On some of our Sri Lanka tours we visit an educational centre that enables you to see elephants up close and to learn about their plight in Sri Lanka. There is an abundance of wild elephants in the region and lots of human encroachment on their habitat, which causes inevitable problems and injuries. The centre cares for orphaned and injured elephants, with the aim of rehabilitating them and returning them to the wild.

At Kuapa Kokoo in Ghana, visitors discover how this Fairtrade cooperative ensures cocoa farmers receive fair prices for their harvest. Uniquely, the cooperative owns 44% of Fairtrade brand Divine Chocolate, giving cocoa farmers a genuine stake in the global chocolate trade. From cocoa pod to chocolate bar, you'll see how Fairtrade helps farming families build more secure futures through producer ownership. 

The Community Baboon Sanctuary exists today thanks to a community-led approach that started in 1985 with the local landowners. They signed pledges to protect the howler monkeys’ habitats on their lands. Since then, the Community Baboon Sanctuary has grown into a globally recognized model for community-based conservation, with over 170 landowners actively participating to safeguard over 5,000 hectares of habitat.

In North Macedonia's Prespa region, Ana brings together women through the Rural Women of Prespa organisation. Older members pass down traditional recipes, farming knowledge and customs, while younger women bring fresh ideas and hospitality skills. Together, they're keeping rural traditions alive, with tourism helping support their work for future generations. 

On Indonesia's Flores Island, a local artisan has transformed bamboo craftsmanship into opportunity. Alongside creating handmade products, he mentors young villagers who might otherwise struggle to find work. Visitors meet the maker, learn the craft and leave with a meaningful souvenir. As traveller Doreen said, "I especially appreciated visiting locals in their home setting or small businesses." 

In La Boquilla, Colombia, visitors join the women of DAMARTES (Ladies and Mothers of Art), in transforming discarded coconut shells into jewellery, vases and accessories. Founded by seven pioneering mothers and grandmothers, the cooperative is helping women gain financial independence while preserving traditional skills through hands-on workshops. 

The CCF is an internationally recognised centre of excellence in research and education on cheetahs and their eco-systems with an extensive visitor's centre which encourages visitors to learn more about these beautiful cats and the efforts being made to save them.

Tourism activities in Misminay have helped fund things like a community greenhouse, medical care and schooling. Learn about their lives, from sharing Andean meals to trying out traditional techniques like weaving or agriculture. We actually part-funded the creation of this project, along with our supplier, over 15 years ago, to help support the families of Inca Trail porters.

Solheimar Eco Village is a unique community where people with and without special needs live and work together, creating handmade candles, ceramics, woodcrafts, herbal products, and organic vegetables. We will learn about village's inspiring philosophy, and have the chance to relax in the cozy coffee shop.