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“Sometimes one experience is all it takes to awaken a new passion.”
There are many paths to making a meaningful impact on conservation. Christopher Hill grew up surrounded by the mountains, trails, and wild spaces of New Zealand and Australia. That early connection to the outdoors eventually shaped a career where travel and conservation meet in a way most people don’t even realize is possible. His company, Impact Destinations, uses philanthropy to support conservation projects across the world. Travelers get rare, firsthand experiences with the wildlife their funding helps protect.
The stories Christopher shares show that these travel experiences are transformative. Such as the time travelers were witnessing a rhino relocation in South Africa, even riding in the helicopter as veterinarians dart and transport the animal to safety. Standing beside a sedated rhino whose life has just been saved because of their contribution, is an experience that gives a lasting impression. Those moments shape how they talk about wildlife, vote, donate, and care.
Christopher has spent nearly 20 years refining this model, from early volunteer-based trips to today’s philanthropy-driven approach. He works with organizations protecting everything from orangutans in Indonesia to hammerhead sharks in Costa Rica to wolves in Colorado. Each project begins with a simple question: Where is help needed, and how can travelers play a meaningful role without displacing local jobs or disrupting conservation work?
What impressed me most was how often these trips spark long-term commitment. Travelers return home forever changed. Everyday people who went from curious participants to lifelong supporters of conservation around the world. A photo gives a glimpse into new places. Experiences last long after the photo is taken.
Connect with Christopher
https://impactdestinations.com/
Resources
https://parkleaders.com/about/
Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/theparkleaders/
Notable Moments
[00:02:19] How Impact Destinations blends travel and philanthropy
[00:03:32] Rhino relocation as a once-in-a-lifetime conservation experience
[00:04:29] Identifying endangered species and forming partnerships
[00:06:34] The start of Hands Up Holidays and early volunteer work
[00:09:44] Why Christopher shifted from volunteering to philanthropy
[00:11:37] Conservation efforts in Costa Rica and Chile
[00:16:52] A traveler inspired to support multiple conservation projects
[00:18:41] Advice for people who want to make an impact