Ecotourism is “responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment, sustains the well-being of the local people, and involves interpretation and education”. Because of over tourism and climate change, this type of environmental consciousness is fast becoming a popular way for people to travel. Although it’s almost impossible to stay carbon neutral when travelling, there’s still plenty of ways to offset your impact. With extra planning, the places you visit, where you stay and what you spend your money on can be more eco-friendly. We’ve gathered a short list of the 5 best countries for ecotourism to help you plan for your next eco-friendly adventure.
1. Costa Rica
Although small in size at just 51,179 km², Costa Rica is home to 5% of the world’s biodiversity and is one of the best countries for ecotourism on our list. In fact, the biodiversity found on the Osa peninsula in particular is unsurpassed by any similar sized region on earth. This biodiversity is supported by Costa Rica’s committed to sustainability having designated 25% of the country as conservation land.
In 2012, Costa Rica became the first Latin American country to ban hunting as a sport to help protect the country’s treasured biodiversity. Among the 19,730 square miles of protected land you’ll find 29 national parks, wildlife refuges, wetlands, forests and biological reserves. But ecotourism in Costa Rica isn’t just reserved to conservation land. Visiting Costa Rica and supporting local tours, accommodation and restaurants all helps to preserve the focus on sustainability.
2. New Zealand
New Zealand is home to a variety of ecosystems from rainforests to mountain ranges and glacial lakes. Among these ecosystems live 484 known species of amphibians, birds, mammals and reptiles, 39% of which are only found in New Zealand.
The country has a reputation as being clean and green for decades, in large part thanks to its 100% Pure New Zealand marketing campaign that’s been running since 1999. Having seen a negative impact from human activity, ecotourism initiatives in New Zealand aim to reduce environmental impacts and even restore it through volunteer work. Visitors to can support their sustainability mission by going on conservation tours, staying in eco hotels and enjoying the abundance of natural beauty on offer.
3. Galapagos Islands, Ecuador
The Galapagos Islands are another one of the best countries for ecotourism on our list. The Galapagos Islands are made up of 18 main islands (only 4 are inhabited) located about 1000 km off the coast of Ecuador. First declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1978, with boundaries extending to the Galapagos Marine Reserve in 2001. The location at the intersection of three ocean currents makes them one of the most interesting marine ecosystems in the world having been described as “living museum and showcase of evolution’. In fact, it was this showcase of evolution in the Galapagos Islands that famously inspired Charles Darwin to write his groundbreaking book On The Origin of Species.
Must-See Places
When visiting the Galapagos Islands today, travellers need to respect carefully crafted strategies to maintain the fragile ecosystem. You need to pay an entrance fee and the number of visitors to specific sites is restricted. Additionally, luggage is inspected by the Galápagos Biosecurity Agency to ensure no invasive species are being introduced that could damage the ecosystem. Considering the outstanding beauty and diversity of this area, these precautions are a small price to pay to preserve and maintain for future generations.
4. Panama
Panama is another country on list that officially protected a significant amount of land as part of its conservation efforts. They protect at least 30% of the country’s land comprising wildlife reserves, wetlands and national forest parks. The country is committed to sustainability having been designated one of only three carbon negative countries in the world, absorbing more carbon emissions than it produces.
Must-See Places
Travellers to Panama can experience and support a vast number of animal and marine species. Also deemed bird watcher paradise with more bird species than Canada and the US combined. May sure to book only with official tours operators and avoid purchasing souvenirs made from endangered animals like coral or turtle-shell jewellery. For accommodation, check out some eco-hotels in Panama to help support sustainable tourism on your adventures through this beautiful country.
5. Bhutan
Last but certainly not least on our list of best countries for ecotourism is Bhutan. Bhutan is well known as a sustainable world leader being a carbon negative country for many years now. Their carbon footprint is approx. 2.2 million tonnes of CO2 but they offset approx. 6 million tonnes annually. This offset comes from a commitment to sustainability by all Bhutan residents. Approx. 60% of the country is covered in forestry, with goals to end deforestation by 2030.
Must-See Places
Bhutan’s focus on Gross National Happiness is evident when visiting this country. Travellers can enjoy beautifully untouched and protected landscapes and wildlife in a sustainable way. The jungles of Bhutan are home to many animal species like snow leopards, bengal tigers and the endangered red panda. To the south in the forests, you can find water buffalo, elephants, one-horned rhinos and the golden langur – found only in Bhutan. Travelling sustainably and supporting national parks and conservation areas helps fund their important work. Entrance fees and donations also pay to employ knowledgeable local guides to help preserve the area for generations to come.
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