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 directly support community upliftment projects such as education, healthcare, and skills development, as well as critical conservation efforts including anti-poaching units, habitat restoration, and wildlife monitoring. These contributions ensure ongoing support for biodiversity protection 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 wilderness areas. Without their presence, these regions may face increased threats such as deforestation, illegal poaching, or agricultural and urban encroachment. This metric considers whether alternative establishments in the area could fill the conservation gap. Properties that offer unique and irreplaceable contributions hold greater value in preserving biodiversity. Often, these properties serve as regional anchors, supporting or inspiring nearby conservation initiatives and creating a ripple effect of ecological resilience.
Direct Responsibility
Private Management vs. Shared Concessions: Properties under private management typically have full control over their conservation strategies, enabling more tailored and effective practices. In contrast, those in shared concessions may be limited by external regulations or overlapping responsibilities. The scale and effectiveness of conservation work, such as wildlife monitoring, anti-poaching patrols, and sustainable land use, can vary significantly. Privately managed properties often lead with innovative approaches. Their hands-on involvement ensures alignment between day-to-day operations and long-term conservation goals.
Fragility of Environment
Properties located in ecologically sensitive areas, especially those with rare or endangered ecosystems, face higher stakes. Degradation in these regions could lead to irreversible biodiversity loss. Many of these lodges also support nearby communities that rely on tourism for their livelihoods. Their absence could destabilize both ecological and economic systems. Responsible operations in such settings require low-impact tourism models that limit guest numbers, enforce strict environmental protocols, and actively promote cultural preservation.