Sustainable travel has been a major trend of the last decade as the world increasingly focuses on global warming and minimising our carbon footprint. A 2022 survey revealed that 80% of global travellers prioritise sustainability in their holiday plans.
From staying in eco-retreats with no electricity to slow travel trips hiking and biking through one region, you can embrace the trend anywhere in many ways. If you’re looking for a truly green holiday, choose to visit one of these destinations where sustainability efforts go above and beyond.
Costa Rica
Flanked by the Caribbean and Pacific, this Central American country is a wildlife paradise. 30% of the country is protected natural landscapes. These shelter 5% of the world’s land-based biodiversity and almost as much of its marine life. You can find Costa Rica holidays with a focus on nature where you traverse national parks and stay within rainforests, or you can relax on idyllic beaches.
The government have a host of other initiatives in place to protect the environment. Over 90% of the country’s electricity comes from renewable sources and single-use plastics are banned.
Scandinavia
There’s nowhere better for a slow travel trip than Scandinavia. Cities welcome cyclists (and public transport options are in abundance). Much of the land is countryside which ranges from lush lake-filled hills to towering fjords.
Norway has the most dramatic scenery. It is the top spot for trekking and water sports and snow activities. Remember the region’s ‘leave no trace’ policy: remove your rubbish and use a reusable water bottle.
The Galápagos Islands
Perhaps best known as the place which inspired Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution, the Galápagos Islands is an incredibly special destination. This volcanic archipelago 1000km from Ecuador was awarded the honour of the first UNESCO World Heritage Site status in 1979. This is due to its astonishing biodiversity. Today 97% of the territory is a designated national park.
Tourist numbers are limited to avoid the dangers of overtourism. Book your trip in advance! Tour providers follow strict guidelines for water and energy conservation and eliminating waste to protect this valuable area.
New Zealand
Do you want more free rein to roam your destination? Look at New Zealand. It supports its stunning natural landscapes with green government guidelines. New Zealand was one of the first countries to pledge a carbon-neutral future. It is well on the way with 40% of its energy supply now coming from renewable sources.
Leave vehicles behind and embrace exploration on foot, hiking the mountains and strolling the sandy beaches. Kayak the lakes, surf the waves and ride rivers through valleys on a raft. Wherever you go, the scenery will take your breath away.
