5 best ecotourism destinations
22 Mar 2017
Ecotourism is about exploring the natural world, leaving every place you visit in the same condition or better off than when you arrived. With that in mind, here are some great eco-friendly destinations in Australia and around the world.
Uluru
Uluru isn’t just an international symbol of Australia’s red centre; it’s a rich and delicate ecosystem that has deep significance for the Aboriginal Anangu people.
A two-and-a-half hour self-guided walk allows visitors to see local flora and fauna up close without disturbing the environment. If you want to stay near Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park try Longitude 131. It’s an eco-friendly resort located just nine kilometres away. Be sure to visit the Cultural Centre to hear about Uluru’s historical significance and the Anangu culture. You can also support the local community by purchasing Aboriginal art and jewellery.
If you prefer a tour, try RT Tours Australia. It is one of few tour operators with a focus on Aboriginal culture, run by Aboriginal people.
Alaska
With over 100 protected state parks to explore, nature-lovers won’t be disappointed by a visit to America’s ‘Great Land’. Alaska’s majestic mountains and vast tundras are home to an array of endangered species, including brown bears, lynx and iconic bald eagles, and its icy oceans are a refuge for humpback and blue whales, sea otters and sea lions.
Visit Denali National Park for a mix of tundra, glacial and forest terrain, and to see the formidable Denali (formerly Mount McKinley) up close. Or head southeast to Glacier Bay National Park to see beautiful rainforests, wild coastlines and sheltered fjords.
Much of the Alaskan wilderness is controlled by indigenous communities, so take the opportunity to learn about the local culture while you’re there.
Galapagos Islands
Every year, thousands of tourists flock to Galapagos Islands in the hope of tracing Darwin’s famous footsteps. Many of the species found on this group of volcanic islands, including the spellbinding giant tortoise, aren’t found anywhere else on earth.
97 per cent of the islands’ land area is national park and subject to strict rules designed to limit the human footprint. Tourists aren’t allowed to visit the park without a certified guide, and a compulsory entrance fee pays for conservation projects. Tour the Volcan Sierra Negra for a chance to spot hawks, short-eared owls, finches and flycatchers. Or snorkel Los Tuneles to get up close and personal with white-tipped sharks, manta and eagle rays, sea lions, turtles, and sea horses.
The Blue Mountains
The Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area, located just 90 minutes’ drive from Sydney, features stunning sandstone cliffs, breathtaking waterfalls, raging rivers and trickling streams. Clearly marked walking trails range from one to five hours, and there are even a couple of multi-day hikes. Stay in the eco-certified Spicers Sangoma Retreat for magnificent views, or set up camp in one of many designated campsites.
If a tour is what you’re after, Tread Lightly is Advanced Ecotourism-Accredited and offers fully guided bushwalks, night tours and 4WD tours.
Iceland
Iceland is exceptionally eco-friendly, with 85% of its total primary energy supply coming from domestically produced renewables. The Icelandic Tourist Board places an emphasis on environmentally sustainable tourism, and there are many eco-certified tour operators and hotels operating in the country.
Be sure to visit the Blue Lagoon, a natural geothermal spa and one of the 25 wonders of the world. If you’re feeling adventurous, book a tour with eco-certified Mountain Guides. They offer glacier walks, Northern Lights tours and horseback riding.
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