15 Most Sustainable Travel Destinations Around the World: In today’s world, the need for sustainable travel has never been more pressing. As travelers increasingly seek experiences that respect the planet and local communities, sustainable destinations are emerging as popular choices. These locations not only offer breathtaking scenery and cultural richness but also prioritize eco-friendly practices. According to a recent study, sustainable tourism can contribute significantly to local economies, creating jobs and fostering environmental conservation.
This blog will highlight some of the best sustainable travel destinations around the globe, showcasing their unique offerings and commitment to preserving our planet for future generations.
15 Most Sustainable Travel Destinations Around the World
1- Bhutan: The World’s First Carbon-Negative Country
Bhutan is a small, landlocked country located in South Asia. It is in the eastern Himalayas between two large neighbors: China to the north and India to the south, east, and west. Bhutan is often referred to as “The Land of the Thunder Dragon.” Its capital, Thimphu, is the largest city and serves as the political and cultural center.
Carbon-negative Footprint: The country offsets more carbon than it produces, thanks to its lush forests covering 72% of the country.
Controlled Tourism: The government enforces a high-value, low-impact tourism policy, which limits tourist numbers to protect cultural sites and the pristine Himalayan landscape.
2- Scotland: Leader in Rewilding and Climate Emergency Initiatives
Scotland is a country that is part of the United Kingdom, located in the northern part of the island of Great Britain. It is bordered by England to the south, the North Sea to the east, the Atlantic Ocean to the north and west, and the Irish Sea to the southwest.
Climate Emergency Declaration: Scotland was the first nation to declare a tourism climate emergency, pushing the sector to reduce emissions.
COP26 Influence: Hosting the COP26 summit in 2021 reinforced Scotland’s commitment to combating climate change and promoting sustainable tourism.
3- Costa Rica: A Pioneer of Ecotourism
Costa Rica is a small country in Central America, located between Nicaragua to the north and Panama to the southeast. It is bordered by the Pacific Ocean to the west and the Caribbean Sea to the east, giving it extensive coastlines on both sides.
Pura Vida and Biodiversity: Embracing the “Pura Vida” lifestyle, Costa Rica is home to 17% of the world’s animal species, with over a quarter of its land designated as national parks.
Renewable Energy Use: Costa Rica generates nearly 99% of its electricity from renewable sources, primarily hydropower, making it a leader in green energy.
Community Involvement: Costa Rica’s ecotourism model engages local communities, providing jobs and ensuring tourism directly benefits conservation efforts.
4- Finland: Nature-Driven Experiences in a Forested Wonderland
Finland is in Northern Europe, bordered by Sweden to the west, Norway to the north, Russia to the east, and the Gulf of Finland to the south, across which lies Estonia. Finland is part of the region called Scandinavia and is one of the Nordic countries.
Lapland’s Natural Appeal: The Northern Lights and winter forests of Lapland offer sustainable travel experiences, from forest bathing to staying in low-impact accommodations.
Focus on Clean Air and Water: Finland’s air and water quality are some of the best globally, attracting visitors who seek pristine environments.
5- Norway: A Champion of Green Innovations
Norway is a country located in Northern Europe, specifically in the western part of the Scandinavian Peninsula. It is bordered by Sweden to the east, Finland and Russia to the northeast, and surrounded by the North Sea to the southwest, the Norwegian Sea to the west, and the Barents Sea to the north. The capital city is Oslo, and Norway is a member of the Nordic countries, which includes Denmark, Sweden, Finland, and Iceland
Electric Transportation: Norway leads in electric vehicle usage, reducing air pollution and setting a benchmark for sustainable travel.
Nature Conservation: With extensive protected areas, Norway encourages visitors to engage in low-impact activities like hiking, fjord cruises, and northern lights viewing.
Eco-Friendly Hospitality: Many hotels and lodges in Norway are certified as green accommodations, supporting the country’s commitment to reducing its environmental footprint.
