eco tourist ways

Embracing Ecotourism: A Guide to Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Travel

• Writen by: Ricky
• March 28, 2023

Table of Contents

Ecotourism has gained popularity in recent years as more people become aware of their environmental impact while travelling. This form of travel focuses on conserving the environment, supporting local communities, and promoting responsible practices.

In this article, we will explore ecotourism, define what makes an eco-tourist, and discuss how to travel more sustainably and eco-friendly to preserve the future of our planet.

What is Eco-Tourism?

Ecotourism is a form of responsible and sustainable travel that focuses on conserving natural resources, supporting local communities, and promoting environmental education.

This type of tourism aims to minimize the negative impact of traditional tourism on the environment and local cultures while providing opportunities for travellers to learn and appreciate the natural beauty of the places they visit.

The main objectives of ecotourism include protecting biodiversity and natural ecosystems, promoting conservation efforts, and supporting sustainable economic development. This means that ecotourism activities are designed to be low-impact and are often conducted in natural settings such as national parks, nature reserves, and wildlife sanctuaries.

In addition to minimizing environmental impact, ecotourism also seeks to promote social and economic benefits for local communities. This can be achieved by involving local communities in tourism activities, supporting locally-owned and operated businesses, and providing opportunities for cultural exchange and education.

Ecotourism activities can include nature-based tourism such as wildlife watching, hiking, and birdwatching, as well as sustainable agriculture tours, renewable energy tours, and cultural immersion experiences. These activities offer travellers the opportunity to experience natural beauty and cultural diversity, while also promoting conservation and sustainability.

Overall, ecotourism is a form of travel that supports responsible and sustainable tourism practices, while also providing travellers with unique and educational experiences. By choosing ecotourism activities, travellers can help to protect natural resources, support local communities, and promote sustainable development.

What is an Eco-Tourist?

An eco-tourist is someone who actively seeks to minimise their environmental impact while travelling, supports local communities and chooses destinations and experiences that promote sustainability and conservation.

They generally opt for the most sustainable options to help them reduce their own impacts on the environment (they sound like lovely people, right!)

Characteristics of an eco-tourist include a strong interest in nature and the environment, a willingness to learn about local cultures and customs, and a commitment to minimizing their environmental impact.

A key characteristic of eco-tourists is their commitment to responsible travel practices. They seek to minimize their environmental impact by reducing waste, conserving resources such as water and energy, and supporting eco-friendly transportation options such as biking, walking, or public transportation.

They also prioritise supporting local communities and businesses. They often choose to stay in locally-owned and operated accommodations and to eat locally-sourced and sustainable foods. They may also choose to participate in cultural immersion experiences that promote understanding and appreciation of local customs and traditions.

Overall, eco-tourists are travellers who are interested in experiencing the natural beauty and cultural diversity of the places they visit, while also supporting responsible and sustainable tourism practices.

By choosing to travel in an eco-friendly and sustainable way, eco-tourists can help to protect the environment, support local communities, and promote a more responsible and sustainable tourism industry.

So, what do you actually have to do in order to transition towards a “green traveller”? Let’s explore some different ways you can start travelling more sustainably, starting right now…

How to Travel More Sustainably

1. research the environmental and social impact of the destination.

Before you decide on a travel destination, do some research on the environmental and social impact of the area. Consider visiting places that are taking measures to reduce their environmental footprint and support local communities. You can look for destinations that have eco-tourism certifications or that are actively involved in conservation efforts.

2. Consider visiting off-the-beaten-path destinations:

Popular tourist destinations can be overcrowded and have a higher environmental impact. Consider visiting lesser-known, off-the-beaten-path destinations that are still beautiful and offer unique experiences.

3. Use eco-friendly transportation:

Choose eco-friendly transportation options such as public transportation, electric or hybrid vehicles, or even biking or walking to your destination if possible. Consider offsetting your carbon footprint by investing in carbon credits.

4. Stay in eco-friendly accommodations

Look for eco-friendly accommodations such as hotels or resorts that are certified as sustainable, have low-impact designs, or are powered by renewable energy. You can also consider staying in locally-owned and operated accommodations to support the local economy.

5. Pack light and bring reusable items

Pack only what you need and avoid single-use plastics by bringing reusable water bottles, bags, and containers. You can also bring eco-friendly toiletries such as shampoo bars or solid soaps.

6. Respect the local culture and traditions

Learn about the local customs and respect them while travelling. This can include dressing appropriately, asking for permission before taking photos and avoiding behaviours that may be disrespectful or harmful to the local culture.

7. Reduce your water and energy consumption

Conserve resources by taking shorter showers, turning off lights and electronics when not in use, and reusing towels and linens instead of requesting new ones every day.

8. Minimise your waste production

Dispose of waste properly and avoid littering. Consider bringing your own reusable utensils and food containers to reduce waste while dining out.

9. Choose activities that support local conservation efforts

When planning your itinerary, look for activities that promote environmental conservation and support local communities. You can choose to go on a nature hike, visit a local wildlife reserve, or participate in a beach clean-up. These activities will help to minimize your impact on the environment while supporting sustainable tourism practices.

10. Eat local and sustainable foods

Choose to eat locally-sourced and organic foods, as this supports the local economy and reduces your carbon footprint. You can also look for restaurants that use sustainable practices, such as composting food waste or using biodegradable packaging.

11. Offset your carbon footprint

Consider offsetting your carbon emissions by investing in carbon credits or supporting projects that promote renewable energy or reforestation. This can help to reduce the overall impact of your travel on the environment.

12. Avoid animal exploitation

Avoid activities that involve animal exploitation or contribute to the destruction of wildlife habitats. This includes avoiding activities such as elephant riding, tiger petting, or visiting venues that feature captive animals.

By following these tips, you can minimize your environmental impact while travelling and help to preserve the beauty and natural resources of the places you visit. Remember, being a responsible and eco-friendly traveller can also be an opportunity to support local communities and promote sustainable tourism practices.

What is the meaning of eco tourists?

Eco tourists are travellers who are interested in responsible and sustainable tourism practices, and who seek to minimize their impact on the environment and local cultures while travelling. They prioritize supporting local communities and businesses and engage in low-impact activities that promote environmental conservation and cultural immersion.

What is an example of eco tourism?

An example of eco tourism is visiting a nature reserve or national park and participating in low-impact activities such as hiking, wildlife watching, and birdwatching. Another example is staying at an eco-friendly resort that uses sustainable practices and supports the local economy.

What is the difference between a tourist and an eco tourist?

The main difference between a tourist and an eco tourist is that eco tourists prioritize responsible and sustainable tourism practices, and seek to minimize their impact on the environment and local cultures. Eco tourists often engage in low-impact activities, support local communities and businesses, and choose eco-friendly transportation and accommodations.

How can tourists be eco friendly?

Tourists can be eco-friendly by choosing low-impact activities, supporting local communities and businesses, and reducing their environmental impact by conserving resources such as water and energy, reducing waste, and choosing eco-friendly transportation options.

What are 4 benefits of eco tourism?

The benefits of eco tourism include supporting conservation efforts and protecting biodiversity, promoting sustainable economic development, providing opportunities for cultural exchange and education, and reducing the negative impact of traditional tourism on the environment and local cultures.

What activities do eco tourists do?

Eco tourists engage in low-impact activities that promote environmental conservation and cultural immersion, such as nature hikes, wildlife watching, and cultural immersion experiences. They may also choose to participate in sustainable agriculture tours, renewable energy tours, and community-based tourism activities.

Which countries have eco tourism?

Many countries around the world offer eco tourism opportunities, including Costa Rica, Ecuador, Australia, New Zealand, and Kenya. National parks, nature reserves, and wildlife sanctuaries are often popular destinations for eco tourists.

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10 Ways to be an Ecotourist

Do you desire to be an eco friendly tourist but aren’t sure how? Keep reading for 10 ways to be an ecotourist!

Environmental issues have been the topic of many discussions recently. With all of the bureaucracy about the cutting of carbon emissions and how to live a closer to earth lifestyle, being environmentally friendly can seem quite complicated.  

As for ecotourism, there are many ways to take an environmentally friendly journey. Quite a few of these are tips which can be easily put into practice oneself.

Here are 10 ways to become an ecotourist:

Before you travel

1. plan to visit locations where there will not be so many other tourists, or plan your trip during the low season.

When you are researching destinations, take the time to look into destinations during their off season. Not only is off season travel more affordable, but it also allows one to visit an area when there are relatively few tourists. Over-tourism becomes a problem when the amount of tourists exceeds the capacity of the destination. Over-tourism not only has a negative effect on the environment, but on the local communities as well. 

2. Book your stay at a local, eco friendly accommodation

Ecolodges and eco-hotels abound. It is always preferable to book your stay at an eco-friendly accommodation as they are known to be more energy efficient, take careful measures to produce a much lower carbon footprint and are consistently involved in efforts to reduce emissions, improve recycling and to be more self sustaining when possible. Many eco accommodation sites offer the possibility to experience and partake in the daily life and happenings of the local community.

In addition to the surroundings, frequenting locally owned establishments directs your funds back into the local community, rather than generating profits overseas by staying at a foreign-funded hotel franchise.

In the current atmosphere, there are many incredible eco friendly accommodation options, complete with breathtaking views, immersion into the local culture and delicious foods!

3. Organise or register for ecotours operated by locals

While excitedly browsing the internet for ideas of fun activities during your travels, consider the possibility of organising an ecotour for yourself or your group. You should select  ecotours that are operated by locals. Not only will this return some profits back into the local community, but it’s even more beneficial for you because the locals always know the most ideal locations to offer you the best possible experience.

Strive to work with an accredited certified ecotourism, such as Earthcheck ECO or GSTC accreditation ex; Travelife. There are a variety of eco tour certifications, more than are just listed here. If you are unsure, take a moment to look at the tour company’s website. Official certification badges are generally prominently posted on the homepage. 

If you are unable to find a certified ecotour company in the area, there are sometimes learning-focused tours that are offered on a local level. When in doubt, travel forums are a good place to learn about your fellow travellers’ experiences with tour companies.

At your Destination

4. use public transportation.

Using a more eco-friendly form of transportation in your destination is always a good way to travel. Buses and trains are common forms of transportation for tourists. In some destinations, even travel by walking or bicycling is possible if the distances aren’t so long. In doing so, one can take in the sensory environment as well as the physical environment for a memorable day of amazing views, one might miss otherwise! If you are travelling by water, explore the possibilities of utilising modes of transport such as sailboats, rowboats or even paddle boarding.

As always, we recommend that you stay informed as to weather patterns in your chosen destination, as well as the daily weather report.

5. Visit nature preservation areas with rangers

Nature preservation areas are a keystone to ecotourism. Having the unique ability to experience nature in its most precious and untouched form, is highly sought after. One is not only able to see a variety of animals in their natural habitats, but also one can find rare flora and fauna throughout.

It is always advised to utilise the services of a local wilderness or nature guide. Often referred to as rangers, these guides are familiar with the environment and can aid you in the best way to interact within the environment without inadvertently causing harm to any of the environment. These guides are also very helpful with sharing the local history, as well as reminding of any necessary precautions in a variety of scenarios. You can learn a lot more about nature and locals with a ranger, than go alone.

6. Be aware of your rubbish

This may sound obvious, but nevertheless, litter from tourism remains a problem. Never leave your rubbish behind! Always make the effort to bring a sealable bag for rubbish in your pack, so that you can take your rubbish with you and dispose of it when you find the proper place for disposal (such as a rubbish bin).

7. Practice a ‘Hands-off’ approach to wildlife and plant-life

‘Take only photos, Leave only footprints’. Practicing a ‘hands off’ approach to wildlife and plant-life is an important action in ecotourism. The best is to observe everything from a bit of a distance. This will help to control the urge to touch, especially with flora as their textures can sometimes seem irresistible. 

Not touching the wildlife, is not only to protect the pristine environment and to not stress the animals in their natural habitat, but it is also to protect your person.  Animals react and plant-life can be sometimes poisonous to the touch. In many circumstances, even taking a flower is considered as an act of vandalism, which is punishable by law. It is always advisable to just be a bystander and to witness nature; not by interacting with it, but by witnessing the serene beauty of it. Stand back and take many photos!

8. Use ocean-friendly sun products

Most sun products (including lotions, oils, sprays) are reported to cause damage to the coral reefs.

The most recognised ingredients which cause harm to the coral reefs are cited to be the chemicals oxybenzone and octinoxate, which are both common chemicals in sunscreen products. ( Consumer reports ) Although these 2 chemicals are the most common, they are not the only ingredients which pose an environmental threat. Finding environmentally friendly means of UV protection can be challenging. However there is a plethora of information available on the internet which includes the use of sun shades, cotton clothing and recommendations of coral safe sun products.

9. Eat local food with local ingredients

‘Go where the locals go’. Have you ever heard this popular travel saying? Ask any frequent traveller where to find the best food, and the reply will certainly be ‘go where the locals go’. Locals always know the best places, with the best food, friendliest people and prices not generally found in high tourism areas. 

Following this travel advice is also of benefit to the eco traveller. Dining at local eating establishments will not only offer the guest a more authentic experience by offering foods which generally consist of locally sourced ingredients in an environment frequented by the local populace, but will also direct the funds back into the area community.

The opposing side of eating meals at the local place, is the tourist-laden,  imposing buffet restaurant whose curb appeal explains away the high food prices. As an ecotourist, one must be aware of the extraordinary amounts of food waste and the very high carbon emissions that these types of high-volume restaurants generate. 

Dining on food made with locally sourced ingredients is truly a treat! 

10. Purchase locally made souvenirs

Admit it, it’s a good feeling to know you are carrying a very special souvenir on your return. Even better when you know that every cent you spent on it went to the local community which produced it. Purchasing locally made souvenirs not only contributes to the local community, but you can be quite confident that the quality of the work is far superior to any of the mass marketing souvenir options which are otherwise, widely available.

As an indirect effect of your purchase, travel and tourism agencies dictate available options based on consumer demand. It helps to keep in mind that the more people who show interest in purchasing locally made products, the more willing the tourism industry is to offer these options in a more open manner.

As opposed to purchasing inexpensive, mass manufactured and widely available souvenirs, why not take the time to look a bit closer in the community and take something really unique back with you.

As an ecotourist, local is always better! Thank you for joining us today in our 10 ways to be an ecotourist post! If you have not done so already, please sign-up here to join our mailing list.

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Explainer: What Is Ecotourism?

The world has slowly become more connected over time. People take an interest in other cultures and want to experience them themselves. Traveling is an exciting part of life because it broadens your horizons and provides excellent educational opportunities, but how can you do so sustainably? To celebrate World Tourism Day 2023 under the theme “Tourism and green investment”, we dive deep into the world of ecotourism and explore new and innovative solutions to promote the movement of people around the world. 

What Is Ecotourism?

Ecotourism involves traveling sustainably. When you vacation, domestically or abroad, you stay conscious of the environment as much as possible. Ecotourists try to limit their carbon footprint and support local ecosystems by contributing positively. For example, they could eat at a local restaurant or refrain from using plastic on their trip. Ecotourism has become critical as people try to expand their worldview while staying environmentally conscious. 

Why Should You Practice Ecotourism?

Tourism is vital for many communities worldwide. Vacationers spend their money to help small businesses thrive and to stimulate local economies. However, tourism can negatively impact the environment. A 2022 study found that tourism is responsible for nearly 8% of the world’s carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions, most of which came from food and waste management. 

The pandemic hit the tourism industry with a steep 74% decline in international travel. Many countries had lockdowns in place to prevent COVID-19 transmission from foreign places. While this contributed to a significant drop in carbon emissions in 2020, tourist-dependent nations suffered huge economic losses.

Three years after the first case was detected in Wuhan, China, the pandemic is finally winding down and international travel is resuming, with air traffic set to reach 2019 levels soon. Last year saw a 153% increase in air travel compared to 2021 and about 62% pre-pandemic levels. In 2023, air traffic is expected to continue rising as most countries lift restrictions.

The bounce-back of tourism means the same will happen in terms of emissions. In 2022, GHG emissions increased by 7% in the first quarter compared to 2020. 

It is critical to practice ecotourism as global warming becomes more apparent. You’ll benefit from learning and becoming a better friend to the environment. Implementing ecotourism comes with many benefits:

• Educate yourself: The most significant benefit of ecotourism is educating yourself on environmental issues. If you find ways to be environmentally conscious on your trip, you are more likely to repeat those behaviors at home. Reading literature and research from scientists puts into perspective how the planet needs your help to survive.
• Protect resources: Sustainable travel means using natural and renewable resources to improve the planet’s health. You’re protecting the environment around you from the negative impacts of travel. If you believe in leaving something better than when you found it, ecotourism is the way to go.
• Help economies: Practicing ecotourism means other vacationers behind you also get to enjoy a clean environment . One way is by spending your money at local businesses. These shops are the heart of communities and give the location its remarkable personality. Patronising these companies helps them grow and continue their services for future visitors.

How Can You Be Mindful on Vacation?

It’s challenging to be perfect regarding your carbon footprint when traveling, but there are ways to limit your environmental impact abroad and contribute positively to the area. These five ways show how you can be a mindful ecotourist on your next trip. 

1. Research Ecotourism Locations

Ecotourism starts before you travel. Research as thoroughly as possible to see what destinations are the most conducive to ecotourism and find ways to be an ecotourist at the location. For example, you could look for hotels with biophilic designs. These spaces combine buildings with nature to maintain a connection with the environment. You may see natural materials like hardwood , stones, and trees inside the facility.  

Ecotourism means accounting for your environmental impact, but you should also examine how the area cares about green practices. When planning a trip, search for cities that implement eco-friendly policies to promote ecotourism. For example, Seattle, Washington, uses hydroelectric power for nearly 100% of its energy consumption.

2. Beware of Greenwashing

Talking about environmentally friendly practices is one thing, but implementing them and supporting the planet are the next steps that some businesses do not take. You may know this strategy as greenwashing . Due diligence can tell you which organisations stay true to their word and which only use eco-friendliness as a marketing term. 

It is essential to be able to spot greenwashing when you travel. Research hotels and businesses in the area and review their practices. How do they align with environmentally positive initiatives that they claim? For example, in 2018, Hilton said it would reduce CO2 emissions. However, critics accused the company of greenwashing because it cut down palm and mangrove trees to build its resort in the Maldives. Tearing down palm trees significantly affects carbon levels in the atmosphere. 

One way to research a company like Hilton for greenwashing is to examine its environmental, social and governance (ESG) scores. These metrics track companies’ operations and give an objective measurement to gauge practices. Organisations like Bloomberg developed databases that show exhaustive lists of ESG scores. They monitor thousands of businesses worldwide, so it is easier to see which are telling the truth beyond their ‘green’ campaigns.  

3. Visit a Wildlife Refuge

Part of ecotourism is finding ways to limit your environmental impact, but you can make positive contributions while still having fun. Visit a wildlife refuge when on vacation. These sanctuaries are some of the best places to support wildlife conservation and educate yourself. 

Photo by  Joshua J. Cotten  on  Unsplash

Wildlife refuges provide large, safe, and green spaces for animals to thrive. Many of them risk extinction and can thrive in a sanctuary. The money you spend at the refuges goes toward keeping the facilities standing and funding research to examine these animals. There are wildlife sanctuaries in all 50 states and five territories in the U.S. Internationally, there are numerous opportunities on every continent to support conservation. 

Seeing wildlife is a terrific experience, but remember to be mindful when visiting. For example, do not disturb animals by calling or touching them, and refrain from feeding them, even if they approach you. These creatures have special diets and oftentimes, human food is not suitable for them. If you bring food, clean up your waste afterward. Curious wildlife may get their heads stuck in plastic containers or eat things they are not supposed to.

4. Use Green Transportation Methods

Another way to practice ecotourism is to use green transportation methods. This strategy is something you can do abroad and practice at home. Eco-friendly transit reduces your carbon footprint significantly because it reduces greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and negative environmental impacts.

Photo by  freestocks  on  Unsplash

Depending on your destination, you should search for ways to take public transportation. These options may include buses, trains and metro lines. Public transit is more efficient than passenger vehicles because it emits 45% fewer CO2 emissions than cars on the road. Use bicycles and other low-emissions options if it’s not available. 

5. Learn Local Customs

Ecotourism goes hand-in-hand with mindful traveling. When you vacation, try to be one with the culture and immerse yourself. That’s how you get the most out of your travels. Learn local customs and find out what the residents do. They say when in Rome, do as the Romans do — and that’s a solid start for being an ecotourist.

Eating local food is an excellent way to immerse yourself and be an ecotourist. Ask a guide or resident where the best places to eat are. Small businesses and restaurants are likelier to have a lower carbon footprint than tourist traps. Find establishments that source their food locally. The shortened supply chain delivers delicious items at a lower price than you may see in chains.

Being an Ecotourist Worldwide

Calls for sustainability are growing as humans begin recognising their negative environmental impact. You can find ways to lower your carbon footprint at home, and you should keep the same mindful attitude when traveling abroad. Focus on being an ecotourist and helping the environment wherever you go.

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If you love nature, you may have tried to plan a vacation where you get to be immersed in it. Maybe you’ve explored a coral reef or visited an elephant sanctuary, or you dream of doing so one day. These activities can fall under the umbrella of ecotourism — a kind of nature-based travel that aims to protect and empower the environment, animals, and local communities — when planning vacations.

Tourism is one of the fastest-growing industries in the world, accounting for 22 million new jobs last year , with a large part of that growth stemming from a post-lockdown itch for travel . As people return to packing as much stuff as humanly possible into a carry-on, ecotourism, too, will likely skyrocket to a market value of $299 billion by 2026 . In the last 10 years, travelers have become more environmentally conscious and socially responsible , looking for travel experiences that reflect their morals.

Still, the question for many well-meaning tourists remains: Is ethical ecotourism even possible?

There are a few things that complicate ecotourism’s narrative, like the carbon emissions produced by flights , or the challenges of ensuring that a significant degree of profits actually do go to local communities, protecting wildlife, and cultural heritage. Nature-based travel, too, can risk losing the plot, from sanctuaries that operate like petting zoos to the development of tropical coasts into even the most nature-forward resorts.

“It really boils down to an attitude, and an ethic about how we approach the natural world,” says David Fennell , a geography and tourism studies professor at Brock University in Ontario, Canada, and editor-in-chief of the Journal of Ecotourism . “Just by virtue of going to a national park doesn’t mean you’re an ecotourist, you have to have that attitude. And you have to tap into that ethic about what is important [to] not just yourself as a tourist, but about conservation and animal welfare.”

As a tourist, choosing where to go is an important decision, one that can help or hurt the environment and communities where you are visiting. There are some situations that are too good to be truly as effective as they claim, and accreditations, though helpful, may not tell the whole story. Understandably, trying to figure out what’s best for the environment, for communities, and for yourself can be overwhelming. It may be that ecotourism is a state of mind rather than a destination. Here are some ways to think about your next adventure to ensure your ethics align.

What actually is ecotourism?

An alternative to mass tourism — or when thousands of people visit a destination day in and day out ( think the resort-ification of Ibiza , in which people partied so hard that legislation was passed in 2022 to change the destination’s wasteful image) — ecotourism is meant to get you off the beaten trail and into a mindset of reciprocity with the site you are visiting.

As with many sustainability-oriented services, ecotourism got its start in the ’70s. It officially became a dictionary entry in 1982 , where it is defined as supporting conservation efforts, especially in often threatened natural environments. Since then though, the definition and intent have evolved to include bolstering local communities.

