.

Project: “The Riders: Empowering Youth Bike Riders to Enhance Community Tourism and Address Climate Change”

This project aims to educate and empower youth in Luxor Governorate through workshops on climate change and sustainable tourism. Targeting 45 participants aged 14 and older, it will enhance cycling tour services at Funtasia Center by purchasing 10 new bicycles and upgrading existing ones. The goals are to boost environmental awareness, promote sustainability, and equip youth with essential life skills for future employment in tourism, thereby fostering a sustainable and engaged local community.

Learn more about their work here.

Domari Society of Gypsies in Jerusalem (Israel)

Founded in 1999, the Domari Society of Gypsies provides essential support to the Dom community in Jerusalem, with a particular focus on women. The center serves as a cultural hub where Dom women can connect with their heritage, participate in preservation programs, and engage with tourists interested in learning about Dom culture and challenges, often through the insights of director Amoun Sleem.

Project: “Flowers Event Planner: Empowering Dom Women through Floral Design”

This project aims to support financially vulnerable Dom women in Jerusalem, particularly those who have previously participated in Domari Society courses. These women face heightened financial difficulties. The initiative will offer training in floral and balloon arrangement, including skills such as colour coordination and design stability. Participants will learn to create decorations for various events such as gender reveal parties, bridal showers, birthdays, and school or nursery events.

Learn more about their work here.

Europe

çöp(m)adam (Türkiye)

çöp(m)adam is a social enterprise dedicated to empowering women who have never previously worked for a salary. They create innovative and practical items from discarded materials, transforming waste into valuable products.

Project: “Technological Support for Grassroots Craftsmanship”

The project aims to enhance the skills and market reach of their team of 12 women by investing in two key areas: developing a new professional website and acquiring a versatile sewing machine that can perform both sewing and overlocking. These upgrades are essential for showcasing products online and boosting production efficiency.

Learn more about their work here.

Viaggi Solidali (Italy)

Since 2004, Viaggi Solidali has been organizing trips based on the principles of the Italian Association for Responsible Tourism (AITR), of which they are a founding member. In collaboration with ACRA and Oxfam Italia, they launched the “Migrantour” project in 2009. This initiative offers intercultural tours led by migrant citizens to highlight their cultural contributions and foster social cohesion. By 2014, Migrantour had expanded into a European network.

Project: “Migrantour in Florence, Rome, and Turin”

The project aims to train new intercultural guides in Florence and provide advanced training for current guides to become trainers themselves. It will also boost Migrantour’s visibility in Florence, Rome, and Turin through targeted communication strategies and participation in tourism exhibitions and events. New itineraries will be introduced, including the Special Jubilee 2025 in Rome and team-building activities for businesses in Turin. The goal is to increase participation in Migrantour tours across these cities, engaging school groups, local and international tourists, and local residents.

Learn more about their work here.

Americas

Amupakin (Ecuador)

Casa Amupakin, founded in 1998, is a Kichwa midwives’ organization dedicated to preserving and passing on ancestral health practices to the younger generation. The organization creates learning spaces and fosters cultural exchange through tourism activities, offering visitors a chance to engage with Kichwa traditions. Amupakin also focuses on social welfare by providing free prenatal and birthing care, and by collecting baby and maternity clothes for families in need. Their mission includes promoting cultural preservation through sustainable tourism initiatives.

Project: “Sustainable Renovation of Ambina Wasy ‘Healing House’: Preserving and Promoting Cultural Heritage through Responsible Tourism”

The Ambina Wasy, or “Healing House,” is a crucial center for ancestral healing, traditional ceremonies, and cultural education in Archidona, Napo, Ecuador. This project aims to renovate and upgrade the Cultural House to support sustainable cultural tourism. Improvements will include eco-friendly renovations and the development of amenities that attract tourists interested in ancestral heritage. The upgraded facility will serve as an educational center, promoting both sustainability and cultural conservation.

Learn more about their work here.

