About Us
Travel with Purpose
Our Purpose
At Coelle Travel, we aim to make a positive impact through responsible and sustainable tourism. Our focus is on creating travel experiences that are environment-friendly, culturally enriching, and beneficial to local communities. Sustainable travel is at the heart of everything we do, ensuring that our journeys leave a positive footprint on the environment and the people we meet.
Who We Are
Coelle Travel is an international travel startup based in Portland, Maine, on the ancestral lands of the Wabanaki people. We are proudly woman-owned, led by an indigenous immigrant with Amazigh roots from Morocco. Our unique perspective shapes our commitment to offering authentic travel experiences that respect and honor indigenous cultures while promoting sustainability in tourism.
Our Mission
Our mission is to connect people through authentic and community-based experiences that honor indigenous cultures and support women in tourism. We specialize in sustainable tourism that allows you to travel like a local, immersing yourself in the culture and daily life of the communities you visit. By promoting responsible travel, we aim to create meaningful connections that benefit both travelers and the communities they engage with.
goes back to local causes
Sustainable Tourism
OUR CORE VALUES
Indigenous Cultures
Why
When we travel, we journey across lands with histories that often predate our presence. Many of us live on lands that were not originally ours, and much of global tourism has been built on exploitative practices that harm local economies and damage the environment. At Coelle Travel, our goal is to bring indigenous cultures to the forefront, not only in how we travel but in how we live our lives. Indigenous peoples are the true stewards of the land, with deep roots reflected in their rich cultural heritage. By centering our travel experiences on indigenous cultures, we aim to empower indigenous communities to control their narratives and share in the economic, political, and cultural benefits of global tourism.
How
- Supporting Local Economies: We design our trips with the local economy in mind, visiting local co-ops and small businesses that make the region’s economy unique.
- Giving Back: A percentage of our profits goes back into the community through partnerships with local nonprofits and community organizations that support at-risk or disadvantaged populations.
- Cultural Immersion: We create itineraries that immerse travelers in the local culture, helping them learn what it means to live like a local while respecting indigenous traditions.
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Women in Tourism
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Why
Despite making up half of the global population, women have historically been excluded from the economic benefits of tourism. While tourists often purchase local artisan goods crafted by women, a disproportionate share of the profits ends up in the hands of men. At Coelle Travel, we seek to create equitable outcomes for women in tourism, including those working as guides, in the service industry, and in other roles that make travel experiences possible. These women are the cultural transmitters of indigenous knowledge and deserve equal recognition and compensation for their contributions.
How
- Supporting Women: We partner with local women guides, hotel owners, and other businesswomen, as well as nonprofits focused on women’s empowerment and advocacy.
- Fair Trade Practices: We visit verified co-ops that ensure profits are fairly distributed to the women who craft artisan and handmade goods.
Community-Based Tourism
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Why
Sustainable tourism involves local communities as active and equal partners. The local residents possess the cultural traditions and skills that make travel experiences valuable. Community-Based Tourism (CBT) addresses the environmental, economic, political, and cultural impacts of tourism on local communities. Our focus on CBT ensures that we craft authentic travel experiences in partnership with locals, resulting in vibrant, enlightening journeys for travelers and positive outcomes for the communities that host them.
How
- Collaborative Itineraries: We craft customized itineraries with input from local residents to minimize the negative impacts of tourism while maximizing economic and cultural benefits.
- Cultural Education: We educate our travelers before and during their journeys about local customs, practices, and traditions, increasing cultural competency and fostering positive interactions with the local community.
steps for the perfect Experience
Find Travel Perfection
Discover your perfect travel experience with tailored adventures and unforgettable destinations.
Accessibility
Activities and visits are tailored to accommodate various needs, including disabilities, families with children, and dietary restrictions.
Interest Alignment
Share your passions filmmaking, sports, local crafts, music, and we’ll craft a personalized travel experience that connects you with people and places.
Education
We provide cultural orientation and safety resources to prepare you with insights into the local culture and expectations, ensuring a respectful and enriching experience.
Testimonials
What our visitors say
Traveling through the Atlas Mountains and into the desert was an incredible journey. The landscape shifted from rugged peaks to vast, golden sands, each more breathtaking than the last. Along the way, we visited local cooperatives working to preserve the fragile environment, including the oasis restoration projects in M’Hamid. It was inspiring to witness the community's dedication to combating climate change through sustainable practices. This trip wasn't just about seeing beautiful sights; it was about understanding the deep connection between the land and the people who care for it.
Sarah K.
Traveling with a Coelle Travel guide in February was incredible. Our camel trek through the desert gave us a unique understanding of the landscape and the rich culture of the nomads. As we crossed the tranquil dunes, we felt a deep sense of peace and connection to nature. The warmth and hospitality of the nomads highlighted the importance of caring for our planet and one another. This journey wasn’t just about exploration; it was a healing experience that left us eager to return. We can’t recommend Coelle Travel enough for anyone looking to create authentic connections while traveling!
Josh D.
The Sahara experience is something truly special. My friends and I felt so welcomed, and there was a real sense of purpose in supporting the causes that Coelle Travel stands for. I’ve never felt so connected to the local communities and their way of life.
Kate B.
We offer sustainable tourism experiences that honor indigenous cultures, support women in tourism, and are built on community-driven initiatives.
Quik Links
Contact Info
- We are an international travel company based in Portland, Maine on Wabanaki land, woman-owned and immigrant-led, dedicated to purposeful travel through sustainable tourism practices.
English (UK) 
English (United States)