Everyone deserves the chance to travel. Yet, all too often, seeing the world is a privilege reserved for the global elite. At Elevate Destinations, we’re on a mission to democratize tourism. We aim to connect local youths to their own environments as travelers and stewards.
Through our innovative Buy a Trip, Give a Trip model, your trip purchase creates travel opportunities for local kids. For the first time, they experience nearby natural and cultural wonders, see the sights, have fun, and make the kind of travel memories we often take for granted.
Since our beginnings, giving back has been a core aspect of our brand, driving us to positively impact the communities and environments of the destinations we visit.
Here’s a recent story that brings Buy a Trip, Give a Trip to life.
The Travelers:
On September 3rd & 20th, 2025, two groups of students from a rural community near Gir National Park in India set out on their Buy a Trip, Give a Trip excursion. Living so close to the national park means they have an intimate connection to the surrounding wildlife and forest. Gir National Park is globally renowned as the last natural habitat of the Asiatic Lion.
These excursions were designed to inspire these kids to see themselves not only as beneficiaries of this environment but as guardians and future conservation leaders. They were encouraged to pursue career opportunities in conservation, including roles such as Forest Officers, Naturalists, Local Guides, Wildlife Conservationists, or Safari Drivers. Above all, the purpose of this day was to help them see the value of their home and stay connected to nature. This ensures that, whatever path they choose, they contribute to developing a green future for Gir National Park.
The Details:
Filled with excitement, the group set out from Sasan, ready for a day of learning and adventure. Their first stop was Junagadh, where the Sakkarbaug Zoological Park is located. This park plays a critical role in the conservation and breeding program of Asiatic lions and other endangered species.
The students were warmly welcomed by Mr. Aghera, Mr. Bhatt, and Mr. Vyas. Mr. Bhatt personally welcomed the group by distributing pens containing fenugreek seeds to every participant, symbolizing the message of planting and nurturing nature at home.
After a substantial breakfast, the students began their hands-on session, which blended practical lessons with conservation awareness. With over 25 years of experience in wildlife conservation, Mr. Aghera engaged the group through interactive explanations. Although the students were already familiar with lions and local fauna, he emphasized the interconnectedness of all species. Mr. Aghera explained the roles of both large mammals and small creatures, such as honeybees, in sustaining ecosystems. Special awareness was raised about leopards, which often share landscapes with human settlements. The session emphasized safety and coexistence practices, helping students understand the balance between risk and respect for wildlife.
His storytelling captivated the students and helped them appreciate their home landscape in a new way.
The next stop was a Nature Education Camp. There, Mr. Vyas taught the students to identify natural specimens, such as antlers, tortoise shells, an ostrich egg, fossils, and horns from species like the Chinkara, Sambar, and Barasingha. They also observed non-venomous snakes, snails, and tortoises, accompanied by explanations of their behavior and ecological significance. These interactive sessions helped the children connect their classroom lessons with real-world learning.
After the reptile lesson, the group visited the Lion Breeding Centre, where they had the rare opportunity to observe lion cubs. This encounter added excitement and inspired greater appreciation for conservation efforts.
The afternoon added a cultural dimension to the trip. Students visited Uparkot Fort, an ancient hill fort at the base of Girnar Hills. The fort’s origins trace back to the Mauryan period. Students explored the premises and enjoyed cycling within the historic site.
The day ended with a shared dinner at a local farmhouse near Junagadh, where the group enjoyed traditional food and desserts and discussed the highlights of the day.
Impactful Moments:
The most powerful takeaways came from the children themselves. One boy shared that he learned to identify wildlife features. He now understands the importance of reporting animals near villages to forest authorities. Another student explained that the visit sparked her interest in a career in wildlife. These stories show how a single day can help shape the future of conservation in a local community.
Through the Buy a Trip, Give a Trip initiative, these students gained new skills, confidence, and inspiration to see themselves as protectors of the environment. When you help open up travel opportunities for local kids, your journeys create ripples that extend beyond the trip itself. Book your next journey with us to empower young people to dream big, discover their heritage, and protect our world.
Partner Organizations:
The team at Encounters Asia is passionate about designing experiential and transformational journeys. In doing so, they also give back to the community and have committed themselves to various causes and initiatives.
Read about other Buy A Trip, Give A Trip experiences.
