VAST Impact


VAST is fostering partnerships to drive responsible tourism in-hand with the preservation of Africa’s extraordinary and unparalleled natural heritage. The VAST impact ratings provide a quick one-stop-reference so you know what to expect from each of our inspirational destinations and how they contribute to a bigger vision. 

The Four IMPACT Metrics

Sustainability Levy
Each guest stay generates a financial contribution, often in the form of a sustainability or conservation levy. These funds are allocated to community upliftment projects, such as education, healthcare, or skill development, and to conservation initiatives, including anti-poaching units, habitat restoration, and wildlife monitoring programs.These contributions ensure ongoing support for the protection of biodiversity and the development of local infrastructure, fostering a symbiotic relationship between tourism and community welfare.
Impact of Presence
Many lodges and camps act as custodians of vast tracts of wilderness. Without their presence, the area may face increased threats such as deforestation, illegal poaching, or encroachment for agriculture or urban development.This metric considers whether other establishments in the area are capable of filling the conservation gap. Properties with unique and irreplaceable contributions to conservation efforts hold greater significance in protecting biodiversity. Properties often serve as hubs that inspire or support nearby conservation initiatives, creating a ripple effect that strengthens the region’s overall ecological resilience.
Direct Responsibility
Private Management vs. Shared Concessions: Properties under private management often have complete control over conservation practices, allowing for more tailored and effective strategies. In contrast, properties operating within shared concessions may face limitations due to external regulations or overlapping responsibilities.The scope and scale of conservation efforts, such as wildlife monitoring, anti-poaching patrols, or sustainable land use practices, vary significantly between privately managed areas and shared concessions.Properties with direct management often pioneer innovative conservation practices, setting benchmarks for others to follow and their hands-on involvement ensures that every aspect of their operation aligns with conservation goals.
Fragility of Environment
Properties located in areas with rare or endangered ecosystems face higher stakes. The degradation of these environments would lead to irreversible losses of biodiversity.Many lodges are situated near communities that depend on tourism for their livelihoods. In such cases, the absence of the property could destabilize the local economy and diminish community welfare.The property’s operations must carefully balance tourism with minimal ecological and cultural impact. This includes maintaining low guest numbers, enforcing strict environmental guidelines, and promoting cultural preservation.