Sustainable travel practices are starting to pave the way for agritourism, and many tourists are investing in healthy eating. Visit to an organic farm will give you clues on how your food is harvested, grown and packaged. For lovers of nature, you can even get inspired to start your gardening project. There are a lot of activities, such as picking fresh fruits, driving a tractor, milking cows and making local wine. Organic farms are your chance to learn new cultures and discover new food. Let’s dive into why you should consider organic farm visitation and the top 3 African organic farms.
Sustainable Travel: Why Visit Organic Farms In Africa?
Organic farms began in the 20th century. Back then, African nations were only a few fractions of the number of areas practising organic farming. It is a different story today, as Africa accounts for about 3% of the world’s organic agricultural lands. With 70% of Africans making their livelihood from agriculture, visiting an organic farm benefits the environment and the African economy.
For a better, more sustainable travel experience on an organic farm, be open to trying out the local dishes and joining in harvesting activities to help you appreciate the art and science behind organic farming. You’ll also directly support communities, protect endangered ecosystems, and mitigate climate change.
Discover Top 3 Africa’s Organic Farm
Now that you have decided to go on an exciting journey of connecting with nature. We have searched for great organic farms that will leave you speechless. Here are our top 3 standout organic farms:
Organjezicht City Farm
Organjezicht City Farm (OZCF) is a major pioneer of one of the biggest markets in Cape Town, with over 2370 hectares of edible plants. Founded in 2012, this organic farm has supported communities through urban farming. OZCF welcomes visitors and organises different events and farm tours. The market is always available on Saturdays and Sundays. During summer, you can also visit this market on Wednesday night. With the sunset advantage, you will catch a lot of vibes with crafted beers and natural wines.
Are you wondering what you stand to taste? There are many fresh veggies and herbs. Other meals include bread, fish, cheese, and rice paper rolls. Organjezicht City Farm promotes and offers educational programs. OZFC is your best bet for an intriguing, sustainable travel experience. Visiting this organic farm will contribute to small businesses and farmers’ livelihoods.
Malkerns Farm
Malkerns is consistently evolving, as it has been established for over 30 years. A local farm in the 90s producing only milk has now expanded into a huge tourist attraction. It is situated in Eswatini between the Ezulwini and Manzini. Malkerns is known as the breadbasket of Eswatini and is surrounded by craft markets, workshops, riding stables and guest houses. They have a performing art venue, and this reveals that a tour on a farm doesn’t have to be boring.
They offer great meals from exquisite restaurants and the opportunity to enjoy a comfortable rest in an affordable eco-lodge. You will get to partake in trending events such as MTN Bushfire. You will experience one-of-a-kind tours in the Swazi Candle Centre and different weaver centres. The community and settlement around the farm are interactive, giving you the chance to learn a new culture.
Songhai Center
Songhai Center is one of the biggest research and production homes for sustainable farming. It is located around Porto Novo in Benin. It has grown from 1 hectare of land into 22 hectares, promoting eco-friendly agriculture. Divided into sectors, the first sector features innovative cage aquaculture and greenhouse systems. In the second sector, you will find the processing unit for produce like rice, palm oil, and fruit juice. The farm has adopted amazing sustainability practices.
You will find good accommodation and an amazing dining experience at affordable prices. You will also speak with the rural farmer and explore their long-held composting secret. Institutions and researchers will find this farm very exciting to visit.
What To Expect From A Visit To An Organic Farm
Hands-on Activities
The beauty of visiting an organic farm lies in its powerful combination of sightseeing and hands-on activities. You can pick your fruits and vegetables and prepare traditional meals.
Farm Stays
Africa houses the most functioning farms, with comfortable guest accommodations for responsible travellers. At night, some of the farmhouses offer fun activities like bonfires, which allow you to interact more extensively with indigenes and camp workers.
Engage In Workshops And Learning Opportunities
Take practical workshops on organic gardening, composting, and sustainable farming practices. Then, you can easily replicate this knowledge in your garden and backyard.
Cultural Immersion Onto The Farms
Most of all, touring the farms allows you to participate in the harvest festival or see some other seasonal celebration of the culture. Tourism has been a great way for organic farms to fund community-based projects, such as schools or healthcare initiatives.
Tips For Your Next Organic Farm Trip
It is advisable to research your planned destination before going on farm tourism to ensure a great experience allows you to prepare adequately for the trip. Check below for some tips for your next organic farm vacation.
What To Pack
It is advisable to carry comfortable outdoor clothing, a sustainable water bottle, eco-friendly sunscreen, and well-built walking shoes. You’ll also want to bring a journal to record farming tips or document your adventure.
Accommodations
Africa offers a wide range of sustainable lodging options, from farm homestays to eco-lodges. Research farms with great guest reviews or seek out those that partner with local communities.
Getting There
As a responsible traveller, it is important to observe sustainable travel practices. Be carbon conscious while travelling. Use public transport, buses, or eco-conscious tour operators wherever possible.
Conclusion
Visiting African organic farms isn’t an adventure; it’s all about discovery, connecting, and learning new cultures. Be one of the people who is concerned with sustainability. Be open to trading the city lights for starlit nights and the supermarket for green fields. Organic farms from across Africa welcome you with wide, embracing arms and a shedload of fresh produce.
