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Things to Do in West Bali: A Road Trip Itinerary + Travel Guide

Posted on Last updated: May 18, 2023

There are plenty of things to do in West Bali; even if it may be the least-visited part of the island, it has plenty of its own charm. I always say that each different part of Bali has a completely different vibe, and West Bali to me feels the most like authentic Indonesia. There aren’t many big West Bali attractions, but rather a different experience of Balinese lifestyle (and some awesome views).

Unlike Canggu, Ubud, Uluwatu, and some of the other tourism centers, West Bali as a whole is mostly devoid of trendy cafes, yoga studios, bars, and other Western amenities (sparing a few). Most cities and areas in West Bali are home to villages, cheap Indonesian warungs, and beaches that range from seeing a few souls, surfers, and fisherman around to completely and utterly empty.

If you’d like to get off the Bali beaten track a bit, I highly suggest doing a road trip of West Bali. We wrapped around the coast from the south to the north, visiting surf towns like Medewi Beach on the way to West Bali National Park and Menjangan Island near Pemuteran.

Read on for details, and if you’d like to see our experience doing this exact itinerary to know even more about what to expect, check out my “West Bali” highlight on instagram.

What to Know Before a West Bali Road Trip

Make Sure Your Vehicle Can Handle It: Before you explore West Bali, I would make sure you have a proper scooter useful for road tripping . I’d make sure you have plenty of space inside the scooter to store things, enough to hold your bags and your friend/partner’s bags, and enough power to get you up a hill here and there. I would most highly recommend a good 150cc scooter like an NMax, PCX, or Lexi.

Some may rent a car, which is also completely fine! I am just more of a scooter-lover as it’s much easier to get around on thin roads and proper hidden gems in Bali.

Say Goodbye to Some Creature Comforts : There are a few cities in West Bali that have trendy Western-ized cafes, but most don’t. Chances are that you’ll eat local food more often in West Bali and frequent local warungs and even roadside bakso stands. Get ready for a more authentic Bali!

Be Prepared for Mosques: West Bali is much more Muslim than the rest of Bali (which is mostly Hindu). Given its proximity to Java (which you will see on the horizon for a lot of your trip), there will be a lot more mosques in areas you will stay and a lot more conservative clothing choices than Bali’s tourism centers. So, keep this in mind. Mosques all have 5 calls to prayer each day as well, including one around 5am, so maybe stay farther away from a mosque if possible if this will bother you. It is, however, mostly just a part of life as you travel around this region.

Winging it Can Be Harder: We ‘winged it’ for most of our West Bali Road Trip, but it was actually quite hard as a lot of the restaurants were closed and the accommodation was very few and far between. Some towns only had a few low-rated hotels and there were a few times we nearly ran out of daylight trying to figure out where to stay. So – I recommend planning ahead , at least for most of your accommodation, so you know where you’ll be staying. I’ll be linking the places we stayed and others we saw and can recommend.

Things to Do in West Bali in a Road Trip Itinerary

I suggest leaving from Canggu or somewhere on Bali’s southwestern coast. The first driving day may be a bit longer as you drive out west on a big highway that eventually runs along the coast.

Medewi Beach – Pulukan Area

Distance: 1.5 hours from Canggu

Along the Way: Views of Rice Fields on the Ocean

Medewi Beach is a logical first stop in any road trip and is one of the main things to do in West Bali. Getting here from Canggu will take just over 1.5 hours, so leave early, take it slow, and stop for a coffee and a view along the way.

The main area to stay in is called Medewi Beach, which is known for surfing and has a very keen surf community. This is one of the larger towns you’ll visit in West Bali, with more inhabitants and expats. You will see the name Pulukan on Google Maps which is the name of the greater area around Medewi.

Things to do in Medewi Beach Area

As I mentioned, this is a booming surf community. You can rent boars all over the place and take them out for a spin. The most popualr break is actually called Medewi Beach.

There are some very cute beach bars along the water from Medewi Beach going West. From more high-end hotels to little woodenshacks with decorations made from palms and coconut, you can spend some time hanging along the water with a coconut or a bintang.

Enjoy Rice Fields on the Water

This part of the West Bali road trip has tons of beautiful rice paddies right on the ocean. Make sure to stop to take in some of these views as there aren’t many places in Bali you can see such a sight.

Bunut Bolong Ancient Banyan Tree

After leaving Medewi, there are a number of interesting West Bali attractions that you can visit on the way to your next destination. Firstly, Bunut Bolong is apparently the oldest tree in Bali and it’s situated just up a hill from Medewi.

Bunut Bolong is situated next to a temple and a 500m downhill hike to a ‘holy water’ river. The tree is used in ceremony where participants wash in the holy water, pray at the temple, and then (and only then) walk through the tree as a form of cleansing and rebirth.

You can’t miss it when driving as you will have to drive THROUGH the tree! It’s quite spectacular and a quick stop, that is unless you’d like to try the downhill hike to the stream that an attendant recommended to us. We didn’t make it the whole way as we had our bags, but if you can do this in the morning before checking out of your accommodation you should do it!

Jembrana Green Cliff

Jembrana Green Cliff (“Nature Tourism Green Cliff” on Google Maps) is a hilltop viewpoint which is also not far from Medewi Beach. At this attraction there are some wooden walkways constructed at the top of a viewpoint which overlook the green hills of West Bali facing the ocean. There are some photo spots set up and amazing views all-around.

Where to Eat in Medewi Beach

Bombora – Bombora is a hotel, pool, and restaurant right on the point at Medewi Beach (near the surf break). It’s a popular spot for surfers to check the waves with a fresh juice, or for people to stay with a view of the break from their balcony. The food here is great and more Western than a lot of places you’ll find.

Nal’s Place – Nal’s Place was a fantastic find of a restaurant, recommended to us by some friends who spent lockdown in Medewi. They have a colorful and beautiful restaurant space with a VERY affordable and diverse menu. From Nasi Campur to a Chicken Parm, they have tons of options here and you definitely won’t spend much.

Rasta Cafe – Very well-rated Indonesian Cafe that we didn’t get a chance to visit but wish we had.

Where to Stay in Medewi Beach

Bombora is, as I mentioned above, directly in front of the main surf break in Medewi. It’s a nicer place but worth a splurge to be right in the center, at one of the best restaurants, and on the beach. View Booking Link Here

These are lovely beachfront villas which are also right on the surf break. View Booking Link

Jembrana/Negara Area

Distance: 40 minutes from Medewi

Along the Way: Plenty of Stops Outlined Below!

Negara is the next big town down the road in West Bali, in the Jembrana Regency. To be honest, there’s not much in the city at all besides little shops and houses, so we wouldn’t recommend spending too much time in Negara itself besides maybe stopping for lunch on the way to the coast.

Things to do in Negara Area

Mangrove forests.

There’s a huge delta just south of Negara with incredible mangrove forests. They’re really thick and quite spectacular, but really just as a drive-by and not too much of a stop rather than for photos.

Huge Colorful Fishing Boats + Perancak Sunset Point

If you drive to ‘Perancak Sunset Point’ on the coast of Negara, you will be able to see the HUGE, COLORFUL, GAUDY fishing boats that head out into the sea each evening a few hours before sunset. They stay in the huge canal that opens up to the sea at Perancak Sunset Point, but go out fishing each day using 6-8 engines per boat for power. They’re quite spectacular and are worth checking out!

If you are around for sunset, this place was not named ‘sunset point’ for nothing! It’s got a great sunset angle where you can watch the boats. There’s also a colorful restaurant at the point to stop for a bite.

Beach Next to the Homestay

Make sure to check out the beach if you stay at Segara Urip Homestay. You can get there from the property, and as you’ll be a bit further up the coast, you can swim in much calmer water with no waves. You might be able to spot some water buffalo taking a dip like we did!

We also noticed fisherman here fishing in a very unique and different way, which entailed pulling huge nets out of the water by hand with a line of about 8 men. We saw lines of men pulling in unison all the way down the beach, and many of them were happy to have me take a photo of them and show me their craft. It was beautiful!

Kurma Asih Sea Turtle Conservation Center

You MUST visit the Turtle Conversation Center while in Negara, and you might be lucky enough to let some babies into the sea! Some turtles lay eggs from October-December, some in August, and some in March-April, and incubation is 50 days. Ideally you’d want to be here around 50 days after any of the months I mentioned before. This way, you might be able to see some baby turtles hatching (or help them out of the ground), see them improving their swimming skills, or actually let some lil guys out into the ocean!

I must say it was one of the most joyous experiences I can remember – seeing tiny turtles open their eyes for the first time, swim for the first time, or lay out some little guys and watch them ferociously race toward the open water and get swept up by the sea for the ultimate freedom. I can’t recommend it more… wow! We passed by in October.

Roses Peak looks like it would have been a fun viewpoint in its hay day (or maybe after covid, who knows). There are some swings, a fun moon to pose with, and a trail up the hill with a lot of viewpoints so you can see over the top of the jungle all the way to the sea.

If you have time, it’s a nice view driving up here, but don’t prioritize it as it’s not quite run-down.

Wisata Puncak JR Viewpoint

We didn’t make it to this viewpoint as we went to Rose’s peak instead. They’re both super close together as the crow flies, but take 30 minutes to get to from each other because of some deep canyons. If you go, let me know if this viewpoint was better… I have a feeling it might be.

Mount Merbuk

Mount Merbuk is one of 5 main volcanoes in Bali and quite a tall peak, so I feel it needs a mention as one of the things to do in West Bali. I’m not entirely sure how to hike it, but I’m sure there’s a way!

Where to Stay Around Negara

We don’t recommend staying IN Negara as we couldn’t find any affordable and well-rated hotels (many were closed when we were there but you might have better luck).

Segara Urip Homestay

We followed a local recommendation and ended up staying the night at Segara Urip Homestay, and couldn’t have been happier. Their rooms are nice, the price was great, it is right on the beach (which is LOVELY at sunset), and they have an affordable restaurant on-site.

Where to Eat Around Negara

Segara Urip Homestay – If you stay here, they have very decent Indonesian Food.

Warung Makan Jepun – This is a well-rated warung just outside Negara city. They have outdoor tables next to a rice field.

RM Padang Restu Bundo – We didn’t get a chance to visit this little hole-in-the-wall Padang Restaurant but it was next on our list.

Belimbingsari Area

Distance: 30 minutes from Negara

Along the Way: A few stops on a mountain detour

Things to Do in Belimbingsari Area

Bedungan palasari/waduk palasari dam.

This is a small yet beautiful dam with a green mountainous background. If you are in the area it’s worth a look and maybe a picnic with a view!

Kampoeng Palarejo Selfie Spot

This is a tiny little ’selfie spot’ area run by a family. By ’selfie spot’ I mean a super cute and colorful area with different frame setups for photos. From cute benches and swings to little structures and a treehouse, you can pay 10k to get in here and go wild with photos! This is also worth peeping into for a few minutes if you are in the area.

Catholic Church of Sacred Heart of Jesus

This is… wait for it… a CATHOLIC CHURCH in BALI! The more you think about this, the stranger it is… and it’s even more fascinating when you see this thing. It’s a crazy combination of Balinese/Hindu architecture and what would look like a church in Europe. I don’t know my architecture well enough but I can definitely tell you I’ve never seen anything like it before.

