What if the road less traveled was also a path towards a better tomorrow? That’s where ecotourism lies.
It’s 2023 and travel is evolving. The world striving for sustainability and upward trends in ecotourism show the demand for eco-friendly travel is at an all-time high.
This year, it’s time we chart our own course, rather than just of recreating tourist pictures we’ve seen on our feeds thousands of times. With unparalleled scenery and vibrant locale, these destinations are sure awaken your inner adventurer for the expedition of a lifetime.
Natuna Islands
The Natuna Islands are Indonesia’s next Bali. Just a short flight from the mainland, Natuna’s vivid teal waters stretch on endlessly against a backdrop of lush hills and multi-million-year-old granite formations. Locals are warm and welcoming, with a majority of the island’s income being from ecotourism and seafood production. Diving enthusiasts will love the incredibly biodiverse marine environment and 24 newly designated shipwreck sites. With the luxurious Adiwana Jelita Sejuba Resort and alluring Natuna Dive Resort, this archipelago offers both excitement and relaxation all in one. The Natuna Regency government recently announced their plans to build 40 ecotourism villages in the coming years, and locals on the island are excited to share their culture with new visitors.
Palau Islands
The Republic of Palau is a small country of roughly 380 islands sitting east of the Philippines. Palau is the first nation to have a conservation pledge that all visitors must sign to enter the country. And this passport pledge is written by the children of Palau. The country’s travel website reads, “On December 7, 2017, Palau became the first country to update its immigration policy and landing procedures to implement legislation with the goal of preserving Palau’s vibrant culture and the beauty of natural environment for future generations.” The Islands’ unprecedented commitment to eco-friendly hosting means the
Puerto Princesa
Known as the Eco-tourism capital of the Philippines, Puerto Princesa is a stunning, small city inextricably bound to the surrounding natural wonders. It’s the western-most city in the country, it is also one of least-densely populated areas. This amazing city is home to one of the “New 7 Wonders of the World,” and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Puerto Princesa Underground River National Park.
Costa Rica
A true pioneer in ecotourism, Costa Rica has been encouraging visitors to travel responsibly to their nature parks and lush rainforests since the 1990s. Although it’s a small territory, Costa Rica makes up 5% of the world’s biodiversity. With 29 natural parks, 19 wildlife refuges, and 8 biological reserves, over 25% of the island is protected.
Galapagos Islands
Ecotourism is responsible for 85% of the Galapagos Islands’ economy, and it’s easy to see why. Boasting coastal sceneries, volcanic landscapes, and an abundance of wildlife, these islands have long been attracting tourists who seek to immerse themselves in the natural world. Even Charles Darwin, one of the islands’ first ecotourists, was so inspired by their natural beauty he used it to study the theory of evolution. Entrance fees into the Galapagos National Park go straight to conservation efforts on the islands, helping to protect the many endangered species unique to the environment.