In the literature on ecotourism, travel can be distinguished into “hard paths” and “soft paths,” based on how many aspects of your trip follow the ethical north star of ecotourism and how demanding the trip will be of you. For example, if your trip features a strong environmental commitment and will be physically active, you’re likely on the hard path of ecotourism. If your trip is aimed at physical comfort with only a moderate nod to environmental commitment, you may be on a soft path. But taking it as an ethos means you can be an ecotourist anywhere, especially locally.

You might be wondering if a hike on a busy trail or swimming with manatees is ecotourism. Although both of those examples are nature-based tourism as they interface with the natural world, they’re not necessarily ecotourism, since both of these activities can put these destinations at risk if done in excess. Hiking a spot to death or droves of tourists putting Florida’s manatees at risk put pressure on the ecology of those places. In the 1980s, mass tourism began to wreck some of the world’s most sensitive ecosystems, such as the Riviera Maya in Mexico, where near-constant development has led to local forests being cleared .

Wildlife tourism runs the gamut from cruel breeding and hunting of lions to we-really-shouldn’t-have-cetaceans-in-captivity dolphin shows to cool , ethical birdwatching. Ecotourism including wildlife can be ethical as long as the animals you are engaging with are not manipulated or not free to disengage in interaction with tourists. “Anytime you have an animal that’s held in a captive environment, that you’re manipulating, the animal is not free to disengage that interaction, based on its own will,” says Fennell.

If you’re interested in going on adventures that are a little more sport-oriented, such as kayaking or diving, then this might be also considered nature-based tourism, since activities like climbing, sailing, camping, and snorkeling are less directly connected to ecological benefits. An example of nature tourism would be surfing lessons off Australia’s Coffs coast : You’re in nature having fun, but vibes are about all you’re contributing to the scene.

Ecotourism also has an educational component: You’re meant to learn about nature, culture, and threats to the area you’re in. Paul Rosolie — founder and Wildlife Director of Junglekeepers , a program that uses donations and tourist money to buy tracts of the Amazon along the Las Piedras River, in the Madre de Dios region of Peru — highlighted how ecotourism has brought people to the front lines of conservation.

“This is the edge of human presence on this planet,” Rosolie said via voice memo deep in the Amazon. “The battle is playing out between the progress of roads and development and the last places where there are untouched ecosystems, Indigenous communities, communities of species yet to be discovered. You get to see incredibly pristine, pure wilderness where a few people have managed to make a living.”

Ecotourism should encourage ethical considerations, like respect for the environment and host communities. For example, ecotourism aims to be biocentric , meaning that the interest of the living beings you are hoping to protect is prioritized over your own drive for pleasure. There is also the risk of too much tourism causing gentrification and raising prices for locals — see what’s currently happening in Mexico City , or consider the (fictional, but still germane) plot of HBO’s The White Lotus . Ecotourism aims to reverse the exploitative relationships between tourists and locals.

Lastly, ecotourism should strive for sustainability. In the case of Junglekeepers , which offers base station visits and ranger-accompanied hikes to tourists, this means extending employment to former loggers in their ranger program. The Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, where there are six ecolodges for tourists to book, has anti-poaching teams who work with the Kenya Wildlife Service to stop illegal poaching for ivory, bushmeat, and logging.

The tricky questions around ecotourism

Just because ecotourism might have a broader application these days, it doesn’t necessarily mean all travel qualifies, especially since there are slews of companies and organizations attempting to make a quick buck off a catchy buzzword. Unfortunately, it’s hard to sift the wheat from the chaff. As ecotourism as a concept grows more and more popular, some experiences and excursions may not necessarily meet the intentions lined up above.

Tourism can be rife with greenwashing : vague and unsupported claims, and exaggerations about how much good a given entity is doing, like hotels highlighting their donations to ecological causes, but underpaying their staff . Some excursions put Indigenous peoples in precarious situations , and some force animals to perform or be ridden or petted in a forced and unnatural manner .

Milo Putnam — founder of Laro Ethical Wildlife Travels , a service that helps people plan eco-travel — warns, “Don’t be tricked by misused greenwashing buzzwords like ‘rescue,’ ‘sanctuary,’ or ‘eco-park.’ Companies know that tourists like these terms, which to these companies can mean more profits, even if it isn’t true. These terms are meaningless if not backed by actual ethical practices. Instead, look further to see if they are certified or accredited by a trusted organization.” (More on this below.)

Additionally, Fennell believes the most ethical ecotourists — the traveler and any organizations involved — should keep animals off the menu. Ecotourism’s biocentric approach should lead us to widen our moral consideration of animals and to care not only for charismatic megafauna like lions and elephants, but also for all creatures that make ecosystems function. “The global food system — mainly animal agriculture — is the primary driver of biodiversity loss ,” Putnam added. “Choosing a more plant-based diet has a positive impact on wildlife around the world.”

How to choose where to go

Certifications may give a clue to how well a given destination is achieving ecotourism goals, but they may not always exist.

Putnam has compiled a tip list for planning animal-based adventures and points to the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries as a resource. The federation checks in to ensure that no captive breeding is taking place, that tourists do not have direct contact with wildlife, and that animals have appropriate housing and veterinary care.

There is no universal ecotourism certification, but the Global Sustainable Tourism Council has compiled a list of certifications around the world that emphasize the four “C’s”: conservation, community, culture, and commerce. These certifications are a good place to start and they cover Asia, Europe, Africa, North and South America, and Australia.

The land down under is at the top when it comes to vetting their tourism options. Australia’s ecotourism industry has some of the most sophisticated certifications including nature tourism, ecotourism, and advanced ecotourism . In this certification system, outback safari glamping in Karijini National Park counts as ecotourism, because it supports Indigenous peoples as it is owned and operated by the Gumala Aboriginal Corporation , which represents the interests of the Banjima, Yinhawangka, and Nyiyaparli peoples in Western Australia.

Everyone I spoke to underscored the importance of selecting an ethical destination for travel because the money you spend as a tourist can have a positive impact rather than an ambiguous impact or even detrimental effect on the places you’re visiting. As Rosolie puts it, “Finding the right place to go as a traveler is a very powerful decision to people who are devoting their whole lives to protecting a place.”

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• Green Travel , Sustainable Travel

Have you ever wondered what sort of impact traveling has on the world’s environment, and thus, the beings which inhabit it? While traveling can do wonders for our minds and enrich our lives, it can also have a negative impact on our beautiful earth. That’s why I’ve put together a big fat awesome list of 20 ecotourism tips and eco-friendly practices, so you can be a more green traveler.

Psst, this post on ecotourism tips contains affiliate links. Read our disclosure .

When you’re on a plane, you might not really think about what the jet fuel is doing to the atmosphere (me included!). Or when you’re in the hotel bar and order a drink, you may not give a second thought to where the straw in your glass is going once it’s empty.

All day, everyday, people are traveling and enjoying life.

Whether it be traveling to a new continent for a new adventure or traveling to a nearby city for a business meeting.

While going to new places and experiencing new things can open our minds and expand our horizons, it can also have a negative impact on our beautiful earth.

Table of Contents

What is eco-friendly travel, otherwise known as “green” travel?

Green travel is a sort of broad term with two different sections, but according to the this definition…

“[green travel] refers first and foremost to responsible travel practices that pay attention to environmental, social, and economic sustainability. It can also refer to  eco-tourism , which involves responsible travel specifically to natural areas.” (Greatist.com, 2013)

Ultimately, green travel could be labeled as “moral” travel, as it focuses on ensuring that all travel is undertaken in an environmentally responsible manner.

In other words, leaving as little of an impact on the places you visit and protecting the environment — both at home and abroad.

20 EASY WAYS TO PRACTICE ECOTOURISM & BE A MORE GREEN TRAVELER

Say “no” to straws..

If you’re wanting to  not contribute to our global plastic problem and reduce your plastic consumption, saying “no” to straws is one of the easiest ways to do it!

Straws are a big no-no if you want to be the ultimate eco-friendly traveler, as they are incredibly disposable and fill up the landfills (and oceans) like crazy.

So, at your next get together or when you’re at the bar ordering a drink, say no to the straw and sip instead.

(Psst, still don’t want to give up straws? I hear you! I spill alllllll the time. That’s why I use reusable stainless steel straws and bamboo straws !)

Take a walk.

If you’re exploring a new city or just exploring your backyard, instead of driving your car or taking a bus, why not walk ?

You’ll not only save on unnecessary pollution, it’s also good exercise! And you’ll likely notice more — like a new boutique, hidden statue, or relaxing green space — than if you were cruising by in a car or on a bus.

This is one of the easiest (and completely FREE!) ecotourism practices that many budget backpackers and travelers take up.

Slow travel is the way to go.

This goes along with taking into account the pollution, which is unavoidable with most means of transportation. If you have the available time, why not consider traveling more slower than usual?

It allows you to save money, minimize the amount of pollution from transportation (like flights, buses, cars, etc.), and you’ll get to see more than if you were traveling at the speed of light!

Additionally, if the opportunity is there, take trains over planes . You’ll significantly reduce your CO2 footprint   and  it’ll most likely be a more memorable journey compared to flying in a plane, as you’ll actually be able to see the surrounding landscape.

Think before you slather.

Before you slather on your sunscreen, have you thought about what’s in it ?

Sunscreens with toxic chemicals like oxybenzone, avobenzone, octisalate, octocrylene, homosalate, and octinoxate are extremely harmful to the ocean.

Consider swapping it out for a non-toxic, natural sunscreen, usually made out of zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. You’ll not only protect your skin, but reduce your impact on the oceans inhabitants and plants.

Read more about the impacts of harmful sunscreen here (and then switch to a more conscious option to be a better ecotourist!).

Check out this post on chemical-free, reef-safe sunscreens to find out what my favorite brands are!

I think we can all agree that less cars on the road equals less pollution . That’s why a great way to be an eco-friendly traveler is to reap the benefits of car-sharing!

Whether you’re in the US, Europe, or Australia, you’ll find companies dedicated to car sharing. Here are car sharing programs in the US, Bla Bla Car in Europe, and for everywhere else, check this .

Minimize your food consumption.

This includes passing on the elaborate breakfasts just to have a more “Instagram-worthy” photo.

I see this  all the time on Instagram and it grinds my gears. Social media “influencers” and “Instagram-famous” people ordering up a  huge amount of food for breakfast/lunch/dinner just to take a picture.

They’re surrounded by vast amounts of colorful plates and pretty food — though, realistically, one or even two people can’t scarf down what’s in front of them.

Can you imagine how much food is wasted only to get a pretty photo ?

It’s not sustainable or eco-friendly travel in any way. Think of all that food going to people  who will actually eat it!

Take my 10-Day Sustainability Challenge and each day you'll get easy, actionable steps you can take to become a bit more eco-friendly. (The earth will LOVE you!) *Privacy policy.*

Say no to plastic water bottles.

I think we can all agree that plastic water bottles are — amongst other things — destroying this planet. Did you know that 1,500 water bottles are consumed every second ? Holy smokes! Y’all, we need to do something about this. I need you right now to make a pledge to say no to every water bottle you see .

Instead, get a reusable water bottle or, if you’re somewhere where you are unable to drink the tap water, check out this water bottle with a filter . (It’s my FAVORITE to travel with around places like Asia and Mexico!)

By getting yourself a reusable water bottle, you’ll be glad to know you’re lessening your plastic impact on the earth and being a more green traveler!

To read more on plastic-free travel, check out this post on 8 plastic-reducing tips and this post on how to implement #PlasticFreeJuly every month !

Support the real local economy.

Wherever you’re traveling, make a point to support the local community , also known as the local economy.

Instead of purchasing your souvenirs at a typical souvenir shop, buy them from a small, local shop in a not-so-well-known neighborhood. You’ll be supporting a local family, as well as putting your money into the local economy.

This is an essential ecotourism practice many travelers forget to implement and use!

Never — ever — buy wildlife products.

Everyday, we’re faced with choices regarding the purchases we may make — what you might not know is that those purchases could have a harmful impact on wildlife.

While in the Caribbean you see shelves full of colorful coral decorations and tortoise shell accessories. Or in antique shop, you find a unique Ivory tusk intricately designed. Or in Australia, you find a surf shop filled with shark teeth necklaces.

The fact is, we all need to refrain from purchasing these sorts of products.

This demand continues to feed wildlife crime and destroys populations of elephants, marine turtles, rhinos, and tigers, amongst other species.

Be a good little green traveler from here on out and skip buying any wildlife products ! Not only is this sustainable travel tip easy to do, it also saves you money. Win-win!

In fact, this is something an “animal lover” would never do! You can read more about that on my big fat list of unethical animal encounters to avoid . 

Support organizations that encourage sustainability.

Whenever you’re deciding on a tour group, organization, etc., pick one that encourages sustainability. For example, a company which supports the local community by investing in the area, contributing to preservation, hiring local staff, and sources local supplies.

A company which goes out of their way to reduce their negative environmental impact by creating conservation measures, practices RRR (reduce, reuse, recycle), plants trees to offset impact, offers incentives to staff to carpool, etc.

There’s so many ways a company can promote sustainability! So definitely choose one which is doing at least one (or all!) of these things.

Check out this list of the top sustainable tour companies to travel the world with!

Throw out those plastic toothbrushes.

Haven’t you heard?

Considering 1 billion toothbrushes are thrown away every year in the U.S. , which is enough to stretch around the world 4 times , and most plastic toothbrushes are made out of polypropylene and nylon, which is non-renewable fossil fuels, the time for plastic toothbrushes is out !

Do what you can for the world and make the switch to a bamboo toothbrush . It’s such an easy swap, you won’t even notice a difference!

Not to mention, I find bamboo toothbrushes to be so much lighter than plastic toothbrushes, which saves you precious bag weight! I call that a major win.

Get yourself a bamboo toothbrush ASAP.

Avoid the plane and take the train.

We all know planes release a good amount of pollution, right?

Well, one way to cut down on your particular impact by plane pollution is to opt for taking the train instead ! Trains use remarkably less fuel and have a significantly smaller impact on the environment compared to planes.

In fact, according to this source , you’ll cut carbon dioxide (CO2) by half if you take the train over a plane. Awesome, right?

Not only is adopting this ecotourism practice a money-saver, you’ll also likely get better views, more space, and less hassle!

Want to know where I find my train tickets at the best price? The Trainline.com — always! You can read more about my favorite travel resources and recommendations here .

Donate to local charities.

Remember how eco-travel and green travel is all about environment, social, and economical responsibility ?

By donating to local charities, you’re supporting the social and economical parts of that!

You’ll not only be giving back to the community, but also supporting local families, making sure they have what they need, and amplifying local preservation acts.

While this ecotourism practice involves you opening your wallet, when you donate to the right charities, you can know your hard-earned dollars are going to those who need them most and will have a direct impact on their wellbeing.

Check this post out on the 20 best environmental and animal charities for inspiration on where to donate!

Pass on the hotel room maid service.

This is SUCH an underrated eco-friendly practice to reduce one’s environmental impact!

Think about it… By passing on hotel room maid service, you’ll not only save them some time but you’ll also save precious resources (like water) and energy.

So, when you’re at your next destination, do the world a favor and stick that “do not disturb” sign on your door to pass on the maid service !

Or, if you’re at one the popular chain hotels, you’ll find they have you hang up the towels to pass on towel washing. (Which is a must if you’re an eco-tourist who wants to reduce your environmental footprint.)

Book non-stop flights rather than indirect ones.

If you don’t have the option of taking an alternative mode of transportation, like a bus or train, opt for taking a non-stop flight to reduce your environmental impact.

Indirect flights are not only more of a hassle (because who enjoys layovers, right?), they put out more chemicals and fuel pollution than non-stop flights.

It’s completely understandable if you are on a budget and can’t afford non-stop flights, but if you do have the means, booking non-stop flights is a great way to practice green travel !

Don’t forget — a sustainable traveler would never go on a cruise! Here’s why .

Recycle everywhere and anywhere you go.

Recycling isn’t just for families or individuals who live in a set location. Whether you’re traveling across the United States or backpacking around Europe , you have the opportunity to recycle everywhere you go !

Seriously — many cities, towns, and random villages have recycling bins you can take advantage of.

So, the next time you buy a pack of canned beer or get yourself food wrapped in paper, do the earth a favor and recycle the materials once you’re finished. A simple, yet effective ecotourism tip!

Research future accommodations sustainability efforts.

When booking your next trip, consider booking an accommodation which focuses on sustainability efforts .

For example, they use bamboo straws instead of plastic straws, compost leftover produce, recycle all materials (when possible), use plastic-free toilet paper, reduce their water consumption, and more.

At a B&B I recently looked at, they stocked the bathrooms with Who Gives a Crap toilet paper — which is plastic free and they donate 50% of profits to build toilets around the world! LOVE.

Don’t stray from the trail.

When hiking around a national park or natural reservation, take care to stay on the designated trail .

The trails are there for a reason, as some plant species are extremely delicate and won’t grow when trampled on by people.

For example, Bluebonnets first grow underneath the ground and take a good long while to have the strength to sprout. If people continue stepping on the ground their trying to sprout in, they can’t grow — and that’s no fun!

As an eco-friendly traveler, it’s your job to care for the places you explore! So stay on the trail and leave no trace.

Never feed wildlife.

I know, I know — we all love when animals come up to us and make us feel like we’re out of a Disney movie with new, animal friends.

But that just isn’t meant to happen in the real world.

Animals are meant to stay wild and when humans start giving them food, the animals become more accustomed to being fed by humans — which is bad, bad, bad.

Why is it bad, you might ask?

Because when animals start to rely on humans for food, they forget how to take care of themselves . They could easily die due to not being able to actually feed themselves.

For example, in Yosemite National Park , park rangers tell you to throw rocks and yell at bears to scare them away.

This is because if a bear becomes too friendly towards humans (who are usually feeding it), the bear usually ends up being shot and killed, as it’s a danger to park guests. How sad is that?

So, case in point, never — ever — feed the wildlife .

Just keep your distance and admire from afar! Again, this ecotourism practice couldn’t be any easier! As you simply need to do nothing at all . And just leave animals be.

Do not ride or in any way exploit wildlife.

Similar to not feeding or approaching wildlife, you should never exploit it either .

This means no swimming with dolphins in pools, riding elephants in Asia , going to zoos, taking pictures with drugged tigers in Thailand, own any exotic pets, and more.

Animals are meant to live separate lives away from humans, so don’t exploit them in any way. Here’s a peek into the commercial exploitation of animals .

And if you really want to go far in not exploiting wildlife, the best way would be to go vegan ! In fact, as an eco-friendly tourist, I consider vegan travel as an essential part of sustainable tourism .

Many vegans do everything in their power to not harm animals — this means buying cruelty-free products, abstaining from any foods containing animal, and not buying any animal products, like fur.

As mentioned earlier, I have a big massive list of unethical animal encounters to avoid if you’re an “animal lover.” You can check out that post here .

With these 20 best ways to practice ecotourism and be a more green traveler, you can effortlessly start to reduce your environmental footprint, support the destinations you visit, and amplify your positive impact!

I love focusing my efforts of sustainable travel, responsible tourism, and doing what I can for this big, beautiful earth — while traveling and at home. So, let me ask you…

What changes are you going to make to take the right steps towards eco-friendly travel and sustainable tourism? 

Not sure what to check out next? Readers love these posts:

Top sustainable tours for an eco-friendly vacation

• 10 easy swaps to have a more eco-friendly summer (#8 is crazy simple!)
• Plastic-free travel tips: 8 easy ways to ditch plastic whilst wandering
• Overtourism: 10+ destinations saying “wish you weren’t here!”
• Getting down and dirty with elephants in Chiang Rai… the ethical way!
• Why vegan travel is part of sustainable & eco-friendly tourism

Pin these 20 ecotourism tips for later! ↓

Yay for transparency! This post contains affiliate links; if you make a purchase using one of the links, I receive a small commission. This helps keep the site chugging along! Read the full disclosure  here .

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Article Comments

Loved this post! The food waste thing drives me nuts too. We just got to Bali a few weeks ago and have noticed that so many people order twice as much food as they eat. These are the same people saying “no straw” and sneering at the garbage in the streets – but they don’t even think twice about all that food going to waste. We’ve become very aware of how much food we are ordering and eating and now order less than we think we’ll need. So far, we’ve never had to order something extra because we didn’t have enough, so we’re saving money, too!

The Wanderful Me

Thanks Jane! So glad we connected. Hope you’re having a great time in Bali! And also SO GLAD someone agrees with me on the whole food waste thing. It drives me crazy!

I loved this article! It was so helpful, and I really appreciated how most of these tips were very simple things that you could easily work into any kind of travel. One thing I like to do is try to purchase locally-grown foods, as opposed to food which has been flown in. It uses less resources, is more sustainable, and gives you more of an insight into the local culture!

This is a great list of eco friendly travel tips, nice content, good read and informative.

Tricky Travellers

It is a very thorough and informative article about eco-tourism. Everyone should travel eco-friendly keeping the environment as our first priority. Thanks for sharing these valuable tips.

Bea adventurous

Hi Sophie, Thanks for this blog! It’s allowed me to add a few new things to my list of things to do when travelling! A lot of simple things which we can all do to make a difference!

Thanks so much for this great read!

Hey Bea! It’s great to hear you liked the blog on ecotourism practices! I couldn’t agree with you more on how many of them are simple things we could all do to make a difference. Which tip is your favorite?

Really amazing blog, has been really innovative and informative.

Really innovative and informative blog. Thank you for sharing such a powerful information. Reading it twice a day.

I am so glad I stumbled across this article. Thank you for writing it. I will be taking all 20 tips on my trip this year!! I will also be sharing this other travellers I know. What are your favourite sustainable travel brands? (I.e. clothes, travel product, travel companies, etc.)

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Sustainable travel: 6 ways to be an eco-conscious traveler.

Discover top things to consider while exploring the globe.

How to Be an Eco-Conscious Traveler

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There are plenty of ways to put sustainability in focus for your next vacation.

Finding sustainable ways to travel doesn't need to be burdensome. Sustainable travel is easier than you may think, whether you start by supporting local businesses or taking small steps to reduce your carbon footprint. One of the simplest things you can do is fly less, but there are so many different ways to be more intentional and responsible as you traverse the globe. This guide – with plenty of tips from U.S. News travel editors and sustainable travel experts – will help you make your future travels more sustainable and meaningful.

What is sustainable travel?

Traveling to new and exciting destinations, whether a stone's throw from home or on the other side of the world, can be a deeply rewarding experience. You have the opportunity to soak in new cultures and landscapes as you learn about the world around you – but you'll also want to consider how your visit may affect the places you go and the people who live there.

Sustainable travel means not only minimizing harm to the environment but also respecting and supporting local communities and economies. "It's not exploitative or degenerative to the host's culture, community, wildlife, ecosystem or economy," says Nora Livingstone, co-founder of Animal Experience International, a certified B Corporation that provides travelers with ethical animal-related experiences. "From the root of its name, it sustains."

Susanne Etti, global environmental impact manager at Intrepid Travel (an adventure travel company and certified B Corp), believes that great travel goes hand in hand with great responsibility. "Sustainable tourism is all about making simple choices to lessen your negative impact on a given destination," she explains. "It stresses the importance of reducing your carbon footprint and encourages travelers to step off the worn path and linger longer, respect cultural differences and invest in communities, reconnect with nature, and support organizations that are protecting the planet."