6. Ecuador: Galapagos Islands: Preserving Unique Ecosystems
The Galapagos Islands are known for their biodiversity and are a UNESCO World Heritage site. Ecuador is a small country on the northwest coast of South America, situated along the equator (hence its name). It is bordered by Colombia to the north, Peru to the east and south, and the Pacific Ocean to the west.
Engage in Eco-Tourism: The Galapagos National Park controls visitor access and ensures minimal environmental disruption. Tourists are required to follow strict regulations, including traveling with certified guides and respecting wildlife.
Support conservation efforts: Local organizations like the Charles Darwin Foundation conduct research to protect endemic species. Fees from visitors contribute to projects that maintain the islands’ ecological balance.
Participate in Volunteer Programs: Some programs allow tourists to assist in beach clean-ups and support local wildlife preservation.
7. Japan: Kyoto: A Blend of Tradition and Green Practices
Japan is an island nation in East Asia, located in the northwest Pacific Ocean. It lies east of the Korean Peninsula, China, and Russia and is surrounded by the Sea of Japan to the west and the Pacific Ocean to the east.
Eco-Friendly Transport: Kyoto promotes biking and public transit to minimize pollution. Renting a bicycle is an excellent way to explore the city’s temples and shrines.
Support Local Crafts: Widely available are handcrafted souvenirs and traditional Japanese products. Buying from local artisans supports sustainable practices and preserves Kyoto’s unique cultural landscape.
Sustainable Dining Options: Kyoto’s culinary scene embraces “farm-to-table” practices. Restaurants source fresh produce locally. It contributes to both the economy and a reduced carbon footprint.
8. Kenya: Maasai Mara: Responsible Wildlife Tourism
Kenya is a country in East Africa, located along the eastern coastline of the continent on the Indian Ocean. It’s bordered by Ethiopia to the north, Somalia to the east, Tanzania to the south, Uganda to the west, and South Sudan to the northwest. Its capital city, Nairobi, is a central hub in Africa, known for both its natural attractions and urban culture.
Wildlife Safaris with Low Impact: Kenya’s eco-conscious lodges offer safaris that use electric vehicles and limit intrusion into animal habitats. Responsible safari tourism helps protect endangered species like rhinos and lions.
Community-Based Tourism: Many safari operators employ locals, creating economic opportunities while educating visitors about Maasai culture. Staying in Maasai-owned lodges ensures that your visit supports local conservation efforts.
Join conservation efforts: Numerous programs allow tourists to contribute, such as tree-planting initiatives and community-based anti-poaching efforts.
9. Slovenia: Triglav National Park: Outdoor Adventures with a Green Focus
Slovenia is a small, picturesque country in Central Europe. It borders Italy to the west, Austria to the north, Hungary to the northeast, and Croatia to the south. To the southwest, it has a short coastline along the Adriatic Sea, giving it a mix of alpine and coastal landscapes. Slovenia is a leader in green tourism, and Triglav National Park is a wonderful example of sustainable outdoor recreation.
Eco-Certified Accommodations: Choose from green-certified lodgings around the park, which use renewable energy sources and promote waste reduction.
Hiking Trails with Minimal Impact: Triglav’s marked trails reduce habitat disruption and protect fragile ecosystems. Rangers encourage hikers to stay on paths and respect wildlife habitats.
Support for Local Culture and Economy: Many eco-tourism activities, like guided tours and local produce markets, support Slovenia’s regional economy. It is a model for sustainable travel.
10. New Zealand
New Zealand is an island country located in the southwestern Pacific Ocean, about 2,000 kilometers (1,200 miles) southeast of Australia. It consists of two main islands, the North Island and the South Island, as well as numerous smaller islands.
Commitment to Conservation: Many New Zealand national parks employ a “leave no trace” approach, ensuring minimal tourist impact on natural landscapes. Parks like Fiordland emphasize conservation through visitor education.
Wildlife Protection Programs: Visitors can learn about and support conservation efforts for indigenous species like the kiwi bird and endangered Hector’s dolphins.
