We tend to only think of giving back with donations of time or money. While these are certainly an option and even needed, there are initiatives and organic circumstances where making a positive difference is a beautiful byproduct of an enriching travel experience. On a recent educational journey to South Africa and Namibia, my wife and I explored Cape Town and the Cape Winelands, saw the big five within 24 hours at Kapama River Lodge, and then ventured into the Namib Desert on what was probably the most memorable trip we have ever taken. We also saw firsthand the power of Make Travel Matter and other positive-impact travel in action.

Isibane Se Afrika performed at a group dinner event on our first night at The Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa Cape Town. Founded by Andisiwe Gaqa in Khayelitsha, the group provides local youth with an alternative to street life, steering them away from drugs and gang culture. The performances were truly mesmerizing, and to experience something so positive and uplifting at the start of our trip set the tone for what was a lifechanging vacation. We met with them again a few days later when we were treated to more performances at the Amy Foundation. Learn more about this traditional African and gospel choir at isibaneseafrika.org.

The Amy Foundation offers programs for youth ages 5-35 from vulnerable communities in the Western Cape. Their after-school programs focus on creative learning to help children succeed academically, and their Youth Skills Development program prepares young adults for employment and entrepreneurship. I was thrilled to learn that many wonderful staff members of The Twelve Apostles Hotel graduated from this program. While originating from tragedy, the story of how the foundation was formed is inspiring too. On August 25, 1993, Amy Biehl was killed in Gugulethu, near Cape Town. Her parents, honoring her love for South Africa and belief in reconciliation, together with two of the young men convicted of Amy’s murder, helped found this nonprofit. There are lots of ways to get involved with the foundation, including full or half-day tours for travelers visiting Cape Town. Contact your travel advisor or learn more at amyfoundation.co.za.

City tours offer a comprehensive understanding of South Africa’s vibrant past and promising future. Why not choose one that also brings an enormous benefit to the local communities too? African Travel, Inc., a preferred partner for African journeys, introduced us to a unique nonprofit. Uthando, which means “love” in Xhosa, is dedicated to raising funds for transformative community development projects in South Africa. If interested in Cape Town’s rich culture, history and philanthropic efforts, please consider a private experience with Uthando. Their exclusive tours take you through the city’s eastern townships, showcasing diverse community projects that uplift residents through arts and education. Projects could include animal welfare, special needs education, assistance to refugees, economic empowerment through skills development, care and protection for children, women and the elderly, and much more. Find more details at uthandosa.org.

Nestled in the breathtaking rugged mountains and shifting sand dunes, Okahirongo Elephant Lodge is in the heart of the Purros Conservancy in Namibia. We spent three nights at this spectacular Sanctuary Retreats property, which offers incredible stargazing. This was booked through Abercrombie and Kent, a great and socially conscious partner we work with. A dreamlike stay included incredible food and the most friendly and attentive staff I’ve ever encountered. Sanctuary Retreats not only has active Philanthropy Projects throughout Africa, but we discovered that staying here creates a chain reaction of positive economic and environmental effects, as the property provides jobs for hotel staff, guides and conservationists during a time when climate change is making the traditional work of herding goats and cattle extremely difficult. While it’s more extreme now, the harsh climate is what makes conservation so important here. Much of the wildlife, like elephants, lions and other animals have special adaptations found only here. The conservancy is mostly funded by the fees paid by this resort and camps in the area, so staying at this property directly helps with conservation too. As a side note, while the wildlife may be less abundant than you might find elsewhere in Africa, our guide Uanee was amazing, and the thrill of tracking and spotting these rare animals made it just as incredible an experience. We were also grateful that the activities and interactions with locals are designed to benefit, yet limit the impact upon and help preserve the cultures and traditions of the local Himba and Herero communities still living here. Read about Sanctuary Retreats’ Philanthropy projects at sanctuaryretreats.com/philanthropy.