ATTA publishes new white paper to strengthen responsible wildlife tourism practices in Africa

 

The African Travel & Tourism Association (ATTA) has launched a new white paper designed to support more responsible and ethical wildlife tourism across Africa. Titled “Too Close for Comfort: Rethinking Human-Wildlife Boundaries for a Sustainable African Future,” the publication provides practical guidance for travel suppliers, advisors, and their industry partners on how to manage wildlife encounters with respect for animal welfare and visitor safety.

ATTA notes that demand for wildlife-focused travel continues to rise, creating a need for stronger standards to ensure that interactions are safe and sustainable. The organisation highlights that increasing incidents of tourists approaching animals too closely present risks to wildlife, travellers, and the sector’s long-term reputation.

“Getting ‘too close’ is one of the sector’s greatest risks and setting clear, respectful boundaries enables local operators to lead the world in delivering wildlife experiences that are both ethical and more meaningful,” said Kgomotso Ramothea, Chief Executive Officer at ATTA. “Our members were united in asking for tools that are fit for Africa; that are practical and easy to brief both to guides and guests. This white paper is our response as it turns talk into action.”

The white paper compiles research and operational insights from ATTA members including EcoTraining, Great Plains Conservation, Marine Dynamics, and Pangolin.Africa. It introduces a 4D framework – distance, duration, density, and directional freedom – for setting and managing wildlife-viewing boundaries.

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It also includes practical tools such as guest briefing guidelines, in-vehicle information cards, species-specific micro-briefs, radio etiquette, geofenced alerts, and digital logs for sightings. A self-assessment section provides a quick diagnostic for organisations, along with operator and travel advisor pledges aligned to the ATTA Sustainability Charter. Case studies from lodges, marine operators, and conservation-focused organisations illustrate how transparent and responsible practices can be implemented.

The white paper is aimed at lodge owners, DMCs, guides, concessionaires, and marine guides across Africa and the Indian Ocean Islands. It will also be relevant to travel advisors managing guest expectations, park authorities seeking consistent standards, and media partners covering responsible tourism topics.