about
the running tortoise
the mission
Explore wildlife.
Engage in education.
Encourage conservation action.
The Running Tortoise is a wildlife tour agency that specialises in educational travel with the aim to encourage conservation action. We strive to create immersive experiences that not only captivate our travellers but also ignite a passion for protecting the environment.
In addition to our educational tours, we offer a range of wildlife merchandise. Each purchase directly contributes to supporting community-based conservation projects.
Together, through small changes, we have the power to create a significant impact! Why not start today?
the values
RELIABLE
APPROACHABLE
INCLUSIVE
PERSONALISED
ETHICAL
AUTHENTIC
IMPACTFUL
EXPERIENTIAL
THE GENESIS
As a 24-year-old optimist, Aditya found inspiration in Dr. Jane Goodall’s profound quote
‘‘What you do makes a difference and you have to decide what kind of difference you want to make’’.
He took his first steps by creating and selling calendars with his wildlife photographs, donating most of the profits to The Wildlife Conservation Trust, an NGO he deeply admires.
Not long after, he received a handwritten note from Dr. Anish Andheria, the NGO’s CEO. In it, among other things were the words –
“…be an asset to nature…”
The Running Tortoise was the decision he made to try to make a difference.
the vision
To establish a world
where wildlife and natural habitats
are understood, appreciated, and protected.
meet the founder
Meet Aditya Maru, the founder of The Running Tortoise. Born in Mumbai and raised in Pondicherry, his passion for travel, wildlife and photography have led him to several untamed destinations.
Fueled by an insatiable curiosity about the natural world, Aditya pursued multiple educational opportunities to further his knowledge and expertise. He enrolled in several short courses offered by the National Geographic Society.
To further deepen his understanding and practical skills, he trained under the Naturalist Programme offered by Pugdundee Safaris and the Wildlife and Forestry Services. Additionally, he honed his photography skills through a comprehensive course in Wildlife Photojournalism facilitated by the Africa Media Academy.
With an unwavering commitment to his craft, he continues to lead the excursions of The Running Tortoise.