A groundbreaking initiative unveiled at WTM Africa 2025 signals a new era of inclusion in African tourism, as Tourism That Cares partners with Autism South Africa to develop standardised questionnaires aimed at improving services for neurodivergent travellers. The project seeks to equip hospitality providers with practical tools to better understand and accommodate the unique needs of guests with neurological differences.
“We’re on an intentional journey to create a standardisation of best practice in the industry,” said Lange, a key figure behind the initiative. “So that every lodge has the same questionnaire. Every tour operator has the same questionnaire.” With personal experience of neurodivergence within his own family, Lange brings both passion and insight to the project.
While still in its early stages, the resource represents a significant move toward inclusive travel in Africa — a region renowned for its hospitality and natural beauty, yet often challenging for those with sensory sensitivities.
Understanding Neurodivergent Needs
Neurodiversity refers to the wide spectrum of neurological differences, including autism, ADHD, sensory processing disorder, and other conditions that influence how individuals perceive and interact with the world. For many neurodivergent people, the unpredictability and sensory overload associated with travel — from noisy airports to bustling hotel lobbies — can create major barriers to participation.
“There is no one-size-fits-all,” noted a panel of experts during the session. “Each individual has a unique sensory profile.”
Aircraft engineer Gary Bernstein, who identifies as autistic, underscored the impact of environmental stressors: “Most people are either up or low on the various senses. I’m pretty much oversensitive across the board.” He highlighted how elements like engine noise and bright lights can transform a simple flight into a daunting ordeal.
Building Predictability into Travel
Predictability is essential for reducing anxiety in neurodivergent travellers, according to Lange. To that end, the initiative promotes a set of practical, replicable steps that travel providers can implement immediately:
Pre-Arrival Communication
- Detailed Walk-Through Videos: Unlike marketing materials, these should be slow, silent or softly narrated, and show the journey from entrance to room and communal spaces.
- Personalised Welcome Videos: A short clip or call from a staff member who will greet the guest helps build trust and familiarity.
- Visual Guides and Layouts: Maps, photos of the premises, and transport routes reduce uncertainty and support planning.
Airport & Transfer Assistance
Navigating airports is a frequent source of stress for neurodivergent travellers. The panel recommended:
- Fast-tracking Services: Bypassing long queues and crowded areas with pre-arranged paperwork.
- Strategic Seating: Bernstein offered nuanced advice: “Further forward is quieter; further from the wing is more stable. It depends whether motion or sound is more disruptive.”
Accommodation Adaptations
Small adjustments can significantly increase comfort:
- Dimmable Lighting for sensory flexibility.
- Personalisation Options, such as bringing familiar items or photos into the room.
- Quieter Room Locations, away from elevators and communal areas.
- Sensory Considerations in linens, smells, and sound insulation.
Rethinking Itineraries
Traditional tourism itineraries — packed with back-to-back excursions — can be overwhelming. The panel recommended:
- Reducing transitions between locations.
- Adding downtime for decompression.
- Leveraging Africa’s natural tranquility for healing and peace.
- Providing consistent, trained support throughout.
“Don’t design tours to tick boxes,” Lange cautioned. “Design them to suit the person.”
Towards a More Inclusive Industry
In addition to the questionnaire project, the creation of a dedicated online resource, neurodiversetravellers.com, is underway. The platform will offer guidelines for businesses and advice for travellers, aiming to become the industry’s go-to benchmark for neuroinclusive practices.
Lange acknowledged that financial returns might not be immediate, but the long-term value is clear: building a tourism sector that genuinely welcomes all.
Perhaps the most powerful message came from Bernstein: “The biggest thing any business can do is ask: How can we support you?” He added, “For the most part, those accommodations don’t cost them money. It’s a gesture. We accept you. We see you.”
Opening Doors, Creating Comfort
By embracing these practical tools and leading with empathy, African tourism businesses have an opportunity to not only support neurodivergent travellers, but to pioneer a movement toward broader inclusivity in global travel. In doing so, they won't just enhance the experiences of a previously underserved market — they'll also create more thoughtful, comfortable environments that benefit everyone.
The journey has begun — and its destination is a world where everyone, regardless of neurotype, can explore with ease, dignity, and joy.