Why is sustainable travel important?

Sustainability matters just as much for travelers as it does for their host destinations. When you commit to more mindful travel, you help preserve awe-inspiring natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, not only for local citizens but also for future travelers.

"You may also have a more meaningful experience knowing that your impact on the place and people was a positive one," says Lindsey Lyons, director of sustainability learning at Dickinson College's Center for Sustainability Education.

Plus, it's important to consider sustainability as a way to protect attractions, scenic areas and destinations so that others may experience them in the decades ahead.

"Without a shift in focus to sustainable tourism, there would be little left of the places we want to visit," says Corey Determan, owner of the Bella Rose Travel agency, who has a master's degree in environmental education and 13 years of experience in ecotourism. "Implementing sustainable tourism practices ensures the survival of sensitive tourist destinations so that travelers may enjoy them for generations to come."

The choices you make while traveling have lasting effects. Opting to fly a short distance rather than take a train, for example, may save you a little bit of time – but perhaps not enough to make it worth the extra carbon emissions.

Traveling sustainably requires a balance of many factors, from your budget to the time you spend in transit. With even just a little extra planning, you can figure out what sustainable practices work best for you and how to incorporate them into your travels.

This guide will take you through tips for every step of the process, from choosing a destination to deciding what to pack.

Where to Go

Where to stay, what to pack, how to get there, what else to keep in mind.

Most trip planning begins with deciding where to go. There are many ways you can think sustainably at this step – examples include finding destinations focused on responsible tourism or exploring somewhere closer to home. Get ready to unearth some wonderful off-the-beaten-path locations.

Find places that promote sustainable tourism

One way to pick your travel destination is by consulting the Global Destination Sustainability Index rankings , which gives cities a sustainability score based on factors such as carbon emissions and public transport. Many Western European cities top the list, but there are places all over the world that focus on sustainability.

"The Azores, a Portuguese archipelago, has preserved 92% of the islands as green space and has a strong focus on renewable energy," says Elizabeth Von Tersch , a senior travel editor at U.S. News. " Victoria, British Columbia , is the first designated urban biosphere reserve in the U.S. or Canada and is going beyond net-zero emissions to become climate positive. Bhutan, the world's first carbon-negative country, enforces a sustainable development fee to preserve not only the environment but also Bhutan's people and culture."

As you're researching potential green destinations, look for signs that a place is committed to sustainability. "If a destination is focused on sustainable tourism, chances are this will be obvious in their marketing," Von Tersch advises. "But to avoid being a victim of deceptive greenwashing , make sure sustainability claims are supported with data and look for certifications from reputable groups like EarthCheck, Responsible Tourism Institute and Blue Flag (for beaches), among others."

Be mindful of overtourism

The world's most popular attractions are tourist hot spots for good reason – but too many visitors flocking to the same spot at the same time can strain fragile cultural sites and create an unpleasant experience for locals and travelers alike.

"Many popular destinations are also putting caps on the number of visitors, including Venice , Bora Bora and several U.S. national parks ," Von Tersch says. "While this may require an extra layer of planning for travelers, it's an important step in preventing overtourism to make sure these beloved places stick around for years to come."

You can also help prevent the negative effects of overtourism. Choosing unique destinations that aren't heavily trafficked can be a good option, but if iconic attractions like the Taj Mahal or the Colosseum are next on your bucket list, consider visiting outside of the peak season – or at least at off-peak times during the day.

If you have your sights set on visiting awe-inspiring natural wonders , such as the Great Barrier Reef in Australia, it's important to be prepared so you can avoid doing anything that will harm the environment. Even something small – such as wearing sunscreen that isn't reef safe on a snorkeling excursion – can damage an imperiled landscape.

Look close to home

Far-flung destinations may seem glamorous, but the truth is that travelers don't have to go far to find incredible experiences.

"Focus on local travel and exploring the areas domestically – whether it is in your state, county or region," says David Perkins, assistant professor of geography and sustainable tourism at Missouri State University. "There are so many things to explore just in our own backyards if one simply looks. This will enhance connections within your own community, increasing social sustainability all while satisfying desires to explore."

With so much potential for adventures near home, you can enjoy all the wonders of traveling while saving on transportation costs and decreasing your ecological footprint.

Vacation rankings: Explore top vacations by region and state

Courtesy of The Brando

Another critical component of your trip is where you'll lay your head at night. Depending on your budget and the type of experience you seek, options range from eco-conscious luxury hotel rooms and vacation rentals to communal hostel bunks and campsites.

Choose your hotel or resort carefully

Evaluating various hotel options is an important part of being a sustainably conscious traveler. Hervé Houdré, founder of H2 Sustainability, has a few recommendations for travelers to consider.

"Before booking, check if the hotel has received any environmental certifications or participates in any programs," Houdré recommends. "If not, some of the initiatives a hotel should undertake and communicate are: no single-use plastic (bottles, straws and stirrers), housekeeping linen program, energy-efficient practices, EV car chargers and locally sourced produce on the menus." He also suggests looking for hotels that participate in local not-for-profit environmental and community initiatives.

Hotels and resorts around the globe are finding innovative ways to help protect the environment. At The Brando in French Polynesia , for example, solar power strips made from recycled materials help to power the resort. In addition, the Sea Water Air Conditioning system was developed at The Brando and uses ocean water to help reduce the property's energy consumption needs.

If you're looking for more of a city-oriented escape, ARIA Resort & Casino in Las Vegas receives 90% of its daytime power from a solar array, is focused on going paperless when possible and has an advanced back-of-the-house recycling program. What's more, the property partners with a local food bank to freeze and store unserved food from events and provide it to those in need.

You'll find multiple hotel brands throughout the world focused on sustainability. All of the 1 Hotels properties are LEED certified , and its U.S. locations are 100% carbon neutral. The hotel and resort teams at Aman use the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals to create the brand's sustainability strategies, as well as its four pillars: local heritage, local culture, environment protection and social responsibility. Soneva resorts combine luxury with sustainability: The company's foundation invests in initiatives designed to offset direct and indirect carbon emissions, along with other programs focused on a positive environmental impact.

Here are some things to look for when selecting a hotel:

• A sustainability policy that focuses on energy, waste and water processes, and may include certifications and accreditations such as Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) ratings, EarthCheck and the Global Sustainable Tourism Council
• Commitment to the environment with eco-friendly initiatives like an on-site garden, beehives, or energy- and water-conserving technologies
• Local involvement to empower members of the community through hiring local staff, promoting tours that support regional culture, and using local suppliers for its food and beverage programs

Read: The Top Ecolodges Around the World

Consider other accommodation options

Short-term rentals and homestays: With Airbnb, Homestay.com and other online marketplaces, short-term rentals and homestays have become a popular option for travelers who want a unique experience – or simply a nice place to stay without the high price tag of a hotel room. Home sharing has certain environmental benefits too: According to Airbnb, its listings waste less and consume less water and energy compared to traditional hotel accommodations.

Renting from a local host can give you a more authentic and eco-friendly experience in your destination, but keep an eye out for hosts offering many units for short-term stays without a host. Unlike home sharing, this practice drives up property values for local residents.

Hostels: Hostels are one of the most budget-friendly and sustainable types of lodging. Because most hostel accommodations are dorm-style rooms with bunk beds and shared facilities, they consume far less water and energy than private hotel rooms. Hostels allow travelers to find centrally located lodging in a city without breaking the bank, which will also cut down on the transportation needed to get to all your must-visit sights. To go a step further, seek out hostels that highlight sustainable practices, such as renewable energy and eco-friendly materials. You can search for hostels on Hostelworld .

If safety is your main concern, especially for women traveling solo , be sure to read hostel reviews from travelers like yourself. Many hostels offer dorm rooms designated only for women, but if you're nervous about sharing a room with strangers, U.S. News senior travel editor Marisa Méndez recommends opting for a smaller room with friends or even a private room in a hostel.

"Is it still more expensive to book a private hostel room? Sure. But it's less than the cost of a hotel and if you're a social human, it's a good way to meet other travelers and get their opinions on things," she says. "I think hostels are worth it and I felt so much more comfortable sharing one room with everyone I knew. It alleviated some of the stress of being in a place with strangers."

Campgrounds: Camping is an ideal option for a sustainable vacation. As you immerse yourself in nature and enjoy some outdoor adventure, you'll be using far less water and energy than you would in hotels or vacation rentals. If the more rustic side of camping isn't your thing, glamping resorts offer a more luxurious experience that can still minimize your carbon footprint. You can even find camping and glamping sites that actively promote sustainability with initiatives such as renewable energy, recycling facilities and rainwater collection.

For more information on how to be an eco-conscious camper, check out the section on adventure travel .

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

Courtesy of Paravel

Invest in eco-friendly luggage and sustainable products

Whether you're packing a weekender bag , carry-on suitcase or checked luggage , try to bring only what you need. Consider luggage constructed with sustainable materials, such as the CALPAK Terra Collection and the Paravel Aviator Carry-On , which are both made out of recycled plastic bottles and other materials.

To reduce waste, pack a reusable water bottle in your carry-on bag, such as the insulated Tree Tribe stainless steel water bottle with a leakproof lid (bonus: a tree is planted for every bottle purchased). You can also invest in a foldable shopper tote like the Standard Baggu for a picnic lunch or market finds, a Zoku reusable straw and a TSA-compliant BergHOFF Travel Flatware set .

Looking and feeling your best is always the goal, but travel-size single-use plastics aren't good for the environment. However, you can minimize your impact with eco-friendly health and beauty products. Begin with a TSA-friendly reusable Stasher silicone quart-sized bag if you're planning to fly with any liquids.

To reduce water, waste and packaging, consider solid versions of shampoo from brands like HiBAR , along with hair conditioner , facial cleanser and moisturizer bars from Ethique . For a sustainable smile, consider Bite toothpaste and mouthwash . If you're heading to the beach, a reef-safe sunscreen like the All Good sunscreen butter is key to protect both your skin and the ocean. In addition to conserving water, the solid versions of health and beauty items also help to save space in your 3-1-1 liquids bag.

For clothing, consider garments made from organic cotton and other sustainable materials. Clothing that is classic, durable and designed to work for a variety of situations provides more longevity to your travel capsule wardrobe. Méndez recommends sustainable clothing company Pact , where travel staples like leggings, long sleeve tees and dresses with pockets are carbon neutral, fair trade and constructed with organic cotton. "My favorite thing about this company − aside from the quality − is that everything comes in a set of basic colors, not just fun prints," Méndez says. "You can easily make a capsule wardrobe for travel."

Follow these sustainable packing tips:

• Pack light to help reduce fuel needed for the transportation of you and your baggage.
• Use TSA-friendly reusable bags and containers for health and beauty items.
• Bring your own reusable water bottle to reduce waste and stay hydrated. You can add a sticker from each destination as a fun souvenir of your adventures.
• Use items you already own , like your stainless steel water bottle you take to the office, your gym bag that doubles as a personal item or the suitcase you've owned for years.
• Ditch the single-use plastic bags and utilize packing cubes to keep travel essentials organized.

Choosing your means of transportation is one of the biggest determinants of the carbon footprint your travel will leave. Slower means of travel – such as by train instead of plane, or bike instead of car – are often more sustainable and can provide a richer travel experience, but your selection will depend on the options available and how much time you have to spare.

It's no secret that plane travel contributes significantly to carbon emissions. "Air travel today is inherently carbon intensive – fossil fuels account for 99.9% of aviation energy use, and choosing to board a plane is the single most emitting decision many of us will make in our lives," says Dan Rutherford, program director of marine and aviation at the International Council on Clean Transportation.

That doesn't mean eco-conscious travelers can never again travel by air, but you should be aware of the consequences of frequent plane travel and take steps to minimize your impact. "I recommend that travelers learn to fly like 'A NERD,' with the acronym referring to: A voiding unnecessary trips, flying on N ew aircraft, in E conomy class, on a R egular-sized plane, and whenever possible choosing a D irect flight," Rutherford says.

Many flight booking sites, including Google Flights and Kayak, show you the expected carbon emissions from different options, which allows you to choose flights that emit less, Rutherford says. Etti, of Intrepid Travel, recommends choosing airlines that are committed to using sustainable aviation fuels when possible – and even taking small steps like minimizing your luggage weight, which can have an impact on emissions.

Traveling by train rather than plane helps reduce harmful carbon emissions. That's why in 2022 France banned short-haul domestic flights that can be replaced by a bus or train ride of less than 2.5 hours. Taking an Amtrak train is 34% more energy efficient than flying domestically and 46% more energy efficient than car travel, according to the U.S. Department of Energy Data Book. A study by the European Environment Agency found that apart from walking or cycling, rail transportation is the most environmentally friendly mode of transportation.

Think about it this way: A traveler can conserve close to the same amount of carbon dioxide as not running your washing machine for a year, just by choosing to take a train from London to Edinburgh rather than a plane, according to Trainline, a European train booking app. Rail travel also provides a prime opportunity to see the scenery on your route, along with the option to create a multistop itinerary to explore local cultures.

Investing in an electric vehicle is a great way to reduce carbon emissions in your daily life and for travel by road, if you're able to make the switch. But EVs are not the only way to make car travel a little more sustainable: Another option is to look into carpooling websites such as BlaBlaCar or CarpoolWorld , which allow you to share a ride on long car trips. After all, more passengers means a lower carbon footprint for each individual.

Other ways you can reduce the environmental impact of your road trip a little include packing light, using cruise control on the highway to maximize your fuel, planning the most efficient route and not letting your car idle when you stop.

Boat travel can be more sustainable than flying – climate activist Greta Thunberg, for example, takes boat trips whenever possible to travel overseas. This form of transportation also takes much longer. But if you're hoping to cut down on your carbon footprint by setting sail, keep in mind that not all boats are created equal.

While a sailing boat or a vessel powered in part by wind is a greener form of transportation than a plane, staying on a luxury cruise ship can produce around double the carbon emissions of a flight and hotel stay, according to the ICCT. New technology continues to make cruise ships greener and more efficient, so if your heart is set on a cruise, do your research to see which major cruise lines are publicly committed to sailing sustainably. Newer cruise ships are also a better bet than old vessels, as the majority are now designed with at least some sustainability measures in mind.

Read: Sustainable Cruising: Cruise Lines Making Progress

Getting around your destination

Upon arrival at your final destination, the most eco-friendly ways to explore are by foot or bike.

"These options offer win/win/win solutions by providing low/no cost transport, health and wellness benefits to the walk(er)/rider, and no emissions and traffic for the community or place of exploration," Lyons explains. When you walk or bike, you get to truly experience the community while helping the planet.

Public transportation is another good option for getting from place to place in a city that will be especially convenient if you plan to stay near a metro station or a bus stop. Investigate the city's public transit options in advance so you can find the most efficient routes.

"Not only does traveling on public transport let you swap chuckles with your neighbors in their territory, but it also cuts pollution and carbon emissions," Etti says. "Zip around on a tuk-tuk in Southeast Asia, climb into the mountains on India's famous toy train, hire a bike or walk when it's convenient."

Plan an outdoor adventure

One way to explore sustainable travel is to enjoy the great outdoors at a national or state park close to you. Hiking, camping and backpacking are a few eco-friendly activities that allow you to connect in and with nature. When participating in any outdoor activity, however, there are a few things to remember in order to best protect the environment.

Leave No Trace (LNT) is a concept designed to put conservation and preservation into practice when it comes to outdoor recreation. Though there are seven principles to LNT, it boils down to one big takeaway: Respect the environment. This means properly disposing of all waste, leaving flora and fauna alone, minimizing campfire impacts, and sticking to trails and designated sites.

To help ensure LNT success, consider purchasing the following products for your next outdoor adventure:

• A camping stove: A stove is essential for minimizing fire impact while still enjoying delicious camping meals. There are a plethora of quality camp stoves on the market, such as Camp Chef stoves . And if you're backpacking, consider a lightweight Jetboil stove system.
• Binoculars: With wild animals, it's important to remember that you can be just as damaging and dangerous to them and their environment as they can be to you. It may be tempting to approach wildlife for a closer look, which is why binoculars are the perfect tool for safe viewing from afar. These top-rated Adasion binoculars are waterproof and include a phone adapter for taking photos.
• A sketchbook or camera: Instead of picking a flower or taking a unique rock home, consider drawing or taking a picture of it instead. A small sketchbook, such as this one on Amazon , is perfect for travel. A sketchbook made of recycled paper is an even more sustainable choice.
• Biodegradable soap and lotion: You can't go wrong with the Mrs. Meyer's brand when it comes to biodegradable soap and lotion. (Even with biodegradable products, however, it's still important to wash at least 200 feet away from all natural water sources to minimize impact.)

Remember to thoroughly research the outdoor area you'll be exploring or activity you'll be participating in before you begin your adventure to ensure you're safe, prepared and well equipped to leave no trace.

Read: The Best Camping in Colorado

Research attractions in advance

Museums : When it comes to attractions like museums and historical centers, check to see if the property is LEED certified – such as The Exploratorium (a top recommendation for San Francisco ) and The Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington, D.C. LEED certification means the building is designed and constructed to promote sustainability, improve efficiency, lower carbon emissions and more.

Zoos: Some attractions clearly call sustainability into question – zoos and animal-centered activities , for example. Amanda Norcross , content and SEO strategist for travel at U.S. News, recommends looking for accredited institutions that are dedicated to animal welfare, education and conservation efforts. "You can often find this information in an attraction's mission statement or by researching the programs and experiences they offer," Norcross says. "Be wary of any attraction that promotes animals as a form of entertainment." Examples include riding and holding animals as well as animal shows.

Read: The Top Zoos in the U.S.

Theme and water parks: It can be difficult to find a sustainable theme or water park, but more and more parks are striving to go green. Disney is making large strides toward a sustainable future: One small example is the company composting organic waste from Walt Disney World and using the soil to fertilize on-site plants. Six Flags uses sustainable packaging such as compostable containers, plates and cutlery; two of its parks (Six Flags Great Adventure and Six Flags Discovery Kingdom) use solar panels.

Book with reputable tour providers

Tours are a wonderful way to experience a destination, but it's important to find a licensed and ethical operator that prioritizes sustainability measures such as responsible waste disposal and employs local staff.

"Look for tour providers that explain on their websites what they're doing to preserve the environment," says Méndez, who is a tours expert at U.S. News. "This is particularly important if you're trying to find a tour in a fragile ecosystem like the swamps of New Orleans or the waters of Maui or Cancún ."

If you're not sure where to start, consider a walking or biking tour to minimize environmental impact.

Read: The Best New Orleans Walking Tours

Watch out for greenwashing

As you begin to research for your next trip, be careful of "greenwashing," which is a tactic companies may use to trick you into thinking their experiences or products are environmentally friendly – without any real proof to back up those claims.

"Misleading labels abound when referencing tourism, sustainability and 'green impact,' " Perkins warns. "The best way to assess whether a company is engaging in greenwashing tactics is to educate yourself on sustainability and take a few extra minutes to see if a company is actually adhering to sustainable principles."

That may be easier said than done, but there are things you can look for to see if a company is truly committed to sustainability. First and foremost, transparency is key. If a company touts a third-party certification it has received without actually detailing the nature of that certification, you should be wary of its legitimacy, Etti says.

Companies may use buzzwords and make eye-catching claims to win you over but if the information they give is vague or difficult to corroborate, chances are there's some greenwashing going on, Etti adds. Seek out businesses that actually prioritize sustainability so you can feel good about where your money is going.

Your travel choices can change the industry

There's no denying that the travel industry has a long way to go to become truly sustainable. "As travelers begin to demand less-polluting options, and reward better carriers with their business, that will change," Rutherford explains. "The aviation industry is committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. Government policy will lead but green travelers voting with their dollars will be important, too."

With every choice you make, from your intended destination to accommodations to transportation, you have the chance to make a difference. For the sake of the planet, you won't want to waste it.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Rachael Hood is a senior travel editor with a passion for nature and wildlife, especially whales and sea otters. She chooses train travel whenever she can, and seeks to visit environmentally conscious destinations and attractions. For this article, Hood used her personal experience along with research expertise.

Catriona Kendall , an associate editor, cares deeply about finding ways to make awe-inspiring travel experiences more sustainable and affordable. She'll always pick a long train or bus journey over a short flight. Kendall has stayed in more than 20 hostels around the world and navigated the public transportation options in countless cities. Her own travel experiences as well as advice from experts helped her write this article.

Leilani Osmundson , a digital producer, makes sustainability a focus in her life, from utilizing solar energy and a composter at home to shopping for many of her clothes at thrift stores. Being green extends to her favorite activities as well: backpacking, camping and hiking in the great outdoors. To write this piece, Osmundson used her own experience with adventure travel and sustainable activities along with research.

You might also be interested in:

• Print and Pack: The Ultimate Camping Checklist
• The Top Camping Tents
• The Top Fanny Packs
• The Top Aquariums
• The Top Wellness Retreats in the U.S.

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Eco-Travel in Retirement – Nature and Sustainable Luxury Travel

35 Tips for Responsible Tourism: a Complete Eco Travel Guide

Sustainable Travel … Is it possible to be both an environmentally responsible world traveler? Can we explore the world without causing harm to the planet and its cultures? The answer lies in the concept of responsible tourism, which seeks to strike a balance between fulfilling our travel desires and safeguarding the environment and culture for future generations. In this article, we’ll delve into the essence of responsible tourism, its significance, and discover changes we can make to travel in a more eco-friendly way.

I love travel and I love nature, so I’ve always tried to travel ‘green’. But years ago I learned what responsible travel really is. While staying at an eco-resort, I looked for gifts to bring home. The shop’s manager kept suggesting baskets made by the local people, but I chose bracelets (easier to pack). I remember her displeasure but didn’t really understand until we were leaving the country and I saw these same bracelets in every shop in the airport. Those bracelets were imported just for the tourists. My purchase hadn’t supported the local community at all. How was this wildlife reserve to be sustained if the community didn’t profit from tourism?

Table of Contents

Travel will always have an impact on a destination .

Many people ask if it’d be better if we all just stayed home and reduced the carbon emissions from travel? Though this seems logical, in fact tourism is one of the most significant incentives towards preserving the natural and cultural treasures of the world. Without the travel industry most of the nature reserves throughout the world would have been converted to farmland.

The impact of travel on destinations cannot be denied, but whether this impact is beneficial or detrimental depends on how we travel. Irresponsible tourism can damage fragile ecosystems, exploit local communities, and lead to cultural dilution. However, when done responsibly, tourism can bring economic benefits to an area, improve the standard of living for locals, and ensure the protection of natural and cultural treasures.

Examples of sustainable tourism show promise in many countries around the world. In these countries, the tourist industry has committed to high standards of environmental development, education, and coordination with the local communities. And the results have been remarkable. Since Costa Rica began its sustainable development programs, unemployment has fallen below 10%, and the quality of life in the country has risen to among the best in the world.

What is Responsible and Sustainable Tourism?

• The World Commission on Environment and Development defines sustainable travel as “meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs,”
• The World Tourism Organization defines it as the “management of all resources in such a way that economic, social, and aesthetic needs can be fulfilled while maintaining cultural integrity, essential ecological processes, biological diversity, and life support systems.”
• From the Global Sustainable Tourism Council : “Responsible travel refers to the behavior of individual travelers aspiring to make choices according to sustainable tourism practices. The behaviors usually align with minimizing the negative impacts and maximizing positive ones when one visits a tourism destination.”

