EXO Travel: We are GSTC Certified

EXO Travel: We are GSTC Certified

Learn more about our latest sustainability milestone and what this means for EXO and our partners.

From management systems to on-the-ground delivery, sustainability is deeply embedded in all our destinations. 

EXO Travel is now GSTC (Global Sustainable Tourism Council) certified across all its destinations, marking an important milestone in our sustainability journey and providing independent validation that sustainability is embedded across our operations. More than a marketing label or internal benchmark, GSTC certification verifies that EXO’s approach aligns with the highest internationally recognised standards for responsible tourism and that these standards are actively applied across all destinations we operate in.

This achievement is especially unique because GSTC certification is based on demonstrable systems, supplier relationships and real on-the-ground delivery. It confirms that sustainability informs how travel is planned, contracted, delivered and continuously improved across our work.

Verified to global standards

The Global Sustainable Tourism Council sets the global standard for sustainable tourism and its Criteria was developed through a worldwide, multi-stakeholder process. Importantly, GSTC itself does not certify companies directly. Instead, it accredits independent certification bodies who conduct third-party assessments.

Certification is based on four pillars covering sustainable management, community benefit, cultural heritage protection and environmental responsibility. To be certified, organisations must demonstrate measurable performance across all four areas, supported by documented systems and actions that can be verified in the field. The result is a certification that carries credibility globally, is valid for three years and requires continued commitment to retain.

How EXO was assessed

EXO Travel was assessed by Control Union, an accredited GSTC certification body. This process examined our written policies and management systems as well as how those systems translate into real practices in our destinations. Documentation reviews, interviews, supplier checks and on-site audits were all part of the certification process. Accommodation partners, guides, transport providers and experience operators were examined to ensure responsible tourism principles are applied consistently and not selectively.

This type of verification is a distinguishing feature of GSTC certification. It ensures that sustainability is reflected in the way experiences are delivered on the ground, where it matters most for communities, travellers and the environment.

Sustainability embedded across our operations

For EXO Travel, sustainability is central to how we operate and deliver travel. It informs the way we select accommodation, design experiences, engage suppliers and build capacity within our teams. GSTC certification recognises this integrated approach, confirming that sustainability sits within our core business practices.

In practice, this involves partnering with suppliers who demonstrate environmental responsibility, fair conditions and respect for local culture. Experiences are developed to create meaningful cultural exchange and community benefit, avoiding models that prioritise volume over value. Our Travel For Good commitment includes monitoring and reducing environmental impact, supporting locally owned businesses and encouraging responsible, low-impact travel approaches throughout the journey.

What this means for partners and travellers

For our partners, GSTC certification provides a credible sustainability foundation that is recognised globally and backed by independent verification. It ensures that collaboration with EXO is aligned with international standards and can support clients who are increasingly seeking responsible travel options.

For travellers, it provides assurance that journeys are designed and delivered with care for people, culture and the environment. Sustainability is considered from the outset and carried through to delivery in the field.

Travel for Good in practice

By choosing EXO Travel, travelers can explore our destinations responsibly, knowing that their journey supports a more sustainable, fair, and enriching tourism industry. 

Ready to embark on a journey that truly makes a difference? Explore our Travel for Good experiences and see how your next adventure can have a lasting impact.

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