Melaya Area Beach

The Melaya province seems to run from about Belimbingsari to Gilimanuk, and has an AMAZING UNTOUCHED beach the whole way down. We stayed in Putri Kori (below) and walked along the beach from there.

This beach was really unique because it’s truly the only time in Bali we have felt the area was truly untouched, seen hardly any other humans, and really saw the wild jungle growing right up to the sand. The water here is SO clear. There aren’t many waves OR coral reefs (just good old soft sand as far as you can walk -where else in Bali has that???? Nowhere I can think of), and the water is calm. It’s great for walk and a swim and a frolic.

Where to Stay in Belimbingsari Area

Nicer/elegant – taman wana resort palasari.

Taman Wana Resort is just across from the dam mentioned above. This is one of the most unique places to stay in West Bali with a number of stone and thatch rooms overlooking a lake in the jungle (pictured above).

We actually ALMOST stayed here. We visited the property and tried to negotiate to a deal with them, but ended up going to the place below. I would stay there in the future for a night, but at the time it wasn’t really the vibe we were looking for as it was very empty and a bit eerie. In normal times I’m sure it would be lovely – the pool was amazing!

Fun/Cheaper – Putri Kori Villa + Resort

We ended up at Putri Kori instead, and loved it. They have 5-6 big bungalow rooms around a pool (with some cheaper rooms in the back). Everything here was SO colorful, with pool floaties, colored bean bags, and bright umbrellas. The owners were absolutely lovely – A German man and Balinese Woman – and SO hospitable.

They are most likely the only place in Bali that serves authentic German Food as the owner Andres has a stock over from Germany. We had a great meal and time here and walk along the totally deserted beach. As I mentioned above, a walk along the beach in this area is a must – you’ll have it ALL to yourself.

Visiting Gilmanuk is definitely one of the things to do in West Bali… but that doesn’t mean you should. 😛 And quite frankly I do not recommend it! Gilimanuk is really not much more than a port town with a tiny village, even tinier warungs, and some fun-looking clothes shops (the one thing I might recommend is checking these out for cheap clothes).

Things to Do in Gilimanuk if You Must

There are some nice views of Java and the volcanoes, and of West Bali from a park in the corner of town called Taman Siwa . This park actually has a cool statue of Shiva, and if open (it wasn’t when we visited) a blow-up obstacle course on the water.

There’s also a tiny walking trail called Karang Sewu that would probably walk over water in the rainy season, but was bone dry when we went. You might have better luck.

We had a tiny cheap warung meal from Kantin Jawa (and I mean tiny) but I hear that Gili Seafood is actually amazing – it was closed when we went.

West Bali National Park

Next on the list would come West Bali National Park. The entrance is closer to Gilimanuk, with a road that wraps all the way around the stubby peninsula. The entrance fee to get in is 200k , and the National Park is famous for trekking and for Menjangan Island, which is great for snorkeling and scuba diving.

It would be tough to do both in a day, but it’s fun to trek and do some wildlife spotting in West Bali National Park mainland. Keep your eyes out for 2 types of deer (one small and one large), white starling birds, and the famous black ‘ebony leaf’ monkeys who are only found here and in Java. You might be able to do some trekking up some small hills in the national Park.

A few big tips for visiting West Bali National Park

• The road is TERRIBLE. Be prepared and don’t leave cameras in the scooter because they will get shaken up. It may be better in a car, but still bad and BUMPY.
• Don’t go to the beach until you turn the northwest corner of the park. The beaches near Gilimanuk are gross and slimy, with sand fleas and creepy crawlies and urchins in the water. But when you pass the temples, there are lovely reefs.
• GO EARLY if you want to see a lot. You’ll spend a lot more time driving than you think.
• Bring binoculars or a good camera lens to spot wildlife with – namely monkeys, deer, and birds!

Menjangan Island

Menjangan Island is a small island off the coast of West Bali National Park. The island is well-known for its snorkeling and scuba diving, with incredible reefs and wildlife.

Scuba here is not cheap, however…. for 2 dives you will be looking at around 1.2-1.3m IDR or more, as it is pricer to begin with and also includes entry to the National Park (200k).

Important Notes about Menjangan Island

I was extremely mislead when first visiting here because I thought that everything with the name ‘Menjangan’ was actually on the island itself. I was very wrong. Everything to do with Menjangan island is actually on the closest coast of Bali (nearer to Pemuteran, technically called Pejarakan but everything calls itself ‘Menjangan’) and in fact there is not much at all on the island itself.

There are NO dive centers, resorts, or homestays on the island itself . Many hotels and resorts in Pejarakan will organize your tours to Menjangan Island – boat trips, scuba trips, snorkel trips, and even trekking in West Bali national park.

Even the “Menjangan Dynasty Resort” is on the Bali mainland – I was convinced that it too was on the island itself but actually it just has a view of the island. Make sure to check the location of where you want to stay.

Where to Stay to Visit West Bali National Park

Menjangan hill.

This is an awesome option as it is CHEAP, has a fantastic view, and is quite close by to everything. It’s not in central Pejarakan but its worth a few extra minutes for this view.

Menjangan Dynasty Resort

This is a fancy glamping resort with a view of Menjangan Island. It’s one of the more unique places to stay in West Bali but it’s definitely more of a splurge.

The Menjangan

This might be the most well-known hotel/resort in the area. It’s the closest to the actual National Park/Menjangan Island and is also home to a starling reserve and wildlife park that might as well be part of the National Park itself. It’s quite a massive resort area with different lodges, pools, and restaurants.

Permuteran Area

Lastly but NOT least, Pemuteran is one of the main things to do in West Bali. This is one of the largest towns in West Bali and one of the few places you can find some cute cafes, restaurants, bars, and LOTS of dive shops.

The main things to do in Pemuteran are go to the beach and scuba dive. The dive shops here are a bit farther away from Menjangan island, but most of them still dive at Menjangan for a cheaper price. There are also some underwater sculptures in Pemuteran that were submerged to create coral reefs – these are also popular to dive.

We dove with Dive Concepts here and had a great experience. Read more about Scuba Diving in Bali here . we loved the restaurant “The Local Hero’ here.

Where to Stay Around Pemuteran

Sumberkima hill retreat.

We loved our stay at Sumberkima Hill Retreat at the end of our West Bali road trip, providing us with a bit of comfort after a lot of winging it and staying in smaller places. Check out our article on staying at Sumberkima Hill or view it online below.

From here, you can continue towards Lovina and Singaraja, or you can take a fun windy road back through Gitgit and check out some waterfalls, rice fields, and more! Let me know in the comments below if you have any questions about things to do in West Bali!

Check out more Bali Content:

Nusa Penida Beaches – Most Unique Places to Stay in Bali – Uluwatu Food Guide – Ubud Restaurants with a View – Bali Bamboo House Accommodation – Things to do in Amed – Unique + Boutique Places to Stay in Uluwatu – and more!

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Great places to go near Nature Tourism Green Cliff in April (updated 2024)

Things to do near nature tourism green cliff, 1 . waterbom bali.

Waterbom Bali

2 . bali zoo.

3 . TANAH LOT TEMPLE

TANAH LOT TEMPLE

4 . bali bird park.

Bali Bird Park

Shops near nature tourism green cliff, 1 . dfs (galleria bali).

DFS (Galleria Bali)

2 . discovery shopping mall.

Discovery Shopping Mall

3 . bali collection.

Bali Collection

4 . matahari kuta square(kuta beach).

Matahari Kuta Square(Kuta Beach)

Hotels near nature tourism green cliff, 1 . bombora medewi.

Bombora Medewi

2 . kelapa retreat & spa.

Kelapa Retreat & Spa

3 . wide sands beach retreat.

Wide Sands Beach Retreat

4 . umadewi surf & retreat.

Umadewi Surf & Retreat

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4 ways nature tourism can help drive a green COVID-19 recovery

Investing in eco-tourism can play a pivotal role helping green recovery programs. Image:  REUTERS/David Gray

.chakra .wef-1c7l3mo{-webkit-transition:all 0.15s ease-out;transition:all 0.15s ease-out;cursor:pointer;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;outline:none;color:inherit;}.chakra .wef-1c7l3mo:hover,.chakra .wef-1c7l3mo[data-hover]{-webkit-text-decoration:underline;text-decoration:underline;}.chakra .wef-1c7l3mo:focus,.chakra .wef-1c7l3mo[data-focus]{box-shadow:0 0 0 3px rgba(168,203,251,0.5);} Michael Taylor

.chakra .wef-9dduvl{margin-top:16px;margin-bottom:16px;line-height:1.388;font-size:1.25rem;}@media screen and (min-width:56.5rem){.chakra .wef-9dduvl{font-size:1.125rem;}} Explore and monitor how .chakra .wef-15eoq1r{margin-top:16px;margin-bottom:16px;line-height:1.388;font-size:1.25rem;color:#F7DB5E;}@media screen and (min-width:56.5rem){.chakra .wef-15eoq1r{font-size:1.125rem;}} Travel and Tourism is affecting economies, industries and global issues

.chakra .wef-1nk5u5d{margin-top:16px;margin-bottom:16px;line-height:1.388;color:#2846F8;font-size:1.25rem;}@media screen and (min-width:56.5rem){.chakra .wef-1nk5u5d{font-size:1.125rem;}} Get involved with our crowdsourced digital platform to deliver impact at scale

Stay up to date:, travel and tourism.

• Investing in eco-tourism and nature conservation could play a pivotal role helping green recovery programs, says the World Bank.
• They found that every dollar invested in protected areas and nature-based tourism, creates a sixfold return.
• Pandemic recovery plans can help promote green tourism, which in turn creates local jobs, improves incomes and helps protect biodiversity.

Most countries have yet to make much progress on greening their COVID-19 stimulus packages - but World Bank researchers say investing in eco-tourism and nature conservation could play a pivotal role in turning stuttering economies around.

For every dollar governments invested in protected areas and support for nature-based tourism in 2019, the economic rate of return was at least six times the original investment, says a World Bank report published this week.

The report focuses on four countries, including Brazil's Abrolhos Marine Park where visitors can go free-diving, Chitwan National Park in Nepal which offers hiking and wildlife trips, and safari destination South Luangwa National Park in Zambia.

The rates of return at these nature tourism hotspots ranged from six to 28 times the amounts spent in 2019 on things like roads, trails and visitor centres and wages for park managers and rangers to protect against poachers.

Given these economic benefits, researchers say pandemic recovery plans should promote green tourism, which creates local jobs, improves incomes and helps protect biodiversity.

Have you read?

Wwf: these are the biggest threats to the earth's biodiversity, tourism is responsible for a staggering 8% of global greenhouse emissions, tourism is damaging the ocean. here’s what we can do to protect it.

"The evidence we were finding ... shows that investing in protected areas and promoting sustainable tourism (in those areas) is a good economic recovery strategy," Urvashi Narain, the bank's lead environmental economist and report co-author, told the Thomson Reuters Foundation.

