The World’s Top Eco DestinationsAdapted from Ian Harrison (May 1, 2008)

Ecotourism – or ecological tourism – is a type of tourism that tries to minimize the impact of visitors on the environment. Ecotourism companies also try to make visitors more aware of environmental issues. Guides might teach tourists about the unique plants and animals, and the local cultures, as well as their efforts to preserve the natural environment.

While ecotourism has been a buzz word around the world, there are also some problems. There are some guides who exploit the purpose of ecotourism in an effort to make extra money. Sometimes, unethical companies lie about their impact on the environment.

In spite of its problems, the idea of ecotourism is still a worthy cause. People who are conscientious about environmental issues such as water conservation, renewable energy, and the sustainability of the local people, should consider visiting these new vacation spots, some of the best ecotourism destinations in the world.

MadagascarCut off long ago from the African continent, the island nation of Madagascar has some of the most unusual plant and animal life on the planet. In fact, the island is home to 5% of the world’s flora and fauna species, the vast majority of which are native to Madagascar. When you consider that the country is larger than former colonial ruler France and is the fourth-largest island in the world, it all starts to make sense.

The best way to experience ecotourism in Madagascar is to book local Malagasy tours of the divergent ecological and geological sites of the island. Tour operators offer an array of choices, from posh to a more rough and tumble approach. The national parks provide knowledgeable guides and will cheerfully point out all the best lemur photo ops.

The World’s Top Eco DestinationsAdapted from Ian Harrison (May 1, 2008)

Ecotourism – or ecological tourism – is a type of tourism that tries to minimize the impact of visitors on the environment. Ecotourism companies also try to make visitors more aware of environmental issues. Guides might teach

tourists about the unique plants and animals, and the local cultures, as well as their efforts to preserve the natural environment.

While ecotourism has been a buzz word around the world, there are also some problems. There are some guides who exploit the purpose of ecotourism in an effort to make extra money. Sometimes, unethical companies lie about their impact on the environment.

In spite of its problems, the idea of ecotourism is still a worthy cause. People who are conscientious about environmental issues such as water conservation, renewable energy, and the sustainability of the local people, should consider visiting these new vacation spots, some of the best ecotourism destinations in the world.

BelizeBelize is an absolute jewel. The only country in Central America with English as the official language, Belize once went by the title of British Honduras. With that era now over, the country has become a leader in ecotourism.

Between North and South America, with borders on Mexico and the Caribbean, Belize has wondrous biodiversity. Although relatively small, the country has a wide range of ecological zones, each with unique plants and animals. A very low population density, especially for this region of the world, ensures few environmental disturbances at the hands of humans. Armadillos, toucans and monkeys are popular animal attractions here.

The World’s Top Eco Destinations

Adapted from Ian Harrison (May 1, 2008)

Ecotourism – or ecological tourism – is a type of tourism that tries to minimize the impact of visitors on the environment. Ecotourism companies also try to make visitors more aware of environmental issues. Guides might teach tourists about the unique plants and animals, and the local cultures, as well as their efforts to preserve the natural environment.

While ecotourism has been a buzz word around the world, there are also some problems. There are some guides who exploit the purpose of ecotourism in an effort to make extra money. Sometimes, unethical companies lie about their impact on the environment.

In spite of its problems, the idea of ecotourism is still a worthy cause. People who are conscientious about environmental issues such as water conservation, renewable energy, and the sustainability of the local people, should consider visiting these new vacation spots, some of the best ecotourism destinations in the world.

South AfricaOnce alienated from the international community because of apartheid, South Africa has since become a major tourist destination. The country is so wonderfully diverse that there is something for every interest. If you want to surf, bring your board. Like wine? The vineyards around Cape Town await you. Ecotourism? But of course.

Ecotourism has been a major help to those in South Africa who were under the discriminated against by the apartheid government. It has brought foreign tourists to their midst and the huge income has been a profitable advantage for many villages in remote areas. No system is perfect however but overall, a strong ecotourism industry in South Africa is a positive development. So by all means, go to Kruger Park and see the lions but bear in mind the beauty of places like the Eastern Cape. South Africa is number three in the world in terms of biodiversity so spread your wings when you visit.

The World’s Top Eco DestinationsAdapted from Ian Harrison (May 1, 2008)

Ecotourism – or ecological tourism – is a type of tourism that tries to minimize the impact of visitors on the environment. Ecotourism companies also try to make visitors more aware of environmental issues. Guides might teach tourists about the unique plants and animals, and the local cultures, as well as their efforts to preserve the natural environment.

