We at The Cape Verde Experience have always had a strong commitment to responsible tourism and supported local communities for many years now.
We decided to set up our own carbon offset scheme - Opt In and Offset. Not only does this reduce carbon emissions but also benefits the local communities.
More information about our Carbon Offset Program »
We mustn't forget that tourism can bring a wealth of benefits to developing countries and we strive to work positively towards protecting the natural beauty, wildlife and culture of Cape Verde so that future generations can continue residing in and visiting the country.
Water is a precious commodity all over the world, however in Cape Verde this is especially true after years of drought. Much of the water used comes from desalination plants and we would ask you that you only leave towels to be washed if they are dirty and consider using a shower instead of running a full bath.
We have been awarded 3 star Responsible Tourism status, the highest level possible, by the Association of Independent Tour Operators (AITO).
What You Can Do
- Take the time to read our information on Cape Verde prior to your departure.
- Consider following our guidelines whilst you are there.
- Refer to the information in our brochure and our pre-departure information containing comprehensive information on the Islands.
- If you have any ideas or hear of any other initiatives, please let us know.
Respect Others
Please dress modestly when visiting towns or trekking in the countryside. Familiarise yourself with the background of Cape Verde and its culture, customs and standards. Respect other guests and locals by keeping the noise levels to a minimum at night.
Photography
Please be sensitive to local conditions and always ask permission before taking photographs.
Gratuitous Gifts
Please do not hand out sweets, pens etc. to local children. It encourages begging and causes rivalry amongst the children. Donate instead to schools, or local conservation or charitable organisations. We can advise you of details.
Accommodation
Cape Verde has a great range of good quality restaurants. By eating in local restaurants you are ensuring your visit to Cape Verde benefits the wider community.
Souvenirs
Buying locally made goods ensures your money benefits the people of Cape Verde as well as making great souvenirs. Avoid buying items made from ivory, reptile skin, fur or tortoise/turtle shell.
Dispose of litter carefully
Please discard of rubbish in the bins provided. Litter not only looks untidy but can attract vermin.
Conserve energy and water
Save energy and the environment - please turn off lights, air-conditioning and electrical items when not needed. Water is extremely precious in developing countries so please help preserve supplies by:
- Only leaving towels that need washing on the floor (re-use others)
- Turn off dripping taps and report any leaks
- Use a basin of water with a plug rather than running the tap
- Use a shower instead of bathing in a full tub
Plants
There are a number of endangered plant species on the archipelago of Cape Verde so please do not pick them under any circumstances.
Loggerhead turtles
More than 3,000 loggerhead turtles flock to the beaches of Cape Verde each year, particularly Ervatao beach on Boa Vista now considered the third most important nesting site in the world.
Sea turtles have been around for 95 million years so it is imperative that we do all we can to protect them and give them a fair chance of survival. Loggerhead turtles are very sensitive to human disturbances which can have a damaging and sometimes fatal effect on them. Turtles encounter many dangers both in the water and out so please respect their habitat and abide by these guidelines.
- Please do not go too near the turtles.
- Avoid shining bright lights on them at night. Lights distract the nestling females and disorientate the hatchlings as they make their way to the sea.
- Please adhere to warning signs and notices about the turtles.
- Trade in turtle products is forbidden. Please refrain from buying items made from this.
Charity
Cape Verde is a developing country and welcomes help from charitable organisations. Despite the increasing amount of foreign investment and returning Cape Verde citizens, Cape Verde is still a developing country. As a tour operator contribute to the local community and funds collected in the last year have been used to buy well-needed medical supplies for a local hospital. We will match any monies contributed by our clients with equal or greater contributions and also donate £10 for every 100 holiday questionnaires received. At the end of each year this money will be used to fund a valuable project. If you would like to make a donation please send them to the Charity & Responsible Tourism Department.
Help the schools
Primary school education is often free but parent have to provide pens, paper, books and even desks and chairs. If you would like to help the following things are always welcome:
- Pens, pencils, chalk
- Unwanted children's clothes and shoes
- Children's toys
- Please remember these items need to fit in your suitcase and be within your luggage allowance.
Our resort staff will advise you on distribution.
We at The Cape Verde Experience commit to:
- Consider responsible tourism in managerial decisions throughout the business
- For all staff to be committed to the development of long-term responsible tourism and to be regularly informed on our progress
- Contribute to the long-term stable development of Cape Verde and its economy
- Work with the Cape Verde Tourist Authority and UK government and non-government organisations to progress responsible tourism initiatives in Cape Verde
- Contribute towards improvements in Cape Verde tourist infrastructure
- Work with local businesses to ensure local communities receive a fair share of the benefits of tourism
- Employ local staff wherever possible and provide training
- Fair terms of employment for our Cape Verde staff and ensure their long term security
- Work positively towards protecting the natural beauty wildlife and culture of Cape Verde so that future generations can continue to enjoy residing in and visiting the country
- Contribute financially to charity projects which will have an impact upon Cape Verde's long term development
- Keep our clients informed of our commitment to Responsible Tourism
- Provide our clients with excellent background information on all aspects of Cape Verde and for responsible tourism to continue to be a serious consideration in our pre-departure advice
- Promote respect and understanding for Cape Verde and the Cape Verdean people
- Encourage our clients to contribute to our charity programme
- Run our UK and resort office in the most energy efficient manner as possible
Our office Responsible Tourism Guide is circulated to our staff - Read our guide »