Here are some key takeaways from the report:

Why don't more countries see the importance of nature to their economies?

Better conservation and sustainable management of natural areas, such as parks, oceans, forests and wildernesses, are increasingly seen as a vital tool for nations to safeguard plants, animals and habitats, and meet targets to reduce planet-heating emissions

But many governments see funding conservation and biodiversity protection as a luxury - or fear it could threaten economies that depend heavily on natural resources. So some opt to just set aside protected areas without any real investment.

Countries are also held back from reaping the opportunities from investing in nature and eco-tourism by a lack of data.

With travel restrictions in many countries, why would anyone invest in tourism now?

Before the pandemic, there were more than 8 billion visits a year to marine and land protected areas, providing a vital source of income for communities who rely on tourism, says Karin Kemper, global director for environment at the World Bank.

By investing now, governments can create short-term jobs for laid-off tourism workers in restoring or building infrastructure in protected areas, in preparation for when visitors return.

And when tourists spend time in a natural area, their money goes beyond entry fees, flowing into hotels, souvenir shops, transport, restaurants and a range of outdoor activities, creating jobs and prosperity across the local economy.

Biodiversity loss and climate change are occurring at unprecedented rates, threatening humanity’s very survival. Nature is in crisis, but there is hope. Investing in nature can not only increase our resilience to socioeconomic and environmental shocks, but it can help societies thrive.

There is strong recognition within the Forum that the future must be net-zero and nature-positive. The Nature Action Agenda initiative, within the Centre for Nature and Climate , is an inclusive, multistakeholder movement catalysing economic action to halt biodiversity loss by 2030.

The Nature Action Agenda is enabling business and policy action by:

Building a knowledge base to make a compelling economic and business case for safeguarding nature, showcasing solutions and bolstering research through the publication of the New Nature Economy Reports and impactful communications.

Catalysing leadership for nature-positive transitions through multi-stakeholder communities such as Champions for Nature that takes a leading role in shaping the net-zero, nature-positive agenda on the global stage.

Scaling up solutions in priority socio-economic systems through BiodiverCities by 2030 , turning cities into engines of nature-positive development; Financing for Nature , unlocking financial resources through innovative mechanisms such as high-integrity Biodiversity Credits Market ; and Sector Transitions to Nature Positive , accelerating sector-specific priority actions to reduce impacts and unlock opportunities.

Supporting an enabling environment by ensuring implementation of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework and mobilizing business voices calling for ambitious policy actions in collaboration with Business for Nature .

What's the best approach for countries to invest in conservation and nature tourism?

Authorities should first formalise protected areas because without this, investment levels will stay low and it is hard to force businesses to respect higher environmental standards.

Investment from both government and private sources should then support things like paying guards or rangers to stop encroachment, creating infrastructure such as access roads, trails and visitors centres, and training guides so that visitors can learn more about the nature they are seeing.

Often managers of conservation areas are good at wildlife protection but lack the skills to bring in more visitors and make the area accessible and enjoyable.

Who will invest in and benefit from nature tourism?

The government's job is to set and enforce policy and regulation to ensure a natural area is protected, but attracting commercial investment is also important, the World Bank says.

Businesses can create jobs and provide quality services, like lodgings and restaurants, that will bring in more visitors.

Sharing the benefits is key. Areas of natural beauty should not be limited to rich tourists who only stay in expensive hotels and have no opportunity to meet the local community, the bank says.

Tourism revenue must be shared with indigenous groups and other local people, who should be able to supply goods to hotels and businesses, such as handicrafts or foods, it adds.

And if those communities suffer losses due to areas being designated as protected, including crop damage from wildlife, they should be compensated from tourist profits, it recommends.

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World Economic Forum articles may be republished in accordance with the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International Public License, and in accordance with our Terms of Use.

The views expressed in this article are those of the author alone and not the World Economic Forum.

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What Is Ecotourism? Definition, Examples, and Pros and Cons

• Chapman University
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Ecotourism Definition and Principles

Pros and cons.

• Examples of Ecotourism
• Frequently Asked Questions

Ecotourism is about more than simply visiting natural attractions or natural places; it’s about doing so in a responsible and sustainable manner. The term itself refers to traveling to natural areas with a focus on environmental conservation. The goal is to educate tourists about conservation efforts while offering them the chance to explore nature.

Ecotourism has benefited destinations like Madagascar, Ecuador, Kenya, and Costa Rica, and has helped provide economic growth in some of the world’s most impoverished communities. The global ecotourism market produced $92.2 billion in 2019 and is forecasted to generate $103.8 billion by 2027.

A conservationist by the name of Hector Ceballos-Lascurain is often credited with the first definition of ecotourism in 1987, that is, “tourism that consists in travelling to relatively undisturbed or uncontaminated natural areas with the specific object of studying, admiring and enjoying the scenery and its wild plants and animals, as well as any existing cultural manifestations (both past and present) found in these areas.”

The International Ecotourism Society (TIES), a non-profit organization dedicated to the development of ecotourism since 1990, defines ecotourism as “responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment, sustains the well-being of the local people, and involves interpretation and education [both in its staff and its guests].”

The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) looks at ecotourism as a significant tool for conservation, though it shouldn’t be seen as a fix-all when it comes to conservation challenges:

“There may be some areas that are just not appropriate for ecotourism development and some businesses that just won’t work in the larger tourism market. That is why it is so important to understand the basics of developing and running a successful business, to ensure that your business idea is viable and will be profitable, allowing it to most effectively benefit the surrounding environment and communities.”

Marketing an ecosystem, species, or landscape towards ecotourists helps create value, and that value can help raise funds to protect and conserve those natural resources.

Sustainable ecotourism should be guided by three core principles: conservation, communities, and education.

Conservation

Conservation is arguably the most important component of ecotourism because it should offer long-term, sustainable solutions to enhancing and protecting biodiversity and nature. This is typically achieved through economic incentives paid by tourists seeking a nature-based experience, but can also come from the tourism organizations themselves, research, or direct environmental conservation efforts.

Communities

Ecotourism should increase employment opportunities and empower local communities, helping in the fight against global social issues like poverty and achieving sustainable development.

Interpretation

One of the most overlooked aspects of ecotourism is the education component. Yes, we all want to see these beautiful, natural places, but it also pays to learn about them. Increasing awareness about environmental issues and promoting a greater understanding and appreciation for nature is arguably just as important as conservation.

As one of the fastest growing sectors of the tourism industry, there are bound to be some downsides to ecotourism. Whenever humans interact with animals or even with the environment, it risks the chance of human-wildlife conflict or other negative effects; if done so with respect and responsibility in mind, however, ecotourism can reap enormous benefits to protected areas.

As an industry that relies heavily on the presentation of eco-friendly components to attract customers, ecotourism has the inevitable potential as a vessel for greenwashing. Part of planning a trip rooted in ecotourism is doing research to ensure that an organization is truly providing substantial benefits to the environment rather than exploiting it.

Ecotourism Can Provide Sustainable Income for Local Communities

Sustainably managed ecotourism can support poverty alleviation by providing employment for local communities, which can offer them alternative means of livelihood outside of unsustainable ones (such as poaching).

Research published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences found that communities in regions surrounding conservation areas in Costa Rica had poverty rates that were 16% lower than in areas that weren’t near protected parks. These protected areas didn’t just benefit from conservation funds due to ecotourism, but also helped to reduce poverty as well.

It Protects Natural Ecosystems

Ecotourism offers unique travel experiences focusing on nature and education, with an emphasis on sustainability and highlighting threatened or endangered species. It combines conservation with local communities and sustainable travel , highlighting principles (and operations) that minimize negative impacts and expose visitors to unique ecosystems and natural areas. When managed correctly, ecotourism can benefit both the traveler and the environment, since the money that goes into ecotourism often goes directly towards protecting the natural areas they visit.

Each year, researchers release findings on how tourist presence affects wildlife, sometimes with varying results. A study measuring levels of the stress hormone cortisol in wild habituated Malaysian orangutans found that the animals were not chronically stressed by the presence of ecotourists. The orangutans lived in the Lower Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary, where a local community-managed organization operates while maintaining strict guidelines to protect them.

Ecotourism May Also Hurt Those Same Natural Ecosystems

Somewhat ironically, sometimes ecotourism can hurt ecosystems just as much as it can help. Another study in the journal Trends in Ecology and Evolution found that ecotourism can alter animal behaviors in ways that put them at risk. If the presence of humans changes the way animals behave, those changes may make them more vulnerable by influencing their reaction to predators or poachers.

It's not just the animals who are at risk. As ecotourism activities become too popular, it can lead to the construction of new infrastructure to accommodate more visitors. Similarly, more crowds mean more pressure on local resources, increased pollution, and a higher chance of damaging the soil and plant quality through erosion. On the social side, these activities may displace Indigenous groups or local communities from their native lands, preventing them from benefiting from the economic opportunities of tourism.

Ecotourism Offers the Opportunity to Experience Nature

Renown conservationist Jane Goodall has a famous quote: “Only if we understand, will we care. Only if we care, will we help. Only if we help, shall all be saved.” It can be difficult to understand something that we haven’t seen with our own eyes, and ecotourism gives travelers the opportunity to gain new experiences in natural areas while learning about the issues they face. 

Ecotourism also educates children about nature, potentially creating new generations of nature lovers that could someday become conservationists themselves. Even adult visitors may learn new ways to improve their ecological footprints .

EXAMPLES OF ECOTOURISM

The East African country has some competitive advantages over its neighbors thanks to its rich natural resources, paired with the fact that it has allocated over 25% of its total area to wildlife national parks and protected areas. Because of this, an estimated 90% of tourists visit to Tanzania seeking out ecotourism activities. Ecotourism, in turn, supports 400,000 jobs and accounts for 17.2% of the national GDP, earning about $1 billion each year as its leading economic sector.

Some of Tanzania’s biggest highlights include the Serengeti, Mount Kilimanjaro , and Zanzibar, though the country still often goes overlooked by American tourists. Visitors can take a walking safari tour in the famous Ngorongoro Conservation area, for example, with fees going to support the local Maasai community.

The country is also known for its chimpanzees , and there are several ecotourism opportunities in Gombe National Park that go directly towards protecting chimpanzee habitats.

Galapagos Islands

It comes as no surprise that the place first made famous by legendary naturalist Charles Darwin would go on to become one of the most sought-after ecotourism destinations on Earth, the Galapagos Islands .

The Directorate of the Galapagos National Park and the Ecuadorian Ministry of Tourism require tour providers to conserve water and energy, recycle waste, source locally produced goods, hire local employees with a fair wage, and offer employees additional training. A total of 97% of the land area on the Galapagos is part of the official national park, and all of its 330 islands have been divided into zones that are either completely free of human impact, protected restoration areas, or reduced impact zones adjacent to tourist-friendly areas.

Local authorities still have to be on their toes, however, since UNESCO lists increased tourism as one of the main threats facing the Galapagos today. The bulk of funding for the conservation and management of the archipelago comes from a combination of governmental institutions and entry fees paid by tourists.