Asociación Stibrawpa (Costa Rica)

Founded over 24 years ago, Stibrawpa is an association of Indigenous families in Yorkin, dedicated to promoting family well-being while preserving culture, forests, and biodiversity. Comprising 42 families from the Bribri and Naso ethnic groups, Stibrawpa manages approximately 360 hectares of forest. Since its inception in 1993, the organization has spearheaded cultural exchanges and rural tourism, significantly boosting Yorkin’s economy and creating opportunities for both residents and neighbouring communities.

Project: “Water Collection Using a Hydraulic Ram Pump and Pipeline Networks to Supply Tourist Facilities”

In early 2024, the Yorkin community faced a decline in water flow, threatening the stay of groups of visitors. This project aims to address this issue by installing a hydraulic ram pump to provide a reliable source of potable water for the community of Telire in Talamanca. The project will ensure a continuous water supply for Stibrawpa’s tourist facilities, benefiting the 42 families within the association and indirectly supporting the other 100 residents. This enhancement will bolster the local tourism-driven economy and sustain the community’s growth.

Learn more about their work here.

Asociación Circuito Ecoturístico Lomas de Paraíso (Peru)

Established in 2013, this grassroots nonprofit organization is dedicated to preserving the hill ecosystem in Villa María del Triunfo through ecotourism, conservation efforts, environmental education, and fostering a respect for nature. The organization focuses on volunteer management, sustainable resource use, and the protection of species and natural landscapes. It also offers guided tours along the Lomas de Paraíso circuit, with proceeds supporting local conservation projects and community initiatives.

Project: “Natural Paradise: EcoCamp in the Hills”

This project aims to create a sustainable camping experience in the Lomas de Paraíso, a natural oasis near Lima. Local communities, including families from the Quebrada Alta de Paraíso settlement who provide camping space and services, and members of the Circuito Ecoturístico Lomas de Paraíso Association who offer guiding services, will benefit directly. Additionally, a portion of the proceeds will support conservation projects and the maintenance of the natural area, further reinforcing their commitment to environmental preservation.

Learn more about their work here.

Cabañas el Llano de las Papas (Mexico)

Cabañas el Llano de las Papas is an initiative driven by members of the ejido Remedios in the municipality of Angangueo, Michoacán. They offer hiking and Monarch butterfly-watching activities within the Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve. Committed to conserving the hibernation forests and protecting the Monarch butterfly’s migratory phenomenon, they also provide camping and food services at their facilities.

Project: “Rescuing the History and Heritage of Llano de las Papas: A Rehabilitation Strategy for Research, Environmental Education, and Community Tourism in the Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve”

This project aims to restore the El Llano de las Papas cabins in Angangueo, Michoacán, Mexico, which historically served as early headquarters for the Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve (RBMM). The goal is to preserve the historical significance of the site, enhance visitor experiences, support research, and promote sustainable tourism within RBMM.

Learn more about their work here.

Asia

Muhaan (India)

This social enterprise is dedicated to conserving the bio-cultural diversity of fringe communities in the eastern Himalayas. Their initiatives are designed to provide visitors with an immersive cultural experience, deeply rooted in the local land and its people.  

Project: “Marketing and Promotions of Living with the Forests: Conserving biocultural diversity of Forest communities through tourism”

The “Living with the Forests” project leverages community tourism to preserve the ecological knowledge, cultural practices, oral narratives, and livelihoods of forest communities living near critical biodiverse areas. Muhaan aims to enhance the visibility and impact of the “Living with the Forests” program.

Learn more about their work here.

Panauti Bike Station (Nepal)

Established by two professional trekking guides, their mission is to promote eco-friendly tourism that showcases the rich cultural heritage and natural beauty of the region. They offer high-quality bike rentals, expertly guided tours, and custom tours. By training local youth as cycle guides, they create economic opportunities and foster community development. Their initiatives not only support local employment but also contribute to reducing vehicle traffic and promoting health awareness among residents and visitors.

Project: “Enhancing Cycling Tourism in Panauti: Signage Installation and Guide Training for Sustainable”

This project aims to enhance the standard and appeal of cycling tourism in Panauti by improving infrastructure and training local guides. This will provide a richer, safer, and more informative experience for tourists while creating economic opportunities for the community. Beneficiaries include youth, women, the local economy, and the environment.