While ecotourism has been a buzz word around the world, there are also some problems. There are some guides who exploit the purpose of ecotourism in an effort to make extra money. Sometimes, unethical companies lie about their impact on the environment.

In spite of its problems, the idea of ecotourism is still a worthy cause. People who are conscientious about environmental issues such as water conservation, renewable energy, and the sustainability of the local people, should consider visiting these new vacation spots, some of the best ecotourism destinations in the world.

AlaskaMore than twice as large as Texas, Alaska is massive. The northern climate may surprise some who associate ecotourism with lush rainforests, exotic birds, and sunset beaches, but Alaska makes sense in a different way. The amount of rugged, uninhabited land in Alaska, much of it still unseen by humans, is unique in the world.

The state scores points for strong ecotourism awareness and guidelines, long before there was even a term for it. The result is a pristine environment in which to seek adventure. Whether you want to explore the Aleutian Islands, Alaskan Bush, or the Panhandle, one visit will not be enough. Check out these facts: Alaska has more coastline than all other U.S. states in totality and only 18 countries are bigger.

The World’s Top Eco DestinationsAdapted from Ian Harrison (May 1, 2008)

Ecotourism – or ecological tourism – is a type of tourism that tries to minimize the impact of visitors on the environment. Ecotourism companies also try to make visitors more aware of environmental issues. Guides might teach

tourists about the unique plants and animals, and the local cultures, as well as their efforts to preserve the natural environment.

While ecotourism has been a buzz word around the world, there are also some problems. There are some guides who exploit the purpose of ecotourism in an effort to make extra money. Sometimes, unethical companies lie about their impact on the environment.

In spite of its problems, the idea of ecotourism is still a worthy cause. People who are conscientious about environmental issues such as water conservation, renewable energy, and the sustainability of the local people, should consider visiting these new vacation spots, some of the best ecotourism destinations in the world.

Kerala, IndiaThink of how big India is… It borders the Himalayas, the Thar Desert, and the coastline of the Indian Ocean – a tropical paradise home to some of the most eclectic biodiversity on the planet.

Kerala is this tropical paradise and a leader in ecotourism in India. The people are the most diverse in India and Kerala’s wet evergreen forest has one of the most complex and unique flora on the planet. The best feature for ecotourists may be the level of organization that exists to accommodate visitors. The Western Ghats region in particular is home to some of the best wildlife and nature parks in India. Exotic trails take ecotourists on a safari of rare birds, insects, plants and reptiles. It becomes apparent at first glance that conservation is a top priority in Kerala, much to the delight of visitors.

The World’s Top Eco DestinationsAdapted from Ian Harrison (May 1, 2008)

Ecotourism – or ecological tourism – is a type of tourism that tries to minimize the impact of visitors on the environment. Ecotourism companies also try to make visitors more aware of environmental issues. Guides might teach tourists about the unique plants and animals, and the local cultures, as well as their efforts to preserve the natural environment.

While ecotourism has been a buzz word around the world, there are also some problems. There are some guides who exploit the purpose of ecotourism in an effort to make extra money. Sometimes, unethical companies lie about their impact on the environment.

In spite of its problems, the idea of ecotourism is still a worthy cause. People who are conscientious about environmental issues such as water conservation, renewable energy, and the sustainability of the local people, should consider visiting these new vacation spots, some of the best ecotourism destinations in the world.

KenyaAlthough political turmoil and corruption have hurt ecotourism in Kenya, the country is still a pioneer in the industry. The Laikipia Plateau, a semi-arid wilderness in the central part of the country, is ground zero for ecotourism innovation in Africa. The Il’ Ngwesi tribe in the area works hand in hand with local officials, tour operators and government to attract conscious tourism. Here visitors experience land regeneration and elephant and black rhino repopulation efforts.

For many outsiders, Kenya is the perfect vision of Africa. The diverse wildlife and natural landscape have been instrumental in connecting visitors’ images of Africa from literature and film with the true environment. Whether immersed in wild elephant research with scientists, observing the behavior of lions, or on safari to collect data on medical plants, Kenya offers a variety of rich ecotourism options.

The World’s Top Eco DestinationsAdapted from Ian Harrison (May 1, 2008)

Ecotourism – or ecological tourism – is a type of tourism that tries to minimize the impact of visitors on the environment. Ecotourism companies also try to make visitors more aware of environmental issues. Guides might teach tourists about the unique plants and animals, and the local cultures, as well as their efforts to preserve the natural environment.

While ecotourism has been a buzz word around the world, there are also some problems. There are some guides who exploit the purpose of ecotourism in an effort to make extra money. Sometimes, unethical companies lie about their impact on the environment.