Costa Rica is well-known throughout the world for its emphasis on nature-based tourism, from its numerous animal sanctuaries to its plethora of national parks and reserves. Programs like its “Ecological Blue Flag” program help inform tourists of beaches that have maintained a strict set of eco-friendly criteria.

The country’s forest cover went from 26% in 1983 to over 52% in 2021 thanks to the government’s decision to create more protected areas and promote ecotourism in the country . Now, over a quarter of its total land area is zoned as protected territory.

Costa Rica welcomes 1.7 million travelers per year, and most of them come to experience the country’s vibrant wildlife and diverse ecosystems. Its numerous biological reserves and protected parks hold some of the most extraordinary biodiversity on Earth, so the country takes special care to keep environmental conservation high on its list of priorities. 

New Zealand

In 2019, tourism generated $16.2 billion, or 5.8% of the GDP, in New Zealand. That same year, 8.4% of its citizens were employed in the tourism industry, and tourists generated $3.8 billion in tax revenue.

The country offers a vast number of ecotourism experiences, from animal sanctuaries to natural wildlife on land, sea, and even natural caves. New Zealand’s South Pacific environment, full of sights like glaciers and volcanic landscapes, is actually quite fragile, so the government puts a lot of effort into keeping it safe.

Tongariro National Park, for example, is the oldest national park in the country, and has been named by UNESCO as one of only 28 mixed cultural and natural World Heritage Sites. Its diverse volcanic landscapes and the cultural heritage of the indigenous Maori tribes within the create the perfect combination of community, education, and conservation.

How to Be a Responsible Ecotourist

• Ensure that the organizations you hire provide financial contributions to benefit conservation and find out where your money is going.
• Ask about specific steps the organization takes to protect the environment where they operate, such as recycling or promoting sustainable policies.
• Find out if they include the local community in their activities, such as hiring local guides, giving back, or through initiatives to empower the community.
• Make sure there are educational elements to the program. Does the organization take steps to respect the destination’s culture as well as its biodiversity?
• See if your organization is connected to a non-profit or charity like the International Ecotourism Society .
• Understand that wildlife interactions should be non-invasive and avoid negative impacts on the animals.

Ecotourism activities typically involve visiting and enjoying a natural place without disturbing the landscape or its inhabitants. This might involve going for a hike on a forest trail, mountain biking, surfing, bird watching, camping, or forest bathing . 

Traveling in a way that minimizes carbon emissions, like taking a train or bike instead of flying, may also be part of an ecotourism trip. Because these modes of travel tend to be slower, they may be appreciated as enjoyable and relaxing ecotourism activities.

The Wolf Conservation Center ’s programing in New York State is an example of ecotourism. This non-profit organization is dedicated to the preservation of endangered wolf species. It hosts educational sessions that allow visitors to observe wolves from a safe distance. These programs help to fund the nonprofit organization’s conservation and wildlife rehabilitation efforts.

Stonehouse, Bernard. " Ecotourism ." Environmental Geology: Encyclopedia of Earth Science , 1999, doi:10.1007/1-4020-4494-1_101

" What is Ecotourism? " The International Ecotourism Society .

" Tourism ." International Union for Conservation of Nature .

https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.1307712111

https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0033357

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tree.2015.09.010

https://doi.org/10.5897/JHMT2016.0207

" Galapagos Islands ." UNESCO .

" About Costa Rica ." Embassy of Costa Rica in Washington DC .

https://www.stats.govt.nz/information-releases/tourism-satellite-account-2019

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How to Travel the World While Putting Nature First

In the wake of the U.N. biodiversity conference, Julia Simpson, the head of the World Travel and Tourism Council, discusses a new initiative called nature positive travel.

By Elaine Glusac

Before the recent United Nations Biodiversity Co­nference in Montreal, the World Travel and Tourism Council , a nonprofit organization of travel businesses, issued a report on “nature positive travel,” a new term that describes travel that supports and protects nature.

Julia Simpson, the president and chief executive of the W.T.T.C., called the report “a big shout-out for nature.”

Alarmingly, the report notes that one in four species worldwide faces the threat of extinction (as assessed by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature ), and that species abundance, the number of individuals of each species in a particular location, has fallen 68 percent since 1970, according to the World Wildlife Fund . To combat these declines, the report, which has been endorsed by the Secretariat of the U.N. Biodiversity Conference and the World Commission on Protected Areas , offers recommendations that include raising awareness of the importance of biodiversity among travelers; auditing travel companies and those that supply them for their impact on nature; collaborating with local communities as guardians of nature; and investing in species protection and habitat reconstruction.

While the W.T.T.C. has already published a road map to net-zero carbon emissions for the travel industry by 2050, Ms. Simpson calls nature positive tourism “a practical guide for our industry” to protect nature and encourage biodiversity while awaiting more powerful solutions to decarbonize travel, particularly aviation.

She recently answered questions on nature positive travel. The following are excerpts from the interview, edited for length and clarity.

What is the purpose of nature positive tourism?

As we’re seeing the devastating effects of climate change on our world, with horrendous fires and floods and tornadoes, everybody’s more and more aware of what we can do to lessen the impact. Earlier this year, we published the net zero road map for travel and tourism to reduce our impact in terms of carbon emissions by 50 percent by 2030. Biodiversity is the flip side of that. With nature positive tourism, we’re looking to protect and rebuild nature.

Eighty percent of all travel involves the traveler going into some form of nature. It could be a beach, it could be mangroves, it could be skiing, it could be mountaineering. We used to talk about leaving a lighter footprint. But now I think people actually want to have a positive footprint, like collecting plastics on the beaches of Bali that arrive there from other parts of the world.

For the travel and tourism industry overall, if threats to nature are poorly managed, they can contribute to all five recognized drivers of biodiversity loss, from changing land-use patterns to direct exploitation of resources, climate change, pollution and the introduction of invasive nonnative species.

The positive part of nature positive is actually doing something to improve an ecosystem as opposed to just being a benign force.

The report recommends reconnecting people to nature. How?

Some hotels in the tropics are connecting the consumer with the nature around them — often, even food will be sourced locally.

Nature positive tourism is also about connecting people within communities that can safeguard nature. For example, in Colombia, they had a terrible problem with the drug trade, and they tried to pivot their economy to a peaceful economy based on tourism. You actually had former FARC guerrillas become guides. And in South Africa, where the poaching of rhinos has been a really big problem, many organizations, including government agencies, private conservancies and safari lodges, have incentivized people so that local communities actually can earn more by protecting their rhinos. You’re seeing this happen also in Rwanda, where the government is working with local communities to take back land that had been converted to agriculture to rebuild some of the forests that the gorillas live in.

What does it mean to invest in nature, which the report recommends?

There is now a lot of green investment where people are planting things like mangroves and restoring reefs that were destroyed by development. So, it’s not just about protecting, it’s also about rebuilding. I was just at a resort in Bali that is using 3-D printers to print coral and plug it back into places to start rebuilding the reef and protecting the fish stock.

The report recommends supporting sustainable value chains. What is that?

If you are a hotel, you look at where your energy is coming from, and how to buy energy that’s been sourced in a more sustainable way. Another concern: Where are you buying your food from? Is it imported?

A hotel doesn’t exist in isolation. It is supplied by a lot of people, and when they source things, the vehicles they use should be green. The goal is to try to spread that sustainability footprint through your whole supply chain, from transportation to food, energy and water.

How can a traveler be nature positive?

The solution needs to be at all levels. It has to be government-led. It has to be led by the industry. And, obviously, all of us as individuals when we travel should be mindful and ask questions and challenge standards. At hotels, you don’t need to get your sheets or towels changed every day. If hotels have plastic, ask why. In a hotel with small plastic bottles of shampoo, drop an email to the hotelier and say, “You guys could do better.” Buffets generate a lot of food waste. So, it’s looking at those kinds of things and, in general, being a conscious traveler.

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram , Twitter and Facebook . And sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to receive expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places for a Changed World for 2022.

Open Up Your World

Considering a trip, or just some armchair traveling here are some ideas..

52 Places:  Why do we travel? For food, culture, adventure, natural beauty? Our 2024 list has all those elements, and more .

Mumbai:  Spend 36 hours in this fast-changing Indian city  by exploring ancient caves, catching a concert in a former textile mill and feasting on mangoes.

Kyoto:  The Japanese city’s dry gardens offer spots for quiet contemplation  in an increasingly overtouristed destination.

Iceland:  The country markets itself as a destination to see the northern lights. But they can be elusive, as one writer recently found .

Texas:  Canoeing the Rio Grande near Big Bend National Park can be magical. But as the river dries, it’s getting harder to find where a boat will actually float .

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Top 20 Things to Do in Taiwan (For Nature Lovers)

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If you’re a lover of the great outdoors, you might be surprised to realize that you really need to add Taiwan to your world travel bucket list .

Gone are the days when the 14,000-square-mile northeast Asian island nation (which is officially called the Republic of China ) was known primarily for its manufacturing industry and polluted skies. Taiwan has the 22nd largest economy in the world, a Democratic government, rich indigenous cultures, and ranks among the world’s most highly educated countries.

Today, there are countless things to do in Taiwan for people who love nature, wildlife, and outdoor adventure, and countless Taiwan tourist attractions in which to do them. In fact, 70% of the island (which is located 110 miles from mainland China) is covered with dense forests and mountains.

Though Taiwan is roughly the same size as the state of Indiana, it boasts a whopping 286 mountains over 3000 meters (9800 feet). The island’s rugged landscape is also punctuated with steaming hot springs, not to mention the sheer vertical cliffs that fall to the sea on the wild east coast.

Most travelers tend to hit the three most well-known natural places to visit in Taiwan: Sun Moon Lake , Alishan , and Taroko Gorge. The reputation of these stunning sights is well deserved. But there are many other must-see Taiwan tourist spots that are visited much less frequently.

What follows are 20 of my personal favorite places to go in Taiwan, based on my 10 years of living in and exploring the island…

READ MORE: Top 7 Things to Do in China for Nature Lovers

Things to Do in Northern Taiwan

• Things to Do on the East Coast of Taiwan
• Things to Do in the Central Mountains of Taiwan
• Things to Do in Southern Taiwan

Other Taiwan Tourism Hotspots

1. Ride a Bike from Youbike Taipei

Taipei’s bike sharing system, YouBike, has been enormously successful since it was first introduced in 2008.

Each YouBike is rented out approximately 12 times per day, which is more than similar bike-sharing systems set up in major cities such as  New York City  and  London .

The orange and yellow bikes– which are produced by the well-known Taiwanese bike manufacturer, Giant– are a ubiquitous site throughout the city. You can swipe with your MRT card, and the rate is only NT 10 (USD 32¢) per 30 minutes for up to four hours.

The city’s best bike rides can be had in the parks alongside Taipei’s numerous rivers , where you can easily forget that you are in the middle of a large urban metropolis.

READ MORE: Things to Do in Taipei, Taiwan: 5 Outdoor Attractions

2. Soak in a Taiwan Hot Spring

Like many islands in the South Pacific, Taiwan is riddled with volcanoes . Geologically speaking, the country’s landscape is a collision zone of tectonic plates.

