What is a simple definition of sustainable? “Sustainability” means “the quality of not being harmful to the environment or depleting natural resources, and thereby supporting long-term ecological balance”. In our post on new travel trends, we saw how this concept is evolving, linking not only to the recreational aspect. One of these is sustainability, as understanding, respect and preservation of an ecosystem and its inhabitants.
In a world where resources are limited and the environment is under constant threat, how and where we choose to travel can make a difference, including through a new form of tourism called “regenerative tourism“. This is an aspect of sustainable tourism with the aim to reduce the impact on the environment improving damaged ecosystems. The number of people that choose ecological destinations is constantly growing. The implemented environmentally friendly practices are reducing the use of plastic, energy saving and the use of renewable sources.
But let’s see the 10 most sustainable destinations in 2024!
Sustainable destinations: South Africa
South Africa is known worldwide for its variety of ecosystems and for Kruger National Park, where you can spot the “Big Five” in their natural environment. Here you can admire also penguins and whales! This state, with the aim of species conservation, is making a great effort to carry out a form of sustainable tourism. For this reason, here you can find ecolodges and private reserves that offer luxury experiences integrated with the environment. The aim is protecting its biodiversity such as the Lebombo Lodge in Kruger National park.
Baltic countries
Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania aren’t yet taken over by mass tourism. They offer the possibility of following the so-called “Baltic Trails“, paths that cross forests, sandy coasts, rivers and lakes and enchanting landscapes. Along the route you come across small villages and historic cities, rich in traditions. Each with its own culinary specialties, such as the onion pie that can be tasted at the Samovar House in a Russian village on Lake Peipsi.
Sustainable destinations: Hokkaidō
Known especially among winter sports lovers, here you will find ecological activities and accommodation, with nature that changes with every season. And don’t forget to mention the Ainu culture that boasts deep roots! Mountain excursions, fishing in rivers and lakes, parks such as the Kushiro Shitsugen National Park where the red crowned crane, symbol of Japan, lives, are just some of the activities that can be done. The Ikor Theater in Akanko Onsen allows you to get closer to Ainu traditions through dances and puppet shows.
Sustainable destinations: Wales
Did you know that it was one of the first countries in the world to introduce sustainability laws?! It is currently revolutionizing the railway system by giving it a green twist. One of the destinations is the west of the region and in particular the Pembrokeshire National Park.
Green curiosity: near St Davids, in an old farm you will find Dr Beynon’s Bug Farm, a research centre, nature reserve. And the Grub Kitchen, the first British café where you can eat insects and try biscuits made from crickets!
Greenland
Ice, tundra, silence and candor make up the charm of the largest and wildest island in the world. An increase in the appearances of the Northern Lights is expected in the future. So much so that, to make it more easily accessible, two new international airports have been opened: one in the lively capital Nuuk and the other in Ilulissat.
Don’t miss the “Camp Ice Cap” experience! A two-day trek camping on the second largest ice cap in the world, starting from Kangerlussuaq.
Sustainable destinations: Patagonia
Intrepid hikers, lovers of wilderness and breathtaking landscapes, you cannot miss a trip to Tierra del Fuego. New paths, parks and the new Planetarium in the Patagonia National Park! If your passion are animals, in Chile, pumas, and the huemul deer have been successfully reintroduced.
Last but not least, the five-day trek “Los Dientes de Navarino”.
Spain
Without a doubt one of the most loved destinations in the world. Spaint is becoming a leading destination in the promotion of sustainable tourism, also through deseasonalization and preservation of its historical and environmental heritage. Let’s discover lesser-known regions such as Asturias, Extremadura, Cantabria! Let’s promote accommodation such as farmhouses or eco-hotels, eco-compatible transport solutions, cycle paths. These initiatives help to reduce environmental impact and bring us closer to local communities.
Ecuador
One of the countries with the greatest biodiversity, with 6% of all terrestrial species, rainforests, rivers, 20 active volcanoes. Sustainability here is fundamental to preserve this delicate balance and is reflected in some practices. For example limits on the visitors’ number, solar-powered ecolodges, a new marine reserve and an airport powered by renewable energy.
Sustainable destinations: Caminho Português de Santiago
A pilgrimage between Portugal and Spain to be covered on foot or by bicycle. 620 km stopping in local inns, eating in typical restaurants away from mass tourism. The route’s gem: the Caminho de Torres, a “detour” from the ordinary route that connects Salamanca to northern Portugal among vineyards, medieval towns and mountain rivers.
Palau
An archipelago made up of around 340 islands in the Pacific, the majority of which are pristine and uninhabited. An example of a winning combination between tourism and sustainability. To protect its marine ecosystem, Palau created the world’s first network of marine protected areas, limiting some fishing practices and ensuring that many parts of the ocean are set aside for conservation. Furthermore, thanks to the “Ol’au Palau” app, tourists learn some important conservation practices such as using sunscreen that is not harmful to corals or choosing restaurants that serve sustainable ingredients.
Are you ready to give a green twist to your next adventure?!