If April 15 marks World Earth Day this year, there really is no better time to think about how you can be more responsible when traveling. We know that the footprint you leave is important to you, so why not let us show you how to explore the world with a lighter touch?
Sustainable travel is at the forefront of many people’s minds, especially as we begin to book an exciting vacation after a long stay at home. Fortunately, you will discover many destinations where you can enjoy unique activities and sleep in sensational hotels-while minimizing their impact on Mother Earth. Whether you have a particular country or region in mind or are open to eco-friendly suggestions, we are here to show you our best places for a more sustainable holiday.
Responsible travel in amazing India
Wonderful wildlife and some of Asia’s most unique communities make India one of the best destinations for a responsible travel experience. When it comes to responsible accommodation in India, consider the CGH Earth hotels scattered around South Kochi in Kumbakonam. The family-run hotel group is known for its sustainable approach to wildlife protection while preserving the traditions of the towns and villages where the hotels are located.
When it comes to activities in India, a tiger safari is definitely at the top of the list. Ranthambore Tiger Reserve in Rajasthan is a privileged place to discover these beautiful big cats in the wild. Despite its history as an ancient hunting ground for the Maharajas of Jaipur, today it is a haven for all kinds of creatures, from royal Bengal tigers to unusual birds. If you are looking for accommodation in the reserve, the eco-friendly SUJAN Sher Bagh is an ideal choice. The 12 luxurious safari tents fit into the natural environment and you can eat from farm to table and go on private safaris.
Sustainable travel in Central and South America
Vast expanses of wilderness and some of the most fertile land on the planet await when you book a vacation in Central America. The region stretches from Mexico to Panama and is home to some of our most popular sustainable tours. Here are some highlights:
Go on a coffee tour in Antigua, Guatemala
Coffee lovers won’t want to miss a sustainable tour of local coffee farms around Antigua Guatemala. Starting in the village of San Miguel Escobar, you’ll meet some of the region’s coffee producers before heading to the foothills of the Agua Volcano. The fertile soil of the volcano is dotted with coffee fruits and you will learn all about growing, harvesting and growing the crop. In addition, a member of the peasant family gives you a lesson on the traditional methods of roasting and grinding beans. As a souvenir, you can even take a bag of authentic Guatemalan coffee directly to the source!
Stay at a tropical retreat in Tenorio, Costa Rica
Costa Rica is blessed with a number of wild animals, with sleeping sloths on most people’s bucket lists. Book a stay at the Rio Celeste Hideaway to see yourself and other wonderful species in their natural habitats. The Eco-Lodge is a stone’s throw from the Tenorio Volcano and is surrounded on all sides by lush flora and fauna. Rio Celeste Hideaway is passionate about sustainability; the resort tries to minimize its carbon footprint by protecting and cultivating the rainforest. Almost 95% of their suppliers and tour operators come from the region. In addition, Rio Celeste Hideaway is a member of Pack for a Purpose, an Initiative that allows visitors to help local communities by saving space in their luggage to bring essential items they need.
Enjoy the lush landscape of the Ecuadorian Amazon
Although technically part of South America, Ecuador is located near the top of the continent and is a beautiful place to experience one of the most important landscapes in the world. The Amazon rainforest, often called the “lung of the Earth”, is an important part of the global ecosystem and extends over two million square kilometers!
Located in the Ecuadorian Amazon, the Napo Wildlife Centre is a real adventure. Set in a secluded part of Yasuní National Park, one of the world’s most species-rich regions, it offers eco-friendly lodges overlooking Lake Añangu. Typical activities are close experience with wildlife and experience with local Amazonian communities. You can also visit the Mashpi Reserve in the beautiful cloud forest of Ecuador. Here you will stay in a five-star Lodge that supports the community through jobs and food supply from local producers.