11. Iceland: A Nature Lover’s Paradise
Iceland is an island country located in the North Atlantic Ocean, just below the Arctic Circle. It lies to the northwest of mainland Europe, between Greenland and Norway, and south of the Arctic Circle. Reykjavik, its capital and largest city, is on the southwestern coast.
Renewable Energy: Over 85% of Iceland’s energy comes from renewable sources, mainly geothermal and hydroelectric power, making it one of the world’s greenest countries.
Natural Wonders: Explore the Golden Circle, which includes the stunning Þingvellir National Park and geothermal hot springs.
Wildlife Conservation: Iceland actively works on wildlife preservation, especially for species like the puffin and whales. The country has strict guidelines to protect its unique ecosystems.
Sustainable Tourism Initiatives: Many tour operators emphasize small group tours and minimize environmental impact.
12. Sweden: Leading in Eco-Friendly Practices
Sweden is a country located in northern Europe, specifically on the Scandinavian Peninsula. It is bordered by Norway to the west and north, Finland to the northeast, and is connected to Denmark in the southwest by the Öresund Bridge across the Øresund Strait. To the east, Sweden is surrounded by the Baltic Sea and the Gulf of Bothnia, which separate it from the countries of Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania.
Sustainable Cities: Cities like Malmö and Stockholm are renowned for their eco-friendly urban planning, extensive biking paths, and public transportation systems.
Green Hotels: Sweden boasts numerous eco-certified hotels, such as the Treehotel, which features treehouses designed with sustainability in mind.
Natural Preservation: The country has committed to protecting over 15% of its land and 13% of its marine areas, ensuring biodiversity.
Recycling and Waste Management: Sweden is famous for its recycling program, which ensures that nearly 99% of waste is recycled or used for energy.
13. Portugal (Azores): The First Sustainable Tourism Destination
The Azores is an archipelago located in the North Atlantic Ocean and is an autonomous region of Portugal. It consists of nine volcanic islands situated about 1,500 kilometers (approximately 930 miles) west of mainland Portugal.
Certification: The Azores archipelago is the first in the world to achieve certification as a sustainable destination by EarthCheck.
Conservation Initiatives: The islands maintain low levels of urban development, preserving 95% of their natural landscapes. This includes unique geological formations and protected marine life.
Geothermal Energy: The islands harness geothermal energy for heating and electricity, showcasing innovative sustainable practices.
14. Peru (Sacred Valley): A Cultural and Ecological Haven
The Sacred Valley, or Valle Sagrado in Spanish, is located in the Andean region of Peru, specifically near the city of Cusco. This valley stretches between the towns of Pisac and Ollantaytambo and is situated at a lower altitude than Cusco.
Biodiversity: Home to diverse ecosystems, including the Amazon rainforest, the region supports numerous conservation efforts aimed at protecting wildlife and habitats.
Cultural Preservation: The Sacred Valley showcases traditional farming techniques and artisanal crafts, fostering cultural exchange and understanding.
Adventure Opportunities: Activities like hiking and kayaking not only provide adventure but also promote awareness of ecological issues and conservation efforts.
15. Netherlands: Innovative Sustainability
The Netherlands is a country located in Western Europe. It is bordered by Germany to the east, Belgium to the south, and the North Sea to the northwest. The country is known for its flat landscape, extensive canal systems, windmills, tulip fields, and vibrant cities such as Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and The Hague.
Water Management: Dutch cities excel in sustainable water management practices, essential for a country that is mostly below sea level.
Renewable Energy Initiatives: The country has committed to generating 70% of its energy from renewable sources by 2030, primarily through wind and solar power.
Eco-Friendly Accommodations: Many hotels and lodgings in the Netherlands are certified green, emphasizing sustainability in their operations.
Conclusion
Choosing sustainable travel destinations helps promote eco-conscious practices and supports local communities. By visiting these cities, you contribute to a greener future and enjoy unique cultural experiences. Sustainable travel not only enhances your journey but also fosters a more resilient planet for future generations. Explore these destinations and make a positive impact on your travels!
