Botswana Tourism Organisation Elevates Ecotourism Standards for Global Recognition

Botswana Tourism Organisation Elevates Ecotourism Standards for Global Recognition. Botswana Tourism Organisation (BTO) is advancing the Botswana Ecotourism Certification System (BECS) to align with internationally recognised standards set by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC). The move aims to position Botswana as a premier sustainable tourism destination while expanding international market opportunities for local operators.

The initiative has now reached the Pilot Assessment Stage, following the successful completion of inception and development phases. In partnership with Geoflux (Pty) Ltd, BTO recently trained pilot assessors in Maun. Field assessments were conducted at Maun Lodge, Chobe Game Lodge, and Tamoq Mobile Safaris in Ngamiland, with additional facilities scheduled for evaluation.

During the pilot assessments, assessors noted several innovative sustainability initiatives, including solar-powered boats and electric vehicles, highlighting the sector’s commitment to environmentally friendly operations. These practical examples demonstrate Botswana’s readiness to meet global ecotourism standards.

BTO plans to formalise the revised BECS in collaboration with the Botswana Bureau of Standards (BoBS), ensuring the certification system carries national authority and international credibility. This strategic alignment is expected to strengthen Botswana’s competitive edge in the global sustainable tourism market, attracting eco-conscious travellers and encouraging local tourism businesses to adopt internationally recognised best practices.

By raising the bar for ecotourism, Botswana positions itself to not only protect its natural heritage but also enhance the economic impact of tourism through higher-quality, globally certified experiences. The project reflects the country’s broader commitment to sustainable development and responsible tourism growth.