Tongariro National Park© © Pierrick Limousin - iStockphoto.com
Awareness of the need to preserve the environment is leading us to change our habits, including when it comes to travel. This is leading us to set out to conquer new spaces and destinations that promote ecotourism. For nature-lovers, there are a multitude of destinations around the world that lend themselves to so-called sustainable activities, in areas that are preserved and rich in biodiversity. Want to join an eco-responsible destination for your next getaway? Here are 10 destinations where you can reconnect with nature and reinforce your conviction that it is one of the most precious elements on our beloved planet.
1- The Galapagos Islands, Ecuador
Blue-footed booby© (c) Photon-Photos
To get eco-travelers in the mood, it's worth noting that the Galápagos airport is the most eco-friendly in the world, built from wood and stone from old buildings. Water for the sinks and toilets is also recycled. The archipelago, which lies off the coast of Ecuador in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, is a sanctuary of biodiversity. You can stroll along crystal-clear, white-sand beaches, or along lunar landscapes of volcanic origin. Many animals have made their home in this incredible natural environment, including iguanas, pelicans and giant tortoises. Here, everything is done to reduce the ecological footprint of visitors. Authorities and locals are all committed to defending their incredible landscapes, which are among Ecuador's most beautiful.
Read more: What to do in the Galapagos Islands Top 13 must-sees
2- The Azores, Portugal
Mount Pico© (c) Mlenny - iStockphoto.com
Situated in the middle of the Atlantic, some 1,500 km from the Portuguese coast, the Azores comprise 9 islands of volcanic origin and are a magnificent Portuguese archipelago of ecotourism, water sports and hiking. Once you're here, you'll want to explore the archipelago's treasures on foot, by bike, on horseback or on the water. Among the must-sees are the verdant landscapes of the island of São Miguel, also known for its splendid "Lake of Fire", a volcano crater filled with rainwater and surrounded by striking relief. A visit to the Parque Terra Nostra allows you to lose yourself among the many endemic plant species of the Azores. The island of Pico offers the incredible experience of climbing the eponymous mountain, the highest in Portugal, as well as observing no fewer than 25 different species of cetacean. Mass tourism has not yet reached the archipelago, and this is a good opportunity to enjoy the beauty of nature in a serene climate.
Read more: Top 10 eco-friendly destinations in Europe
3- Luxembourg's Little Switzerland
Mullerthal Trail© (c) Alice_D - Fotolia
Luxembourg may be a small country, but its natural beauty makes it an ideal destination for a quiet, green holiday. Luxembourg's Little Switzerland, the name given to the Mullerthal region, is the small territory that lies to the east, not far from the German border. The area's name derives from its rugged terrain. Walks and bike rides take place in the heart of the beautiful rolling countryside, pastures and forests, not forgetting breaks by the rivers. Climbing and white-water sports are other popular activities in the area. Luxembourg's little Switzerland also boasts a number of charming villages where you can stop off to sample some fine local charcuterie.
Read more: 9 alternatives to Europe's over-touristy destinations
4- Costa Rica: unquestionably one of the world's most eco-friendly travel destinations
Manuel Antonio National Park© © HonestTraveller - iStockphoto.com
Costa Rica has become the world's benchmark for sustainable tourism. The Latin American country boasts no fewer than 29 national parks with a wealth of flora and fauna. Everyone here is committed to protecting the environment and indigenous populations. The Manuel Antonio National Park, with its idyllic vegetation and beaches, is one of the most beautiful places to venture out and experience nature at its best. The Monteverde Biological Reserve, in the heart of a high-altitude forest bathed in an omnipresent mist, is a breathtaking experience. The suspension bridges of the Monteverde reserve are one of Costa Rica's not-to-be-missed activities. From the preservation of endangered species to reforestation, Costa Rica is constantly working to preserve a country where 25% of the surface area is protected.