Responsible tourism definition in simple words

For our purposes, responsible tourism means travel that is a positive experience for both the tourist and the local community. Responsible tourists plan their travel (and behave on the trip) to support sustainability.

Sustainability occurs when three factors – Social justice, Environmental protection, and Economic viability – are in balance. These factors are often called the three pillars of sustainability. Tourism that is sustainable protects the natural environments and the cultural heritage, addresses climate change, minimizes plastics and waste, AND expands economic development in the area communities. Responsible tourism doesn’t make life more difficult for the local community.

Easy Eco-Friendly Travel Tips

It can be overwhelming to look at the challenges of our world and try to figure out how we can address them. We can’t ‘fix’ things ourselves, but if we work on our own ‘little bit of good’, together we will make a positive impact. This wisdom from Reverend Tutu is as relevant to traveling as to everything else.

Start where you are. Make a small change in your travel style today, and, when you’re ready or can afford it, make a bigger change later. Every step towards being a responsible tourist helps.

Here are our sustainable travel tips, beginning with the easy, inexpensive, and often FREE (🐸) things you can do:

Sustainable Travel Tips: Baby Steps

Eliminate/reduce single-use plastics.

• Carry a reusable water bottle.
• Avoid plastic bags by bringing your own shopping sack from home. 🐸
• Remove packaging from products (& recycle) before leaving home. (Some locations don’t have resources for recycling.) 🐸
• Fill reusable containers with your preferred shampoo/conditioner from home. 🐸
• Say no to plastic straws and plastic bottles🐸 Bigger Steps : purchase (or assemble) a packable cutlery set. pack some reusable straws, eliminate items that contain microplastics from your travel AND home cleansing routine.

Save water with small changes

• Take shorter showers 🐸
• Turn off water when brushing teeth, or shaving 🐸
• Reuse bath towels and linens (put the Do Not Disturb sign on hotel doors)🐸

Conserve electricity

• Turn off lights when you leave a room. 🐸
• Raise (or lower) thermostat when possible. 🐸

Don’t Litter!

• Carry out all your trash and dispose of it responsibly.

• Every pound of luggage adds to your airlines fuel expenditure and airplane emissions. National Geographic breaks down the cost of everything you carry on a flight here: The Hidden Costs of Flying
• Bigger Step : as items in your wardrobe and gear wear out, replace them with travel-friendly options made with sustainable fabric materials . Clothing that is lightweight and odor resistant will reduce the weight of your luggage and the necessity or doing laundry

Research potential activities

• Respect the local cultures and traditions- look for authentic opportunities to interact with locals. Dress respectfully and adhere to local customs. Remember, we’re guests in their home.
• Avoid unethical wildlife experiences – enjoy the area or observe wildlife at a respectful distance. Wildlife lovers, look for ethical travel experiences to enjoy, such as visiting the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust in Kenya , where orphaned elephants are raised before being reintroduced to the wild.
• Avoid tourist attractions that lack authenticity, such as factory tours disguised as selling opportunities. Often these activities do not represent the local culture.

Be camera smart

Don’t be photo obsessed. Travel is about more than the photos you post on social media. Take time to enjoy the surroundings with all your senses. But when you’re ready to take a picture:

• Be aware while taking pictures. Don’t stand in the middle of the street to take a picture. Don’t take selfies with wild animals.
• Be respectful. Don’t take selfies at somber memorial sites.

Support LOCAL

• consult and hire local guides – check online for recommendations on local tour operators. We found a guide for a bird watching tour in Portugal by consulting a Lisbon birding club online.
• buy from regional artisans to support the local economies rather than hitting the tourist kiosks where the majority of items are imported.
• Be aware of the food resources in the area you’re visiting and eat as the locals do. Importing food to suit a western diet is expensive and unsustainable. Visiting Argentina? have a steak! Visiting Bermuda? skip the steak and have seafood instead. Making conscientious choices to eat what is local and available is one of the best ways to travel green AND eat great food.

Respect the local people

It might seem like common sense but apparently many people forget their manners when they’re traveling. Responsible travelers don’t make the locals’ lives more difficult.

• Learn a few words in the local language.
• Always ask permission before taking a person’s picture. And ask if it’s OK to share to social media. Be particularly respectful of children’s images.
• Respect the locals’ privacy. Don’t use drones or other annoying technology in neighborhoods or on crowded streets.
• Learn about the region’s cultural norms before you leave home.

Basically follow the golden rule – ‘do unto others as you’d want them to do unto you.’ If you wouldn’t want someone filming social media reels on your front yard, don’t do it on theirs.

For help finding eco-sustainable travel products consult our gift guides, Eco-Friendly Gifts for Travelers and Stocking Stuffers for Travelers .

Sustainable Travel Tips: Big Steps

For a step-by-step guide to planning a responsible trip (and our case study); read How to Put Together a Sustainable Travel Plan

Deciding on your destination

• Avoid over-tourism spots, and areas where human rights are threatened. over-tourism puts a huge strain on the resources of an area, raises prices for locals, and sadly is often destroying that which brings travelers to the area. Research your destination to find better places to visit.
• Choose slow travel. Traveling slow means you stay in one destination for a long time. This is a great way to really learn about a country and its people, and it’s much more eco friendly as you’re not continuously moving and changing lodgings.
• Travel in the off-season if you are heading someplace suffering from over-tourism. Added bonus- this ensures income for local communities during what may be their lean times.
• Travel is an opportunity to ‘vote’ with your wallet. If you have reservations about a country’s policies or human rights issues, don’t go.

Choosing your lodging

• Skip the all-inclusive resorts. Staying (and paying) for the all-inclusive aspect of these resorts discourages the traveler from patronizing local restaurants and shops. There is also a significant amount of food waste at these resorts.
• When possible, stay at a locally owned hotel, rather than and international chain hotel, to bring benefits to the local economy. (Avoid tourism leakage )
• Investigate whether your lodging choice employs local people.
• Many hotels and lodges are committed to green practices, have signed the UNESCO Sustainable Travel Pledge, and certification programs acknowledge this. Check their website, and user reviews, before booking. Beware of greenwashing, where a business spends more on marketing their green practices than actually putting them into action.
• Book through a website like bookdifferent.com which monitors hotels for sustainable practices

Choosing your transportation option

• M- minimize – can you reduce the distance? can you combine trips to save repeat journeys?
• A – active – can you reach your destination, or explore at your destination on foot or bicycle? 🐸
• P- public transport – can you take public transportation to, or around, your destination? Trains are the most sustainable form of long distance travel.
• S- share a ride. Not usually possible on a trip, so I’d change S to sustainable vehicle. Check to see if there are sustainable options like electric or hybrid cars if you’re renting a vehicle away from home.

Fly direct whenever possible

• The most airline fuel is used for takeoff and landing. Direct flights may be more expensive but spend a little bit extra to lower your carbon footprint and your travel time!

Cruising – Do or Don’t?

• Research cruise lines carefully before booking. Some small ship lines have invested in more efficient engineering and have adopted environmentally friendly practices to lessen the negative impact of their cruises.
• Add a few days to the beginning and or end of your cruise to support, and enjoy, the country.
• Patronize local restaurants and artisan shops on shore days.
• Consider booking a shore tour directly through a local agency. We’ve done this many times when we’ve traveled with friends (shared the expense). Added bonus is you can organize the tour to your interests and avoid the tourist traps. See our posts on Dubrovnik and Rhodes .

🐸 – free (or almost free!) and easy ways to be a responsible traveler.

Offset some of your travel by reducing your carbon footprint at home .

Responsible Tourism Examples – the good news

Several countries have made strong commitments to developing responsible tourism. Here are just a few responsible travel examples that illustrate areas of success:

• The Republic of Palau requires that visitors sign a pledge promising to respect and protect the island’s natural environment and culture. This pledge, signed on arrival, is addressed to the children of Palau.
• Sweden ranks #1 for sustainability by Euromonitor. Its programs for renewable energy and water sources are very successful.
• Slovenia has won many sustainability awards and was rated the best place for green travel in 2019. Ljubljana won a sustainable tourism award as part of the selection for the 2019 European Capital of Smart Tourism. We visited Slovenia several years ago and were impressed by how completely litter free it is!
• Costa Rica’s certification of sustainability process is being adopted around the world. Additionally, Costa Rica leads much of the world in reforestation.
• The United Republic of Tanzania has dedicated 38% of its land to conservation.

Care of the Earth is our most ancient and most worthy, and after all, our most pleasing responsibility – Wendell Berry

Getting the Tourist to Travel Responsibly

In most cases people travel to enjoy a different part of the world. Whether they are looking for a pristine beach or anticipating walking in ancient ruins, the tourist has placed a value on their chosen destination. Recent studies reveal that a vast majority of people want to be more responsible in their travel. They are increasingly conscious of the potential harm caused by over-tourism and the environmental impact of carbon emissions from travel. While the desire to travel more eco-friendly is strong, many travelers are challenged to do it.

According to a survey conducted by Booking.com survey the primary concern regarding eco-friendly travel was the perceived cost. 42% of the respondents said that the added expenses associated with sustainable travel were keeping them from adopting green travel practices.

Following closely behind was the lack of knowledge about sustainable tourism practices. Nearly a third of respondents shared their desire to travel in a more responsible way but felt they lacked the necessary know-how to do so.

Let’s take advantage of people’s desire to travel responsibly and share practical ideas on how sustainable options can be both easy and budget-friendly! Learning to travel responsibly is just the beginning. Once we’ve made positive changes to our own journeys, we need to share the experience with others. Help them to see that it’s easy and rewarding to travel in an environmentally friendly way. Together we can be a positive force in making travel more sustainable.

Additional Information on Responsible Tourism – definitions, and challenges

Ecotourism: is sustainable travel the same as ecotourism.

The term eco-tourism was coined in the 1970s and is loosely defined as responsible travel in natural areas. Thus, eco travel is a type of sustainable travel, focused on nature. Promoting responsible eco travel in natural areas, e.g., safaris in Africa, or trekking in National Parks , is the most effective way to ensure that these natural areas, and the wildlife living there, will survive.

Irresponsible tourism

Irresponsible tourism can happen anywhere but is on the rise with over-tourism. When travelers seeking the perfect Instagram shot climb on a historic fountain, or stray off the trail in a National Park, the fountain or the environment can be damaged. Likewise, when travelers leave trash or graffiti behind, the sought over destination is spoiled for the next visitor.

• Unintended irresponsible tourism happens when travelers take risks which can end up requiring their rescue. Check the weather before heading into the mountains, keep a respectful distance from wildlife, follow the guidance of rangers, etc.

Mass Tourism

Mass tourism is a somewhat negative term for affordable group travel. This includes inexpensive group tours, cruising, etc., anything that has opened the door of travel to most people. Before the onset of mass tourism, travel was a luxury of the wealthy. The grand tour was a fixture in ‘upper-class’ families, a coming-of-age adventure for (primarily) young men. But when companies like Thomas Cook began offering reasonably priced group tours, the world became accessible to ‘regular’ people. To my mind, this is a good thing, but it is not without its negative effects.

• on many mass tourism trips, the revenue stays with the operator. Travelers don’t stay at locally owned hotels, or frequent local restaurants. If you do choose to cruise, or book a group tour, make sure to have a meal or two at a local restaurant. You’ll have a more authentic experience and give back to the host communities.

Over-tourism

Over-tourism happens when popular destinations gets more tourists than they can accommodate sustainably. The experience is detrimental to the tourist and the destination. The tourist can’t enjoy the view of St. Mark’s Basilica in Venice with a hundred selfie-sticks in the way. And the people of Venice can’t go about their regular life with so many people jamming their pathways, and local shops turned into tourist traps. This is a major issue for the city. In fact, over-tourism often leads to the locals being displaced from their communities due to rising costs of rent, essentials, and utilities.

• over-tourism often centers the traveler on the big attractions while missing the genuine city they’re visiting. For example, visitors to NYC crowd Times Square and miss the fascinating neighborhoods of the city. They come away feeling that NYC was just tall buildings and neon lights, rather than a living city.

Regenerative Travel – the sustainable future of travel?

With all of us doing our part to travel in a responsible way, the tourism industry can begin to generate regenerative travel – travel that actually improves an area for nature and the local population. We have an opportunity to make our favorite places in the world even better for future generations.

Tourism leakage

Tourism leakage is when the money generated by tourism actually leaves the country, with little benefit to the local communities. The infrastructure of tourism – roads, airports, etc. – are maintained by the local economy which in some cases may only get 10-20% of the tourism revenue. For more information read What Is Economic Tourism Leakage? How to Prevent Its Negative Impact

It’s gratifying that many destinations, and businesses, have committed to sustainability, but it is essential that we, as tourists, do our part by being responsible travelers. By making simple changes in how we plan our trips, what we pack, and how we engage with the local communities, we can have a huge impact in protecting what we love .

Please share your eco-friendly travel tips in the comments. But also share with your friends and family. Spread the word on how easy and rewarding it can be to travel sustainably.

Amy Tull and Team

• Amy Tull and Team https://travelingtulls.com/author/gramma2chance/ Nature and Birding in Costa Rica: a World of Strange & Wonderful Beauty
• Amy Tull and Team https://travelingtulls.com/author/gramma2chance/ How to Survive a Long Flight: be comfortable even in Economy Seats (2024)
• Amy Tull and Team https://travelingtulls.com/author/gramma2chance/ Best Time to Travel to Machu Picchu, Peru: a traveler’s guide (2024)
• Amy Tull and Team https://travelingtulls.com/author/gramma2chance/ Undercover Birding: how to enjoy birdwatching while traveling with friends

Amy, a writer on responsible bucket list travel, is your reliable source for insightful travel advice. With a career background in libraries, and a degree in biology and mathematics, Amy's approach to travel is rooted in meticulous research and planning, and her commitment to eco-conscious adventures.

Amy’s dedication to sustainable travel practices, including efficient packing techniques, ensures that every adventure leaves a positive impact on both the environment and the traveler's well-being. Trust Amy to guide you towards meaningful and eco-friendly travel, making the most of your retirement years.

A lifelong New England resident, Amy is also the source for insider tips on travel in the Northeastern U.S.

• Amy Tull https://travelingtulls.com/author/amy-travelingtulls/ 25 Tips to Conquer Travel Anxiety: How to Make Travel Easier (and almost stress-free!)
• Amy Tull https://travelingtulls.com/author/amy-travelingtulls/ Easy Elegance: 3 Capsule Wardrobe Templates for Travel Planning
• Amy Tull https://travelingtulls.com/author/amy-travelingtulls/ Navigating the Amazon and Caribbean with Viking: An Honest Review (2024)
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26 thoughts on “ 35 Tips for Responsible Tourism: a Complete Eco Travel Guide ”

An overview of sustainable travel. Thank you 😊🌍

This is such a great guide! I’ve been trying to focus on sustainable travel by staying in eco lodges, taking sustainable modes of transportation and eating from small local farmers. I love all of the recommendations you include for both small and big steps!

Eating locally sourced food is such a huge benefit to the community. Thanks!

Love these tips! I definitely need to start doing more research on the green practices of the the places I’m staying at

This is such an interesting read. As someone who travels frequently I try to do my best to reduce the impact I have, but it certainly isn’t always easy. I love the idea of regenerative travel and this is something I’ll definitely look into more. Thank you for providing such a useful resource.

It really can be a challenge.

Thank you so much for this post. It’s so important that we travel sustainably and responsibly. I loved learning about what destinations are doing for sustainability. I had no idea that Sweden and Tanzania are doing so much to do good for the planet. Thank you again!

It’s wonderful to see countries stepping up like this, isn’t it!

I’ve recently been trying to travel in a more sustainable way, so I really enjoyed reading your post! Thanks for sharing all these tips!

Great tips, and love that you graded them from easy, beginner steps to upgrades – it does reflect that change is not an overnight process.

On all-inclusive resorts, I rarely choose them because indeed, you never get out of them once you’re in! But one context when I would be on board, is if I’m going to a place that’s remote, such that the lodge or resort has to plan to supply you in advance, and where keeping you mostly contained in the resort is a good thing for the environment (for example, in a protected habitat).

Definitely! Most ‘Eco-lodges’ are contained as you’re in a remote location. I guess When I hear “all inclusive” I’m thinking beachy all-you-can-eat resorts…

An in-depth post supplying great information. I have also been to Ljubljana and noticed its “green credentials”. I try to find hotels and lodges that take sustainability seriously. One I recently stayed in had done away with individual shampoos etc and converted to refillable containers. A small step but a good one to reduce plastic waste.

All these little steps are great. Though recently I was frustrated in getting paper straws at a restaurant where everything else was swallowed by plastic.

Great guide! Whenever I read any posts on sustainable tourism I pick up more that I could do & this is one of the better posts I’ve read. I particularly like your comment at the start about tourism being essential for the sustainability of culture & historic monuments. So much to consider, thanks for sharing.

Thanks Sue!

I loved this thoughtful and well researched post. I particularly loved how you laid it out in attainable goals for travelers. thanks.

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Thank you for a great guide! As someone who is disabled, I wish there were more easy ways to combine eco tourism with accessible travel. I focus on what I can, but it would be nice if the two were easier to combine.

Hi Kristin, yes that is definitely a challenge. I know the U.S. National Parks are making an effort but most ecotourism destinations are not accessible.

There can never be enough said about sustainable travel. It is such an important topic and we have such a great chance to make an impact here. Lovely post, very comprehensive!

This is a thorough and super helpful post for understanding a complex issue – balancing the benefits of travel with the concerns of over-tourism and destruction of natural resources. I learned many new things from reading this: greenwashing was a new term for me.

Thank you for so much information it is fantastic… as we travel more…I am mindful of all the things mentioned here and moving us to travel more sustainably… thank you for your help

These are all such great sustainable travel tips! I always try to support locals when I travel and bring reusable toiletries with me.

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A Complete Guide To Understanding Ecotourism

Terms like ecotourism, green tourism, and sustainable tourism have been popping up in discussions easily, and unfortunately, they are being used interchangeably. Here, we will take a look at what is ecotourism and what are the principles of ecotourism.

Over the years, ecotourism has been gaining a lot of importance, especially considering that more and more travellers are looking to be more responsible and follow environment-friendly practices. However, many are still not clear about exactly what is ecotourism or the principles of ecotourism. There is a misconception that ecotourism, green tourism, and sustainable tourism are the same thing, and while they all promote responsible tourism, they all mean different things and have different scopes.

In this article, while trying to give a deeper understanding of what is ecotourism, we will give you information about ecotourism like the meaning of ecotourism, ecotourism tourism definition, and the principles of ecotourism. By the end of this article, we hope you will have a clearer understanding of the term and its evolution.

Also read: What is the difference between eco tourism, green tourism and sustainable tourism?

What Is Ecotourism?

Eco-tourism or ecological tourism has been defined as “responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment, sustains the well-being of the local people, and involves interpretation and education” by The International Ecotourism Society (TIES, 2015). To answer the question “What is ecotourism?” in a simpler way, it is a form of tourism that is about going out into the natural world and is more about what you do in a place than where you stay. It is more than just travelling around the whole world and sightseeing.

It is the kind of tourism where fragile and/or pristine natural environments are visited in a way that the impact of the visit is minimised. The environment and local communities should benefit in such a way that the latter is motivated to keep the local environment pristine.

Another way to explain what is ecotourism is to say that it involves travel to places where flora, fauna, and cultural heritage are the main attractions. It supports conservation efforts through the education of tourists, giving them an insight into the human impact on the environment, and helping them gain a better appreciation of natural habitats. It may also benefit the environment through direct investment in conservation efforts.

Also read: 10 simple ways to become a responsible traveller

History Of Ecotourism

Although the term ecotourism has been gaining popularity in recent years, it is not a new concept. However, there is no clarity as to the origins of the term as there are several different claims as to when it came into use.

Some claim that the term ecotourism was popularised by Hector Ceballos-Lascurian, who also claimed to have coined the term in the year 1983. This is when he was in the dual role of founding president of PRONATURA (an influential Mexican conservationist NGO) and Director General of Standards and Technology of SEDUE (the Mexican Ministry of Urban Development and Ecology). To him, ecotourism meant travelling to undisturbed areas to enjoy the natural beauty and culture. Later, in 1984, he founded ECOTOURS, Mexico’s first ecotourism agency. Ceballos-Lascurian even served as an Ecotourism Advisor to the International Union for the Conservation of Nature and the United Nations World Tourism Organisation for many years.

Some others claim that the term was coined in 1965 by Claus-Dieter (Nick) Hetzer, who was an academic and adventurer from the Forum International, Berkeley, USA. He is also believed to have run the first eco-tours in Yucatán in the early 1970s.

[What is an eco-tour?: Tours that involve visits to scenic or remote natural areas and are designed to minimise negative impacts on the environment and local inhabitants.]

There is another claim that eco tourism originated even earlier, in 1901 in fact, with the Sierra Club’s Outing program. These were annual expeditions that took hikers into the Sierra Nevada’s backcountry, showing them its natural wonders so that they could actively work for the preservation of the forests.

Over the past decades, there have been many icons of ecotourism and now, this form of tourism has been gaining a lot of importance. Ecotourism is considered to be one of the fastest-growing tourism sectors in the industry (about 5 percent annually) and there are no signs of it slowing down, even though more traditional forms of tourism have seen a stagnation.

Principles Of Ecotourism

Now that we have seen what is ecotourism and taken a look at its history, we will go over the principles that guide the ecotourism industry. Ecotourism is essentially about bringing together communities, conservation, and sustainable travel.

Many tour packages are being classified as “eco-tours” even though they do not emphasise conservation, education, or social and cultural participation, and low impact on the places visited. Therefore, to help you understand which tours are actually eco-tours, here are the principles of ecotourism:

1. Building Environmental And Cultural Awareness And Respect

The major focus of ecotourism is to sensitise people towards environmental issues, improve awareness, and encourage people to be conscious of the effect on the places they visit. Following this principle, a few tour operators create educational programs on conservation for local schools. Interpretive guides, naturalists, and guest lecturers are also offered by other operators to help visitors get a deeper understanding of their experiences. Some operators also offer immersive interactions with local cultures (that are becoming more common) that emphasise proper interactions instead of a usual performer-audience relationship.

2. Minimize Physical, Social, Behavioural, And Psychological Impacts By Operating Low-Impact Eco Tours

The ecotourism industry’s focus is sustainability, and minimising the negative impact that conventional tourism leaves on the environment. Over time, however, the concept has evolved to include making a positive impact, rather than merely having a neutral impact on the environment and the locals. Maintaining small groups and avoiding under-managed or over-visited destinations is a good way to minimise the impact of the group on the areas visited.

3. Provide Direct Financial Benefits For Conservation

One of the main objectives of ecotourism is to help local conservation efforts by inviting financial benefits. Visiting national parks is one way for tourists to contribute towards the conservation of nature and wildlife. When ecotourism gains more importance and practitioners, more revenue generation opportunities are created that are environmentally better alternatives to urbanisation, deforestation, unsustainable agriculture, and poaching.

Also read: How to be a more responsible wildlife tourist

4. Generate Financial Benefits For Locals And Private Industry

Another important principle of ecotourism is the generation of financial benefits for local communities. Through direct or indirect means, locals must get the financial benefits of eco-tourism. This could be through tours, admission fees, donations, and taxes on travel and accommodation. Community tours are a good way to generate financial benefits for local communities.

