In efforts to promote eco-friendly choices, Pantone’s colour of the year – Greenery, represents nature’s neutral and new beginnings. This year’s travel trend has also embraced the shade as more travellers realize the importance of ecotourism and the positive impact that it can have on a country.
So, if you’re looking for a little eco adventure, grab your Pacsafe Venturesafe™ X30 backpack and head to any of these exciting ecotourism destinations! This backpack is ideal as it has a number of useful features including a built-in raincover and the best anti-theft technologies.
Galápagos Islands, Ecuador
Home to ancient giant turtles and other unique fauna, these volcanic islands are breathtaking. In fact, the wildlife here is so fascinating that it was the main source of inspiration for Darwin’s theory of evolution.
However, its rich diversity of marine life has attracted illegal industrial fishing, which could lead to the extinction of certain species on the islands.
In order to combat this, WWF is encouraging more ecotourism to the islands where visitors can go on eco-friendly cruises and tours, which contribute to the island’s conservation without disrupting its fragile ecosystem.
Chile
Like many countries around the world, Chile suffers from a variety of conservation issues including habitat degradation and deforestation. Fortunately, ecotourism has managed to conserve most of its land by cultivating better appreciation for the country’s landscapes and wildlife. Thanks to these efforts, Chile regularly ranks in the top 10 when it comes to sustainable tourism development.
Bordered by the Andes, the Atacama Desert, the Pacific Ocean, and the polar region, Chile’s unique geographic isolation has created a large variety of ecosystems that adventure seekers would be thrilled to explore.
Whether you want to enjoy activities like wine tasting, volcano climbing, whale watching and exploring one of the world’s driest deserts or if you simply want to experience the southern hemisphere’s largest glaciers, Chile promises an unforgettable adventure. Check out Ecotours Chileor Ecocamp Patagonia for more ecotourism activities.
Tip: If you’re going hiking, don’t forget to bring your Pacsafe Venturesafe™ backpackto keep your belongings secure. If you have many things to carry with you, choose the Pacsafe Venturesafe™ X40 PLUS anti-theft 40L multi-purpose backpack. Lightweight and comfortable, this backpack is equipped with a removable internal divider, so you can easily organize your things. Your gear will also be protected from both the weather and pickpockets.
Sabah, Malaysia
Located on the northern tip of Borneo, the Malaysian state of Sabah is rich in biodiversity. It consists of spectacular rainforests which are home to unique creatures including orangutans, sun bears, proboscis monkeys, pygmy elephants and Sumatran rhinos.
However, deforestation to obtain palm oil is still a major problem here and it continues to threaten the survival of the endangered wildlife. This is why ecotourism in Sabah is so important. When you pay to visit Sabah’s forests and research stations, not only will you experience the wonders of its 140-million-year-old rainforest (one of the oldest in the world), you’ll also show that the intact forest is actually valuable. As a result, you’ll be helping to save and conserve the homes of many wildlife.
For a closer look at these endangered animals, visit the orangutan sanctuary at Shangri-La’s Rasa Ria Resort or go on the Kinabatangan River Cruise to catch a glimpse of rare and unusual creatures found nowhere else in the world. Check out Borneo Eco Tours or Borneo Nature Tours for more adventure ideas.
Tip: If you’re bringing valuables on your eco tour, store them in a Pacsafe Travelsafe® portable safe and you don’t have to worry about them! Designed with a soft lining, convenient carry-handles and a combination lock, these handy portable safes are the perfect bodyguard for your iPad® or tablet, passports, jewellery, camera and more.
Croatia
Like most beautiful countries, the Republic of Croatia depends on sustainable travel and ecotourism to maintain its beauty. Thanks to this, most tourists are impressed with the country’s air quality, water cleanliness, unspoiled landscapes and mesmerizing seascapes.
However, as the number of supermarkets in Croatia rise, the country’s biggest environmental concern is waste management. In order to deal with this, the government has implemented a few initiatives including:
Bottle Collection
Allows anyone to exchange glass or plastic bottles for money. The program has gained great success as there are rarely any bottles littering the beaches or other places in Croatia.
Blue Flag Beaches
Where exclusive eco-awards are given to beaches and marinas that meet strict criterias for water quality and environmental management.
Wildlife Protection
Croatia protects its wildlife with eight national parks, a number of arboretums, botanical gardens, wetlands, animal habitats and more.
Eco-conscious Hotels
Agritourism (working farms offering accommodation and meals) is also big in Croatia. Travellers can enjoy a unique eco vacation experience in a rural environment, with meals prepared from local organic produce.
For something more fancy yet still eco-friendly, visit eco hotels like the Bellevue, which prepares meals using herbs grown from their own aromatic garden.
Now that you know of the best places for eco travel, it’s time to save the environment while enjoying the wonders of mother nature at the same time.
