TOFTigers is pleased to announce the 7th edition of the Wildlife Tourism Awards, set to take place on December 6, 2024, in partnership with the Sanctuary Nature Foundation. This year’s awards will honor outstanding contributions in nature tourism under the theme ‘Celebrating Harmony: Fostering Sustainable Wildlife Tourism through Innovation and Collaboration.’ This theme underscores the importance of sustainable practices, innovative solutions, and collaborative efforts in promoting wildlife tourism. It highlights the interconnectedness of all stakeholders in creating a harmonious relationship between tourism and wildlife conservation.
TOFTigers Wildlife Tourism Awards have played a crucial role in promoting responsible tourism and environmental stewardship within the travel trade community since its inception. These awards honor those who not only enhance the tourist experience but also make significant contributions to wildlife conservation and community welfare. They celebrate pioneers who innovate in supporting wildlife conservation, engaging local communities, and restoring wildlife habitats.
The awards will honor excellence in park management, naturalist guides, travel businesses, environmental and climate advocacy, wildlife photography and filmmaking, service providers, and community enterprises across India and Nepal.
There are thirteen categories of awards:
1. The John Wakefield Memorial Award for Eco Lodge of the Year 2024.
( Awards are presented in each of the below category:
- PUG Outstanding Eco Lodge
- PUG Quality Eco Lodge
- FOOTPRINT Eco Lodge
- Rising Star Eco Lodge )
2. The Billy Arjan Singh Memorial Award for Best Wildlife Guide of the Year 2024
(Awards will be presented in four regional categories, representing the North, South, East, and West regions of India.)
3. Wildlife Promotion Company of the Year 2024
4. Wildlife Tourism Community Initiative of the Year 2024
5. Wildlife and Tourism Initiative of the Year 2024
6. International Wildlife Tour Operator of the Year 2024
7. Wildlife Conservation Photography Award 2024
8. Wildlife Conservation Documentary Award 2024
9. Lodge Naturalist of the Year 2024
10. Wildlife Harmony Homestay Awards (open to non- TOFT lodges as well)
11. Kailash Sankhala Visitor Friendly Wildlife National Park of the year 2024
12. Sanctuary Asia Award for “ Best State for Sustainable Wildlife Tourism” 2024
13. Climate Guardian Award 2024
