Ecotourism Is Not a Guilt Trip—Here’s How to Travel Green and Have Fun
What if you could explore the world’s natural wonders while also making a positive impact? What if, instead of focusing on what you can take from a destination, you considered what you could give back? This is the heart of eco-tourism.
Read on as we dive into the world of sustainable travel, unpacking what it is, what it matters, and how you can do it.
Ecotourism definition: What’s it really mean to travel sustainably
What is ecotourism, anyway? According to The International Ecotourism Society, the oldest ecotourism society in the world, ecotourism is “responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment, sustains the well-being of the local people, and involves interpretation and education.”
In simpler words, ecotourism is a way to travel the world sustainably, prioritizing conservation, cultural respect, and community well-being.
How to travel green and have fun doing it (according to ecotourism principles)
Eco-friendly travel isn’t about sacrificing a good time. Ecotourism is about redefining what travel looks like when done right. Here’s how to embrace ecotourism principles on your next vacation without running anyone’s vibe:
Tread light—literally and culturally.
When traveling anywhere, a little self-awareness can go a long way. To be mindful of your impact, know before you go and choose sustainability at every step. This means respecting local customs, reducing waste, and ensuring your presence doesn’t disrupt the community’s way of life.
Remember you’re a guest, not just a consumer.
Instead of acting like the world is your personal playground when you travel, taking the time to understand the history, environment, and culture of the place you’re visiting is key. Learn a few key phrases in the local language, support local businesses and artisans, and choose experiences that foster a greater appreciation and understanding for nature, the local society, and its culture.
Support the locals with your wallet.
Ecotourism is about empowering local communities. This means that every time you swipe your card or buy anything, you should first make sure that your money will be going back to the local people.
Opt for staying at locally owned accommodations, dining at small-owned restaurants, and choosing tour guides that prioritize ethical, community-driven experiences. When you do all of this, you’re not just passing through—you’re actually contributing to the livelihood of the people who call the destination home.
Seek out experiences that are more than photo ops.
To really make the most out of ecotourism, go beyond your Lonely Planet guide and your comfort zone to seek experiences that’ll deepen your awareness of the local realities. Whether it’s visiting a local history museum, going on a guided tour, or finding a conservation project to participate in, ecotourism opens the door to your journey being deeper than just aesthetics.
Respect Indigenous rights and spiritual beliefs.
Don’t forget that many of the world’s most beautiful places are still Indigenous lands. When you visit, remember you are not the expert of their land. Underprivileged Indigenous populations are often the most silenced as a result of tourism, making it crucial to seek out businesses and experiences that center Indigenous communities, not silence them.
Think you’re ready to go green?
At its core, ecotourism is about traveling with intention and making sure that those experiences don’t come at the cost of the environment or the people who call it home.
Where would you visit first as an ecotourist?
