Ecotourism: Where to Start for More Sustainable Travels

For travel to be considered ecotourism there are 3 basic principles it has to follow: nature based; environmentally educated; and sustainably managed. Take a trip around the world with some of our favorite eco-friendly destinations.

Costa Rica

Costa Rica is one of the most widely-known destinations for ecotourism. The tropical nation is set to become the first carbon-neutral country, and has long been a hot spot for eco-lodges, wellness retreats, and adventure travel.  

From the rainforest to the beaches, the Pura Vida lifestyle sets the standard for sustainable tourism.

Norway

Much further north, Norway has long been an eco-friendly destination for European travelers. From the pristine fjords to the gorgeous snow-capped mountains, nature is in untouched abundance in this friendly Baltic nation.

Thanks to progressive politics, Norway has sustainable policies that have been set in place for years. The country heavily regulates industries like oil, fishing, and hunting, and has become a pilot destination for the Global Sustainable Tourism Council.

Experience small-town life in fishing villages and take in the wildlife like seals, whales, and more.

Galapagos Islands

This destination seems like a no-brainer for sustainable travel, but it wasn’t always that way. Home to Darwin’s Theory of Evolution, the Galapagos had been overrun by irresponsible tourism. However, most hotels and tour companies now offer sustainable travel options so you can enjoy the nature and wildlife native to the islands.

Kenya

Kenya is one of Africa’s most eco-friendly countries. The natural landscape includes abundant grassland prime for safaris, mountains, beaches, and coral reefs. Public and private initiatives have enforced much stronger poaching regulations and boosted sustainable tourism. The country has also incentivized small communities to keep areas clean and banned single-use plastics.

A great way to give back while traveling through Kenya is to stay at a camp that has a conservancy. The country is home to many organizations that protect the nature and wildlife.

France

France may not seem like an eco-friendly destination, but the country recently pledged €1.9 Billion to become a leading sustainable tourism destination by 2030. They plan to accomplish this by renovating hotels, restaurants, and museums, as well as promoting bicycle tourism.

So, if you’ve ever dreamed of doing a bike tour a la Tour de France, this is a great opportunity before the crowds come. Embellish your stay by stopping at wineries who use sustainable winemaking practices.  Be sure to look for Green Globe, Gîtes Panda, Ecogîtes, and Clef Verte when booking your accommodations. These designate the use of approved sustainable practices.

Thailand

The Land of Smiles is no stranger to ecotourism; however, the country has come a long way from being a spot on the hippie trail of many Europeans back in the 60s and 70s. Now, Thailand offers a variety of conservation projects focused on sustainable travel, wildlife, and environmental protection.

From volunteer organizations to the famous elephant sanctuaries, Thailand is a great spot to visit and give back to the country. Look for a tour company that can set you up with a few days to volunteer and embrace the natural world around you.

It’s important to embrace the importance of sustainable travel so that we, and generations after us, can enjoy this incredible planet and all of the beauty and sustenance that it provides us.