5 Lesser-Known Eco-Tourism Destinations to Explore

Eco-tourism has become increasingly popular over the last few years as travelers become more environmentally conscious.

Sustainable tourism destinations have gained popularity due to their beautiful landscapes, diverse wildlife, and responsible tourism practices.

If you’re looking for unique destinations that showcase nature’s beauty while allowing you to travel sustainably, then read on for our top five eco-tourism destinations.

The 5 Lesser-Known Eco-Tourism Destinations

1. The Azores, Portugal

The Azores is a group of nine volcanic islands located in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, approximately 2,000 km from Europe’s mainland.

The islands’ diverse landscapes, pristine beaches, and marine wildlife make it an ideal eco-tourism destination. Visitors can indulge in activities like whale watching, hiking, and birdwatching, or simply relax and soak up the natural beauty of the islands.

The Azores’ sustainable tourism practices are impressive. The locals have minimized their carbon footprint by building sustainable accommodations, using renewable energy, and promoting waste reduction.

Travelers can contribute to preserving the destination’s natural beauty by choosing eco-friendly accommodations and choosing sustainable travel practices.

2. Borneo, Malaysia

Borneo is the third-largest island in the world, located in Southeast Asia, shared between Malaysia, Indonesia, and Brunei.

Malaysia’s portion of this vast and diverse island is home to a wide range of endangered and endemic species of wildlife.

Eco-tourism activities in Borneo include jungle trekking, visiting orangutan sanctuaries, river cruises, and experiencing the native culture of the island’s indigenous tribes.

Borneo’s ecosystem is fragile and threatened by logging, mining, and oil palm plantations. However, sustainable tourism practices, such as supporting eco-lodges that promote responsible tourism practices, can contribute to Borneo’s conservation.

3. The Pantanal, Brazil

The Pantanal is the world’s largest wetland and is located in the heart of South America, stretching into Brazil, Bolivia, and Paraguay.

The Pantanal is a unique ecosystem, with vast open plains, floodplains, and a diverse array of wildlife.

Tourists can engage in activities like bird watching, wildlife spotting, and fishing. The region’s local people offer cultural and educational tours, while the wildlife of the Pantanal includes jaguars, anacondas, and capybaras.

The Pantanal’s eco-tourism industry aims to preserve its natural habitats and promote sustainable tourism practices.

Visitors can contribute to conservation efforts by supporting eco-friendly accommodations and responsible tourism practices.

4. Costa Rica

Costa Rica is widely known as one of the world’s most eco-friendly destinations. The country is home to active volcanoes, tropical forests, pristine beaches, and a vast array of wildlife.

Visitors can explore Costa Rica’s natural beauty through activities like hiking, surfing, bird watching, and zip-lining.

Additionally, eco-lodges and organic farms that promote eco-friendly and sustainable tourism practices offer visitors unique experiences.

Costa Rica’s sustainable tourism practices have been a blueprint for other destinations worldwide.

The government has implemented policies to promote conservation and biodiversity, and local communities have prioritized protecting their natural resources.

5. Svalbard, Norway

Svalbard is an archipelago located in the Arctic Ocean, halfway between Norway’s mainland and the North Pole. Despite the harsh climate, Svalbard is a unique and stunning eco-tourism destination.

Travelers can engage in activities like dog sledding, skiing, and snowmobiling. The region is home to polar bears, arctic foxes, whales, and other unique arctic wildlife.

Svalbard’s eco-tourism industry aims to preserve the Arctic’s natural beauty and limit the impact of tourism on the environment.

Visitors can contribute to conservation efforts by choosing sustainable travel practices and supporting eco-friendly accommodations.

Conclusion

Eco-tourism destinations not only offer unforgettable experiences for travelers but also promote sustainable and responsible travel.

By choosing sustainable travel practices and supporting eco-friendly accommodations, tourists can contribute to the conservation of these destinations.

So, why not choose one of the lesser-known sustainable destinations we have listed above for your next eco-tourism trip?