Our Commitment to Sustainability
At Orugano Safaris, we are dedicated to promoting sustainable tourism that respects destinations, supports local communities, protects wildlife and the environment, and upholds ethical standards across all aspects of our operations. Our sustainability policy is built on the following core principles:
We Respect Destinations and Its People
We deeply value the cultural diversity found across the places we travel. To honor this, we train our guides, partners, and guests in responsible tourism, encouraging respect for local customs and etiquette when engaging with communities. All our guides and travelers have access to clear, practical guidelines on responsible travel. These cover topics such as meaningful community engagement, cultural sensitivity, ethical photography, avoiding harmful practices like distributing goods or visiting schools and orphanages, and embracing opportunities to learn from local cultures. We are committed to portraying our destinations respectfully in all our marketing and communications, and we expect our partners to do the same.
We Empower Local Communities
Tourism should be a force for good. At Orugano Safaris, we design experiences that directly benefit the communities we operate in. This includes developing itineraries that incorporate underexplored regions, which helps spread the economic benefits of tourism and reduce pressure on popular hotspots.
We work closely with local suppliers, artisans, guides, and community leaders to ensure that the economic value generated through our tours stays within the region. Travelers are encouraged to purchase locally made, eco-friendly products rather than imported souvenirs, helping to sustain traditional crafts and small businesses.
We employ local staff for both field and office operations and ensure all employees are treated fairly, paid appropriately, and given opportunities to grow. Our business practices reflect integrity—we pay all taxes due and maintain strict policies against bribery, corruption, or exploitation. Travelers are also encouraged to support vetted community initiatives, such as conservation projects, women’s cooperatives, and educational programs, that deliver long-term impact. During gorilla trekking experiences, for example, we recommend hiring local porters to both assist travelers and provide income opportunities for residents.
We Protect Wildlife and the Environment
Nature is at the heart of our experiences, and we are fully committed to its protection. We follow and promote strict guidelines set by the Uganda Wildlife Authority and other conservation authorities to ensure that wildlife is not disturbed or harmed during our tours. Our itineraries include only responsible wildlife encounters that contribute to conservation efforts and respect the natural behavior and habitat of the animals. We never support experiences that involve feeding, touching, or harassing wildlife.
We champion “slow travel,” which encourages travelers to spend more time in fewer places. By offering a variety of rich experiences within a single region, we reduce the need for excessive transport, limit carbon emissions, and help travelers connect more deeply with the local environment and community.
We also promote eco-conscious behaviors, such as minimizing waste, using refillable water bottles, and reducing plastic usage. Our team and travelers are educated on waste disposal, especially in sensitive areas, and we partner with suppliers who share these values and are actively working to improve their sustainability practices.
We Protect Children
Orugano Safaris has a zero-tolerance policy for any form of child exploitation. We do not employ children and refuse to work with suppliers who violate child labor laws or engage in practices that endanger children’s well-being or development. Our tours do not include visits to schools or orphanages. While travelers may have good intentions, unannounced visits can disrupt learning environments and contribute to long-term harm. Instead, we encourage guests to support educational or child welfare programs through credible and transparent channels that prioritize the needs and dignity of the children involved. We also advise travelers against giving handouts to children, such as money, sweets, or toys, as this can foster dependency and alter community dynamics. Instead, we provide information on how to contribute meaningfully to community development in a sustainable way.
We Promote Gender Equality
Empowering women and underrepresented groups is essential to creating a just and inclusive tourism sector. Orugano Safaris actively supports women-led businesses and integrates them into our tours—whether through homestays, craft cooperatives, or guiding services. We promote equal opportunities within our team and are proud to maintain a balanced workforce of men and women. Discrimination and exploitation have no place in our operations, and we do not partner with suppliers who fail to uphold inclusive, respectful practices. Our travelers often have the opportunity to meet and support inspiring local women who are making a difference in their communities, helping to shift traditional gender roles and promote equality through the power of tourism.
We Educated on Sustainable Practices
Education is a cornerstone of our sustainability strategy. We believe informed travelers make better choices. That’s why we equip all our guides, partners, and clients with practical resources on how to minimize their footprint and maximize their positive impact. Each year, we host a sustainability workshop near Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, bringing together our guides to discuss real-world challenges and share strategies for promoting responsible tourism on the ground. These sessions focus on everything from wildlife ethics to waste reduction and community engagement. We continuously review and update our practices to reflect global standards and local realities, ensuring our approach remains relevant and effective.
How you can help as our guest
Simply by traveling with us, you are already helping to support many Ugandan individuals and communities along your journey. If you would like to contribute even further, we warmly encourage you to participate in community tourism activities — enjoy authentic local cuisine, and purchase sustainably made crafts. These experiences not only enrich your travels but also provide direct additional income to local families. Some of our preferred projects and community products that are recommended are listed below:
Bigodi Wetland
Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary near Kibale Forest is one of Uganda’s best examples of community-based tourism. Managed by the local community, it protects a rich wetland ecosystem home to birds, primates, and other wildlife. Tourists are guided by trained locals, and all entrance fees directly benefit the village — funding schools, health centers, and conservation efforts. By visiting, you’re helping preserve nature and improve local lives.
Bwindi Hospital – Buhoma
Located near the popular Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, this hospital serves thousands of people in remote communities. While not a tourism site itself, it’s closely tied to the region’s growth from tourism. We support the hospital with yearly donations and encourage visitors to see its work firsthand. Your interest and support help strengthen local health services in an area that serves both residents and park staff.
The Batwa Experience – Mgahinga
The Batwa people were the original forest dwellers of the Bwindi and Mgahinga forests. Through this cultural experience, Batwa guides take visitors on a journey through their history, traditions, music, and survival skills. This project was created to give the Batwa a platform to share their heritage and earn a sustainable income. Your visit directly helps them preserve their identity and improve their quality of life.
Ride 4 a Woman – Buhoma
This grassroots initiative helps local women in Buhoma who face challenges like domestic violence, poverty, and disease. The organization offers them training in craft-making, tailoring, and hospitality. Visitors can support by staying at their guesthouse, enjoying a cultural performance, joining a cooking class, or purchasing handmade goods. Every experience helps a woman gain financial independence and confidence.
Large Carnivore Monitoring Project – QENP
This conservation project monitors lions, leopards, and hyenas in Queen Elizabeth National Park. It also works with local communities who live near these animals and often face livestock losses. By involving communities in wildlife monitoring and awareness, the project helps reduce conflict and builds local support for conservation. Visitors interested in wildlife conservation can learn about this balance between human needs and protecting predators.
Uganda Conservation Foundation (UCF)
UCF works with communities and park authorities to protect wildlife and habitats. Projects like the Elephant Trench in Ishasha prevent elephants from raiding farms, helping farmers avoid crop loss and reducing conflict. UCF also trains and equips anti-poaching teams, with many locals involved in protecting their natural heritage. As a visitor, supporting or learning about these programs helps strengthen the link between conservation and community wellbeing.
Guided by a genuine passion to share Uganda's Wonders with you.
About Us
Our warmth and extensive safari knowledge allow us to offer authentic, immersive, and remarkable experiences that leave a positive impact on Africa’s crucial wilderness areas.