EXPLORE Inc. is one of the most respected tour operators in the US, specializing in custom-designed itineraries to over 20 countries in Africa and the Indian Ocean. EXPLORE's owner, Cherri Briggs, has received Conde Nast Traveler’s prestige award for tour operators in the US “Top Travel Specialists” every year since 2001, and was recently honored with their first award for social responsibility in travel. The company was officially founded in 1991 as a result of founder Cherri Briggs' involvement in conservation and community development in Africa. The EXPLORE commitment is to see that part of wild, unspoiled Africa is left for future generations to enjoy and that conservation directly benefits local communities through tourism. The company makes a point of supporting lodges and operators which empower local people and practice responsible environmental ethics. Since inception, EXPLORE has focused on delivering a meaningful experience to its travelers that goes beyond the photographic safari. EXPLORE and its clients have raised or contributed over three million dollars for conservation, economic development and human rights projects in Africa over the years. Schools have been built, local businesses fostered, AIDs orphanages support, and many environmental education, research and conservation efforts supported throughout Africa.