5. Deliver Memorable Interpretative Experiences For The Visitors

Although ecotourism is geared towards reducing a negative impact on the environment and the local communities and generating a positive impact on the same, it doesn’t mean that the tours have to be all about work. Any tour (conventional or not) should be designed in such a way that visitors should enjoy their trip. If the eco-tours are tough and/or too boring, there is a fair chance that many may start losing interest in more responsible tour packages, thereby having a negative impact on the communities that depend on these tours.

6. Recognise The Rights And Spiritual Beliefs Of The Indigenous People And Work With Them

Tourists who are part of eco-tours are encouraged to respect the rights and spiritual beliefs of the locals/indigenous population of the destinations instead of just getting in their faces and taking their photos without their permission. Like any other individual, the local communities value their privacy and it would always be better to first interact and have meaningful conversations with them and, only once permission is received, take a picture of them.

Beware Of Greenwashing!

While you are in safe waters when you practice ecotourism, sustainable tourism, or responsible (all of which are eco-friendly), you must always be careful of tour operators and tourism companies that only pretend to be eco-friendly in order to attract more business, a practice widely known as greenwashing. A good way to make sure that the company or tour operator to whom you are giving your business is legitimately eco-friendly, you will have to do a bit of digging and gathering of all the facts. Once you are convinced that the company is legitimate, go ahead and book your eco-tour and contribute to a better and happier world.

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

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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 .

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" 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 better: a beginner's guide to sustainable travel in 2023 and beyond

Sustainable, green, responsible — planet-friendly ways to explore the world are more popular than ever but how do you start to make better decisions when you travel? The first step is to understand what sustainable travel is and why it’s important.

What’s sustainable travel? Sustainable travel is about travelling in a way that’s sensitive to the climate and nature emergencies while ensuring that the wellbeing of the places we visit gain long-term benefit from us travelling there. It’s a balancing act between maximising the positives of travel while reducing or eliminating the negatives.

What’s happening and why? The concentration of carbon dioxide currently in the atmosphere is well over 400 parts per million higher than at any time in at least 800,000 years — and it’s still increasing, causing global temperatures to rise. The consensus is that a rise of just 1.5C will cause dangerous warming of the planet. The stability of our world’s climate hinges on whether we can keep this small rise in global temperatures in check and time’s running out. This is the decade that counts.

How does this impact the natural world? Commensurate with the climate crisis is the nature emergency: worldwide, 1 million animal and plant species are threatened with extinction due to the intensification of agriculture and forestry, resource extraction, hunting, invasive species, urban sprawl, pollution and climate change. Yet, this is not just about the disappearance of remote rainforests or polar bears at the extremities of the planet – habitat and biodiversity loss are happening on a colossal scale in the UK, to our hedgerows and forests, our garden birds, and the fish in our seas.

What can you do about it? Being a sustainable traveller is not about making grand, one-off gestures, it’s a state of mind, an ongoing attitude to conscious adventure that influences all aspects of how we holiday, including what we pack in our luggage and how we travel out to destinations, as well as the choice of hotels and activities we take part in while we’re there.

How do I even get started? To begin with, consider packing less: travelling lighter will reduce the chances of having to dispose of items; it makes it much easier to travel around, especially on foot, by bike or on public transport; and it’s more fuel efficient — especially noticeable if you’re travelling in an electric car. A useful device for packing economically is to consider the three Rs: Reduce: What can I get away with not taking; are there items that can double up for several uses? Reuse: What can I take that I can reuse over and over again? Recycle: What can I take that can be recycled once I’ve finished using it? Try to avoid taking single-use plastic, such as bottles, bags and straws, which break down over time into tiny microplastics that enter the food chain when they’re consumed by marine wildlife and ultimately cause serious health issues for humans. Instead, pack a refillable water bottle, coffee cup, Tupperware containers for food and toiletries, and a shopping bag — it’ll be handy not just as a replacement for buying a plastic bag at a supermarket, but also when you’re out buying food and groceries at a local market.

What’s the most important change that I can make? The single more significant way to reduce the carbon emissions of travelling is to tackle the transport portion, which is often responsible for at least 70% of the carbon emissions of a holiday. The most effective way to do this is to reduce the distance travelled and to travel in a way that burns less or, even better, no fossil fuels, using more sustainable modes of transport; or by not travelling in a vehicle at all, choosing instead to travel on foot, by bike or under sail. There’s a steep difference in terms of the amount of carbon dioxide emitted by aeroplanes compared with most land-based vehicles. There are concerted efforts to decarbonise air travel using alternative fuels and methods of propulsion (such as via electricity and hydrogen), but even the most optimistic predictions support that this change is at least a decade away for most airlines. For the time being, the emissions from just one long-haul flight can be more than those caused by someone driving a standard petrol car for a whole year. Taking the train within the UK emits about six times less than flying and taking the bus emits about nine times less. In Europe, where many trains (including Eurostar) are electric, the emissions from rail travel can be as much as 10 times less than flying.

And what if I do need to fly? If you do fly, bear in mind that there’s quite a large disparity between the carbon emissions of aircraft and the operating procedures of airlines, so do use online tools such as the ‘Greener Choices’ label on the search results provided by the flight search engine skyscanner.net , which flags up those flights that have less than average emissions.

While flying continues to be such a large polluter, consider adopting a more selective approach to flying: just as with the flexitarian approach to food where you eat a mainly plant-based diet and only occasionally eat lean meat and sustainably sourced fish, a similar attitude to flying could be that you mainly travel overland and only occasionally fly, staying for longer, and making the most of the flight by choosing a positive-impact holiday that benefits nature conservation and/or genuinely benefits the wellbeing of local communities.

What does my carbon impact look like once I get to a destination? There are other factors that will affect your carbon emissions when you’re at the destination, including your choice of hotel and the food you eat. The average carbon footprint of a night in a typical hotel in the UK is about 31.1kg CO2, according to the Hotel Carbon Measurement Initiative, so choosing a hotel that has lower than average carbon emissions can make a significant difference to your holiday’s footprint. Thankfully it’s becoming easier to find green accommodation — keep an eye out for the green filters on specialist accommodation booking sites, such as Airbnb’s ‘off-the-grid’, Sawday’s 'Sustainable stars'   and   i-escape's 'eco rating', there are several online agencies that specialise in green accommodation, such as fairbnb.coop and myecostay.eu , and even the big online agencies, such as Booking.com , TripAdvisor and Google , now flag up eco-certified hotels in their search results. Many of these eco-certified accommodations do much more than reducing their carbon emissions, they’ll also reduce the amount of waste they send to landfill and reduce the use of chemicals and the amount of water they use.

Feasting on local, seasonal food washed down with the local tipple conveys a sense of place better than any travel brochure. It’s also much better for the environment as there are significant emissions of carbon arising from the ‘food miles’ associated with transporting food great distances. Whether it’s freshly baked bread for breakfast, salad from the local market for lunch, or the catch of the day at the nearby restaurant, choosing local isn’t just good for the planet, it’s also healthier and a great way to put money into the local community.

Where to go Some of the most colourful cities in Europe are a great choice for a green break, such as Bristol, Angers, Nantes, Zurich, Ljubljana and Copenhagen. Here, pragmatic local authorities are implementing the circular economy to create sustainable transport, housing and economic development policies that are accelerating their transition to net zero, which has the knock-on effect of improving the experience for sustainable travellers. For example, regenerative wetlands and connected green spaces help manage storm water, air quality and improve biodiversity, but also provide wonderful green sanctuaries that are great for appreciating urban nature or for just chilling out in parks and gardens across urban villages.

And how to get around? Countries that have a modern, high-speed rail infrastructure make it easy to travel with a lower carbon footprint. Switzerland has an extensive public transport network across the country (the Swiss Travel Pass provides free admission to 500 museums as well as unlimited travel on trains, bus, boat and public transport in cities), while France, Spain, Italy and Germany have impressive high-speed rail networks, particularly between major cities.

What about long haul? Further afield, some countries have made concerted efforts to include tourism in their sustainable development goals. Following decades of tree clearing for agriculture and livestock production, in the 1980s the Costa Rican government implemented policies that have halted and reversed this deforestation. Today, over half of Costa Rica’s land is covered by forest, compared to just 26% in 1983, allowing it to make the most of the biodiversity in its rainforests and pioneer the concept of ecotourism, developing small-scale, high-end eco lodges that have contributed to the conservation of its rainforests. Guyana, too, is developing community-based ecotourism to fund the protection of its rainforests. Lodges such as Iwokrama River Lodge , Rewa Eco-Lodge and Surama Eco-Lodge enable visitors to enjoy the country’s incredible biodiversity, while contributing to its conservation and to the livelihoods of remote communities.

Where can I look for more information? Richard Hammond is a sustainable travel expert and founder of Green Traveller and the author of The Green Traveller: Conscious Adventure That Doesn’t Cost the Earth (£18.99, Pavilion).

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What is ecotourism?

• 5 minute read

• January 10, 2022

Table of Contents

What defines ecotourism, what to look for when it comes to eco-friendly tours and accommodations, individual ways to be an ecotourist, why does ecotourism matter.

Ecotourism is a form of responsible travel that started to gain traction in the 1980s . It’s a philosophy that aims to center trips around maintaining natural resources and leaving the environment untouched while ensuring local communities are cared for. Essentially, this type of travel focuses on preserving the biodiversity of a destination and the culture of the area.

You may have heard other words used in place of ecotourism, such as eco-friendly, conscious traveling, and ethical or sustainable tourism. But the goal of these labels is the same: to ensure the environment, the culture, and the locals of these travel destinations are protected. This all starts with travel companies and travelers becoming aware of their impact.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Simi Brenner (@thesimilation.ja)

Ecotourism encompasses travel destinations, such as natural parks and preserves, reservations and indigenous lands, and smaller towns and villages in remote areas. Within trips to these areas, ecotourism focuses on the four types of impact listed below:

• Physical impact: Ecotourism aims to lessen the impact on the environment to ensure the land, parks, and other natural areas remain untouched and or safe from travelers. This also includes the well-being of wildlife and marine life.
• Cultural impact: Eco-friendly travel aims to ensure local and indigenous communities are preserved, that their stories and cultures are taught through tours, and sacred spaces, rituals, and landmarks are maintained. Ecotourism fosters cultural awareness.
• Psychological impact: Another goal of ecotourism is to ensure local communities are left unharmed during tours and visitations from travelers. This category can undertake anything from tourist dress codes and waste to increased traffic. The goal is to reduce and remove any impact on the day-to-day life of residents.
• Financial impact: One of the most important goals of ecotourism is to help preserve the land by gathering money in exchange for lodging and tour services. These financial gains help maintain the grounds, parks, and communities, along with ensuring local communities are directly profiting from the travel/tours. Travel to these areas should leave the communities better off than they were before tourism programs.

The overarching idea of ecotourism is this: to preserve the land and the communities when traveling to natural areas, leaving a positive impact with little to no carbon footprint. While that may seem like a mouthful, the bottom line is about being conscious of impact everywhere we go. If we can be mindful about how we travel, we can ensure everyone involved is safe and supported.

How does ecotourism work?

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Enas (@ena_inparallel_universe)

You might be wondering how it’s possible to travel without impacting the places you travel to. There are ways to ensure you’re making as little impact as possible, all thanks to eco-friendly tours and accommodations. When a company decides to focus on eco-friendly travel, they look for ways to minimize the physical, social, and psychological impacts that could be created by building a hotel or bringing a tour through a natural area. Regarding accommodations, these facilities are typically known as “low-impact” facilities and use items and practices such as:

• compost toilets
• hammocks/camping gear
• limited to no electricity/Wi-Fi
• solar panels and green energy resources
• water efficiency
• local/seasonal food options
• avoiding disposable plastics and having water refill stations for reusable bottles

While these facilities focus on the physical impact, another important aspect of ecotourism is ensuring that part of the profits go back to conserving the land, along with ensuring the local communities and guides are cared for. During a guest’s visit, part of the mission is to educate them about the land and the political/social climate, along with the history of the area to foster a deeper connection between the people. These experiences can create a sense of empathy with regards to individual perspectives.

To do this well means partnering with local communities and indigenous groups in genuine ways. That means focusing on tours that truly reflect the people who live there and their history without causing harm, disruption, or displacement. A few ways ecotourism does this is by:

• limiting the number of guests per day/per tour to create more genuine and intimate experiences
• ensuring guides and hosts are from the area
• ensuring guides and hosts have the resources they need to educate and accommodate
• empowering and educating locals on tourism practices and giving them the resources to do so
• respecting the land, sacred spaces, and sacred days (people over profit)

When genuine partnerships are made, the land is cared for and communities profit. This gives travelers a space to learn and grow and communities the resources to thrive.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Lorena Pinheiro (@lolopinheiro)

While more and more eco-friendly operations are popping up around the globe, you can typically find eco-friendly options in natural areas with large forests, rainforests, wildlife preserves, national parks, and beaches. Even city tours can support eco-friendly activities. When booking, look for the following options:

• Eco-friendly accommodations (hotels/hostels/resorts) or camping options
• Tours that offset their carbon footprint either by walking/biking instead of vehicles or by giving back to nature (planting trees, supporting local farms, etc)
• Companies and tours that are recognized as “green” or eco-friendly through larger organizations that monitor behavior and activities
• Organizations and tours that give back directly to the communities they work in
• Guides who are from the communities you are visiting

View this post on Instagram A post shared by AYLAR | Travel (@ayventurer)

You can book tours and accommodations based on eco-friendly seals of approval, but there are small ways you can support the ecotourism movement.

• Take time to research your travel destination and look for eco-friendly options
• Stay at eco-friendly hotels, hostels, resorts, or camps (avoid brand names and large complexes)
• Book tours that are run by local guides
• Buy souvenirs and food from small, local mom-and-pop shops
• Take trains over planes when possible
• Book non-stop flights if flying is a must
• Consider the ingredients in the products you travel with (sunscreen, hair care, etc)
• Donate to local organizations
• Avoid daily maid services and reuse towels
• Stay on designated trails and remove trash to keep nature pristine and clean
• Honor the request of a place/people that consistently says they don’t want tourism, even if you want to go there

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Heidy Art 🌈 (@helo_art)

Much of the planet has been influenced by capitalism and modern resources to the extent that natural spaces such as parks and forests are fighting to stay preserved. Ecotourism reinforces the importance of natural spaces and works to ensure these areas are maintained and protected, so folks from all over have the ability to visit and enjoy the beauty and culture. It’s not until we immerse ourselves in nature that we remember the importance of reconnecting to the Earth and the positive impacts on our mental and emotional well-being. We want to ensure these spaces remain for many generations to come.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Marcel Muscopf (@marcelmuscopf)

More importantly, ecotourism aims to connect people across the globe, fostering safe and genuine immersions that can help bridge gaps between cultures and teach folks from all walks of life about various ways of living. It seems this form of travel is a way to help unify us as a planet and remind us all that we are more alike than different.

You can buy material possessions and find joy for a short time, but traveling and the experiences that accompany seeing new places stay with us for a lifetime. Ultimately, travel experiences are priceless when it comes to the memories we create and the knowledge we gain. Book your next eco-friendly trip with TourHero and discover a new world and new you.

Post written by: Jennifer Carnevale

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7 Stunning Eco-Tourist Sites

Ecotourism is a form of traveling to natural areas that involve choosing only sustainable transportation, conserving the environment, and helping the local people while staying respectful to their culture, habits, and tradition. Eco-tourists might aim to educate themselves, contribute to ecological conservation and the protection of historical sites, and/or benefit local communities in various ways (e.g., supporting political empowerment, fueling the economy, raising awareness regarding human rights).

Ecotourism is probably (and definitely should be) the future of traveling , considering both its importance and the popularity growth. Whether you hire a local guide instead of joining a tour organized by an international company, stay in an eco-friendly resort , offset carbon emissions of your flights, or even travel by bike – you’re doing something significant toward preserving the planet for future generations .

By choosing to make your next trip eco-friendly , you’re also in for an incredible adventure!

From Nepal and Iceland to Rwanda and Ireland – below, you will find some of the most stunning eco-tourist destinations to choose from while planning your next vacation.

Poon Hill, Nepal

Nepal is not only home to the majestic snow-capped Mount Everest – it’s also one of the most stunning places on Earth to admire Mother Nature. Poon Hill, Nepal, is an incredibly popular trekking destination – and it’s easy to see why.

This beautiful region offers stunning landscapes with the Himalayan Mountains . Located northwest of the Everest Base Camp, this place is known for its breathtaking views of Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Machhapuchhare, Annapurna II, and Lamjung as a backdrop and is home to some of the most wonderful rhododendron forests and alpine lakes .

Poon Hill also offers great opportunities for  wildlife viewing , making it a must-see for both trekkers and wildlife enthusiasts. Check out Poon Hill Trek with Kandoo Adventures to see what this spectacular place has to offer.

Þingvellir National Park, Iceland

Iceland is a country of diverse landscapes . Famous for its glaciers, lava fields, and hot springs, this Nordic country has got it all!

Þingvellir National Park is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Iceland. Located not far from the capital city, Reykjavik, this beautiful place is famous for its stunning views and historical value . It is a World Heritage Site, also because of the remnants of the oldest Icelandic parliament established in the year 930 AD and operating until 1798.

This popular destination is an ideal setting for a hike or bike ride and offers lovely landscapes to admire. The park is home to the largest natural lake in Iceland, Þingvallavatn , the Öxarárfoss waterfall , as well as the Silfra Fissure , a fissure between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. Nature lovers will definitely enjoy exploring this area.

Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda

One of the most stunning places to visit on the African continent is Rwanda. Home to the Volcanoes National Park, this country is famous for its wonderful scenery, coffee plantations, and friendly locals.

Mountain Gorilla Trekking is a remarkable experience and certainly the perfect destination for every eco-tourist. Mountain gorillas are only found in the Virunga Mountains (a volcanic mountain range in Central Africa with three national parks of Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo) and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and are critically endangered . There are approximately 1,000 of these large primates still in the wild, living in high-altitude montane and bamboo forests.

The park is also extremely important for other reasons – it contains volcanic features such as lava flows, volcanic craters, and hills, as well as lakes and swamps. The park is an attraction for both wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers.

The Cliffs of Moher, Ireland

The Emerald Isle has got it all – from sandy beaches to lovely green hills and from stunning medieval castles to traditional pubs. And the Cliffs of Moher are one of the most popular tourist destinations in Ireland and one of the most beautiful places to visit in Europe .

These majestic cliffs are located along the Atlantic coast of County Clare on the western edge of Ireland. They’re part of the Burren, a karst region that’s home to rare flora and fauna species and a popular tourist attraction for its beautiful landscapes and wildlife . The cliffs comprise mainly limestone rock formations, reaching heights of 702 feet (214 meters). They are also home to a variety of bird species , making them a must-see destination for any animal lover.

Galapagos Islands, Ecuador

If you love animals, then Galapagos Islands is a must-see. This archipelago is a true paradise for nature lovers with its diverse wildlife, exotic landscapes, and incredible history . The Galapagos Islands are incredible both above and below the water.

Visiting the famous Charles Darwin Research Station, as well as the endemic wildlife on land, is an unforgettable experience! However, if you’d rather stay off land and explore the spectacular marine life, this place is also a great option. It is one of the few places on Earth where you can admire so much wildlife in one place – from sea turtles to manta rays, sharks, dolphins, and even penguins . Go diving or snorkeling during your stay to get up close and personal with these magnificent creatures!

Tongariro National Park, New Zealand

Tongariro National Park is remarkable for its stunning natural scenery and fauna , as well as its cultural significance to Maori culture . It offers some of the most spectacular views in New Zealand and is considered one of the most important places for wildlife conservation . It’s no wonder that this place is one of the most frequently visited natural areas in the country – it is a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike, especially during the summer months.

Tongariro National Park is home to three active volcanoes: Ngauruhoe, Tongariro, and Ruapehu, which are all part of the Taupo volcanic zone.

The park has been designated as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

Lake Malawi National Park, Malawi

Malawi’s Lake Malawi National Park is one of Africa’s most famous parks. Located on the southern tip of Africa, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to many endemic species. One of the main reasons for the Lake Malawi National Park’s creation was the preservation of its diverse fish and aquatic habitat .

Lake Malawi is a freshwater lake that covers an area of over 29,600 square kilometers. It offers many opportunities for water sports such as snorkeling, diving, and boating. There are also numerous resorts in the area where visitors can take advantage of water-based activities as well as cultural programs.

The Bottom Line

These are just a few examples of remarkable destinations for eco-tourists . Considering the importance of sustainable tourism and its potential to do good for both people and nature, every traveler should try to travel as eco-friendly as possible . It’s not only a great way to help preserve the environment but also a fantastic adventure that you’ll be sure to remember forever.

We hope the above list will be helpful if you’re planning your next trip and want to do something meaningful. So, pick your next vacation wisely and do something good for the planet!

Cover image: ecotourism, Photo by Jakub Kriz on Unsplash

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Ecotourism 101: What is Ecotourism? The Good, The Bad, and Sustainable Ecotourism

I may earn income from affiliate links or partnerships in this post. I spend time to curate tours or products that align with my values. Thanks for supporting my work, at no additional cost to you.

Last updated on November 21st, 2023 at 02:37 pm

A re you curious about what ecotourism is, if it’s really as beneficial as it sounds, and how to ensure you’re engaging in sustainable ecotourism? Ecotourism is when we travel to vulnerable natural places to increase our understanding of the surrounding natural and cultural landscape while delivering equitable socio-economic benefits throughout the surrounding region. When conducted properly and aligned with these values, ecotourism can work toward preserving a region’s environmental conservation and cultural preservation while simultaneously improving the quality of life for those impacted by tourism. However, when models of ecotourism are put in place that don’t carefully consider the impacts of tourism and work to counter them, ecotourism can have adverse effects, such as contributing to the loss of biodiversity in a region and ultimately adding to the stresses that put these vulnerable regions at risk. 

Whether ecotourism can be a force for good or damaging in some of the world’s most sensitive environments is up to us, the travelers! It is up to us to be informed about how our behaviors and choices can impact natural places. That all starts with education surrounding the topic. Let’s dive into the nuances of ecotourism, the benefits and the negatives, what “good” ecotourism looks like in practice, and, most importantly, why sustainable ecotourism matters. By understanding how to identify sustainable ecotourism, you’ll become a more informed traveler doing your part to save travel and the protected natural areas we choose to visit.

This post was carefully curated based on personal experience, an MSc in biodiversity with a thesis covering biodiversity and tourism, and research based on government documents, case studies, and international conservation entities. Get to know me better to learn more about my expertise on this subject matter. 

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What We’re Covering

What is Ecotourism

5 Requirements of Sustainable Ecotourism

Benefits and Negative Impacts

Real-life Examples

Tips to Plan an Ecotour

Discuss, Share, Engage

• Ecotourism happens in vulnerable communities and protected natural areas.
• Sustainable ecotourism engages the 3 pillars of sustainability: environmental , economic, and social benefits.
• Unsustainable ecotourism neglects 1-2 of the pillars resulting in negative implications for nature or locals.
• Nature-based tourism is often confused with ecotourism – learn how to spot the difference.
• Before engaging in ecotourism, ask yourself or the company you book how they benefit ALL three pillars.
• Often the best solution is to work directly with local tour groups or organizations.
• Ecotourism does not always mean ethical tourism.
• There is no perfect model of ecotourism. It is up to you to ensure you have a positive impact on vulnerable natural destinations.

