FAIR MILES Holiday without the carbon-footprint guilt at these hotspots

FAIR MILES

Ditch the carbon-footprint guilt by booking a trip with planet-friendly credentials

LEPOGO LODGES, SOUTH AFRICA

The spectacular clifftop lodge above, Noka Camp overlooks the breathtaking Palala River. Its carbon-offset programme works with charities to offset guests’ carbon footprint – the figure, calculated from each guest’s journey, is converted into a monetary value then donated by Lepogo Lodges into one of three conservation projects, as chosen by the guest. These range from indigenous forest planting, to supporting a Community Stove Project. From R16,500 (£833) per person, per night. lepogolodges.com

VELAA PRIVATE ISLAND, MALDIVES

Velaa has the largest coral-regeneration project in the Indian Ocean, having transplanted more than 8,000 nursery-grown corals in the last five years, increasing growth by five per cent. The resort endeavours to sustain a thriving marine life environment, above left, home to manta rays, nurse sharks and black-spotted stingrays. Visitors are invited to snorkel around an untouched reef, or dolphin watch at sunset. From £1,927 per night. velaaprivateisland.com

THANDA ISLAND, TANZANIA

Surrounded by crystal-clear water, Thanda Island is the world’s only exclusive-use marine reserve. Its resident marine biologist has implemented numerous projects, including the successful return of reef herons and sea turtles. Guests can enjoy aquatic adventures, from tracking whale shark to tours of the thriving coral nursery. The island is entirely solar powered and has a comprehensive waste and water harvesting system, minimising environmental impact, left. From $33,300 (£27,000) per night and can accommodate up to 12 guests. Minimum stay five nights. thandaisland.com L