Read more: The 5 best tours to discover Costa Rica
5- Vancouver, Canada
Stanley Park© (c) Abdullahecirli - iStockphoto
We often associate ecotourism with the discovery of natural spaces, but we shouldn't forget that cities around the world are now committed to offering a living environment that reduces their impact on nature. Such is the case of Vancouver, Canada. It is one of the greenest cities on the North American continent. The city offers no less than 300 km of bicycle paths and electric buses to connect its various neighborhoods. Urban farms and community gardens also reduce the need to import food by boat or truck. After visiting Downtown and stocking up on local produce at the Granville Peninsula market, head to Stanley Park to enjoy the setting. The sea, the mountains, the forests and the must-see buildings, the place brings together locals and visitors in search of relaxation in one of Canada's must-see cities.
Read more: Top 15 tourist alternatives to avoid mass tourism
6- Bhutan
Taktshang Monastery© (c) narvikk - iStockphoto.com
Bhutan is reputed to be one of the happiest countries in the world. It's also a role model in terms of ecology. Very little infrastructure is built here, so as not to encroach on natural areas. As a result, you won't find dozens of hotels, but eco-travellers can easily stay with local people, for an even more authentic experience. The kingdom has a negative carbon footprint and plans to produce exclusively organic food. In short, respect for nature is a priority. Conditions are ideal for visiting the country's treasures: the Taktsang monastery, the Phobjikha valley and its birdlife, and the Laya region, a trekking area in the heart of the jungle and mountains.
7- New Zealand
Kaikoura is ideal for whale watching© (c) Konrad Mostert - Shutterstock.com
For several years now, New Zealand has been a must-see destination for travelers eager to explore the great outdoors and discover its dual Anglo-Maori culture. So it's imperative to opt for activities that have little impact on this exceptional natural environment. Hiking, biking and not littering are your mottos for conquering the landscapes of Tongariro National Park, rich in mountains and emerald lakes. Later, a canoe trip through Fiordland National Park is an opportunity to discover one of the country's most majestic areas, with glaciers, waterfalls and misty rainforests. And if you're an animal lover, don't forget to explore the Kaikoura Peninsula, home to sea lions, whales and dolphins. A unique experience!
Read more: What to do in New Zealand The 25 most beautiful places to visit
8- Palau, Micronesia: one of the world's most unusual eco-travel destinations
Palau, Micronesia© © Norimoto - iStockphoto.com
Not so long ago, the Island Times reported that, as of January1, 2020, Palau has become the first country in the world to ban chemical sunscreens, which are too toxic for the reefs. The archipelago, made up of hundreds of islands, is determined to make ecotourism the rule for enjoying its extraordinary natural environment. Nature lovers will find the largest concentration of marine lakes in the world, white sand beaches with turquoise waters and islands made of limestone and crowned with lush vegetation, the Rock Islands. For canoeists and snorkellers, this is a veritable paradise to discover and cherish, and one of the world's finest diving spots.
9- Botswana, one of the world's most eco-friendly travel destinations
Chobe National Park© © Liz Leyden - iStockphoto.com
Safaris in Africa are the stuff of dreams for many travellers, eager to discover the beauty of the wildlife. But just when you're worried about the effects of mass tourism in these wondrous lands, Botswana is one of those countries that offers eco-safaris in the wild. Adventurous eco-enthusiasts have the chance to observe the greatest concentration of wildlife in Africa in Chobe National Park. Wild dogs, elephants, zebras - the magic happens right away. When you take part in an eco-safari, everything is done by the service providers to limit the impact on the flora, animals and local populations.
Read more: What to do in Botswana The 13 most beautiful places to visit
10- Singapore
Singapore© © Yann - stock.adobe.com
One of the most densely populated places in the world... not the best place for a green holiday. Yet Singapore, a city-state in Southeast Asia, has been emphasizing ecology for some time now. As soon as you arrive, the city's lush vegetation is immediately apparent. In fact, the city is also known as the "Garden City" or "Oasis City". Plants flood the streets, climb buildings, and there are trees and solar panels on the roofs. The authorities are working hard to reduce energy consumption andCO2 emissions. Singapore is one of the world's greenest urban destinations. What's more, the city also allows you to escape for a few moments to nature's beauty spots to recharge your batteries. One example is the Bukit Timah nature reserve, where the walk takes place in the heart of an equatorial forest.
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