As a result, the island has an abundance of hot springs, and has even been called “the Hot Spring Kingdom.” Some of the country’s most popular geothermal spring areas were originally developed by the Japanese when they colonized Taiwan (1895-1945).

The sad truth today is that many of Taiwan’s thermal areas have been hastily overdeveloped. Hot spring resorts recklessly battle for access, and have destroyed countless natural landscapes. Luckily,  it’s still possible to visit many of the more remote and uncrowded Taiwan hot springs.

There are hot springs in just about every county. But I included this in the northern Taiwan section because one of my favorites is Bayan Hot Springs , which is located an hour’s drive from Taipei.

READ MORE: How Mass Tourism is Destroying 30+ Destinations Travelers Love

3. Cliff Diving or Rock Climbing at Longdong

Longdong (which literally translates as “Dragon Cave”) is a large bay located on the northeast coast of Taiwan.

In recent years, it has become the top northern Taiwan tourist spot for activities ranging from snorkeling and scuba diving  to rock climbing and cliff diving.

There are several spots along the bay’s rocky coastline (and the small islands located just offshore) that are perfect for a thrilling leap into the sea. Just be warned that the waters can get pretty choppy here, and the rocks can be quite jagged. So proceed with caution.

The sandstone cliffs facing the shore, which are mostly around 30-something meters (100+ feet), are also ideal for rock climbers in training. This broad combination of activities available at Longdong make it the ecotourism adventure capital of Northern Taiwan!

READ MORE:  Top 25 Things to Do in Malaysia for Nature Lovers

4. Go Hiking in Taiwan

Whether you prefer laid-back day hikes or serious backpacking , Taiwan is a paradise for trekkers. There are countless places to go in Taiwan for hiking. But I included the activity in this section to emphasize just how many amazing treks there are within easy access of the capital city.

Right in Taipei City, you’ll find Yangming Mountain (a dormant volcano), the Four Beasts, and Maokong, all of which offer numerous hiking trails of different lengths and difficulty levels.

Two of the most exhilarating hikes around Taipei are the Pingxi Crags and Wuliaojian trail in Sanxia. These hikes feature ascents of sheer vertical cliffs on death-defying ropes and ladders. They are perfectly safe for anyone who is moderately in shape… just don’t look down!

The Caoling Historical Trail is another popular trek in northern Taiwan that features coastal bluffs, wild buffalos, and slopes that are covered in silvergrass in the autumn.

READ MORE:   The Best Hiking Trails for your World Travel Bucket List

Things to Do on the East Coast of Taiwan

5. Explore Taroko Gorge, the “Grand Canyon” of Taiwan

Taroko Gorge is one of Taiwan’s most popular attractions, but it can’t be left off this list. The dramatically steep walls of this river gorge lend it the nickname “the Grand Canyon of Taiwan.”

The most eco-friendly way to explore Taroko is by cycling up the gorge. If your legs aren’t up to the challenge, local hotels will drive you to the top of the gorge so that you can cycle back downhill.

There are also numerous hikes in the gorgeous valley, ranging from leisurely strolls to exhilarating jaunts on narrow paths that hug the cliff walls.

There is also a large shrine located in the gorge that commemorates the many people who died during the construction of the road up from the gorge.

READ MORE:   5 Hobbies That Help Offset Your Carbon Footprint

6. Admire the Beauty of the Qingshui Cliff

Just north of the entrance to Taroko Gorge along the coast, the Qingshui Cliff features some of the most gorgeous scenic views you’ll find on the wild east coast of Taiwan.

Considered to be one of Taiwan’s 8 natural wonders, the 21-kilometer cliff is the best place to see the three distinct colors of blue that make up the Pacific Ocean.

The sheer vertical cliff drops approximately 800 meters to the sea, with Mount Qingshui (the area’s highest point) towering at 2,400 meters above sea level.

Qingshui Cliff can also be seen from a notoriously dangerous road that connects Yilan county to Hualien county.

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7. Go Sea Kayaking or Rafting in Hualien

To see the Qingshui Cliff from a totally different angle, why not hire a sea kayak in Hualien and admire them from the sea?

Just make sure to bring a lot of sunscreen , as the sun can be quite fierce in Taiwan, particularly in the summertime.

White water rafting is another popular activity in Hualien county, a bit further south from Hualien city and Taroko Gorge.

The most popular place to do it is the Xiuguluan River, which is the longest river in Taiwan and the only one to cut through the coastal mountain range.

READ MORE: The 20 Longest Rivers in the World by Continent

8. Ride the Taiwan Surf

What, you didn’t know that Taiwan had surfing? Don’t worry, you aren’t the only one!

There are a few beaches on the east coast of Taiwan that offer decent surfing opportunities. The waves there aren’t huge (unless there’s a typhoon coming), which make it a perfect place for beginners to learn the sport.

On the northeast coast, Wai Ao is the most popular place, mostly in summertime. On the southeast coast, warm weather makes it possible to surf year-round: The surf town of Dulan is the best place.

Generally, the waves in Taiwan are smaller in summertime, so that’s the best season for beginners. In winter, they can be larger, but a little rough for newbies.

READ MORE: The World’s Most Colorful Beaches (World Travel Bucket List)  

Things to Do in the Central Mountains of Taiwan

9. Climb Yu Shan (a.k.a Jade Mountain)

Looming large at 3952 meters (12,966 feet), Yu Shan– which is also known as Jade Mountain– is taller than any peak in Japan, Korea, or the northeast portion of China.

Ascending the summit is not terribly difficult, but it typically requires two full days of climbing. Most hikers spend the night at Paiyun Cabin, then make an early morning ascent for sunrise on the summit.

Daily trekker numbers are strictly limited, so the summit trail is never crowded. But it is a very popular hike, so you do need to arrange a permit several months in advance.

READ MORE: 20 Best Mountains in the World (World Travel Bucket List)

10. See the Sunrise Over a Sea of Clouds

It’s possible to witness the “sea of clouds” phenomenon from many high-altitude points in Taiwan’s Central Mountain Range.

If you’re lucky, with a sunny day and a good vantage point, you can witness what looks like a sea of clouds flowing over mountain peaks or filling the valleys below. The best time to see this happen is usually right at sunrise or sunset.

The phenomenon is closely associated with Alishan, or Mount Ali, Taiwan’s most famous mountain resort. Millions of tourists each year pack onto the Alishan Forest Railway, a small-gauge, high mountain railway line built by the Japanese. They all head to a popular sunrise viewing point, hoping to catch a glimpse of the phenomenon.

The good news for those who want to avoid the crowds is that it’s possible to observe a sea of clouds from many other high mountain treks in Taiwan. I saw an amazing one when I climbed Yushan!

READ MORE: The Top 10 Things to Do in San Vicente, Palawan (Philippians)

11. Cycle Around Sun Moon Lake

Sun Moon Lake is another incredibly popular Taiwan tourist attraction . But it absolutely merits a mention on this list for its jaw-dropping natural beauty.

Shaped somewhat like a sun and a moon, the gorgeous lake is the homeland of the Thao  people, one of Taiwan’s smallest  indigenous  tribes .

The road around Sun Moon Lake has been called one of the most beautiful cycling routes in the world.To minimize your impact when staying, consider getting around only by bike.

If you go for a boat ride on the lake, choose one of the eco-friendly electric boats. And consider camping instead of staying in one of the many resorts on the lake.

Sun Moon Lake also hosts one of the largest mass swims in the world every September.

READ MORE: The 20 Largest Lakes in the World by Continent

12. See Snow in Hehuanshan or Snow Mountain

Few people would imagine that you could see snow in Taiwan, but it’s definitely possible! Your best odds are in January or February, and you need to get as high as possible (in elevation, that is).

Hehuanshan is one of the most popular places to see snow in Taiwan, because there’s a road that goes most of the way up the mountain.

Every time there is even a remote possibility of snow, crowds of Taiwanese people drive up to the top in hopes of seeing it.

If you really want to see snow in Taiwan, simply climb the aptly-named Snow Mountain in winter. When I did it, we had to slog our way through several feet of snow on the summit, with literally zero feet of visibility. I actually felt like I was back home in Canada!

Things to Do in Southern Taiwan

13.  Go Scuba Diving in Taiwan

Remote Orchid Island offers the chance to dive to Ba Dai, a wrecked Korean freighter that capsized during a typhoon. The wreck is found at around 20-35 meters below the surface.

Orchid Island is also home to the Tao people, which are the most isolated (and therefore least influenced by mainland Taiwanese culture) of Taiwan’s tribes.

Green Island, a small island located off the southeast coast of Taiwan, is the most popular place to go snorkeling and scuba diving in Taiwan.

Every year from January to March, you can go diving with hammerhead sharks at a site called Shark Point. Going down to a depth of up to 37 meters (121 feet), this is one of the most challenging dives in all of Taiwan. So it’s best left to experienced and qualified divers only.

Green Island is also home to a rare saltwater hot spring– one of only three in the world.

READ MORE: Swimming With Whale Sharks in Cancun, Mexico

14. Go Cycling Around One of Taiwan’s Islands

All of the offshore islands in Taiwan are incredible cycling destinations. Green Island has more of a holiday feel to it, and mainland Taiwan can be seen just across the ocean on the horizon.

Orchid Island feels more remote, and would especially appeal to those interested in Taiwan’s indigenous cultures. Xiao Liuqiu (which is also known as “Little Okinawa”) is just offshore from Kaohsiung, so it makes for an easy day trip from the city.

Further afield, Penghu lies in the middle of the Taiwan Strait, which separates Taiwan and China. There are four main islands there connected by bridges, and endless fishing villages to explore. Just avoid going there in winter, when it can get extremely windy.

Matsu and Jinmen Islands are just off the coast of China, and are also rich in historical, cultural, and scenic attractions that are easily accessed by bike.

READ MORE:   20 Exotic Islands For Your World Travel Bucket List

15. Hang Glide or Hot Air Balloon in Luye

Luye is a gorgeous little town in Taiwan’s East Rift Valley. This expansive, scenic valley is filled with rice paddies and sandwiched between two mountain ranges in remote Taitung County.

In Luye you can try your hand at paragliding. Another impressive way to enjoy Luye’s pastoral scenery from above is by taking a hot air balloon ride.

Rides can be taken all year-round, but the most popular time is during the Taitung International Balloon Festival , which takes place every July on the Luye Highland.

READ MORE:   The 20 Best Festivals in the World (World Travel Bucket List)

16. Look for Black-faced Spoonbills at Cigu Lagoon

Cigu Lagoon in Tainan is Taiwan’s largest lagoon, spanning approximately 1600 hectares. Due to the lagoon’s high concentration of salt, it once spawned a major salt and oyster industry.

Salt is no longer produced in Taiwan, but the Cigu salt fields remain as an interesting and photogenic attraction, including a “salt mountain” (which you can climb) and a salt museum.

The lagoon itself is home to an enormous diversity of birds and marine wildlife, including endangered species like the migratory Black-faced Spoonbill.

Unfortunately, the lagoon has shrunk by many times over the years due to rampant overdevelopment. There are currently only a limited number of wildlife-watching tours offered, and visitors may find that certain areas of the lagoon may be closed off as a part of ongoing conservation efforts.

