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Ecotourism | The new trend


In the past 30 years, the idea of environmental consciousness has gradually grown in the minds of the general public, people who were not particularly interested or even people who just didn’t understand the gravity of environmental and wildlife conservation. At the same time the idea of travel and exploring has become a much larger aspiration among younger and up and coming generations, much the same as the idea of travelling to places ‘outside of the box’ has become appealing to older generations who grew up with the idea of package holidays like Thompson or Thomas Cook.


With both these growing trends in interest, the new idea of ecotourism has begun to emerge, ecotourism is tourism directed towards exotic natural environments, intended to support conservation efforts and wildlife. Ecotourism is the travel to delicate and ‘untouched’ destinations that aims to benefit local economies, environment and wildlife and is seen as a much more responsible form of travel. The aim is the empowerment of local communities, improving living conditions, providing vital support for local conservation efforts and all whilst educating the traveller about the responsibilities that accompany travelling. Ecotourism, instead of being an out of the ordinary, different and choice in changing perspective for the average traveller is instead a lifeline for many countries such as Costa Rica, Kenya, Botswana, Antarctica and Madagascar.


Ecotourism companies


It's a conscious choice for many travellers and although one should be wary of foreign investor-owned companies in developing countries that funnel money away from the economy that it’s supposedly benefiting... there are great ways to find these holidays.

Responsible Travel is a company that combines the idea of activism and travel, only endorsing travel companies that are environmentally, socially and economically conscious. As oppose to the stereotypical idea of ecotourism which is going to a ‘rainforest’ or wildlife resort which instead is jungle tourism they offer adventure holidays, volunteer travel and luxury trips. It accommodates for all forms of wanderlust and is a revolutionary company in the field of ecotourism.

National Geographic Expeditions is an obvious company they are responsible for the creation of exciting, adventurous expeditions. This company actively encourages local community support by involvement with schools and local traders. They raise awareness for local environmental sustainability while still promoting the idea of enjoyable and memorable holidays. They stand on the front line of changing the mindset about travel and the impact it has in countries while immersing travellers in culture, enriching minds and promoting authentic travel as oppose to the conventional holiday resorts.


So what are the top 5 countries for ecotourism?


Costa Rica due to its hot climates, protected natural beauty, volcanoes, rainforests, hot springs, deserted beaches, mountainous terrain, national parks, wildlife like monkeys and sea turtles, activities such as birdwatching, rafting, hiking, horseback riding, mountain climbing, mountain biking, scuba diving and so many more incredible opportunities.


Nepal and The Himalayas that for a long time have been exclusive to the likes of explorers looking to summitt the world's highest peak but now have entered a new age of tourism consciousness with the chance to see mountain ranges, valleys full of forests and wildlife. The home of the Bengal Tiger, treasured national parks, lodges, hiking trails and incredible people.


Botswana, with its natural beauty, open expanse of savannah, deserts, forests and lakes that lay host to countless fauna is best seen with responsible tours and trained professionals.


This country has a real focus on supporting and enriching local communities and conserving the environment, wildlife and culture that make it what it is. It has been crowned The Jewel of Africa, and many people alike have endorsed this, it’s endless amounts of environmentally conscious holiday ‘resorts’ give the opportunity for a very different kind of holiday and a chance to see wildlife that will last in your memory for a lifetime.


Norway and The Fjords are seemingly etched in my mind, with endless photo opportunities, snowcapped mountains, hiking trails, waterfalls and clear waters, boat rides and mountain biking this seems like an action packed adventure. The wildlife here is vast and strictly protected by excellent environmental regulations, local culture is rich and entrenched in tourism and daily life alike and it stands as one of the most popular places to visit as of late.


Iceland, that has seemingly become a rite of passage trip for any full-fledged traveller, lures visitors from all over the world due to its distant nature and undeniable beauty, it is the cleanest energy consumer in the world and instead of spending your stay in big hotels there are quirky alternatives such as camping. Much like all the other destinations listed above, there are the opportunities to hike, bike and ride horses instead of spending your holiday carted around in a gas-guzzling car. This country is revolutionising the way people are viewing tourism due to a combined effort of tour operators and a highly conscious and active government.


After reading this I hope you keep the idea of local communities, the environment and wildlife in the forefront of your mind when travelling. If this is something you want to experience don’t feel pressured to book through an operator that's sole purpose is ecotourism because as I mentioned earlier not all ecotourism companies are taking the right steps to benefit the country itself.

Instead, if you’re up for a challenge why not plan your own eco-break and make your own conscious effort to have an incredible journey that leaves a lasting, and positive, impression on the country you have visited.


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