Mahlatini Luxury Travel has established itself as a leader in combining luxury and sustainability and has recently been selected as a winner of a coveted International Sustainability Award in 2024 for a mature approach to developing sustainable travel experiences. Having received the title of Europe’s Leading Sustainable Tour Operator for consecutive years in 2022 and 2023, Mahlatini continues to redefine the boundaries of responsible luxury.

Tailor-Made Experiences Across Southern and East Africa, and the Indian Ocean

Since its establishment in 2002, Mahlatini has dedicated itself to crafting tailor-made journeys that epitomize luxury while embracing a mature and sustainable approach to travel. At the heart of the company’s philosophy lies a deep understanding of its responsibility to protect the communities and environments in which it operates.

Key Messages:

Ethical Travel Focus: Mahlatini places a profound emphasis on ethical travel, ensuring that each luxury trip aligns with the company’s pledge to sustainability.

Conservation at the Core: Collaborating with conservation companies equally passionate about protecting wildlife, habitats, and local communities forms the cornerstone of Mahlatini’s operations.

Long-Standing Commitment: Sustainability has been at the forefront of the company’s operations since its inception in 2002.

A Pledge to the Planet: Present and Future Initiatives

Mahlatini is on a continuous journey to make a positive difference. Ongoing and upcoming initiatives include:

BCorp Certification: Mahlatini has applied for BCorp certification, an esteemed recognition of the highest standards of verified performance, accountability, and transparency.

Community Supply Chain: Sustainability standards extend throughout the entire community supply chain, encompassing courier partners, packaging materials, and client lodgings.

Renewable Energy: Offices in Cape Town and Belfast showcase Mahlatini’s allegiance to renewable energy, with existing solar panels and plans for further installations.

Measuring Impact

Mahlatini’s impact is backed by tangible results:

• Over 1750 trees planted in Rwanda, Kenya, and Malawi through the One Tree Planted program.
• A 52% reduction in Scope 2 (electricity) emissions from 2018 to 2022.
• Over 90 hours volunteered in local community and conservation projects in the UK and South Africa.
• In 2022, over $500,00 was contributed in conservation fees from client and team journeys. This figure continues to rise annually.
• Recognition as Europe’s Leading Sustainable Tour Operator at the 2022 and 2023 World Travel Awards.

Innovation Anchored in Conservation Ethics

Mahlatini’s innovation lies in its loyalty to conservation. Exclusive collaborations with lodges bound by a Supplier Code of Conduct ensure sustainability is an integrated ethos. Choosing less-visited areas for tailor-made experiences emphasizes an obligation to avoid the negative impacts of overcrowding.

Disseminating Sustainability Knowledge: A Holistic Approach

Mahlatini weaves sustainability into every aspect of its operations. From staff induction to client communication, every interaction serves as an opportunity to educate and inspire. The Mahlatini Green Team’s active involvement and the incorporation of environmental policies into employee contracts create a culture of shared responsibility.

Embark on a journey with Mahlatini Luxury Travel, where every adventure leaves a positive footprint on the planet. Visit https://www.mahlatini.com/ to learn more.