Learn more about their work here.

Tourism is essential for these organizations as they strive to preserve their cultural heritage, celebrate their traditions, and protect their communities. With the support of the Global Community Tourism Fund, Planeterra aims to enhance their impact and support their ongoing efforts.

Support Planeterra in uplifting more communities through the Global Community Tourism Fund. Click here to donate.

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Empowering Communities, Restoring Nature: Planeterra’s Impactful Initiatives

Selene Orellana
Written by Thomas Armitt – Global Manager, Projects & Partnerships, Planeterra

From the air we breathe to the food we rely on, biodiversity is essential for life on Earth. Moreover, without biodiversity, tourism simply would not exist, and communities around the world would not be able to harness its benefits.

It is no secret that biodiversity is sadly under threat, but we don’t want to dive into that. Instead, we want to take action and play our part, doing what we do best: using tourism to change lives.

Planeterra believes that community tourism can be a powerful tool to help address the climate and biodiversity crisis. So, in today’s blog, we’ll explore three game-changing initiatives that allow us to support the work that communities around the world are doing to protect, restore, and manage their environment. Let’s get into it!

Soa Zara Ranohira, Madagascar

Innovating for Change: Climate & Biodiversity Initiative

Picture this: communities partnering up with tourism enterprises to tackle the impacts of climate change. That’s the essence of Planeterra’s Climate & Biodiversity Initiative.

Through this initiative, we’re not just looking to offset carbon footprints; we want to develop grassroots solutions that make a long-lasting, tangible impact. For this, we’re working hand-in-hand with our community partners to create life-changing experiences that can be woven into the fabric of tourism.

Imagine trekking through lush forests, guided by a community member who intimately understands the land. The aim of these experiences is for travellers to go beyond just being visitors to a place, and instead become participants in something much larger—a movement toward a more positive future for all.

Rooted in Resilience: Tree Growing Initiative

Communities at the forefront of climate change often face its impacts most severely and disproportionately. That’s where Planeterra’s Tree Growing Initiative comes in. Our mission with this initiative is simple yet powerful: “Growing Trees to Uplift Communities.”

We see trees as more than just symbols of biodiversity regeneration; they’re lifelines for communities facing uncertain futures. This is evident through the many benefits of growing trees: healthier ecosystems, food security, water security, and improved defences against soil erosion, flooding, and drought.

At Planeterra, we believe that by planting the right trees in the right places and for the right reasons, we can help communities build sustainable livelihoods, improve their well-being, and become more resilient to the growing impacts of climate change.

It’s a win-win situation that positively impacts both people and the planet. 

We’re immensely proud to say that, to date, we’ve grown over 2 million trees in partnership with G Adventures and Flight Centre, and we collaborate with Reforest to monitor our progress and achievements with this initiative.

Nature-Positive Tourism: Investing in Communities

Nature-positive community tourism is not just about minimizing harm; it’s about actively investing in the well-being of Indigenous communities and the environments they call home.

Through this initiative, Planeterra is working alongside communities to help them integrate a nature-positive approach to the experiences they offer. From protecting animal welfare to reconnecting people with nature, every aspect of these experiences is designed to leave a positive impact.

The goal is to uplift communities and help travellers become stewards of the environment and advocates for social justice, forging meaningful connections and leaving a legacy of positive change.

So, What Can You Do to Get Involved?

As travellers, we hold immense responsibility and our choices matter. Let’s choose our adventures wisely! Opt for trips that prioritize responsible travel and uplifting communities. If you need advice on that, get in touch with Planeterra! We’re happy to support you on your journey to becoming a more responsible traveller.

Also, spread the word about Planeterra’s initiatives and the impact we’re creating and working to amplify. But most importantly, take action in your own life to reduce your impact on nature and guarantee a thriving planet for future generations. 

Remember that the only way to protect and restore biodiversity is by working together and playing our part.