What is Ecotourism?

One of the most common buzzwords in the sustainable travel industry is ‘ecotourism.’ Many travelers rely on this word being synonymous with environmentally friendly, ethical tourism. Others might be asking if ecotourism is as good as it says it is.  When ecotourism is executed sustainably – based on research and understanding of the impacts on the natural environment and with guidance from the local communities, then yes, it can be synonymous with ethical tourism. This type of “good” ecotourism is if you create a powerful positive force for environmental conservation and local community well-being.

On the other hand, unsustainable ecotourism, a model of tourism that happens with the best intentions but fails to involve the community or maintain checks and balances regarding the environmental impact of tourism, can be detrimental to both the natural and local communities.

Ecotourism is often conducted in protected natural areas surrounded by vulnerable communities such as nature reserves, national parks, wilderness areas, heritage sites, or natural monuments. In these incredibly culturally and ecologically sensitive communities, true ecotourism can do a lot of good, while failed models of ecotourism or tourism operating under the guise of ecotourism can have catastrophic impacts.  In these protected areas, ecotourism must contribute to environmental conservation and the alleviation of poverty or risk destroying the places we love as travelers. 

Sustainable Ecotourism

Sustainable ecotourism, or really just ecotourism as it was intended to be, is responsible travel to protected or vulnerable natural areas focusing on environmental conservation/education while sustaining local communities’ economic and social well-being. For ecotourism to be sustainable for generations to come, it must include all three pillars, or the triple bottom line, of sustainability, as seen in the infographic. It isn’t quite enough to have all three of these pillars included; they need to be somewhat balanced, ensuring that tourism develops in a way that doesn’t take too much of an environmental toll while infusing a lot of economic benefits into the economy.

Ideally, the economic development from ecotourism is equitable and able to sustain long-term job development and growth in the region while equally contributing to wildlife conversation and preserving cultural identity. It is normal to have one piece of the Venn Diagram to be slightly larger as true equilibrium is difficult and impossible, but each should grow at a rate that doesn’t create too much imbalance. When things get out of balance, or one circle takes priority over another, no matter the intentions, we begin to have unsustainable ecotourism.

Unsustainable Ecotourism

Unsustainable ecotourism may embody or prioritize only one or two pillars of sustainable ecotourism. This can happen for a variety of reasons.

• Tour operators and travel companies may conduct ecotours as a marketing ploy to get the attention of travelers looking for more environmentally friendly travel options. These operators may conduct businesses without fully understanding their impact on the natural environment or equitably distribute tourism’s benefits within their community. 
• Adventure companies or individual travelers may enjoy nature-based adventures while disregarding local communities.
• Others may seek to capitalize on the economic gain of nature-based tourism while exploiting nature.
• Culturally sensitive communities may alter their customs or traditional crafts to appeal to tourists, thus increasing their economic gain while degrading their culture.
• Perhaps a national park becomes so popular that the number of people visiting begins to have irreversible impacts on natural vegetation or wildlife.
• Other companies may lack adequate support and resources from their governments, communities, or foreign tour companies to meet well-intended goals.

These are all examples of unsustainable ecotourism, ultimately resulting in the problematic exploitation of natural resources or local communities. 

Nature-based tourism vs. ecotourism?

Many people use nature-based and ecotourism interchangeably, but they are not the same. Nature-based tourism is traveling to a natural landscape to enjoy nature. Ecotourism is visiting a place with the goal of contributing to conservation while benefitting the community for a positive impact. I consider the multi-day hikes in the European Alps nature-based, as I am just out for a hike to enjoy nature. If I were to hire a local guide in Peru to take me on a culturally infused hike to learn about nature and culture – then we start to cross into ecotourism.

The penguin tour I did in New Zealand is a great example of a sustainable eco-tour . We learned about the local conservation efforts of a penguin colony on the brink of extinction (environmental), supported a local farm and conservation group (economic), and had a high-quality social engagement learning about New Zealand’s connection to the environment (Social).

Mass Tourism vs Ecotourism? What is better?

When I first started on my journey toward embracing sustainable tourism, I automatically assumed that mass tourism = bad. Ecotourism = good. This is something I see across the board among travelers. However, many tourism academics disagree on this binary and highlight the nuances and importance of well-managed tourism development, whether eco or mass.

Their arguments hinge on the fact that mass tourism ultimately contains people in places that generally already have the infrastructure to support large groups of people. Imagine if we took the thousands of people staying at an all-inclusive Disney resort – a place with adequate infrastructure to handle these numbers and dropped them all at a small Peruvian rainforest eco-lodge. The small ecolodges set up for sustainable ecotourism and minimal crowds would be overwhelmed, and the environmental and cultural damage would be dramatic. There are also examples of how ecotourism can bring tourists into places previously undisturbed by tourists historically, and it is important to first understand and plan for potential impacts.

This isn’t to put mass or ecotourism into their boxes, but it highlights that there are examples of well-managed mass tourism in areas with infrastructure that are worth supporting. Just as there are examples of poorly managed ecotourism disturbing nature for the first time, it all comes down to how tourism is managed.

What do you think about this argument? Share in the comments!

Five Requirements of Sustainable Ecotourism

What else separates sustainable and unsustainable ecotourism? It’s not enough for ecotourism to vaguely target the three pillars of sustainability at free will. Carefully thought-out itineraries should be constructed before engaging in ecotourism. While there is situational and regional flexibility in how sustainable ecotourism plays out in real life, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has listed five minimum requirements, hitting all three pillars, that tourists and tour operators should address before engaging in ecotourism. We can use these guidelines to create a custom itinerary when visiting vulnerable natural communities or booking a tour operator.

1. Tourism should benefit environmental conservation

Tourism activities, development, and tour operators should safeguard the environment, conserve natural resources, protect ecosystems, and benefit biodiversity. Several key players need to work together to ensure this. Governments and land managers should ensure that proper scientific impact assessments are done prior to tourism development. Rules and regulations should be established so tour companies, guides, and tourists follow. Involving the community in conservation-based tourism is key.

For us travelers, environmental education is a key component of this. As you visit vulnerable areas, you should try to learn about local biodiversity and environmental concerns. Doing some research ahead of time allows you to align your behaviors in a way that doesn’t degrade the environment, and you can also hold tourism companies accountable for their actions if you are more informed.

Red Flags 

• Mass crowds, overdevelopment, and overtourism. Overdevelopment of the region surrounding a protected area to accommodate mass tourism may negatively impact nature. Many species are not confined to the protected natural zone, and over-development can damage migration and breeding patterns, increase water and air pollution, and increase erosion. Protected areas often have a limited capacity before ecosystem degradation may occur.
• Large tour buses or cruise ships drop large groups of people off in a protected region for a short amount of time.
• If a protected region is capitalizing on economic profit and bringing in as many guests as possible without sticking to a sustainable plan.
• Clear-cutting and ecosystem fragmentation to build large resorts
• Tour companies that allow you to touch, feed, or interact with wildlife

Actionable Steps

• Look for places with non-invasive infrastructure that keep you a safe distance from animals. Look for well-planned trails, viewing platforms/sky bridges, nature centers for education, etc.
• Find alternatives to nature’s hot spots, seeking out small-scale educational nature-based tourism.
• Visit places that minimize capacity with permits and quotas.
• Be willing to pay fees and fines that support sustainable infrastructure.
• Learn and follow all regional, local, and tribal etiquette before entering a protected area. 
• Support eco-lodges, regenerative hotels, and other low-impact options.
• Book small group tours or go alone and hire personal local guides to take you into nature on a designated trail.

Read a guest post by an ecologist from India about the do’s and don’ts for visiting national parks in India . This post highlights proper behavior to ensure that you, your local guide, the ecosystem, and the animals you see are safeguarded and protected. – A great example of sustainable ecotourism.

2. Safeguard the cultural and natural heritage of the region

Oftentimes, without even knowing it, we, as travelers, support the decline of a region’s cultural heritage. With the presence of tourism, locals may feel the pressure to please us with certain trinkets or displays that don’t align with their culture to put on a show. There are a few cruise shows in Alaska that are not traditional and are upsetting to certain elders as they have permanently altered traditions to appeal to Western tourists.

There are mindful ways we can learn about and support traditions by appreciating authentic experiences; for example, The Alaska Native Heritage Center is operated by Native stakeholders, and the art, song, dance, and cultural shows are true to the tribe’s heritage.

Unsustainable tourism booms at UNESCO sites such as Hoi An are notorious for contributing to tourism tourism-fiction. This means that culture becomes a commodity rather than part of the heritage. Some have described tourism’s impacts on Hoi An as leaving the city a husk of its former self and operating more like Disneyland than a place of important culture.

• Locals selling mass-produced or cheap trinkets, such as sunglasses, outside protected zones. Many of these people may have given up traditional crafts or lifestyles to get short-term benefits from tourism in the area because they have been exploited and excluded for economic benefits.
• International tour companies that host cultural shows in which traditional songs, dances, or clothing have been changed to appeal to foreigners.  
• Commodification of culture
• Invest in quality certified crafts work from master artisans – look for certifications.
• Seek out authentic cultural experiences from homestays or by learning from local guides.
• Visit Indigenous or locally-owned culture centers for an authentic educational song, dance, and cultural experience.  

3. Respect Indigenous Peoples and local communities rights

If there is one thing that can grind my gears, it’s when tourists have more rights than locals. When Glacier Bay National Park first opened to tourism many Indigenous groups were no longer allowed to use the land for subsistence hunting and gathering . Meanwhile, massive cruise ships pulled in and dumped their greywater. Efforts are being made to restore subsistence rights, and Indigenous tribes can now harvest certain things, but as it still stands, most cruise companies have more rights in that Bay than many Alaskans. While the Indigenous peoples of Alaska are left suffering the consequences of cruise impacts on their ancestral land, they are also excluded from tourism’s benefits, with multinational cruise companies making the most money.

But, it is not enough to consider Indigenous peoples and the surrounding communities impacted by tourism; they must be a key partner in tourism. Their consent and well-being regarding tourism in protected areas should come first. They should have a direct say in developing tourism while receiving equitable benefits.

• Areas that give tourists more rights than local or Indigenous Peoples. i.e., when people climbed Uluru on eco-excursions despite the wishes of Australia’s Aboriginal People.
• Tours that bring you into protected natural areas without providing ways to learn about local or Indigenous culture directly from the marginalized people. 

Actionable Steps 

• If Indigenous groups have been displaced from an area, take it upon yourself to enter the protected area as a guest respecting the traditional owners.
• Hire local guides or meet locals to engage in cultural exchange.
• Learn about tribal history, present, culture, and wishes.
• Perform a land acknowledgment.
• If an area is sacred to an Indigenous group and they ask you not to enter, reconsider your plans and find a viable alternative. 

4. Create viable, long-term economic operations in the region

The presence of a booming tourism industry looks great on paper in any region. But, if you dig deep, you’ll start to notice that maybe a lot of that money leaves the local destination and ends up in the pockets of large multinational companies. Or maybe locals don’t have access to year-round jobs that provide them with enough healthcare and healthy food because of boom-bust seasonal cycles. Ensuring local access to stable employment is important to reduce global poverty. Tourism jobs can’t only be seasonal jobs that exploit foreign workers. Locals should be interested in tourism jobs to reach management positions and receive benefits.

Many cite the economic benefits of tourism as the sole reason to develop tourism, but research shows that many locals aren’t interested in tourism jobs because of the lack of sustainable and beneficial long-term employment. When I was a tour guide in Alaska, I worked long hours during the summer months without long-term security, health care, or retirement benefits.

• Tourism leakage . Leakage happens when large international tour corporations or foreign-owned all-inclusive resorts profit off ecotourism while locals are forced deeper into poverty. Locals should be primarily profiting off tourism as they suffer any negative impacts. 
• Lack of local guides. Lack of locals in management or hospitality positions.
• Mass-over-tourism booms happening during a short seasonal window, resulting in an employment depression during the off-season.
• Foreign workers are imported for cheap labor exploitation or to make tourists comfortable.
• Support locally owned tour companies providing residents with stable year-round jobs, training, and income-earning opportunities. 
• Support local businesses and buy local products when traveling through vulnerable communities.
• Visit places during the shoulder or off-season to support a healthy year-round economy.
• Avoid booking with international tour companies and all-inclusive resorts unless they engage in the trip-bottom line. 

5. Create meaningful and high-quality visitor experiences

If you’re stepping out of a tour bus for that Instagram photo opportunity without learning about your destination, you are not having a meaningful or high-quality experience. Slow down and enjoy the lesser-known sights, and learn about the local food, nature, and people. These tourism experiences should be led by locals with a deep affinity for a region, allowing you to connect them to the place on an intimate level. Canada has a rigorous tour guide certification called interpretative guides. The guides aim to foster a deep and meaningful connections between the local people, places, and tourists. Tourists are more likely to care for their destination if they have a connection and understanding regarding why its protection is important.

• Tour busses that drop people off in a protected area to look around and snap a few photos and leave without offering educational information or ways to learn about the landscape.
• Violating local rules to gain access to a protected area for an Instagram photo.
• Engage in ecotourism that hinges on environmental education and cultural connection.
• Stay in a region longer than a bus stop or half a day.
• Book locally-owned accommodation, engaging in regenerative practices that educate you meaningfully.
• Please do it for more than the gram.

The Pros and Cons of Ecotourism

There is no perfect model of truly sustainable ecotourism. Even the most sustainable ecotourism models will have some negative implications, but the ultimate goal is to create a long-term sustainable plan that maximizes benefits and minimizes negative impacts .  As you can see the potential benefits are almost equal to any potential negative impacts. The key is understanding how your presence can have a positive or negative impact, and strive to check as many positives as possible. Ensure you are engaging in ecotourism that ticks positives in environmental, social, AND economic, otherwise, it is likely the negatives outweigh the positives of sustainable ecotourism. 

Does the Good Outweigh the Bad?

I went on an eco-tour to see brown bears in the wild in Alaska . We learned about brown bears from a distance and the Lake Clark National Park ecosystem (environmental) with a local company (economic) on a quality tour (social). However, they could have included more information about the region’s Indigenous culture (social). So, I did some of my own research, doing a land acknowledgment  and discovering the park’s true name is Qizhjeh Vena , meaning a place where people gather in the Dena’ina language. Despite a few shortcomings, I decided this ecotour had more positive than negative impacts especially since Indigenous Alaskans have access to the park. But this shows that not everything will be perfect. You can weigh your options and take personal actions outside of the tour to balance it out, such as independent research, donations, land acknowledgments, and buying high-quality souvenirs.

Ecotourism in Practice

We’ve covered a lot so far, but let’s review a few real examples of sustainable and unsustainable ecotourism in practice so you can better identify them.

Sustainable – Mountain Gorilla Trekking Ecotourism

Mountain gorilla treks in Uganda and DR Congo are great sustainable ecotourism models supported by local government, residents, and conservation groups. Uganda even has a conservation economy that prioritizes conservation as an economic value. Mountain gorillas are endangered in a vulnerable natural habitat surrounded by high-density rural farmers. A sustainable ecotourism model in the region protects both gorillas and includes the livelihood of residents.

Environmental: The presence of tourists deter poachers and encourage local governments to implement protection of the gorillas. Gorilla populations are increasing as a result of sustainable ecotourism. 

Economic: Locals are offered stable employment opportunities as guides, trackers, and anti-poaching guards. Many of them are ex-poachers, which reduces the poaching threat even more.  Over five years, US$428,000 was directly invested in Rwandan communities, helping locals build schools, enact locally-driven environmental projects, and aid food security.

Social : Cultural exchange between local guides and tourists enhances cultural and environmental education. Local guides can showcase years of local expertise and take pride in their culture and nature. Gorilla ecotourism has played a fundamental role in keeping the peace in Rwanda in a post-genocide landscape. 

Interested in learning more about ethical mountain gorilla treks? Kesi from Kesi to Fro created an awesome guest post detailing her first-hand experience seeing mountain gorillas in the wild. You can join her on a group trip to Uganda to work with local tour operators to support conservation, boost the local economy, and engage in cultural exchange. Learn more about sustainable gorilla trekking!

Unsustainable – Machu Picchu Ecotreks

Ecotourism in Machu Picchu has exploded over the last decade. Tourism in the region has grown unchecked, with international and local tour companies capitalizing on the economic benefit of a booming industry. However, tourism grew unsustainable, focusing primarily on the economy rather than the environment or social aspects. This is a prime example of when ecotourism turns into mass overtourism. 

Photo by Alan Hurt Jr. Unsplash

Environment: Mass development in the region surrounding Machu Picchu threatens South America’s last remaining pocket of the Andean cloud forest. Increased waste from humans adds to air and water pollution. Heavy foot traffic damages the fragile Paramo grasslands. Noise pollution contributed to the disappearance of the Andean condors from the region. Migrating and breeding patterns of threatened animals have changed.

Economic: Most workers and guides are left without work or stable year-round income during the off-season. Tourism leakage, where locals do not benefit as much as they should from tourism in the region, is problematic. 

Social: Portions of the city are sliding downhill, causing damage to a cultural and historical icon. Visitors have defaced, broken, and damaged parts of the city. An increase in cheaply made trinkets has caused a decline in local artisanal craftwork. Overall, the region has suffered a loss of cultural authenticity. The visitor experience has suffered greatly, too, with packed trails and long waits.  

*This does not mean that all Machu Picchu treks are bad. You can still visit, but be respectful as you visit, support local tour operators, respect permits, buy quality souvenirs, pay additional fees, and follow all instructions from your guide to minimize your impact. You should also consider other ways to learn about the region’s history or find an alternative hike.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Susanna • Sustainble Travel (@curiositysaves.travel)

Tips for Planning a Sustainable Ecotour

By now you should have a pretty good idea of what constitutes sustainable ecotourism and be able to identify if your next nature-based adventure checks some of these boxes, but here are my top tips to help you get started. 

Read Their About Page

You can tell a lot about a tour operator by looking at their “about” page. I always say the more details, the better. Tour companies, hotels, and excursions near vulnerable nature and communities should freely offer up a lot of detailed information about how they are hitting that triple bottom line. If any of the three pillars of sustainable ecotourism is missing from their mission statement or is not easily accessible online, that is your first major red flag. Browse the website to see how they support the environment, local economic development, and cultural conservation. 

Look for Greenwashing

There is the possibility that companies will engage in greenwashing, presenting information on their website that makes for a convincing sustainable ecotourism model. Some signs companies are greenwashing are when they offer vague information, make general statements about committing to sustainability without examples, or put customer satisfaction and fun at the center of their advertising rather than social impact. 

When in Doubt, Ask

I always recommend sending an email asking how they give back to the community, where your money goes, what local conservation efforts are, how they engage with local culture if they employ locals, etc.  The tour company should be able to respond with detailed statements of how they consider and benefit local communities, economic vitality, and conservation of the natural environment.

Check Their Business Model

Is sustainability part of their core mission, or is it an afterthought? Research shows that companies built around a sustainable business model prioritizing social, economic, and environmental benefits to the local community are more likely to be ethical in the long term. Companies that create a sustainable statement as an afterthought or in response to harmful behavior they are caught for are more likely to engage in damaging behavior. A great example of this is Carnival Cruises. Carnival has literal pages outlining their commitment to the environment, but this was created because a court ordered them and not necessarily because they wanted to do it from the goodness of their heart. Look for companies that were founded to create a positive impact. This information is often included in an origin story or about section.

Find the Owner

Who owns the company? Is it locally owned? Google the name of the owner. For example, many cruise lines and resorts appear to be small boutique companies, but they are owned by large international conglomerates. If in doubt, Google “Who owns X eco-resort.”

Look for certifications, read reviews, and the internet stalk them. Look for environmental warnings report cards, read comments on their social media, and dig up any information you can find.

Self Planning? Carefully Craft Your Itinerary

If you are self-planning carefully, identify each hotel and excursion operator to see how they engage in the triple-bottom line. Research environmental concerns in the area. For example – did you know you should clean your shoes in Hawai’i before entering protected natural areas?  Learn about Indigenous and local culture and history. Be aware of local etiquette for engaging in nature.

• Create a checklist and save it on your computer to help you identify sustainable ecotourism. Having this handy will help you identify sustainable ecotourism excursions that you can feel good supporting.
• What are some of your favorite sustainable eco-tour companies or excursions you’ve supported? Let us know in the comments so we can all learn about great companies around the world working toward helping local communities and protecting our environment.

Make sure you share this post so all your fellow travelers can discover the benefits of sustainable ecotourism and be able to identify the difference between sustainable and unsustainable ecotourism – so we can all do our part to save travel!

About the Author: Susanna Kelly-Shankar

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20 comments.

Eco-tourism may eventually turn into over-tourism. AFAIK Bhutan is the leader in eco-tourism and they have achieved so through active community participation and effective government regulation.

Thanks for writing the post.

Hi Pawan, Yes, ecotourism can quickly turn into over-tourism and it is the responsibility of the traveler to do their research and engage in sustainable ecotourism. That’s lovely you’re engaging the community! I wish you the best and hope I am able to visit Bhutan in the future!

This is so detailed! So much to think about and consider how we can do better during our travels. There’s always room to do better!!

I love how much ecotourism is starting to get attention. I think, especially for travelers, we love the earth and communities around the earth so much that it’s so important to learn how to connect responsibly and take care of it/each other

It really is important to learn about sustainable ecotourism and how to engage to be mindful of the environment. Thanks for reading.

This is alot of great information.

Thank you for such a thought provoking post. I learned a lot. You’ve given me much to think about. Thank you for all that you’ve invested in this post.

Thanks for sharing this insightful post on ecotourism. The way you broke down and explained everything was better than anything else I’ve read on the topic.

I love this! It’s so important to differentiate between nature-based tourism and eco tourism, and I feel like even I have been guilty of confusing thee two in the past. Definitely saving this and sharing!

It’s super confusing – and not always the fault of the traveler with greenwashing or companies that simply don’t know any better or lack resources to be sustainable. So, hopefully, this guide to ecotourism helps differentiate between nature-based tourism, sustainable and unsustainable ecotourism. Thanks for reading.

This is such a smart post. It’s well written and very compelling. It’s the kind of information I would gladly assign my environmental ed. students. Great job!

Oh let me know if you end up sharing it with some of your students. It is a great topic to learn about regarding the intersection of the environment and tourism.

For island destinations, the problem is often even more a concern. Islands belonging to countries with a mainland usually have tourism that’s developed from the mainland, with resorts being technically local but are really effectively like foreign owners since there’s often a distinct cultural difference between the two. After all, if the tourism collapses because the nature is gone, the resort investor just liquidates and goes back to the mainland, where they have their real homes. But the islanders are often tempted by the promises of employment by such resort developments, that sometimes they don’t query too hard which of the resorts are legit committed to them and which are insincere. It’s really bullying and it pisses me off.

That’s a great addition talking about islands with the mainland – that even though they are local there can still be problems. I know this likely happens in the Hawaiian islands. I agree with the bullying tactics. Sometimes the lure of money is so tempting for these places that they are pigeonholed into supporting sustainable tourism. In Alaska, one small Indigenous town simply asked a major cruise line to limit capacity during their drop-offs and within 2 days the cruise line said they would no longer dock there and take all their money. It was an all-or-nothing situation for people simply asking for larger cruise companies to engage in some sustainable behaviors. Thanks for sharing!

That’s a good hard look at an issue we are all struggling with. I’m going to keep all this in mind when booking my next trip.

