More awards for Phinda

17 judges reviewed 142 applications from the travel industry and rated how they exercise social responsibility in five key areas: poverty alleviation, cultural and/or environmental preservation, education, wildlife conservation, and health. 38 finalists were named and the final winners were determined by compiling the judges’ overall rankings.

"These finalists are prime examples of how the world’s hotels, airlines, cruise lines and tour operators can inspire their peers to improve our world," said Deputy Editor for Special Projects Dorinda Elliott. "The efforts by these World Savers, from building schools and furnishing much-needed medical supplies to restocking wildlife reserves and dispensing micro-loans, are models for the entire travel industry."

Just 17 years ago, the land that would become Phinda Private Game Reserve was largely dilapidated, degraded and bankrupt under agriculture and poor land management. Today it is regarded as one of the country’s most remarkable luxurious ecotourism destinations and conservation successes as it brought together a pioneering partnership between private enterprise, conservation ideals and a rewarding relationship with the neighbouring communities of Makhasa and Mnqobokazi, who are now owners of the land.

"We are honoured to be recognized by Condé Nast Traveler for the positive contributions Phinda has made to wildlife conservation in KwaZulu-Natal and for ensuring the ongoing biodiversity of the Reserve's 23 000 hectares of prime wilderness land," said Claire Howse, CC Africa’s Sustainability Director.

"We believe it’s no longer sufficient for travel operators to simply cite employment statistics as their contribution to responsible tourism," says Howse. "Companies like CC Africa are working hard to show meaningful benefits to conservation and, particularly, local communities."