The spirit of the adventurer in the present-day paradigm is not only defined by successfully climbing a mountain or navigating through a river. It is all about challenging oneself to fulfill one’s potential while taking care of the environment and making the world a better place. This new generation of adrenaline junky hunt for adventure that is both wild and environmentally responsible.
Here are a few eco-travel destinations that perfectly cater to this adventurous spirit
- Patagonia, Chile and Argentina: Trek through the famous Torres del Paine National Park, paddle between glaciers in turquoise blue lakes or go mountain biking through rugged terrain. Patagonia belongs to beginner, intermediate and advanced levels of hiking enthusiasts, but what stands out in this region is its conservation principles in tourism. Nationally parks focus on protection and there are many accommodation options including eco-friendly lodges made from natural materials.
- Palawan, Philippines: Paddle through subterranean streams, swim in the clear waters with fish around reefs, or explore caves and grottos. Palawan is a tropical paradise for adventurers, but it has serious issues, for example, deforestation and pollution. Fortunately, the idea of ecotourism is gaining increasing popularity. Tourists can buy seafood from sustainable sources, patronize establishments that provide employment to locals, and assist in trash removal from coastal areas.
- Bhutan, Himalayas: Hike through stunning landscapes of snowy mountains, meet and watch wild animals including the near-threatened black-necked crane, or visit old monasteries built atop cliffs. Bhutan also has a unique approach to tourism which is known as “High Value Low Impact Tourism’ which means that a small number of tourists are welcome and they are offered quality services that have a positive impact on the environment and community.
- The Great Barrier Reef, Australia: Join a snorkel or scuba trip to explore some of the world’s richest reef systems and an amazing array of marine creatures. Some of the threats currently facing the Great Barrier Reef include climate change and pollution. However, there are other forms of tourism that take into consideration the well-being of the reef. Tourists can decide to participate in noninvasive tours that will help conserve marine life, and get to have an insight into this balance.
- Amazon Rainforest, South America: Take a guided tour through the largest rainforest on the planet and interact with the natives and animals. The Amazon is one of the most important resources in the world, and eco-tourism helps preserve it. People can patronize indigenous-led guided tours, visit eco-friendly accommodations that do not contribute to the deforestation of the area, and be educated regarding the preservation of the rainforest.
- Iceland: Trek across glaciers, watch the beautiful colors of the Aurora Borealis paint the night sky, or relax in geothermal baths. Iceland efficiently utilizes its geothermal features in green energy production, making it a model destination for green tourism. Tourists can opt for environmentally friendly accommodations utilizing renewable energy and visit beautiful territories without disturbing natural environments.
- New Zealand’s South Island: This beautiful island country is a treasure trove of adrenaline-pumping activities that range from bungee jumping to paddling through caves inhabited by bioluminescent glow worms. But New Zealand does not stop at the adrenaline rush. Maori culture is well-represented on the South Island, and visitors get the opportunity to perform Maori dances and get acquainted with sustainable practices inherent in Maori culture. Eco-lodges and good opportunities for volunteering and contributing to the conservation of the great surrounding sceneries add value for the earth-conscious traveler.
- Costa Rica: A leader in ecotourism, Costa Rica offers adrenaline rushes and natural beauty to those who seek it. You can explore volcanoes, and rainforests full of unique wildlife, float down the rapids, or explore the caves that are not exposed to the public. Environmental conservation is an integral part of tourism in Costa Rica since it aims to protect its rainforests and other ecosystems. Tourists can be accommodated in hotels that have renewable energy sources and visit parks with a policy of environmental protection.
- Botswana’s Okavango Delta: This is a World Heritage Site according to UNESCO, and it is a perfect place for wildlife lovers. Go for a trip in a mokoro, a traditional dugout canoe, along the water channels of the delta and expect to see elephants, hippos, and literally any bird that you can imagine. Botswana has perhaps one of the most responsible tourism policies and measures to ensure the protection of wild animals and its environment. There are luxurious eco-camps that provide good accommodation without interfering much with the balance of this sensitive environment.
- The Azores, Portugal: This chain of islands located in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean is every adventurer’s dream. Activities include canyoneering through verdant canyons, surfing gigantic Atlantic waves, or enjoying a kayak cruise through secluded bays. The Azores is an environmentally conscious island with the main emphasis on marine and volcanic park conservation. There are many options for tourists to stay in environmentally friendly lodgings and contribute to the local communities’ sustainable tourism income.
These places are just a few – the globe teems with terrific secrets that provide an excellent mix of fun and sustainability. Thus, forget the popular tourist destinations, enjoy the wild spirit, and go on an unforgettable trip where your heart and adrenaline rush will help improve the world we live in.