READ MORE: Saving Asian Animals (Best Wildlife Conservation Programs)

17. Explore One of 9 Taiwan National Parks

Taiwan’s national parks cover 8.6% of the total land area of the country. The first national parks in Taiwan were created during the Japanese era, but efforts to maintain them were later abandoned.

The first park to be re-established in the 1980s was Kenting National Park, which covers a large area at the southern tip of the island.

Other parks that followed include Yu Shan (home of Taiwan’s highest peak), Yangming Mountain in Taipei, Taroko National park, mountainous Shei-Pa, and four marine/island national parks.

Taiwan also offers 19 forest recreation areas. These contain a wide variety of scenic landscapes and biodiversity, but aren’t subject to the same development limitations as national parks.

As a result, they tend to have more accommodations available, such as cabins and hotels. Alishan, Sun Moon Lake, and East Rift Valley are a few of the more popular ones.

READ MORE: The 13 Most Beautiful National Parks in Thailand

18. Cycling Taiwan

A major right of passage is cycling around the entire country, which is called the Taiwan Cycling Route #1. While many different routes are possible, this “official” route was established in 2015 and begins at Songshan Airport in Taipei City.

The round-Taiwan route is a popular activity among locals and visitors alike. Giant’s founder, King Liu, actually did it at the age of 73!

That’s not to say that this is an easy ride, though. Many cyclists come back complaining of painfully long days. And the western Taiwan portion of the route, which traverses a huge area of urban and industrial sprawl, is notoriously uninspiring.

If you feel no need to do the full circuit, then stick to the picturesque east coast of Taiwan, from Hualien to Taitung or Kenting.

READ MORE:  Cycling South Koster Island, Sweden

19. Try River Tracing

River tracing is one of the most popular outdoor activities in Taiwan in the summer. Who doesn’t want to jump in a river when it’s 35°C (95°F) out, with humidity that makes it feel 10 degrees hotter?

River tracing is as simple as hopping into a river or creek and walking upstream (or downstream). It combines hiking, swimming, scaling waterfalls , and jumping off rocks or cliffs into the river whenever you see a good spot to do so.

In terms of equipment, good shoes are essential, preferably with a sole that prevents slipping. Life jackets are recommended, as are helmets if you’re going anywhere with a possibility of falling rocks.

Wulai is a popular place for river tracing near Taipei, while Yilan and Hualien counties also have many different options. The river trace to the Golden Grotto in Hualien is legendary, but may be closed off at times due to safety concerns.

READ MORE: The 20 Biggest Waterfalls in the World by Continent

20. Viewing Cherry Blossoms in Taiwan

Seasonal flower viewing is a popular activity in Taiwan, with cherry blossoms (or sakura ) usually getting the most attention.

As in Japan, it’s never possible to know exactly when the cherry blossoms in Taiwan will bloom. But generally the season lasts from late January to early March, and varies by location.

Some of the best spots to see cherry blossoms in Taiwan include Yangming Mountain in Taipei, Wuling Farm in Taichung, and the Alishan National Scenic Area.

From mid-April to the end of May, there are also over 200 hundred places around Taiwan where you can spot fireflies. The best time to see them is just after the sun goes down, from around 7 to 8pm. We had an amazing firefly experience with our kids on a camping trip in Hsinchu! -text & photos by Nick Kembel unless otherwise noted.

Nick Kembel is the author of Taiwan in the Eyes of a Foreigner and the creator of Spiritual Travels . He has been in Taiwan for 10 years, and lives with his wife Emily and kids Sage and Lavender.

About the Author

Green Global Travel is the world's #1 independently owned ecotourism website encouraging others to embrace sustainable travel, wildlife conservation, cultural preservation, and going green tips for more sustainable living.

We've been spotlighted in major media outlets such as the BBC, Chicago Tribune, Forbes, The Guardian, Lonely Planet, National Geographic, Travel Channel, Washington Post and others.

Owned by Bret Love (a veteran journalist/photographer) and Mary Gabbett (business manager/videographer), USA Today named us one of the world's Top 5 Travel Blogging Couples. We were also featured in the 2017 National Geographic book, Ultimate Journeys for Two, for which we contributed a chapter on our adventures in Rwanda. Other awards we've won include Best Feature from both the Caribbean Tourism Organization and the Magazine Association of the Southeast.

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A Guide to the Most Beautiful Green Spaces in Moscow

Home to more parks than any other city in Russia , Moscow offers a cornucopia of choice when it comes to green spaces. From innovative wild urbanism to 18th-century royal estates, here are the best places to escape from the city buzz in Russia’s capital.

Spread over a territory of almost 300 acres, Gorky Park is Moscow’s most popular green space. Opened in 1928, it was designed as ‘a city inside a city’ with its own telegraph, police unit and a doctor’s office. Some 90 years later, Gorky Park offers everything from segway rides to an open-air movie theatre, through to illuminating lectures and fantastic dining spots.

9 Krimsky Val, Moscow, Russia , +7 495 995 00 20

As the name implies, Muzeon is perfect for art lovers. The park plays host to art fairs, exhibitions, music festivals and video performances. But even if you don’t care for art, Muzeon has a lot to offer: from an elegant boardwalk to hip coffee shops to an in-ground fountain, where you can actually cool off in summer.

2 Krimsky Val, Moscow, Russia , +7 985 382 27 32

Hermitage Garden

Opened in 1894, the Hermitage garden is a lovely compact park, nestled between high rise buildings in Moscow center. Home to theaters New Opera, Hermitage and Sphera, the garden is predictably crowded, with theatre-goers along with office workers from the business centres in Tverskaya – all flock here for a green respite.

3 Karetnyy Ryad, Moscow, Russia , +7 495 699 04 32

Sokolniki Park

An open-air cinema, a rope course, amusement park, bike rentals and more – Sokolniki is 1,275 acres of fun. In winter the whole park turns into one of Moscow’s most famous skating rinks. Sokolniki gradually blends into Losiny Ostrov National Park – the world’s third largest forest in a city.

1 Sokol’nicheskiy Val, bld. 1, Moscow, Russia , +7 499 393 92 22

Izmailovsky Park

Moscow’s biggest park, Izmailovsky stretches for almost 3,800 acres. Particularly favored by hikers and cyclists, the forest-like park is a popular family spot, equipped with a ferris wheel, outdoor gyms and all kinds of places to eat.

7 Alleya Bol’shogo Kruga, Moscow, Russia , +7 499 166 61 19

Tsaritsyno Museum-Reserve

Tsaritsyno estate is a perfectly reconstructed specimen of 18th century architecture set amid a lush green forested area. The only park in Moscow that boasts a light and music fountain, Tsaritsyno draws crowds with spectacular night water shows.

1 Dol’skaya Ulitsa, Moscow, Russia , +7 499 725 72 87

Severnoye Tushino Park

Despite a rather remote location, this park is definitely worth a visit. A half-a-century old apple garden, serene views on Khimkinskoye reservoir and a dry-docked submarine housing a Museum of Submarine Navy will definitely make up for the ride from the city centre.

Ulitsa Svobody, Moscow, Russia , +7 495 640 73 55

Kolomenskoye

Kolomenskoye Park is not merely a tranquil green space, but a celebrated museum reserve, where nature and historically significant architecture blend together. Here you can see one of Moscow’s oldest churches Church of the Ascension and a former residence of the Tsar Aleksey Mikhailovich Romanov, the father of Peter the Great. It’s also perfect for romantic walks along the Moskva river.

39 Andropova Ave, Moscow, Russia , +7 499 782 89 17

In this park you’re guaranteed to encounter some ducks, woodpeckers, squirrels, hares and urban wildlife. The park is also famous for its beautiful boardwalk, open-air cinema, ropes course Panda Park, gallery of retro cars and a variety of places to eat.

22/1 Ulitsa Bol’shaya Filevskaya, Moscow, Russia , +7 499 145 45 05

The former estate of the Sheremetev family, Kuskovo is a fascinating piece of 18th-century Russia. Home to 20 unique architectural monuments, it is Moscow’s only historical park with a French formal garden, decorated with green walkways, marble statue and state-of-the art pavilions.

44/2 3-Ya Muzeynaya Ulitsa, Moscow, Russia

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.

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THE 10 BEST Green River Parks & Nature Attractions

Nature & parks in green river.

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1. Goblin Valley State Park

2. Little Wild Horse and Bell Canyon Trail

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3. Black Dragon Canyon Trail

4. Green River State Park

5. Crystal Geyser

6. Swasey's Beach

7. Crawford Draw Slot Canyon

8. Ding and Dang Canyons

9. Farnsworth Canyon

10. Goblin's Lair Trail

11. Moonshine Wash

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13. o.k. anderson city park, what travelers are saying.

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Top 10 Most Beautiful National Parks in Albania

Albania is not only crystal clear waters, exquisite local foods, and ancient cities included in the Unesco Heritage. National parks offer pearls of unspoiled nature to be discovered.

Let’s immerse yourself in the unspoiled nature of Albania , discovering the most beautiful and important national parks of this country. Some of these natural wonders are part of the Unesco World Heritage Sites . In these beautiful places, you will discover nature, but also culture, history, and many adventures.

Here are the 10 of the most beautiful National Parks in Albania.

1. Butrint National Park

Let’s start with one of the most beautiful national parks in Albania that has become a UNESCO World Heritage Site . The park is characterized by ruins , and archaeological artifacts from the Iron Age to the Middle Ages. Indeed, several buildings can be found, albeit in ruins, including a beautiful Roman theater , an ancient baptistery, a large basilica, city walls, and two castles. In addition, you will be able to visit the ancient city of Butrint , surrounded by woods, streams, and lakes, which have enormous ecological relevance.

This system of canals, rivers, lagoons, and lakes makes this area particularly important for birds. Indeed, the wetland is internationally protected by the Ramsar Convention, a true paradise for birds and birdwatchers .

Butrint National Park includes:

• the Lake of Butrint.
• the Vivari Channel which connects the lake with the Ionian Sea.

2. Llogara National Park

A park boasting an amazing variety of landscapes, from the sunny coast of the Ionian Sea to the peaks of the Ceraunian Mountains.  Llogara National Park is an incredible hiking destination in Albania. As you explore the park’s trails, you’ll see vertical cliffs , pristine forests, and beautiful alpine meadows. The park takes its name from the Llogara pass, which divides the mountains into a western and eastern range. This beautiful natural area offers breathtaking views of the coast, from which you can admire the white beaches of the Ionian coast and the ancient city of Dhermi . The pass is characterized by the various parking lots and restaurants that are located along the road. Another interesting feature of the Llogara National Park is Caesar’s Pass, a mountain pass used by Julius Caesar himself to chase his enemy in Pompeii.

3. The blue eye

In Albanian Syri i Kaltër means “the blue eye” and somehow it also seems to convey a feeling of something hypnotic.  The Blue Eye is a karst spring, which is a natural phenomenon. The water gushes from a depth of over fifty meters, taking on an intense blue color for its mass, with green hues due to the presence of lush vegetation. The “Blue Eye” area is very suitable for relaxing or having a picnic, also thanks to an equipped area and the presence of some activities. So bathing in the mirror of frozen water (generally 10 degrees) is absolutely forbidden, as the signs positioned on the edge explain. Even if unfortunately few people respect this prohibition, in fact, it is normal to see people dip their feet or even dive.

