While travelling is fun, air travel contributes to global carbon emissions. This transportation method accounted for 2.5% of CO2 emissions in 2023. Meanwhile, energy intensity improvements have yet to counterbalance demand.
Simultaneously, mass tourism often contributes to poor waste management. For example, Mount Everest experiences numerous forms of pollution, from solid waste to human excrement. What once was a natural wonder is now a tourist destination closely resembling a dump.
Your vacation destination can dictate your environmental impact. How you get there accounts for the largest share of your trip’s emissions, and choosing ecologically fragile environments as a destination can put pressure on local habitats. Where you stay can also make an impact, as upscale accommodations often use significant energy and resources.
One way to reduce your carbon footprint is to practice ecotourism. This philosophy encourages responsible travel to natural areas, conserving the environment. When visiting, your focus becomes environmental education and ensuring your time and money benefit the ecosystem and the locals.
Embracing ecotourism means consciously choosing destinations and activities that prioritise sustainability and community well-being over conventional tourism’s exploitative practices. Ultimately, it’s about making a positive impact and deepening your connection with nature.
Here are five summer ecotourism getaways where you can immerse yourself in nature while actively contributing to its preservation.
1. Corcovado National Park, Costa Rica
Located in the Osa Peninsula, Corcovado National Park is a biodiversity hotspot. Home to one of the few remaining lowland tropical forests in the world, which supports populations of jaguars, tapirs, scarlet macaws, and various endangered species. The national park also includes vast wetlands and pristine beaches.
Corcovado National Park is essential to Costa Rica's ecosystems by protecting endangered species, such as jaguars and scarlet macaws. Its authorised guides ensure visitor numbers remain controlled to minimise ecosystem disturbance.
To keep your carbon footprint minimal, stay in a certified eco-friendly lodging. Several sustainable luxury lodges are recognised by the Costa Rican Tourism Board's Certification for Sustainable Tourism. When you explore Corcovado National Park, following local, licensed guides ensures you stay on designated trails, preventing erosion and keeping animals from becoming overly habituated to humans.
2. Galápagos Islands, Ecuador
The Galápagos Islands are home to more than 9,000 species that have evolved in isolation due to the islands’ geographic remoteness. These unique ecosystems range from subtropical regions to arid highlands and offer diverse experiences for eco-tourists.
A Galápagos trip is an excellent way to support ecotourism at a popular destination. These Ecuadorian islands are strict about sustainability, as tour providers must conserve water and energy and follow recycling and waste protocols.
To help preserve this stunning volcanic archipelago, book Galápagos Conservancy-endorsed tour providers and accommodations. Choosing sustainably minded operators means your vacation supports the long-term health of the islands’ habitats. They also enforce essential rules to prevent threats to wildlife’s health and natural behaviours, such as maintaining distance and decontaminating gear.
3. Mount Rainier National Park, Washington, U.S.
This national park encompasses Mount Rainier, an active volcano that rises to 14,410 feet, making it the most glaciated peak in the contiguous United States. It’s renowned for its stunning wildflower meadows, which bloom during the summer months.
Mount Rainier National Park has focused on sustainability by preserving its natural ecosystems through restoration projects. Expect to see specialised human-led waste management systems to reduce motorised transport usage.
You can explore over 260 miles of trails that offer various levels of difficulty. You might spot deer, elk, and different bird species as you hike or rest on wildlife viewing platforms. Always stay on designated paths to avoid trampling alpine plants and contributing to soil erosion. Never feed the animals, and store your food in bear-proof containers. To help offset your carbon footprint, segregate your waste and take recyclables to the designated bins throughout the park.
4. Great Bear Rainforest, Canada
The Great Bear Rainforest of Canada is one of the largest remaining coastal temperate rainforests in the world. After 20 years of global campaigns, it’s now protected from industrial logging, which secured vital habitats for species including spirit bears and coastal wolves.
Visiting the Great Bear Rainforest lets you see a globally significant ecosystem. The Western Canada location prioritises safety by mandating a buffer between you and the bears. Plus, the tour providers must grant permission before anyone snaps a photo.
Kayaking, swimming and marine tours are among the best ways to experience this rainforest. You might observe seals, otters, eagles and other wildlife. Use biodegradable sunscreens and soap to prevent coral bleaching and harm to fish fertility. If you’d rather keep your feet on the ground, join forest hikes to learn about the local ecosystem and visit the region’s most scenic summer spots. Book indigenous-guided tours to ensure your money goes directly to the communities that manage and protect the land.
5. Sanctuary Mountain Maungatautari, New Zealand
New Zealand’s Sanctuary Mountain Maungatautari is the largest fenced eco-sanctuary in the world. More than 730 native species thrive in its ancient forest, including endangered species such as kiwis and kākāpō. The sanctuary aims to restore the country’s rich biodiversity and offers a unique eco-tourist experience.
This ecotourism destination stands out for its predator-proof fence, which creates a safe haven by preventing outside entry. Species like kākā parrots and tuatara can safely exist and demonstrate New Zealand’s original ecology.
Join guided eco-tours to spot ancient tuatara and native birdlife in the Tautari Wetlands, or go on night walks for potential encounters with rare giant wētās. Always follow the sanctuary’s biosecurity rules. These include using the footwear cleaning stations to prevent the spread of invasive plant diseases and walking only on designated paths. You can also donate directly or buy eco-friendly gifts from shops whose proceeds support the protection of New Zealand’s wildlife.
Tips to Travel Eco-Consciously
Prioritise ecotourism destinations, such as the featured parks and sanctuaries, focused on conservation, community benefit and environmental education. They directly support local ecosystems and indigenous populations while providing immersive yet ethical ways to experience the natural world. Consider these tips to reduce your travel carbon footprint:
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Research the environmental issues and cultural nuances of your destination.
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Book with licensed local guides who understand the destination’s ecosystem and uphold rules to preserve it.
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Participate in eco-friendly volunteer opportunities, such as beach clean-ups, to give back to the community.
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Choose certified eco-conscious accommodations, operators and tours.
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Always use designated trails and respect wildlife.
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Follow the “Leave No Trace” principles, especially in natural areas.
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Use reusable items to reduce waste.
Make a Difference Through Travel
Ecotourism destinations combine immersive nature with sustainability. They feature eco-conscious accommodations and operators that offer unforgettable experiences while also minimising environmental and socio-economic harm. Choose your next getaway wisely to make memories and leave a more positive impact on the planet.