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Navigating the Climate Challenge: Our Commitment to Carbon Footprint Reduction and Biodiversity Restoration

Selene Orellana
Written by Thomas Armitt – Global Manager, Projects & Partnerships, Planeterra

In an era marked by environmental challenges, responsible organizations are taking the lead in understanding and mitigating their carbon footprint. Planeterra, a community tourism enterprise development organization, stands at the forefront of this movement.

Let’s delve into how Planeterra calculates its carbon footprint, why it’s committed to this initiative, and the importance of understanding and acting upon these metrics.

Plant with Purpose Tanzania

What is Planeterra’s carbon footprint?

Planeterra, in collaboration with eCollective, embarked on a journey to quantify and understand its carbon footprint through a robust methodology aligned with best practices. Following the guidelines set by UN Tourism for carbon footprint calculation, we strategically chose the year 2019 as our baseline, representing our organizational activities post-COVID.

The results are telling: our carbon footprint for 2019 stood at 108,638 kg CO2e, providing a snapshot of our pre-pandemic impact. Fast forward to 2022, and our measured carbon footprint was 43,161 kg CO2e. We have recently finalized measuring our carbon footprint for 2023, and we are pleased to announce that there has been a 25% decrease in our emissions compared to 2022, with a total of 32,235 kg CO2e. 

This calculation not only serves as a quantitative benchmark but also underscores our commitment to transparency, sustainability, and continuous improvement. Planeterra’s partnership with eCollective empowers us to take informed steps toward reducing our environmental impact and aligning our operations with global sustainability goals.

How are we calculating our carbon footprint?

Planeterra’s comprehensive carbon footprint audit encompasses various facets of its operations. The following areas are scrutinized:

  • Office emissions: Examining the environmental impact of the physical office space.
  • Working from home emissions: Assessing the carbon footprint associated with remote work.
  • Staff business travel: Including accommodation-related emissions.
  • Staff commuting: Gauging the carbon impact of daily travel to and from work.
  • Miscellaneous: Encompassing various factors like accommodation, transport, activities, and food.

What’s not included in the audit are optional extras, investments, website, merchandise, waste, events, brochures & publications.

Why are we doing that?

Alignment with Global Goals: Planeterra is committed to decarbonizing its operations in line with the United Nations’ goal of achieving a net-zero society by 2050.

Climate Emergency Declaration: Signatories to the Glasgow Declaration on Tourism Declares a Climate Emergency, Planeterra aims to cut carbon emissions by 50% by 2030 and reach net zero by 2050. The focus extends beyond carbon reduction to regenerating biodiversity and collaborating with stakeholders for a net-zero tourism industry.

Community-Centric Approach: As a community tourism enterprise development organization, Planeterra recognizes the importance of supporting our community in innovating climate and biodiversity crisis solutions that lead to enhanced adaptability and resilience to the impacts of climate change.

What do we aim to do?

Focus on Key Emission Sources: Prioritizing emissions from working from home and travel-related activities, Planeterra acknowledges the unique nature of its field-based work.

Travel Emission Reduction: Mitigating travel emissions through science-based targets, emphasizing online meetings, and ensuring any necessary travel contributes positively to organizational goals.

Innovative Climate-Biodiversity Initiative: continuing the development of our tree-growing initiative, which emphasizes direct benefits to communities, contributing to resilience, well-being, and biodiversity restoration.

Partnerships for Impact: Collaborating with tourism companies and third-party organizations to finance and scale their Climate-Biodiversity initiatives, exploring financial incentives for communities, such as carbon finance and biodiversity credits.

Continuous Improvement

Planeterra acknowledges the dynamic nature of climate and biodiversity challenges and the significant positive impact that grassroots solutions can provide to the communities we work with. A commitment to continuously reviewing and updating our mitigation strategy ensures the integration of relevant activities into our core operations for the foreseeable future.

In conclusion, Planeterra’s journey toward carbon footprint reduction and biodiversity restoration is not merely a commitment but a tangible, action-oriented initiative. By aligning our operations with global sustainability goals and prioritizing community resilience, Planeterra exemplifies how organizations can be catalysts for positive change in the face of environmental challenges.

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Canada Not-for-Profit Corporation Number: 793488-2, US 501 (c)(3) public charity, EIN 83-1619668