South African travel booking platform Conservio has announced a successful US$1 million funding round, fueling its expansion within the growing nature-based tourism sector. Founded in 2020 by Lara Dendy Young and Justin Rijnberg, Conservio distinguishes itself by prioritizing properties that champion environmental conservation and foster a deeper connection with nature.
Conservio currently lists over 500 accommodation options across South Africa, Mozambique, and Namibia. The platform addresses common pain points in the travel booking process, such as complex booking procedures, inefficiencies, and trust issues often associated with other platforms. By focusing on sustainable and nature-centric properties, Conservio offers travelers a unique and responsible travel experience.
The recent US$1 million funding round was led by E4E Africa, with participation from Volve Capital, Living Hope Ventures, and strategic angel investors. Notably, Jonathan Smit, founder of Payfast and a prominent figure in the African tech scene, participated in this round, further demonstrating investor confidence in Conservio’s vision. Smit had also contributed to the company’s US$500,000 pre-seed funding round in March 2023.
With this fresh injection of capital, Conservio plans to significantly expand its reach, aiming to feature over 2,000 properties across Southern Africa. The startup also intends to grow its customer base and solidify its position as the leading platform for nature-based travel experiences in the region.
“By curating stylishly sustainable accommodations – from intimate cabins and farm stays to luxury lodges in nature reserves – Conservio offers travelers access to escapes beyond city limits, where every booking directly supports nature conservation,” says CEO and co-founder Lara Dendy Young. This statement emphasizes the company’s core mission of connecting travelers with environmentally conscious properties.
Bas Hochstenbach, managing partner at E4E Africa, expressed his firm’s commitment to investing in ventures that promote sustainable growth on the African continent. This highlights the growing recognition of the importance of sustainable tourism and its potential for positive economic and environmental impact.
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