Thanks for this insightful blog post! Love to read something different and outstanding! We really need to talk more about ecotourism!

this was so informative I didn’t realize there were so many aspects to eco tourism. Thanks for sharing

It is a great article about eco-tourism and sustainable tourism, you have explained everything in detail. It only teaches us how we can travel responsibly. Thanks for this valuable information.

Thank you so much for taking the time to read this, I really appreciate it. I hope you learned something new about sustainable ecotourism. Make sure you share it to pass along the message.

Very insightful article. Thank you so much.

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What Is Ecotourism?

Conservation, offering market-linked long-term solutions, ecotourism provides effective economic incentives for conserving and enhancing bio-cultural diversity and helps protect the natural and cultural heritage of our beautiful planet., communities, by increasing local capacity building and employment opportunities, ecotourism is an effective vehicle for empowering local communities around the world to fight against poverty and to achieve sustainable development., interpretation, with an emphasis on enriching personal experiences and environmental awareness through interpretation, ecotourism promotes greater understanding and appreciation for nature, local society, and culture., the definition., ecotourism is now defined as “responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment, sustains the well-being of the local people, and involves interpretation and education” (ties, 2015). education is meant to be inclusive of both staff and guests., principles of ecotourism, ecotourism is about uniting conservation, communities, and sustainable travel. this means that those who implement, participate in and market ecotourism activities should adopt the following ecotourism principles:.

• Minimize physical, social, behavioral, and psychological impacts.
• Build environmental and cultural awareness and respect.
• Provide positive experiences for both visitors and hosts.
• Provide direct financial benefits for conservation.
• Generate financial benefits for both local people and private industry.
• Deliver memorable interpretative experiences to visitors that help raise sensitivity to host countries’ political, environmental, and social climates.
• Design, construct and operate low-impact facilities.
• Recognize the rights and spiritual beliefs of the Indigenous People in your community and work in partnership with them to create empowerment.

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• Documentation

Who is an Eco-tourist? How to become one?

• By Emese Maczko
• March 3, 2024 March 5, 2024

Have you been thinking about who is an eco-tourist? Is it someone who loves nature or is it something more? Are you interested in learning more about how they are travelling? What kind of aspects do they consider important? What kind of activities are offered specifically for eco travelers? All in all do you want to know how to be one? This article is full of tips to give you a start point in becoming more eco-friendly while travelling.

Who is an eco-tourist?

Eco-tourists travel responsibly, respect the environmental and the cultural aspects of travelling, are mindful of the ways they can protect nature, educate themselves how to genuinely improve the well-being of the local community.

If you are searching for the definition of eco-tourist, you might have realized that loving the environment and travel responsibly might not be the same thing. So we have asked travel bloggers to answer this question:  “What does it mean for you to be an eco traveler?” . It will give you some insights into sustainable travelling and inspiration to become one of them.

For me it is a consciousness of the natural environment that underlies the destination, and an awareness that you are not adapted to it. And therefore you prepare to tread lightly, knowing you will move on but your footprint stays. It is a willingness to learn the different ways humans adapt to nature – as many ways as there are ecosystems. It is the aspiration to move through the earth like the shifting forms of water, always seeking balance, and supporting life.  Nuraini Arsad from Teja on the Horizon

For me it is about having the environment at the forefront of my mind and my actions when I travel. It is much more than simply taking my reusables with me; it’s about really considering my impact on a destination and how I can benefit its environment. It means choosing local travel rather than travelling abroad every other weekend, choosing destinations that will benefit from my presence rather than contributing to over-tourism, and leaving as little an impact on a destination as possible. I stay in hotels, which have eco-friendly policies such as renewable energy sources, and those which give something back to the local community. I try to choose lesser-visited destinations and travel outside of the high season. I eat in various different restaurants, spending money in a number of places rather than in one multiplex. And yes, I always take my reusables with me!  Abbi Bishop from Spin the Windrose

Being an eco traveler, or responsible traveler, has a lot to do with showing respect to the destination’s culture and people. Traveling slowly, learning about the customs and rituals, staying in local guest houses, and shopping and eating locally are all ways of showing respect and supporting the community. This style of travel benefits both locals and travelers — each become richer! Mariellen Ward from Breathe Dream Go

All my travels are defined by sustainability. And I mean all three pillars. I’m concerned about the environment and the wildlife, but I’m specially focused on communities. I fiercely believe that the worst creation of mankind are borders. They are completely unnatural and more harmful than weapons. My purpose is to show the world, one person at the time, that nationalities, religions, customs and beliefs should not set us apart. There should be no ‘us’ and ‘them’ because we are all the same, no matter what the government and the media wants us to believe. The world is safe and kind, and a few exceptions can’t make us live in fear. It might sound off to focus on people while describing being an eco-traveler, but ‘eco’ refers to the relationships between living organisms, and the first one we need to work on to properly protect the environment and wildlife, is the relationship between ourselves.  Constanza Fernandez from Experiencing the Globe

Being an eco-traveler is the only way forward for us and many other travelers. And it’s one that starts even before you leave your place, in the planning stages. Because that’s just when we need to start questioning everything. Since all your choices, no matter how small, will affect the world and its inhabitants more than you think. That way, using our freedom and privileges for good and taking responsibility for the way we move around the planet and how our vacations and getaways impact others is, honestly, the least we should do. Let’s stop compromising future generations’ leisure and time on this earth and let’s take action now in our daily lives and – why not – our traveling adventures too. Inma Gregorio from A World To Travel

3 pillars to travel sustainably

If you have read the above quotes, you might see 3 common areas where eco-tourists are focusing on when choosing how to travel sustainably. These areas derive from the 3 pillars of sustainability: social, environmental and economical, which can be interpreted to eco-tourism as follows:

• Minimizing the impact of travel on the natural environment
• Respecting the local culture
• Improving the well-being of the local community

But how can they do that? What are the ways or the actions you can take to ensure that you travel responsibly? In the following section we give you tons of tips to get you started and become an eco-tourist yourself as well.

Ways to be a responsible eco-tourist

The main focus of eco-tourists is spending time in natural areas without disturbing its eco-system, avoiding mass-tourism destinations, and choosing the means of travel as well as the accommodation sustainably. How do they do it? What kind of aspects do you need to think of when deciding on your next destination?

Eco-friendly transportation

• Travel locally  – The minute you start travelling, you will leave a footprint at a certain extent. If you want to leave the lowest impact, choose walking tours or bike tours in your local area.
• Public transportation  – If eco-tourists decide to travel long distance, they prefer public transportation like train or coach, where large groups of people are travelling together. They tend to avoid travelling by car, taxi or any location-specific taxi services like tuk tuk, auto rickshaw or motorcycle. Travelling with trains and buses have a carbon footprint of 1,800 kilograms of carbon dioxide equivalent/year, compared to cars, which has 8,520 according to  Golden Standard , which is considered “ the most rigorous climate standard in the world “.
• Electric vehicle  – Did you know that you can rent an electric car even at the larger car rental agencies? They are great options to travel green.
• Eco-friendly flying?  – Can travelling by airplane be responsibly? Flying definitely leaves a high foot carbon footprint. However there is a difference between airlines and fuel efficient airlines  according to this National Geographic article . If you decide to travel by flying, choose an airline which takes actions to reduce its environmental impact. You can also offset the carbon footprint of your air travel via several methods. One of them would be the aforementioned  Golden Standard (with charge)  or  FlyGreen (for free) .

Eco-lodging

Eco-tourist are staying in eco-friendly accommodations, although finding them can sometimes be challenging. First of all, there is no common certification. Accommodations can say lots of things about themselves like responsible, sustainable, eco-friendly, going green etc. but nobody defined these words so interpretations can vary significantly. Sometimes you have also no way of knowing what exactly said accommodation meant by it. Second of all, larger booking sites don’t always consider to list or even provide a possibility to search for ecological aspects. So we, at Eco-Lodges Anywhere, are trying to create  the largest selection of THE MOST SUSTAINABLE ECO LODGES around the world.

True eco-lodges are accommodations in undisturbed, remote natural areas where both construction and operation have the lowest impact possible on the environment. They are not only part of the local community but they are active participants in protecting naturally and culturally sensitive areas.

READ MORE:  What are eco-lodges? How sustainable are they?

They can be described with the below 10 aspects:

• Situated in the  heart of nature
• Low impact construction
• High level of  energy efficiency
• Responsible  water management
• Actions to  avoid single use plastic
• Chemical-free  operation
• Locally sourced or grown organic food  (with vegan/vegetarian options)
• Actively participates or facilities local  nature conservation
• Actively supporting and promoting  local culture

-> SEARCH OUR DIRECTORY

What to bring along and use there?

Eco-tourists take several actions to ensure that what they carry along and what they use at the destination have the lowest environmental impacts.

• Pack lightly  – Eco-tourists pack only the essentials which are usually also reusable. For example they carry metal water bottles, reusable cutlery, metal straws, packaging-free toiletries (shampoo bar, soap, deodorant, plastic-free toothpaste, bamboo toothbrush etc.)
• Low impact stay  – Eco-tourists don’t ask to get their rooms cleaned on a daily basis. They tend to use ceiling fans as opposed to air conditioning. They don’t take complimentary toiletries especially as they bring their own. They never leave rubbish and follow the recycling policies of the destination.
• Local food  – As eco-tourists avoid large chain hotels, they also avoid large international restaurants. Instead they choose to immerse themselves in local cuisine in usually smaller establishments. They tend to choose small restaurants that feature local dishes and use organic or locally sourced ingredients. Lot of eco-tourists are vegan or vegetarian as following a vegan diet  can reduce the person’s dietary green house emission by almost 50% .
• Local products  – If they buy souvenirs in a traditional sense of the word, eco-tourists tend to choose the products of local artisans. They choose authentic souvenirs made of natural resources like wood, paper, metal etc. They are educated not to buy souvenirs using endangered species like corals. This way they are able to support the local economy and the well-being of the local community.

Low impact activities

Don’t be afraid of the phrase “low impact” here, it doesn’t mean no fun. On the contrary, eco-tourists spend time in the most stunning and undisturbed natural environments, where they are close to nature and learn by experience about the local flora and fauna. They engage with genuine local people who care about the local environment and culture. Here are a couple of activities eco-tourists prefer over mass-tourism offers:

• hiking, trekking, kayaking, rafting
• bird watching tours
• visiting nature reserves
• visiting local markets, artisan factories
• visiting sanctuaries or conservation centres
• no animal tourism like elephant riding, street monkeys, circuses, dolphin shows etc.
• trying local cooking class

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Emese Maczko

Emese Maczko is a travel blogger behind Eco Lodges Anywhere. Having explored several destinations around Europe, the US, Indonesia, and Australia, and resided in Germany, the United Kingdom, and Luxembourg, Emese possesses a keen understanding of diverse cultures and an appreciation for the beauty of each destination she visits. She advocates for sustainable travel and ecotourism.

• Emese Maczko https://ecolodgesanywhere.com/author/emesemaczko/ 15 European National Parks That Offer the Best Trails for Hiking Enthusiasts
• Emese Maczko https://ecolodgesanywhere.com/author/emesemaczko/ 17 Medieval Castles To Step Into The Boots of Legendary Knights
• Emese Maczko https://ecolodgesanywhere.com/author/emesemaczko/ 14 Quirky and Unbelievable European Traditions That Shock Americans
• Emese Maczko https://ecolodgesanywhere.com/author/emesemaczko/ 15 Family-Friendly European National Parks for Memorable Adventures

Comments (1)

Victoria addington.

It helped when you mentioned that traveling allows you to leave a footprint to a certain extent. My friend wants to go on an eco-adventure. I should advise her to go for it so she can experience nature.

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Eco-Tourism 101: What Is Eco-Travel, And Why Is It So Important?

Learn about eco-travel and how it helps natural areas, wildlife, local communities, and travelers themselves.

• Eco-travel is a sustainable way to tour places, protecting the environment and benefiting locals, focusing on preserving flora, fauna, and cultural heritage.
• Minimizing negative impacts on natural areas is key in eco-tourism, such as avoiding single-use plastics and supporting locally-made products.
• Eco-travel promotes environmental awareness, educates people, boosts local economies, connects people to nature, and enhances the quality of travel experiences.

Every year billions of international travelers visit various destinations across the globe, and this has resulted in over-tourism in some of the most popular places. High volumes of vacationers in a certain spot can mean litter and waste and increased water consumption and air pollution in various destinations, which leave negative impacts on the locals, visitors themselves, and the surrounding environment.

Today, beautiful locations, especially natural tourist destinations, are at risk of suffering environmental problems, which often include the destruction of some of the most impressive ecosystems. Travel is fun, and everyone deserves to enjoy it, but there is a need to come up with reforms to make the industry more sustainable so that the environment is well maintained and preserved for current and future generations.

This is where eco-travel comes in. The interest in eco-tourism has been on the rise over the past few years, and there are tons of destinations for eco-travel to include in a travel checklist . So, what is eco-travel, and why it is so important? Here is a quick guide to this popular phenomenon.

Related: What Is Eco-Travel? Here's Every Type Of Ecotourism You Should Know About

What Is Eco-Travel?

In short, eco-travel is a sustainable way to tour different places. It is traveling responsibly in a way that protects the environment while enhancing the welfare of the locals. This allows vacationers to be more than just passers-by in the communities they visit.

The phenomenon generally focuses on areas where there are flora and fauna as well as cultural heritage that need to be preserved. Eco-tourism also involves education, where vacationers learn something from the places they visit and leave a positive legacy to the natural areas.

Eco-travel is especially popular among environmentalists and other people around the world who are concerned with environmental preservation. It also aims to minimize the negative impacts of tourism in natural destinations.

This is why some of the most famous landmarks around the world , like Machu Picchu, have limited the number of visitors to protect them from damage.

So, What Are The Principles Of Eco-Travel? How To Practice Eco-Tourism

To practice sustainable tourism, vacationers and eco-friendly tour companies should stick to certain principles. Here is a summary of the core principles of eco-tourism.

Minimize Negative Impacts On Natural Areas

From where one stays to activities to the kind of food they eat during their vacations, tourists are definitely going to leave an impact on the natural areas they visit. Minimizing negative impacts on natural areas is one of the most important principles of eco-tourism.

One of the environmentally friendly tips for traveling the world is avoiding single-use plastics. This includes opting for refillable water bottles, bringing one's own toiletries, and purchasing items with minimal packaging. This is one sure way of touring the world responsibly and minimizing the negative impacts on beautiful natural areas.

Respecting The Cultural Heritage Of The Locals

One of the easy ways to be eco-friendly while traveling is by helping in preserving the cultural heritage of the locals. Here's how to be respectful and conscious while traveling:

• Research the culture of the locals or stick around for a while to soak in the people's way of life.
• Go with the flow of the local way of life. This will vary from one destination to another. For instance, in places like Spain, the locals take a siesta, usually after having a midday meal. It is important to research these things, so one can do things the "normal" way.
• Stick to the dress code of the locals. If there is a specific dress code that the local people abide by, it is important to follow the customs.
• Follow health guidelines. Many destinations have specific entry requirements for visitors. Follow those guidelines, and avoid traveling while sick. Research the possible health risks in the desired destinations and consult a healthcare specialist on how to avoid contracting and spreading the disease.
• Avoid taking pictures of people without asking for permission first. Also, when taking pictures, visitors could avoid interrupting the activities of the locals, which in most cases, generate their income.

Related: Sustainable Tourism In Chile: Eco-Friendly Travel Tips & Ideas

Supporting The Local Businesses

Another great way of practicing eco-travel is by supporting local businesses by purchasing locally-made products. One can also dine at various eateries that are owned and managed by locals. By doing this, visitors help to contribute towards the success of the local economy.

Apart from supporting the local communities financially, this principle allows visitors to enjoy an authentic experience of a place. So, instead of dining at big hotels and resorts, tourists should try and support local businesses.

Promoting Environmental Awareness

Eco-travel is more than just visiting natural destinations. It is about promoting environmental awareness so that other vacationers can also practice sustainable tourism. Eco-travelers can encourage people to practice using renewable energy sources, such as solar panels, and opt for reusable or recyclable products.

Environmental awareness helps reduce pollution and global warming.

Why Is Eco-Travel Important?

• Eco-travel educates people . By raising environmental awareness, eco-travel can lead to positive impacts on natural areas by inspiring real change. By promoting eco-travel, more people are informed about the phenomenon, and the more people are aware, the more they are likely to start making positive changes, right from their homes.
• Eco-travel has a positive impact on the local economy . When people visit different places, the local businesses directly related to travel, including food, transportation, and hotels, thrive.
• Promotes and encourages environmental awareness . When vacationers practice eco-travel, more people learn about the need to conserve the environment and help protect natural areas.
• It connects people to nature and strengthens the relationship between tourists and the natural areas they visit.
• Enhances the quality of travel. By allowing visitors to have a better understanding of local cultural heritage and a chance to appreciate the beauty of the natural areas they visit, eco-tourism enhances the quality of travel.

From Olympic National Park to Jackson Hole to Grand Teton, there are plenty of environment-friendly spots to visit. Book one of these eco-tours in the United States .

Related: Why Every Traveler Needs To Know About 'Leave No Trace'

Eco-Travel Trends In 2023

Eco-travel awareness continues to increase in popularity, as more vacationers adopt green tourism practices. For instance, Eco-travelers nowadays make accommodation choices based on the environmental impacts a given property has in their communities.

While other people may think the phenomenon is just a new travel term, it’s actually an evolution that has deep roots. Therefore, it is not just a passing trend.

Eco-adventure tours and wildlife safaris are some of the most popular eco-travel trends, and there are companies dedicated to ensuring visitors have unforgettable experiences in unique destinations .

Eco-travelers nowadays make accommodation choices based on the environmental impacts a given property has in their communities.

Eco Tourism: Paving the Way for Sustainable Travel

By GGI Insights | April 22, 2024

Table of contents

This emerging trend promises to revolutionize the way people explore the world, allowing them to experience the beauty of nature while minimizing their carbon footprint.

What is Eco-Tourism?

Eco-tourism, also known as ecological tourism, is a form of travel that emphasizes responsible and sustainable practices. It aims to promote the conservation of natural resources, protect biodiversity, and support local communities. By adopting eco-friendly approaches, travelers can make a positive impact on the destinations they visit. When engaging in eco-tourism, travelers have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature while contributing to its preservation and sustainability . It is a way to explore the world while being mindful of the environment and the local communities that call these destinations home.

Eco-tourism is not just a trend; it is a movement that has gained momentum in recent years. As people become more aware of the importance of protecting our planet, eco-tourism has emerged as a popular choice for those seeking meaningful and sustainable travel experiences.

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Core Principles

At the heart of eco-tourism lie several core principles. First and foremost is the belief in minimizing environmental impact. This involves reducing energy consumption, waste generation, and carbon emissions. Travelers who practice eco-tourism strive to leave a minimal footprint on the places they visit, ensuring that future generations can also enjoy these natural wonders.

Eco-tourism advocates for the preservation of natural habitats and the protection of wildlife, aligning closely with the SDG goals . Travelers are encouraged to observe animals in their natural habitats without disturbing or endangering them. This allows for a deeper connection with nature and a greater appreciation for the delicate balance of ecosystems.

Another essential principle is the promotion of community benefits. Eco-tourism seeks to empower local communities by creating jobs and economic opportunities. By supporting local businesses, travelers contribute to the socio-economic development of the destinations they visit. This not only improves the lives of the community members but also encourages the preservation of cultural heritage.

Eco-tourism encourages cultural exchange and understanding. Travelers have the opportunity to learn about different traditions, customs, and ways of life. By engaging with local communities, they gain a deeper appreciation for the rich diversity of our world.

Myths Debunked

There are common misconceptions surrounding eco-tourism that need to be debunked. One myth is that eco-tourism is only for extreme nature enthusiasts. In reality, eco-tourism can be enjoyed by people of all interests and fitness levels. Whether it's birdwatching, hiking, or simply relaxing in an eco-friendly lodge, there's something for everyone.

Another myth is that eco-tourism is expensive. While there are high-end eco-lodges that offer luxury experiences, there are also more affordable options available. Camping in nature reserves or volunteering for conservation projects can be budget-friendly ways to engage in eco-tourism. The key is to prioritize sustainability and responsible practices, regardless of the budget.

Eco-tourism is not about exclusivity; it is about inclusivity. It is about creating opportunities for everyone to explore and appreciate the wonders of our planet while ensuring its long-term preservation. By debunking these myths, more people can be encouraged to embrace eco-tourism and make a positive impact on the world.

Market Dynamics

The rise of eco-tourism can be attributed to several factors, including changing consumer preferences and increased awareness of environmental issues. As more people become concerned about the impact of traditional tourism on the planet, they are actively seeking out sustainable alternatives.

One of the main driving forces behind the growth of eco-tourism is the desire for authentic experiences , driven by sustainability for business .  Travelers are no longer satisfied with simply visiting popular tourist destinations and ticking off landmarks from their bucket lists. They want to truly connect with the places they visit, immersing themselves in the beauty of the natural world and engaging with local communities.

Imagine waking up in a cozy eco-lodge nestled in the heart of a lush rainforest. The air is filled with the sounds of exotic birds and the scent of tropical flowers. You step outside and find yourself surrounded by towering trees and vibrant wildlife. This is the kind of experience that eco-tourists crave – a chance to be a part of nature, rather than just observing it from a distance.

Demand Trends

The demand for eco-tourism experiences has been steadily increasing. Travelers are now looking for destinations that offer authentic interactions with nature and local communities. They want to immerse themselves in the beauty of the natural world while having a positive impact on the environment. This increasing demand has led to the rise of sustainable infrastructure development within the tourism industry, which focuses on constructing facilities and services that minimize environmental impact and promote sustainability.

Not only are travelers seeking out eco-friendly destinations, but they are also becoming more conscious of their own impact on the environment. They are willing to make changes to their travel habits, such as reducing their carbon footprint and supporting local conservation efforts.

Eco-tourism is gaining popularity among younger generations who are environmentally conscious and socially responsible. They are willing to pay a premium for travel experiences that align with their values. These travelers are not just looking for a vacation – they are seeking meaningful experiences that allow them to make a difference. Many are drawn to destinations that offer carbon neutral options, reflecting their commitment to mitigating climate change. Eco-tourism not only addresses environmental sustainability but also aligns with broader SDG objectives, promoting models of development that preserve and respect biodiversity while supporting economic and social development worldwide.

Key Players

Various organizations and companies have emerged as key players in the eco-tourism sector. From travel agencies that specialize in sustainable travel to eco-lodge operators and adventure tour providers, these players are paving the way for a greener future in travel.

One example is a travel agency that focuses on creating customized eco-tourism itineraries. They work closely with local communities to design experiences that are both sustainable and culturally immersive. Travelers can embark on guided hikes through pristine national parks, participate in community-led conservation projects, and learn about traditional practices from indigenous peoples.

Another key player in the eco-tourism industry is an eco-lodge operator that goes above and beyond to minimize its environmental impact. They have implemented various sustainable practices, such as using renewable energy sources, practicing water conservation, and supporting local farmers by sourcing organic produce for their guests.

Adventure tour providers are also playing a crucial role in the eco-tourism market. They offer thrilling experiences like kayaking through crystal-clear waters, trekking to remote mountain peaks, and exploring hidden caves. These tours are designed to showcase the natural beauty of the destinations while promoting responsible tourism practices.

