Sustainability Practices

Sustainability is a key priority in all Rahhalah’s trips and is deeply embedded in our values, mission, and vision. So, we follow the below guidelines to ensure that, through our operation, we can achieve a maximum positive impact for the local community, natural environment, and economy.

  1. All our guides, drivers, and supporting staff during the trip should be employed from the local community, thus contributing to the social and economic development of the region.
  2. The gift kits offered to travelers should include locally made items or products.
  3. There should be efforts to include in the itinerary, personal experiences with the locals (homestays, home meals, etc.) which not only support the local economy but enhance cultural understanding, empathy, and friendship.
  4. Most meals offered should be hosted in small, local taverns/eateries and should include a variety of local, fresh produce to support the entrepreneurial activities of the region.
  5. Both staff and guests should be adequately educated on the appropriate behaviors when visiting heritage sites and interacting with local communities.
  1. Throughout the itinerary, there should not be any activities that are against animal welfare.
    We do not support activities with captive animals (other than those that are kept in captivity for preservation reasons).
  2. We are keen to support conservation projects and bring our clients in contact with such efforts that increase understanding and respect towards our natural resources.
  3. When engaged in nature-based activities, practices that minimize disturbances and damage to habitats and wildlife should be implemented.
  4. Both staff and guests should be adequately educated on the appropriate behaviors when visiting terrestrial, marine, and coastal environments, or animal habitats.
  1. We want to take every possible step to minimize the use of disposable or single-use objects, especially plastic.
  2. We favor the purchase and use of sustainable materials wherever possible.
  3. We are keen to reduce the use of plastic bottles, so we highly encourage the use of refillable water bottles.
  4. We favor the careful and respectful use of resources (energy, gas, water, food, paper printed material, etc.), avoiding unnecessary waste.
  5. We propose the implementation of no or low-cost energy efficiency measures (like turning off appliances, A/C, lights, etc. when not in use).
  6. “Leave no trace behind” is not just a phrase or a cliché. We live by it, and we want to make sure that both staff and clients understand and respect the concept, contributing to the maximum degree to its implementation.
  7. We keep the size of our groups small so that our customers enjoy a personalized experience. At the same time, their presence is not the source of any environmental disruption, often caused by massive tourism.

Guidelines for travelers

We propose the following guidelines to ensure that, with our presence in the hosting country, we can respect the local communities and resources.

Be aware of cultural norms and present yourself so as not to offend anyone. Take a cue from what the locals wear and, as a general guideline, dress modestly, especially at any religious sites.

Every region has its unique cultural traditions. Always show respect and if you feel comfortable doing so, participate in authentic cultural experiences.

Buy local, rather than imported products and purchase souvenirs crafted by local artisans.

Keep in mind that the place you are visiting is someone’s home and that the people who live there are not tourism objects. Respect your surroundings, avoid staring, and don’t be condescending in your interactions. Don’t assume that people are okay with you taking their picture – always ask before snapping a photo.

The fees you pay to use these areas support local efforts to conserve them. Plus, responsible visitation to sensitive ecosystems can initiate support for protecting new regions.

Stay on trails in natural areas and avoid causing damage to the surrounding environment. Remember to “leave nothing but footprints”.

The best way to prevent waste problems is by reducing your consumption. This is particularly important in destinations that lack recycling programs. For instance, make a habit of requesting no straws; bring along a reusable water bottle and purifier to filter your water; refuse plastic shopping bags.

Pack out everything you brought in and dispose of waste properly to leave places just as you found them.

Try not to waste any water, electricity, food, or other natural resources that we often take for granted. Their presence is not unlimited.

Make it easier on your destination’s waste infrastructure by carefully choosing the items you carry in. For example, try not to bring items made of Styrofoam, remove extra packaging before packing, and use refillable toiletry bottles. Also, regardless of the luggage allowance offered by your airline, remember that any unnecessary weight enhances the negative impact on the environment. Pack in a way that makes you feel comfortable and ensures your enjoyment during your holidays. But be mindful and pack with caution.

If you choose to take pictures, do so from a distance and refuse to take photos with animals that are drugged or restrained.

Do not support tours or attractions that cause suffering to animals or allow travelers to interact with animals in exploitative ways.