Dajti National Park , also called Mount Dajti National Park, is located just east of Tirana , the capital of Albania. It is so close to the city that you can get there by cable car, the Dajti Ekspress , which takes approximately 15 minutes. While the cable car terminus is a tourist complex filled with restaurants, some interesting activities, and even a couple of hotels, the real treasure lies beyond. After enjoying the view of Tirana below, walk one of the paths that lead into the forest and hills admiring the incredible panoramic views.

5. Valbona Valley

Valbona Valley National Park is another sensational destination for hiking in the Albanian Alps. With its dramatic, arid peaks and wooded valleys, glacial springs, and waterfalls, it is a heavenly place for both humans and animals. The part of the park crossed by the Gashi River is part of the UNESCO World Heritage of Beech Forests. In addition to floral diversity, the Valbonë Valley is also home to many wild animals, such as brown bears , lynxes, chamois, gray wolves , wild goats, and countless bird species.

6. Theth National Park

One of the most famous and beautiful national parks in Albania is Theth National Park . It is located in the heart of the Albanian Alps, a true paradise for lovers of the outdoors. It is characterized by waterfalls, dense forests, jagged mountain peaks, rivers, and fascinating rock formations. Activities are varied and exciting, ranging from mountain biking to rock climbing, fishing, kayaking, and wildlife viewing. The National Park is one of Albania’s top destinations for seeing wild animals in the wild, such as golden eagles , wild goats, or the largest lynx population in Albania. In addition, there are also large mammals such as brown bears and gray wolves.

7. Lure National Park

Composed of the eastern slope of Mount Lura in northeastern Albania, the long and narrow Lurë National Park boasts a great variety of different heights. This results in several different ecosystems and great biodiversity . Its main landscapes are twelve glacial lakes (Grande Lake, Lake of Pini, Lake Nero, Lake of Fiori which in summer is covered with beautiful white water lilies) and dense forests , the latter consisting of European beeches, silver firs, and various pines.

8. Karaburun Sazan Marine Park

The only marine national park in Albania, Karaburun-Sazan Marine Park, protects an area of almost 2 kilometers in the sea. You will find this beautiful coastal park near Vlora , in the southwest of the country. It includes both the Karaburun Peninsula and Sazan Island, which is the largest island in Albania. The main features of this exceptional park are the underwater ruins of a variety of ships, dating back to the Greek and Roman times and the Second World War. In addition, you will also find abundant marine life including three species of sea turtles and dolphins. Snorkeling and scuba diving are obviously the most recommended activities to do in this park. Furthermore, on the peninsula, it is possible to meet chamois, roe deer, otters, and wild boars.

9. Fir of Hotove National Park, Dangelli

Fir Of Hotovë-Dangelli is the largest national park in Albania. The park takes its name from the hotova fir , a typical tree species that cover a large part of its surface. It is one of the most underrated natural destinations in the country, offering something for everyone to do in every season. Although fir dominates these forests, we can also find other trees such as maple, oak, and black juniper. There are also some wild animals such as wild boars, badgers, red foxes, gray wolves, and even brown bears . Popular activities include hiking, backpacking, and rafting in the Langarica Canyon.

10. Divjake- karavasta national park

Karavasta Lagoon is the largest lagoon in Albania and one of the largest wetlands in the Mediterranean. Located in western Albania , it is an important wetland and natural area that distinguishes the Divjakë-Karavasta National Park . Its salt flats, floodplains, estuaries, sand dunes and coastal meadows are home to a great variety of flora and fauna. It is an essential refuge for waterfowl such as pelicans and egrets.

Are you ready to immerse yourself in the green and explore the most beautiful natural parks in Albania?

Cover image: Photo by Drini Teta on Unsplash

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Ireland’s top 10 natural wonders

Jan 5, 2021 • 5 min read

Ireland is a country filled with incredible natural wonders © S-F / Shutterstock

Everything you’ve heard is true: Ireland is a stunner. Locals will argue over the must-sees, but you can't go wrong if you put the brooding loneliness of Connemara, the dramatic wildness of Donegal, the majestic cliffs of Moher and the celebrated Causeway Coast in Northern Ireland on your to-visit list. Here are the top 10 natural wonders of Ireland. 

Editor's note: Please check the latest travel restrictions before planning any trip and always follow government advice.

Giant’s Causeway

This spectacular rock formation – Northern Ireland 's only Unesco World Heritage site – is one of Ireland's most impressive and atmospheric landscape features, a vast expanse of regular, closely packed, hexagonal stone columns looking for all the world like the handiwork of giants. 

The phenomenon is explained in the Giant's Causeway Visitor Experience , housed in a state-of-the-art, eco-friendly building half-hidden in the hillside above the sea. Visiting the Giant's Causeway itself is free of charge but you pay to use the car park on a combined ticket with the visitor center; parking-only tickets aren't available.

Cliffs of Moher

In good visibility, the Cliffs of Moher (Aillte an Mothair, or Ailltreacha Mothair), located in western Clare, are staggeringly beautiful. The entirely vertical cliffs rise to a height of 214m (702ft), their edge abruptly falling away into a ceaselessly churning Atlantic.

In a progression of vast heads, the dark sandstone and siltstone strata march in a rigid formation. Views stretch to the Aran Islands and the hills of Connemara . Sunsets here see the sky turn a kaleidoscope of amber, amethyst, rose pink and deep garnet red.

One of Ireland's blockbuster sights, it includes a high-tech visitor center, a 19th-century lookout tower and a wealth of walking trails. Visiting by boat can bring the best views.

An astonishing sea stack that's lashed by foaming sea, Dun Briste is Mayo's top natural sight. Legend attests that St Patrick drove all the vipers from Ireland onto the stack on Downpatrick Head, leaving the mainland snake-free. Try to choose a clear day for a visit to amplify the visuals. You can drive most of the way up to the sea edge, but then you'll need to walk the last 400m (1312ft) or so. Dun Briste is 6km (3.7mi) northeast of Ballycastle.

The sea stack was shorn from the mainland in 1393 by a severe storm that left poor unfortunates stranded upon it (later rescued). Indeed, the remains of buildings survive on the stack to this day.

 A viewing area has been constructed by a huge blowhole set back slightly from the cliff edge. It has numerous plaques detailing the history and folklore of the area. During storms, seawater is dramatically blasted through the blowhole.

Sliabh Liag 

The Cliffs of Moher get more publicity, but the cliffs of Sliabh Liag (Slieve League) in Southwestern Donegal are higher (and free). In fact, these spectacular sea cliffs are among the highest in Europe, plunging some 600m (1969ft) to the ceaselessly churning sea.

From Teelin, a road through the stark landscape leads to the lower car park (with hiking signs) beside a gate in the road; drive another 1.5km (0.93mi) to the upper car park (often full in summer) right beside the viewpoint (close the gate though).

Gap of Dunloe 

The Gap of Dunloe in the Killarney Region is a scenic valley squeezed between Purple Mountain and the eastern summits of MacGillicuddy's Reeks. In the summer, it can be a bottleneck crammed with coaches depositing crowds of day-trippers for one-hour pony-and-trap rides through the pass. Rather than joining the hordes, think about hiring a bike and cycling the route.

Carrauntoohil

Macgillycuddy's Reeks is Ireland's highest mountain range, and towering Carrauntoohil in the Killarney region is the country's highest summit, at 1040m (3412ft). There are several routes up, though even the most straightforward path requires good hillwalking and navigation skills, while others are serious scrambling or rock-climbing routes.

The Burren 

Stretching across northern Clare, the rocky, windswept Burren region is a unique striated lunar-like landscape of barren grey limestone that was shaped beneath ancient seas, then forced high and dry by a great geological cataclysm. It covers 250 sq km  (97 sq mi) of exposed limestone and is 560 sq km (216 sq mi) in total.

Wildflowers in spring give the Burren brilliant, if ephemeral, color amid its stark beauty. Villages throughout the region include the music hub of Doolin on the west coast, Kilfenora inland and charming Ballyvaughan in the north, on the shores of Galway Bay.

Lough Glencar Waterfall 

The poet WB Yeats is among those who've fallen for this 15m (49ft) tumbling torrent, set in the most beautiful area of Lough Glencar – it features in his poem The Stolen Child . There are astonishing views over the water, especially towards sunset; it's particularly impressive after heavy rain. There's a car park right at the foot of the hill.

Caves of Keash

Around 6km (3.7mi) southeast of Ballymote, these splendid limestone Caves of Keash high in Keshcorran Hill make for a fun expedition. You can park near the bottom at the fields at the foot of the slope and climb on up. It doesn't take long to reach the 16 caves, some of which are pretty deep, and afford excellent views over the countryside. Mind your step as it is steep and can be slippery after rain.

Located in the Wicklow Mountains , Lough Tay (also known as Guinness Lake) is backed by steep scree slopes descending from Luggala (Fancy Mountain). The picturesque valley is one of the areas most popular destinations and surrounded by spectacular countryside. 

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Eastern Red Cliffs and Babylon

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The eastern reaches of Red Cliffs Desert Reserve include multiple sections of the reserve: White Reef, Sandstone Mountain, and the Hurricane Cider Knolls. Each of these zones holds its own flavor of desert textures, vistas, colors, and experiences. As is often true of the red rock desert, there’s a lot going on that you have to slow down to see and feel. Dramatic rock formations are the first thing you tend to notice, but as you cover miles of trail, you gain an appreciation for the resilient desert grasses, hardy wildflowers, fresh-scented sagebrush, intrepid lizards, and ambling little streams.

Trail guide.

Difficulty: Varying from very easy to very strenuous

Distance & elevation gain: Most are moderate, with options to up the difficulty considerably

Trail type: A mix of out-and-back and loop trails, as well as trails that branch off and link with others

Multi-use: Hiking, equestrian, trail running

Dogs: Dogs permitted on leash — please carry extra water for them and be sensitive to their inability to sweat in the summer heat

Fees: Fees do apply for camping, but not to enter the reserve

Seasonality: Aim for cooler spring or fall days, or rise and shine early in the summer

Bathroom: A few major trailheads and campgrounds have bathrooms, but not all, so observe backcountry etiquette when you’re out on the trail

Description

If you do one thing in the eastern end of Red Cliffs Desert Reserve, it should be the Red Cliffs Nature Trail. This is no tame nature walk; it’s a ramble into a twisting rock canyon with pools of delightful flowing water you can stomp through and swim in. A leisurely desert waterfall serves as a major landmark a short ways up. Many people stop here to play in the swimming hole, but there’s no need to end your ramble there. You can scramble up the waterfall’s sandstone edge and continue onward as long as you like. The Red Cliffs Nature Trail is one you can tolerate even on hot days, as long as the stream is still running (it may not be by summer’s end).

