Ecotourism Kenya awards gold to Vipingo Ridge
Following the success of a gold rating in the recent Tourism Regulatory Authority (TRA) audit, we are delighted to announce we have been awarded Gold by Ecotourism Kenya, based Ecorating Certification Standards for Accommodation facilities in Natural and Protected areas.
Ecotourism Kenya is an organisation that champions responsible tourism practices in Kenya, setting standards within the tourism industry by linking tourism, conservation and communities. The content of their review compliments the TRA audit, covering some different topics but all focussed on raising standards.
One of only 7 Gold Rated Accommodation Venues at the Kenya Coast
There are only 7 establishments rated gold at the Kenya Coast, and we are in good company with our peers including Hemingways Watamu, Nomads Diani and Medina Palms Watamu who are all certified gold. This recognition reflects our robust and conscientious business practices and close connection to conservation and communities. Gold also offers confidence to our Members and Guests that Vipingo Ridge is operating at the very highest standards.
Thank you to our team, conservation and sustainability partners, and all of our stakeholders. It is our collaboration and shared vision that has led to this recognition and the opportunities that come from such a certification.
Ecotourism Kenya: Can a golf course be green?
Ecotourism Kenya promotes sustainability and responsible tourism through the establishment of principles and approved models in tourism. This set of standards applies to accommodation facilities, tour operators and destinations.
The journey to certification for Vipingo Ridge was not guaranteed, and certainly not a gold. Read more about the above and beyond activities that alleviated the concerns of whether a golf course should even be reviewed given the high standards, were we even eligible?
Ecorating Certification Standards for Accommodation facilities in Natural and Protected areas
On the 3rd to 5th of March 2025, Ecotourism Kenya was onsite, conducting their detailed assessment at Vipingo Ridge. Under scrutiny across the whole organisation, the auditors were very detailed in understanding our compliance levels to ecotourism principles and best practices, and giving feedback.
The ecorating standards focus on four key areas:
Conservation
Community partnerships and empowerment
Cultural preservation and promotion
Business Practices such as health and safety, fire safety, team welfare and fair marketing practices
The detailed methodology is showcased in our blog: Gold rated: How a golf course can be an environmental leader outlining the physical audit, interviews, detailed report and Committee review, leading to our gold rating.
Vipingo Ridge is gold in sustainability and eco-tourism
Officially awarded the certification at the end of April 2025, Vipingo Ridge is proud to be a leader in conservation and community. Our score of 85% gives us a valued certification for two years when we will be eligible for review in line with the latest standards.
Gold is described by Ecotourism Kenya as: '“superior and replicable levels of excellence in responsible resource use, environmental conservation and socio-economic investment”.
Our certification stands until April 2027. As technology and understanding change and grow we will continue to strive to be the lifestyle destination celebrating Kenya, preserving cultural heritage and acting for the good, benefiting communities and creating excellent experiences for our Members and Guests.
We know that social and environmental priorities are important to growing numbers of home owners and travellers, and we are dedicated to enriching the lives of others and building for the future.
More recognition for Vipingo Ridge:
Learn more about tourism and conservation activities:
