In February 2024, Azimuth World Foundation headed to Vendas Novas, Portugal, for this very special gathering that brought together travelers, journalists, academics, and activists to discuss critical issues facing the tourism industry today, while celebrating 25 years of Papa Léguas.

Our presentation, “Ethical Tourism: 5 Key Questions,” focused on the complex relationship between tourism and Indigenous communities worldwide. Drawing from our work with Indigenous grassroots organizations, we shared insights about how well-intentioned conservation and tourism projects can have devastating consequences for Indigenous peoples when implemented without proper consultation and consent.

Beyond the Surface: Understanding Impact

We challenged participants to look beyond traditional tourism narratives by sharing the experiences of communities we work with, including the Batwa and Endorois peoples. These examples illustrate a troubling pattern: the most biodiverse regions on Earth exist not despite Indigenous presence, but because of it. Yet the very communities who have been the most effective guardians of our planet’s ecosystems often face displacement in the name of wildlife tourism and conservation projects.

Our presentation centered on essential questions that tourists should ask before engaging with any tourism project, and which encourage travelers to move beyond surface-level engagement and consider the deeper impacts of their tourism choices.

A Call for Conscious Travel

We’re grateful to Papa Léguas for creating this space to discuss Indigenous rights and ethical tourism. These conversations are essential to build up a tourism industry that truly serves both travelers and the communities that host them.

For travelers seeking to make more informed choices, we strongly encourage connecting with Indigenous-led organizations in destinations you plan to visit.