Heading further eastward, you’ll find the Babylon area is indeed biblical in its proportions. Winding sandy trails and fascinating, otherworldly rock formations bedeck the rolling desert landscape. Babylon has a certain wild edge to it: the trails are exposed to the sun’s full potency all day, and even the access road to the trailheads is nothing to sneeze at, requiring four-wheel drive or all-wheel drive to access most points. If you’re up for the undertaking, this fascinating scene is well worth exploring. If you happen to be traveling with your family or are a less experienced hiker, then the Babylon Arch Trail is where you should head in this area. This quick 1.5 miles family friendly hike goes through a fascinating rock arch on its way to the Virgin River.

And, representing the Hurricane area at the easternmost reaches of the reserve, you’ll find the East and West Cinder Knolls. They’re geologically interesting, true to their names — they’re volcanic knolls jutting up above the little desert town of Hurricane (which locals pronounce more like "her-kin"). While these cinder cones aren’t as flashy as some Red Cliffs Reserve trails, they’re unique: The west cone is especially colorful, being comprised of a rich, dark red and black cinder pile that’s fascinating to walk across. You’ll get a little workout in by gaining hundreds of feet on the way to the caldera overlooks. And you’ll be able to check out the vast glory of Sandstone Mountain, also a part of the reserve, as well as the Pine Valley Mountains.

Wherever you go within the wondrous Red Cliffs Reserve , keep in mind that safety is no joke in the desert. Simply running out of water or getting lost on a hot day can get truly dangerous quickly.

Be Sure To:

• Always carry far more water than you expect to need.
• Monitor the weather forecast.
• Keep a close eye on how pets and children are doing.
• Carry a map you know how to read.
• Give local wildlife a wide berth.

Get a refresher while looking out over local geology at the River Rock Roasting Company, perched over the Virgin River gorge.

Nearest Destination

Harrisburg, Leeds, Hurricane

Where to Park

Red Cliffs, Sand Cove, and Cinder Cone trailheads

Trailhead GPS Coordinates

• Red Cliffs Trailhead: 37.2242, -113.406
• Babylon’s Sand Cove Trailhead: 37.209511, -113.335939
• Cinder Cone Trailheads: 37.186503, -113.300823

Originally written by RootsRated for Utah Office of Tourism.

Well-prepared travel is responsible travel.

Do your part by planning ahead

Gourmet Getaway

Eco-tourism & Nature Activities in Jamaica

Voted best luxury hotel in the caribbean tripadvisor travelers’ choice awards.

Mayfield Falls For eco-tourism enthusiasts, Mayfield Falls is a highlight. Visitors can explore the two beautiful waterfalls, immerse themselves in 44 the mineral pools, and relax in the 21 natural hot springs surrounded by lush jungle.

Dunns River Falls Dunns River Falls is one of Jamaica’s national pride and treasures. With waterfalls that expand across more than 600 feet, it’s one of the most visited destinations on the island. Climbing the falls and relaxing in the many pools and lagoons is highly recommended for all visitors.

YS Falls Another perfect day trip for nature-enthusiasts is YS Falls, located near Negril. The park offers seven different waterfalls that cascade into calm and serene natural pools. While there, visitors can swing 40-feet above the waterfalls into the jungle on zip lines.

Dolphin Cove If swimming with wildlife sounds more appealing, Dolphin Cove is the place for you. A natural cove surrounded by five acres of tropical rainforest, visitors have the opportunity to swim and interact with Jamaican dolphins and other marine life, including sharks.

Barney’s Hummingbird Garden For bird lovers, Barney’s Hummingbird Garden is a must-visit. Located in Negril, this special sanctuary for delicate hummingbirds allows visitors to watch and feed them in a private garden surrounded by exotic trees, plants, and flowers.

Negril Cliffs The Negril Cliffs have been attracting visitors and cliff divers for years. Watch adventure enthusiasts show off as they flip and tumble into the crystal clear blue ocean, or try diving off of some of the smaller cliffs.

The Royal Palm Reserve Located in Negril is The Royal Palm Reserve, another must-do excursion for all nature lovers. One of the biggest eco-attractions for visitors in Jamaica, the reserve sits on 300-acres to conserve and protect the Negril Great morass along with the local flora and fauna. Visitors can view some of the 114 different plant species and the 300 different animal and bird species.

Blue Hole Mineral Spring For a more off-the-beaten-path experience, the Blue Hole Mineral Spring remains a favorite hidden gem for Jamaican visitors. Just a 20-minute drive from Negril, discover hidden crevices, cliff jumping, and swimming within this hidden mineral pool.

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Top 10: Natural Capitals

Moscow and St-Petersburg are big cities with cars and peoples everywhere. Noises, grey buildings, pollution, crowds are all usual aspects of living in a city. Moreover, being an inhabitant or a tourist, you spend your days walking (if not running) in city centers, public transports and famous sights. So why not taking a deep and relaxing breath in one of Moscow and St Petersburg’s amazing parks? Indeed these two cities hosts absolutely stunning parks and gardens that you must have a walk in!   

Gorky Park (Moscow)

My favorite so far…and all year around! In winter (i.e almost all the time) Gorky park, covered of snow (and ice), is magical. For the time of a walk you’re escaping Moscow city center and enjoy a timeless moment in a snowy and welcoming forest. But above all, in winter Gorky park allows you to walk along the iced Moskva river, which is absolutely priceless (and freezing). Hopefully there is also lots of caffé and restaurants! When summer finally comes out of the corner, Gorky park becomes more crowded than the Red Square but the friendly atmosphere (and the sun!) worths the walk…or ride one of the available bikes! And when fall arrives, Gorky park wears is absolutely stunning orange and yellow outfits which makes you understand why Russians call autumn the “golden season”.

VDNKh Park (Moscow)

As Gorki park, the VDNKh Park has the greatness of being interesting all year around. Which to be honest is not a small thing when you try to go outside during a fierce winter. The VDNKh park was a an exhibition center to show the efficiency of the Soviet economy. That’s why today VDNKh is more of a recreational complex attracting thousands of people each year. It’s one of Moscow’s most famous and popular park mainly due to its skating-rink in winter, the largest of Russia, and its pavillons, celebrating the USSR glories.

Teply Stan Park (Moscow)

Huge landscape reserve located south of Moscow, the Teply Stan Park is a famous and very popular park in Moscow. Preserved as a mixed Russian forest, it offers to its visitors some very needed fresh air. It also takes you to typical Russian woods, and allows you to, for a day, feel somewhere else…which is a relief when you’ve been staying in Moscow for a while. But more, in the Teply Stan Park you can walk alongside it’s tiny river, rest near its pound, discover the paleontological institute or even, in summer, go sailing! And who doesn’t like to pretend to be a pirate?

Sokolniki Park (Moscow)

Sokolniki park is one of the oldest park in Moscow and one of the largest in Europe (of course). Sokolniki park is considered as one of the oldest park in Moscow because before being a public one, it was a hunting ground for Princes and Tsars. A bit later it became a traditional meeting point for gatherings and festive events. The park benefited from public founding which gave Sokolniki a new youth. Currently the park is divided in 9 sectors, each hosting pavillons and a specific biodiversity. Plus, if you’re kind of a bird-fanatic (aka amateur ornithologists) Sokolniki park also has an ornitary with exotic birds to admire!

Neskuchny Garden (Moscow)

Another “one of the +superlative” park in Moscow (ie one of the oldest). Neskuchny Garden is located closer to the city center than the previous ones. In line with the famous Gorky park, the Neskuchny Garden is beautiful (especially in autumn). You should go there. It’s great. And beautiful.  

Botanical Garden (St-Petersburg)

Being the oldest botanical garden of Russia (seriously, again?), the Botanical Garden of St-Petersburg is now quite significant and hosts numerous plants. It first has been used as the Tsar Apothecary’s Garden, but later transformed in a center for horticultural research. As a result you can explore charming indoor and outdoor gardens and learn more about various plants and biodiversities.

Yusupov Garden (St-Petersburg)

St Petersburg is a lot about canals, tiny streets and palaces. But as a result there isn’t much of green spaces to chill, play or picnic on. That’s why the Yusupov Garden is very popular and important. Located in St-Petersburg city center, the Yusupov garden was a significant part of the Yusupov Palace and so remains today a piece of history. This gem really worth the visit and you definitely have to take time to picnic in this imperial garden!

Summer Garden (St-Petersburg)

St-Petersburg’s summer garden comes straight from the Imperial Russian standards of the 18th century. Similar to French gardens of that time, the Summer Garden has been built on geometrical principles. It also hosts many marble statues representing antic subjects, fountains and rare plants. The summer garden is a real breath of fresh air in the city!

Pavlovsk Palace’s park (St-Petersburg)

The Pavlovsk Palace’s park is a famous park close to the city. I already wrote a lot about it but this park worth the visit (even more than the Palace itself?). Stroll along the tree-lined avenues of this English park, and enjoy the various pavilions dotting it, and be transported to the Imperial Russia!

Tips : take a good camera and you’ll manage to shoot stunning pics of the park and the palace

Tavrichesky park (St-Petersburg)

As the Pavlovsk Palace’s park, the Tavrichesky park is an English-style park…but in the city center! Built by Catherine the Great around the Tavrichesky manor, it includes pavillons, greenhouses (to take care of rare and uncommon plants) and ponds. It’s a famous park for those who (unlike me) spend their weekends playing chess or doing sport!

Want to book a guided-tour? Check out Tsar Visit !

+7 916 200 71 16

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Moscow City Walks and Areas

The best way to explore Moscow is to go for a walk in one of the central neighborhoods or parks.

A Chinese woman who was posing for photos on an Indonesian volcano known for its stunning “blue fire” phenomenon died after stepping on her clothing and falling off a cliff on April 20.

Ms Huang Lihong, 31, and her husband Zhang Yong, 32, were on a guided tour to Ijen – a volcano tourism park in East Java province – when they climbed to the edge of the crater to watch the sunrise, Hongxing News reported.

Their tour guide said he had warned the couple about the dangers on the crater.

At first, Ms Huang kept a safe distance of 2m to 3m away from the edge of the cliff as she posed for photos, said the guide.

Then she started moving backwards to be closer to a tree with bare straggly branches to capture a more beautiful backdrop.

But as she walked backwards, she accidentally stepped on her long clothing and fell off the cliff. It was not clear if she was wearing a dress or skirt.

Local police said on April 21 that the victim plummeted from a height of 75m and died from the impact of her fall. They have classified her death as an accident.

The Ijen is well known for its blue fire, which is in fact blue light emitted from the combustion of sulphuric gases.

Its crater, known as Kawah Ijen, which means lonely crater, is a popular site for tourists and miners, who dig up hardening yellow sulphur to sell for use in everything from cosmetics to matchsticks.

The volcano regularly puffs out small amounts of noxious gases, but the site stays open to the public.

Indonesia is home to around 130 active volcanoes. Millions of Indonesians live and work near volcanoes, largely because of the fertile farming soil.

In February, a 53-year-old Polish tourist was found dead on a climbing route during a hike up to Kawah Ijen.

In September 2015, a 68-year-old Swiss man who was scaling Ijen collapsed and died en route to the crater after complaining of difficulty in breathing.

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A History of Moscow in 13 Dishes

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