Sustainable Travel in Morocco with Moroccan Expeditions
At Moroccan Expeditions Travel, our focus has always been on promoting “ethical travel” since the beginning over 15 years ago. We strive to ensure that every tour we offer is thoughtfully designed with care and consideration.
- When it came to our guides and drivers, we were committed to providing more than just a “living wage.” At Moroccan Expeditions Travel, we paid them the highest salary in the country, ensuring they received a “thriving wage.” We understood that fair compensation was not only about meeting basic needs but also about enabling our team members to flourish and thrive in their professional and personal lives. By valuing their expertise, dedication, and hard work, we aimed to create an environment where our guides and drivers felt valued and empowered, fostering a strong sense of pride and motivation in their roles. Our commitment to providing a thriving wage was a reflection of our deep respect and appreciation for the integral role they played in delivering exceptional travel experiences to our clients.
- At Moroccan Expeditions Travel, our dedication to sustainability went beyond mere encouragement. We took concrete action by matching dollar-for-dollar any carbon offsetting efforts made by our travelers. We recognized the importance of mitigating the environmental impact of travel and sought to lead by example. By matching the contributions made by our clients, we doubled the impact of their carbon offsetting initiatives, demonstrating our commitment to preserving the planet for future generations. This approach allowed us to actively participate in the collective effort to reduce carbon emissions and promote responsible travel practices. Through our actions, we aimed to inspire and empower our travelers to make environmentally conscious choices, knowing that together we could make a tangible difference in protecting our planet’s natural resources.
- We chose accommodations based on how they treated and paid their staff, as well as if they recycled gray water, reduced waste, used solar power, and did everything possible to create what we now know as a “sustainable” accommodation.
- We supported projects and people that gave value to the community, trying as best to sustain those that make what we do so special and to give outlets for those in more disadvantaged situations.
- We continue to review accommodations and select only the most ethical and who do everything possible to create a happy environment for their employees and warm welcomes for our intrepid travelers.
- At Moroccan Expeditions Travel, our core mission has always been to make a positive impact on local communities, associations, and initiatives across the country, particularly in the destinations our travelers explore. Our founders’ experience as Peace Corps volunteers and our staff’s background in the NGO sector, including work with UNESCO, volunteering with local initiatives and orphanages, reflect our dedication to creating a better world. We firmly believe in the power of collective efforts to contribute to the well-being of our planet. By supporting local causes and initiatives, we strive to foster sustainable development, preserve cultural heritage, and improve the lives of those in need. Through our actions, we aim to create meaningful and lasting change, ensuring that our travel experiences leave a positive and lasting legacy.
- We take great pride in our affiliations with esteemed organizations such as the ATTA (Adventure Travel Trade Association) and the International Eco-Tourism Society. These memberships reflect our commitment to promoting sustainable practices and responsible tourism. Additionally, our certifications in Sustainable Community Development and Sustainable Tourism Management demonstrate our dedication to implementing environmentally-friendly strategies and fostering the well-being of local communities. By aligning ourselves with these organizations and upholding these standards, we strive to provide our travelers with authentic, ethical, and environmentally-conscious travel experiences that contribute positively to the destinations we visit.
Below, we have highlighted several initiatives, causes, and associations that we actively support. Some of them are official partnerships, while others receive grassroots support. Additionally, there are certain private causes that we assist on a personal level, such as covering medical bills or emergency surgeries. However, we respect the privacy and dignity of individuals involved, and we do not exploit their hardships for any form of poverty voyeurism. Our commitment is to aid those in need without sensationalizing their struggles.
A portion of the proceeds from each of our tours directly contributes to these projects. Please continue scrolling to learn more about these initiatives.
Education for All (EFA)
Since 2015, we have been actively involved in supporting Education for All (EFA) by providing annual funds directly to the organization. Moreover, we strive to raise awareness about EFA’s mission among our travelers, with the hope of finding sponsors for girls in need. It is our privilege to contribute to educational initiatives in Morocco, particularly those focused on providing housing and support to girls from rural communities. We are committed to increasing our donations to EFA, and if you are interested in lending a helping hand, we encourage you to explore our comprehensive article about Education for All. Please don’t hesitate to contact us if you require any further information.
Village of Khemlia
Throughout our journey, we have welcomed travelers to the village of Khemlia, located just beyond Merzouga. As part of our commitment, we make direct donations to the village on every trip we undertake. The locals of Khemlia take immense pride in their Gnawa music, and they offer captivating performances that leave a lasting impression. Following these performances, they also sell their CDs, allowing visitors to support their musical endeavors.
At Moroccan Expeditions Travel, we are committed to promoting environmentally conscious tourism. We firmly believe that adopting sustainable practices is the right way forward. To ensure we have a minimal carbon footprint and generate minimal waste during our tours, we adhere to the eight principles of Eco Certification. Our guides undergo comprehensive training to encompass all aspects of eco-friendliness. This includes carefully selecting campsites, effectively managing waste, maintaining equipment, and minimizing carbon emissions. By incorporating these principles into our operations, we strive to provide an eco-friendly travel experience while preserving the natural beauty of Morocco