In simple terms, responsible tourism intends to create “better places for people to live in, and better places to visit.” The management of tourism and the related activities with an aim of maximizing not just economic but also social and environmental benefits and at the same time minimizing the negative costs in the destinations is responsible tourism. It is an important responsibility obliging a combined effort from the tourism entrepreneurs, government, destination communities and the tourists.

Responsible Tourism is a relatively new concept that has gained prominence in a short time. Participants of the United Nations Commission on Sustainable Development in 1999 acknowledged the importance of economic, social and environmental aspects of sustainable development in order to preserve the interests of indigenous people and their communities. The tourism industry swiftly came forward to consider those needs through a sustainable approach in tourism. It was the 2002 Cape Town Declaration on Responsible Tourism that took the initial steps.

How does Access Nepal support Responsible Tourism?

Access Nepal adopts responsible tourism practices aimed at generating greater economic benefits for and enhancing the wellbeing of the communities, while minimizing negative economic, environmental and social impact on the communities and people we work with. We believe in fostering a sense of respect and understanding between the tourists and host communities. Here are some of our endeavors to promote responsible tourism practices.

• We create opportunities for local service providers to offer their best services.
• We offer job opportunities to deserving individuals from destination communities. Some of our guides and porters are native to the Everest, Annapurna and other destination regions.
• We adhere to standard safety and protection guidelines for our guides and porters.
• We promote entrepreneurship based on local art, craft and culture.
• We strictly maintain cleanliness while on trek and manage our wastes with due consideration to the fragile environment.
• We involve community members in decision-making related to our business and services.
• We support initiatives taken towards the conservation of natural and cultural heritage of the communities.
• We try to offer an enriching trip experience with authentic cultural, social and environmental experiences for our guests.
• We orient our guests on culture sensitive issues even though all communities are welcoming and overlook such misunderstandings.