Destination Criteria

When choosing an eco-tourism destination, it is important to consider both the environmental impact and the community benefits that will be derived from your visit.

Traveling to a destination that aligns with your values and promotes sustainable practices can have a positive impact on the environment and local communities. By making conscious choices, you can contribute to the preservation of fragile ecosystems and help create a more equitable and sustainable tourism industry.

Environmental Impact

Look for destinations that have implemented conservation measures and sustainable practices. These destinations prioritize the protection of natural resources and strive to minimize their ecological footprint. They may have established protected areas, wildlife sanctuaries, or initiatives to reduce waste and promote renewable energy.

Imagine exploring a destination where you can witness the wonders of nature while knowing that your visit is not causing harm. Picture yourself hiking through lush rainforests, knowing that these pristine habitats are being preserved for future generations to enjoy. By supporting these destinations, you are indirectly contributing to the preservation of fragile ecosystems and the biodiversity they harbor.

Community Benefits

When choosing an eco-tourism destination, it is essential to ensure that the local communities are actively involved and benefit from tourism. Responsible tourism goes beyond just enjoying the sights; it involves supporting the people who call these places home.

Imagine staying in a community-run lodge, where the revenue generated from tourism is reinvested in community development projects. By choosing such destinations, you are directly contributing to the well-being of local communities. Your visit helps create employment opportunities, supports education and healthcare initiatives, and empowers local residents to preserve their cultural traditions.

Imagine immersing yourself in the vibrant traditions of indigenous communities, learning about their ancient customs, and participating in cultural exchanges. By supporting local communities, you are not only enriching your travel experience but also helping to create a more equitable and sustainable tourism industry.

So, when planning your next eco-tourism adventure, take the time to research destinations that prioritize environmental conservation and community involvement. Consider choosing lodges and tour operators that employ eco friendly practices to enhance your sustainable travel experience. By making conscious choices, you can be a responsible traveler and contribute to a more sustainable future for both the environment and the communities you visit.

Planning Your Trip

When planning an eco-tourism trip, there are several factors to consider to ensure a truly sustainable experience. It is not just about enjoying the beauty of nature, but also about preserving and protecting it for future generations.

One of the most important aspects to consider is choosing eco-friendly lodging. This means opting for accommodations that have implemented eco-friendly practices. Look for certifications such as LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) or Green Globe to ensure that the lodging meets recognized environmental standards. These certifications guarantee that the establishment has taken steps to minimize its carbon footprint, conserve water, and reduce waste. By staying at eco-friendly lodgings, you are not only reducing your own impact on the environment but also supporting businesses that prioritize sustainability.

Additionally, consider staying at eco-lodges that are locally owned and operated. This helps support the local economy and ensures that the benefits of tourism are distributed among the community. Locally owned lodges often have a deep understanding and respect for the surrounding environment, offering a more authentic and immersive experience for travelers.

Eco-Friendly Lodging

Choosing eco-friendly lodging is just the beginning. To truly embrace eco-tourism, it is important to engage in sustainable activities during your trip. These activities should have a minimal impact on the environment and contribute to the conservation of natural resources.

One popular sustainable activity is hiking. Exploring nature on foot allows you to immerse yourself in the beauty of the surroundings while minimizing your carbon footprint. Whether it's trekking through lush rainforests, climbing majestic mountains, or strolling along pristine beaches, hiking offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature and appreciate its wonders.

Wildlife spotting is another eco-friendly activity that allows you to observe and appreciate animals in their natural habitats. However, it is crucial to do so responsibly. Always maintain a safe distance from the animals and never disturb or feed them. By respecting their space, you can ensure that they continue to thrive in their natural environment.

Participating in conservation projects is another way to contribute to eco-tourism. Many destinations offer opportunities to get involved in initiatives focused on protecting endangered species, restoring ecosystems, or promoting sustainable practices. By actively participating in these projects, you can make a tangible difference and leave a positive impact on the environment.

While engaging in sustainable activities, it is equally important to avoid those that exploit animals or damage natural habitats. Activities such as elephant riding, swimming with captive dolphins, or visiting attractions that keep animals in captivity should be avoided. These practices often involve cruelty and contribute to the degradation of ecosystems. Instead, choose activities that promote wildlife conservation and respect for nature.

The goal of eco-tourism is not only to enjoy the natural beauty of a destination but also to leave the environment in an even better condition than before. By choosing eco-friendly lodging and engaging in sustainable activities, you can make a positive impact and contribute to the preservation of our planet's precious ecosystems.

Best Practices

When participating in eco-tourism, there are best practices that every traveler should abide by. These practices not only ensure a positive and sustainable impact on the environment but also promote cultural understanding and economic growth in local communities.

Leave No Trace

Leave the natural environment just as you found it. This goes beyond not littering; it means avoiding any actions that could harm the delicate balance of the ecosystem. When exploring nature, stick to designated trails to minimize your impact on the surrounding vegetation and wildlife. By leaving no trace, you ensure that future generations can enjoy the same pristine environments that you have experienced.

Moreover, take the time to appreciate the beauty of your surroundings and learn about the flora and fauna that call it home. Take pictures and memories, but leave behind only footprints.

Local Engagement

Interact with the local communities and learn about their customs and traditions. Engaging with the locals not only enriches your travel experience but also fosters mutual understanding and respect. Take the opportunity to immerse yourself in their culture, try local foods, and participate in traditional activities.

Respect their culture and be mindful of local sensitivities. Learn a few basic phrases in the local language to show your interest and appreciation. Remember, you are a guest in their home, so treat it with the utmost respect.

Additionally, support local businesses and purchase locally produced goods. This not only contributes to the local economy but also helps to preserve traditional crafts and skills. By buying souvenirs directly from local artisans, you are not only taking home a unique piece of their culture but also supporting their livelihoods.

Consider volunteering your time and skills to local community projects. This can be a rewarding way to give back and make a positive impact during your travels.

By following these best practices, you can ensure that your eco-tourism experience is not only enjoyable for you but also beneficial for the environment and the local communities you visit. Remember, responsible travel is the key to preserving our planet's natural and cultural treasures for generations to come.

Economic Incentives

Eco-tourism has significant economic benefits for both destinations and travelers.

When it comes to eco-tourism, the positive impacts extend far beyond the surface level. Not only does it provide a unique and enriching experience for travelers, but it also plays a crucial role in the economic development of the destinations it touches.

One of the key economic benefits of eco-tourism is revenue allocation. The revenue generated through eco-tourism activities can be reinvested in various sectors, such as conservation efforts, community development projects, and infrastructure improvements. This reinvestment helps to create a cycle of economic growth that is sustainable in the long run.

Imagine a scenario where a pristine rainforest is transformed into an eco-tourism destination. As travelers flock to explore the beauty of the rainforest, the revenue generated from their visits can be used to support conservation efforts. This includes initiatives like reforestation, wildlife protection, and the preservation of fragile ecosystems. By allocating funds to these crucial activities, eco-tourism ensures the long-term sustainability of the destination's natural resources.

Revenue allocation also extends to community development projects. Local communities living in and around eco-tourism destinations can benefit greatly from the economic opportunities that arise. The revenue generated from eco-tourism can be used to improve the quality of life for these communities by investing in education, healthcare, and infrastructure. For example, funds can be allocated to build schools, hospitals, and roads, providing better access to essential services for both locals and travelers.

Another significant economic incentive of eco-tourism is job creation. By supporting eco-tourism, travelers contribute to the creation of employment opportunities in local communities. These opportunities can range from tour guides and hospitality staff to artisans and conservationists.

Imagine a coastal village that relies on fishing as its primary source of income. By embracing eco-tourism, the village opens up new avenues for employment. Local fishermen can become tour guides, showcasing their deep knowledge of the marine ecosystem to travelers. Artisans can create and sell handmade crafts, providing a unique cultural experience for visitors. Conservationists can work hand in hand with researchers and scientists to protect the delicate balance of the coastal ecosystem.

Through job creation, eco-tourism not only provides economic empowerment to local communities but also helps to diversify their sources of income. This reduces their dependence on a single industry, making them more resilient to economic fluctuations and external shocks.

So, the next time you embark on an eco-tourism adventure, remember that your choice is not only about experiencing the wonders of nature but also about contributing to the economic well-being of the destination and its people. By supporting eco-tourism, you become a catalyst for positive change, driving sustainable economic growth and empowerment.

Certification and Standards

Various certification programs and standards are in place to ensure the authenticity and credibility of eco-tourism practices.

Accredited Programs

Look for destinations and accommodations that are accredited by recognized eco-tourism organizations. These programs assess and certify the eco-friendly practices of tourism providers, giving travelers confidence in their choices.

Be wary of destinations or accommodations that claim to be eco-friendly without credible certification. Greenwashing, the practice of misleading consumers about environmentally friendly practices, is a significant concern in the eco-tourism industry. Do thorough research and support businesses with proven track records.

Policy Implications

Eco-tourism has implications for tourism boards and national governments.

Tourism Boards

Tourism boards can promote and support eco-tourism initiatives by providing funding, resources, and marketing assistance. They can collaborate with stakeholders to develop sustainable tourism strategies and ensure compliance with environmental standards.

National Initiatives

National governments play a crucial role in creating a favorable environment for eco-tourism. This includes developing and implementing policies that incentivize sustainable practices, protecting natural resources, and supporting the growth of eco-tourism businesses.

Tech and Innovation

Technology and innovation have the potential to revolutionize the eco-tourism industry.

Booking Platforms

Online booking platforms can incorporate eco-friendly filters and certifications, making it easier for travelers to find sustainable options. These platforms can also provide information on environmental practices and community impacts, allowing travelers to make informed decisions.

Eco-Monitoring

Technological advancements enable the monitoring of environmental impacts in real-time. This can help tourism operators identify areas of improvement and make data-driven decisions to minimize their footprint. It also allows travelers to choose destinations and operators that prioritize sustainability.

Navigating Obstacles

While eco-tourism offers numerous benefits, it is not without its challenges.

Over-Tourism

Popular eco-tourism destinations can suffer from over-tourism, leading to environmental degradation and strain on local resources. Sustainable management practices, such as visitor caps, permit systems, and alternative attraction development, can address this challenge and ensure the long-term viability of eco-tourism destinations.

Greenwashing

Greenwashing is a significant obstacle in the eco-tourism industry. Some businesses falsely claim to be eco-friendly, misleading consumers. To overcome this challenge, certification programs, consumer education, and transparency are essential. Researching and choosing reputable eco-tourism providers is crucial in avoiding greenwashing practices.

Future Outlook

The future of eco-tourism looks promising, as more travelers embrace sustainable travel practices.

Post-Pandemic Scenarios

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought attention to the need for sustainable tourism practices. As destinations rebuild their tourism industries, there is an opportunity to prioritize sustainable development and eco-tourism initiatives. Travelers are eager to reconnect with nature and support local communities, making eco-tourism a viable and attractive option.

Technology Impact

Advancements in technology will continue to shape the eco-tourism landscape. From virtual reality experiences that allow travelers to explore without leaving a carbon footprint to innovative renewable energy solutions for accommodations, technology will play a crucial role in enhancing the sustainability of eco-tourism.

Eco-tourism offers a transformative way of traveling, allowing individuals to explore the world while minimizing their impact on the environment. By adopting responsible and sustainable practices, travelers can pave the way for a greener future in travel. As the demand for eco-tourism continues to grow, it is essential for stakeholders, from governments to tourism operators, to collectively work towards creating a sustainable and inclusive eco-tourism industry.

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More From Forbes

7 ways to travel more sustainably.

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Sustainable travel can be fun, rewarding and not at all challenging

Sustainable travel is surging in popularity, but what does it mean? The vague term can refer to traveling in a way that’s conscientious of the environment and local communities, leaving less of an impact on a destination and perhaps even bettering the location in the process. Sustainable tourism, in many ways a reaction to overtourism, helps protect the planet, to ensure destinations are liveable and worth visiting for years to come. And while travel can certainly takes its toll, creating carbon emissions, waste and more, responsible tourism is an essential step in protecting the planet.

Sustainable Travel Tips

Responsible tourism helps the environment by limiting ecological impact, supporting indigenous wildlife, respecting cultural heritage, and not taking away from a destination as a visitor, be it removing a shell from a beach or littering on a hiking trail. Plenty of responsible travel itineraries are easily replicable, but many trips can be adapted to be more sustainable. There are so many ways, big and small, to travel more responsibly and sustainably. Here’s how to start:

1. TSA-Friendly Doesn’t Need To Be Earth Hostile

You can buy single use and tiny versions of pretty much every care product these days, but do you actually need to? Opt for refillable travel bottles to decant your normal products into, and you’ll always have TSA-friendly bottles of shampoo, lotion, whatever you need at the ready. If you prefer to travel without liquids, consider switching to bars of shampoo and conditioner toothpaste powder and other products, which are eco-friendly wherever you are.

Planning ahead can be a major factor in sustainable travel

2. Opt For Public Transit

Public transportation — buses, trains, light rail, etc. — is always more sustainable than a private ride. If possible, use public transit to get to and from your destination and learn your destination’s public transit system to navigate while you explore. Not only will you likely save money as well as lower your carbon footprint, you’ll get a taste of how locals live. If public transit isn’t an option, consider booking shared rides to the airport and excursions, or renting an electric or hybrid vehicle if driving solo is the only option.

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A bit of planning ahead can save considerable landfill waste. Bringing a reusable coffee cup for morning coffee runs and reusable water bottle will hopefully cut down the amount of single-use items you purchase on the go. Other easy to pack items including a reusable travel utensil set, reusable straws and reusable earplugs can help avoid creating more waste on the road. If you’re someone who discards beach reads, consider switching to an e-reader. Pack tote bags to carry souvenirs or other items purchased on the road that won’t require disposable plastic bags.

4. Eat Conscientiously

Eating local is the best way for your diet to support local eco-systems. Not only does dining at independent, small businesses (e.g. not chains), support local business people, but can often have lower environmental impact than major franchised restaurants that ship ingredients and supplies across the country. Making lower impact choices, including eating mostly plant-based, when possible, can also make travel a bit greener. If you don’t have anything to do with leftovers, consider ordering with a bit more restriction so you aren’t creating an excess of food waste.

Local culinary experiences can be healthy, fulfilling and sustainable

5. Book A Sustainable Hotel

Staying at a property dedicated to sustainability can make a big impact, especially by showing the travel industry that this is a priority for hospitality. Hotels are offered various certifications to prove their sustainable status, which can be achieved as a remote eco-lodge or luxury property in a major city. Several hotels are seeking LEED certification , the Green Hotels Association has a collection of vendors who prioritize sustainability, and the Leading Hotels of the World has a sustainability collection of five star properties.

6. Buy Carbon Offsets

While we technically can’t undo the damage we cause to the environment, there are initiatives to at least mitigate it. Carbon offsets allow consumers to compensate for their carbon footprint by funding projects that reduce carbon dioxide pollution. CoolEffect.org can help you decide how much to give, based on trip itinerary and logistics. For example, to offset air travel, a roundtrip, 6-hour flight would add about 1.89 tons of CO2 per passenger, and $31.17 of carbon offsets would help mitigate that.

Some airlines offer the option to purchase carbon offsets alongside airfare

7. Slow Down Your Travel

Slow travel is a buzzword that’s emerged in the 2020s, when work and leisure travel aka bleisure have melded more than ever, and the concept of working and even socializing remotely is totally normalized. Rather than a quick jaunt back and forth, slow travel emphasizes taking your time with tourism, be it living in a rental property for a month and enjoying the sights on the weekends, going backpacking, biking or hiking for an extended off the grid period, or traveling via train instead of air. Slow tourism has been proven to have a positive environmental impact .

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How To Have A Sustainable Summer Holiday In 2024

By Becky Lucas

“Sustainable travel” may still sound like a paradox to many. Surely staying at home, carefully constructing towers of artfully wrapped Who Gives a Crap recycled toilet paper, mending vintage finds and minding unruly tomato plants is truly the most eco-friendly way to spend precious downtime? Didn’t the pandemic – when most flights were grounded, road traffic slowed and air pollution subsequently lowered – prove that once and for all? And yet: that awful era also highlighted how a whopping 10 per cent of the world’s GDP relies on tourism and hospitality. So does that mean it really can be more eco-friendly to go on holiday, than not?

“That’s an impossible question,” says Condé Nast Traveller ’s sustainability editor, Juliet Kinsman . “It depends what your measure is: are you talking about carbon emissions or are you considering critical wealth distribution for so many climate vulnerable communities?” If the money dries up in rural areas and nature conservation projects, inhabitants may well have to flock to carbon-spitting cities, compounding the world’s problems. Perhaps it is possible to have a relatively sustainable trip then, as long as the myriad of mindful decisions you make along the way add up to a positive travel footprint, overall. Cat Jones, founder of flight-free travel platform Byway.travel , finds the question less intractable. “Sadly [there’s] not [ever any way it is more eco-friendly to travel than to stay at home], but instead of stopping altogether – which realistically most people won’t want or be able to do – it can be more impactful to adjust habits.”

Industry insiders tracking consumer trends say that, in 2024, more and more people are adopting this “rather something than nothing” approach. While we may not be cancelling holidays – 81 per cent of global travellers plan to make the same number, if not more, trips abroad in 2024 versus last year according to Skyscanner’s latest research – we are trying to travel better. The number of people using the site’s electric and hybrid car hire filter, for example, has more than tripled year on year, while the amount of people booking flight-free trips via Byway.travel is also getting close to threefold, with 61 per cent of the Gen-Z tourists it surveyed “seeking alternatives to flying to reduce their carbon footprints”.

By Laura Hawkins

By Christian Allaire

By Georgia Day

Gen-Z tourists are seeking alternatives to flying to reduce their carbon footprints.

Indeed, it seems that the younger travellers are, the more they’re pushing for change. “The demand for flight-free travel is increasingly driven by our clients’ children,” says Original Travel agency co-founder, Tom Barber. “They are incredibly mindful of the carbon emission issue of flying.” The kids are no doubt aware of the strong standing of trains compared to other forms of transport when it comes to emissions. “Rail travel accounts for just 14g of CO2 per passenger mile, dwarfed by the 285g generated by air travel,” explains Jones. “Driving in a petrol car can produce up to 192g, whereas being a walk-on passenger on a ferry only produces 19g.”

Barber has therefore introduced a slew of rail-only itineraries (including one train that actually boards a ferry in Sicily, somehow), taking advantage of the recently improved European rail network infrastructure thanks to government backing, and the happy reintroduction of many night trains. These sleepers are also currently the most requested experience by customers of Byway.travel, which offers routes from Hamburg to Vienna with enticing-sounding new mini cabin pods, among many others.

Folding your accommodation into your transport and avoiding emissions involved in checking in elsewhere has also helped sustain the UK’s recent camper van renaissance. Lindsay Berresford, co-founder of the van-sharing site Quirky Campers , tells us more people than ever are booking with them – particularly millennials. “A camper van holiday allows the sort of slow, immersive, off-the-beaten-track level of exploration that people are craving,” she adds. And while a camper van or static caravan stay emits around 38 times less CO2 than the average long-haul flight, opting for a tent close to home and walking everywhere is about as sustainably sound as any vacation is realistically going to get.

The Brando, in French Polynesia, was the first hotel to achieve LEED Platinum Certification.

And yet, all of this being said, sometimes time and route restrictions mean you still have to fly. Jenny Southan, founder of Globetrender.com , is not afraid to stick up for aviation. “In my opinion, the industry has earned a bad reputation for its carbon footprint, which is much smaller than global road transport, iron and steel production, and energy use in buildings, for example,” she says. If you must fly, go direct, pick a flight with fewer emissions, carefully select a site to off-set your journey , and combine as many elements into your trip as possible – work meetings, friend drop-ins, expeditions – to avoid flying there again any time soon. Also, be more like US travel journalist and podcaster Eben Diskin and pack light and tight. “I’ve been travelling with my Wenger Synergy backpack and nothing else – no checked bags, no rollaways – for a decade now.”

So where exactly might be worthy of your air, rail or road miles, away from already overcrowded hubs? Close to home, all food in Spain’s Alava region is now produced locally, making it a zero-mile food and wine culture, while the rail network in The Netherlands has been powered solely by wind since 2017. And in the UK itself, stand-out sustainable stays include the Grove of Narberth in Wales for its upcycled interiors and next-level ethical produce (you know it’s a green hotel when the staff tell you that of all their future plans, they are most excited about “six new composting silos”), while Southan name-checks the Newt in Somerset and the upcoming Pig on the Farm , just south of Stratford-Upon-Avon, for their self-sufficient kitchen gardens and farms.

Further afield, topping most experts’ lists is Costa Rica, where conservation areas make up a quarter of the country, and which has a Certification for Sustainable Tourism programme to clearly signpost the hotels and restaurants that are having an authentically positive impact. Meanwhile Turkey, which introduced its Sustainable Tourism Program in 2022, is in need of support after the February 2023 earthquakes.

In terms of specific resorts, the Brando in French Polynesia, opened in 2014 on the late actor Marlon Brando’s home island of Tetiaroa, was the first hotel ever to achieve LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Platinum Certification, and there are plans afoot to develop it into an endangered species redevelopment sanctuary. (“We always recommend guests come for an extended period of time and explore other islands in French Polynesia while they’re here,” the team said, when asked how to visit eco-responsibly.) “ Mashpi Lodge in Ecuador is doing an incredible job of incentivising local farmers to rewild so they can stitch together a wildlife corridor,” points out Kinsman, whose favourite design eco-hotels can be found at bouteco.co .

The emphasis is on ethical produce at the Grove of Narberth in Wales.

Prefer Airbnbs to hotels? Check out the site’s recently introduced Categories section for offbeat listings in lesser-known places (such as its apt Earth Homes ), rent a private room from a local if you can, and use the “ I’m Flexible ” filter for more popular listings during quieter periods, to spread travel throughout the year. Indeed, holidaying off-season is another broad shift that’s simultaneously caused by and in response to global warming: travel company Black Tomato reports increased demand in May and October in Italy, Portugal, Greece, Croatia and France, mainly because travellers want to “avoid the baking heat of Europe”. Alternative home rental site, Fairbnb.coop , meanwhile, has 2,500 loyal hosts across Europe and you can direct 50 per cent of every booking to a local social project.

So does your travel footprint’s positives outweigh its negatives so far? In truth, it’s hard for anyone to do that maths. Recent research by Intrepid Travel found that the majority (66 per cent) of Britons “have no idea what their carbon footprint is”, but 70 per cent were willing to change behaviours to minimise it. While there are numerous carbon emission calculators – such as Byway.travels ’ and Intrepid’s own new carbon labels – and independent certifications –  BCorp , LEED and Global Sustainable Tourism Council are some biggies – none have symbols that can be seen everywhere yet.

Really, the key thing to do is ask questions: of the travel company you book through, the hotels you visit and the locals you meet, about their climate initiatives, where food waste goes, where you should eat and visit to invest your money in the right places. Ask questions of yourself, too – don’t take a holiday from the eco-habits you have come to practise at home, do pack a reusable shopping bag and straws, keep on recycling on the go.

You never know, like Southan, who recently did a kayaking tour from Richard Branson’s Necker Island around some mangroves on a nearby island, you might return having experienced something that shifts your mindset to make you more conscious once you’re back home. “I learnt how critical the trees are for absorbing carbon from the atmosphere. It’s these mind-expanding opportunities that help us all do better and motivate us to be more responsible. Even though we might not be perfect.”

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