With so much conversation in the industry about overtourism, sustainability and ethical travel, it’s awesome to see tour operators trailblazing in the area.

The latest operator to do so?

Collette.

Following the success of its 2017 inaugural Impact Tour to South Africa, leading global tour operator Collette has announced two new itineraries.

They are the 2018 South Africa Impact Tour and the 2019 Costa Rica Impact Tour, which offer travellers the chance to experience the highlights of these exotic destinations while giving back to communities.

“Celebrating 100 years of guided travel this year, Collette is committed to giving its guests more flexibility and choice on tour,” said Alison Mead, General Manager, Collette Australia.

“Impact Tours enable travellers to immerse themselves in the culture of a destination while also making a real contribution and engaging in ethical and responsible travel.

“Travel gives us so much, so it is very special to be able to give back.”

The 9-day Costa Rica Impact Tour runs from January 24 – February 1, 2019 and includes the opportunity to give back through Collette’s partnership with the Culture Education and Psychology for Infants and Adolescents Association (CEPIA) of Costa Rica.

CEPIA is a not-for-profit organisation which promotes culture, health and education for children and their families in the local communities of Guanacaste.

Travellers can participate in hands-on projects and activities such as beautification of schools or parks where children learn and play, help at the local community centre while on tour or take part in ‘Going Local’, a sustainable volunteering initiative created by the local youth, which highlights the town of Huacas during a walking tour.

Guests will also enjoy the rich backdrop of Costa Rica’s lush rainforests, stunning waterfalls, rumbling volcanoes and endless coastlines – a paradise overflowing with biodiversity and wilderness.

Highlights of the tour include the chance to explore one of the world’s largest butterfly gardens in Monteverde, a dazzling gallery containing more than 100 beautiful hummingbirds, before joining one of Collette’s expert tour guides for a ‘Hanging Bridges’ walking tour, to learn about Costa Rica’s dynamic ecosystem and the conservation efforts in the region.

Nature enthusiasts and adventurers can also tack on a 3-night Jungle Adventure Extension and discover the wonders of Tortuguero National Park.

A spectacular boat cruise offers magnificent wildlife encounters with macaws, toucans, sloths, green turtles, howler monkeys, falcons, the rare ocelot and other native species.

With a guaranteed departure from November 9 – November 20, 2018, Collette’s South Africa Impact Tour brings together the highlights of vibrant South Africa and the opportunity for travellers to make a meaningful contribution to the local community.

In Knysna, visitors will be able to undertake volunteer work at a local school through the Knysna Education Trust. Volunteer activities include taking part in a reading activity, assisting with a lesson plan, helping the children with an educational craft, painting a school mural, or assisting with maintenance in the gardens.

One of the special experiences includes a visit to a village to present ‘Hippo Rollers’ (specially designed devices for making water-gathering more efficient and less labour-intensive).

In Stellenbosch, travellers have the opportunity to volunteer in one of the region’s youth programs.

Travellers can extend their trip, if they so choose, by adding Dubai or Victoria Falls extensions to their package.

Impact Tours allow Collette to deepen its positive global impact through responsible tourism, and engage travellers in the mission as well.

Collette is dedicated to supporting select not-for-profit organisations and projects across the globe through the Collette Foundation, which primarily focuses on education and nutrition initiatives.

Additionally, every employee receives four hours of paid volunteer time each month, where they can get involved directly in Collette’s Corporate Social Responsibility mission.