Conservation Code
Tourism plays an integral part in maintaining and sustaining indigenous cultures and provides an invaluable source of revenue in the fight against poachers in Kenya. However, if we are to preserve the natural beauty and wildlife of this unique part of the world, all visitors must strictly observe the following guidelines:
ON THE COAST
Do not collect or buy coral or shells from the beach as this contributes to the degradation of the reef and marine life. It is forbidden to export shells and corals and heavy fines are imposed if caught.
Do not stand on, walk on or touch the coral at all as these are living organisms which take many years to form. They are easily damaged and can even be killed if walked on.
Avoid kicking sand around while snorkelling as this suffocates and kills coral polyps.
When boating ensure that you use established mooring points to avoid damaging the coral with anchors and chains.
Dispose of litter carefully especially non-degradable objects such as cans, bottles and plastic containers which can be deadly to marine life.
Do not throw cigarettes overboard as the butts are not biodegradable. They also represent a fire hazard.
ON SAFARI
The National Parks in Kenya are areas of outstanding beauty which have been set aside for preservation. These parks will be enjoyed by future generations only if you pay attention to their conservation.
Keep to established roads and tracks to avoid irreparable damage to the vegetation. Do not encourage your driver to leave these tracks, even if it means that you will not get the best photographs.
Observe quietly; ask the driver to turn the engine off and do not harass the animals. Too many vehicles surrounding leopard, lion or cheetah will cause distress to the animals which in turn disturbs feeding and reproductive cycles.
Do not allow your driver to interfere with cheetah hunting as they only hunt during the day and if surrounded by vehicles they will be deprived of a meal.
Never feed any animal as this upsets their diet and will lead to unnecessary dependence on handouts from humans.
Beware of starting fires with discarded cigarettes. Smoking is forbidden during game drives and you should be careful when disposing of smoking material whilst at a lodge. A fire would cause great damage to vegetation and property and unnecessary suffering to wildlife and humans.
Never get out of your vehicle unless specifically instructed by your driver/guide. In this unlikely event, heed all instructions and always keep to a minimum distance of 20 metres from the animals.
SHOPPING
You can assist the local people in their fight against poachers by avoiding the purchase of the following products. Furthermore it is illegal to bring these products into the UK and into many other countries and they will be confiscated at your port of entry.
- Elephant products such as ivory trinkets, leather goods and tusks.
- Rhino products - all trade in rhino horn is internationally banned.
- Sea Turtle products such as shells, jewellery made from shells, leather
and stuffed turtles. - Cat products - It is inadvisable to purchase cat furs as few can be legally traded.
LOCAL PEOPLE
Please respect the different cultures of the local inhabitants.
Africa and the Indian Ocean islands contain a mixture of races, cultures and religions. Take time to learn about some of the customs in the area you are visiting. It will be very much appreciated.
In Kenya and at some of our ports of call the local people, for religious reasons, strongly dislike being photographed. If you would like to photograph local people, please ask their permission. In some cases you may be expected to pay.
In Muslim areas please respect the dress code. Women should not wear shorts and skimpy T-shirts while in town as this will cause offence.
GENERAL
Conserve energy wherever possible. Make sure that lights are turned off in your hotel room when you go out. Always conserve water as Kenya’s resources are much more limited than in Europe. Absorb the outstanding beauty and leave no trace of your presence!
FURTHER INFORMATION
Friends of Conservation is an international conservation organisation working to stop the threats facing East Africa’s wildlife and habitat. Founded in 1982, the organisation’s projects include:
- Wildlife Monitoring Programmes.
- Anti-Poaching Support.
- Re-creation of Habitat.
- Animal Anti-Harassment Programme.
- Wildlife Translocation and Veterinarian Programmes.
- Community Conservation Projects.
- Education of both Visitors and Indigenous People.
If you would like further information or to make a donation please contact:
Friends of Conservation
Kensington Charity Centre, Charles House
375 Kensington High Street, London W14 8QH
Telephone: 020 7603 5024
