community tourism

Community Tourism: Bridging Cultures and Fostering Unity

September 17, 2024 Selene Orellana Global Community Tourism Network, News + Blog, Partners

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!

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.

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.

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.

Introducing the recipients of the Global Community Tourism Fund 2024

August 12, 2024 Selene Orellana Global Community Tourism Network, News + Blog

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.

Empowering Communities, Restoring Nature: Planeterra’s Impactful Initiatives

May 22, 2024 Selene Orellana Climate and Biodiversity, News + Blog

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!

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.

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

May 2, 2024 Selene Orellana Climate and Biodiversity, Glasgow Declaration, News + Blog

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.

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.