In spite of its problems, the idea of ecotourism is still a worthy cause. People who are conscientious about environmental issues such as water conservation, renewable energy, and the sustainability of the local people, should consider visiting these new vacation spots, some of the best ecotourism destinations in the world.

BorneoBorneo is a wild, wild place. A sense of unpredictability and unique ecology draws ecotourists, scientists and researchers alike. New animal species are still being discovered on this Malaysian island, which should give a pretty clear picture of how untouched the environment is by human intervention.

From Mount Kinabalu – no peak in Southeast Asia is higher – to dense rainforest trails, Borneo packs a lot of ecotourism choices in one island. The Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre is a popular destination, as are the virtually endless mangrove wetlands, with all the lush flora and exotic fauna they offer. Borneo is home to some of the world’s most sustainable resorts, including entire hotels running on rainwater and solar power, with observation decks for wildlife viewers, boating, and giant boardwalks from which visitors can monitor Borneo’s elephants.

The World’s Top Eco DestinationsAdapted from Ian Harrison (May 1, 2008)

Ecotourism – or ecological tourism – is a type of tourism that tries to minimize the impact of visitors on the environment. Ecotourism companies also try to make visitors more aware of environmental issues. Guides might teach tourists about the unique plants and animals, and the local cultures, as well as their efforts to preserve the natural environment.

While ecotourism has been a buzz word around the world, there are also some problems. There are some guides who exploit the purpose of ecotourism in an effort to make extra money. Sometimes, unethical companies lie about their impact on the environment.

In spite of its problems, the idea of ecotourism is still a worthy cause. People who are conscientious about environmental issues such as water conservation, renewable energy, and the sustainability of the local people, should consider visiting these new vacation spots, some of the best ecotourism destinations in the world.

HawaiiHawaii is a hub of ecotourist activity and state efforts to organize, modernize and promote the industry have been superb. Exploring the islands of Hawaii, you will become one with a lush, rich and diverse environment in total isolation from the rest of the world. Visitors can also commune with unique Polynesian history. The island of Kaua’I and the Big Island of Hawaii’s archaeological digs provide interactive insight into the region’s heritage, as ancient temples blend in with volcanoes.

The State Parks of Hawaii are legendary and offer hundreds of miles of trails to hike, in addition to other pursuits for those who want to handglide or kayak, for example. There are 1,400 native species of plants alone, many on near-inaccessible mountain cliffs. Bird watchers are equally at home in Hawaii, with dozens of species. If whales and seals are of interest, many of Hawaii’s ecotourism efforts center on these popular aquatic mammals.

The World’s Top Eco DestinationsAdapted from Ian Harrison (May 1, 2008)

Ecotourism – or ecological tourism – is a type of tourism that tries to minimize the impact of visitors on the environment. Ecotourism companies also try to make visitors more aware of environmental issues. Guides might teach tourists about the unique plants and animals, and the local cultures, as well as their efforts to preserve the natural environment.

While ecotourism has been a buzz word around the world, there are also some problems. There are some guides who exploit the purpose of ecotourism in an effort to make extra money. Sometimes, unethical companies lie about their impact on the environment.

In spite of its problems, the idea of ecotourism is still a worthy cause. People who are conscientious about environmental issues such as water conservation, renewable energy, and the sustainability of the local people, should consider visiting these new vacation spots, some of the best ecotourism destinations in the world.

Costa RicaCosta Rica has a reputation as a leader in the field of responsible preservationist ecotourism. The country, blessed with magnificent geography, vistas, and some of the most exotic wildlife on Earth, has undertaken huge efforts to divert tourism back to focusing on the environment.

Christopher Columbus was not cavalier when he gave this small parcel of land in Central America the name Costa Rica, or “Rich Coast”. The country contains four volcanic mountains, fertile rainforests whose expanses disappear into fog and cloud, miles of untouched beach, and thermal hot springs. With so much in such a small region, the choices are awesome. Visitors will love Costa Rica’s nature preserves. From these jungles, tourists can witness the fantastic array of wildlife in the country. For adventurers who want to work up a sweat, Costa Rica is a virtual Mecca for scuba divers, rock climbers and whitewater rafters.

The World’s Top Eco Destinations

Adapted from Ian Harrison (May 1, 2008)

Ecotourism – or ecological tourism – is a type of tourism that tries to minimize the impact of visitors on the environment. Ecotourism companies also try to make visitors more aware of environmental issues. Guides might teach tourists about the unique plants and animals, and the local cultures, as well as their efforts to preserve the natural environment.

While ecotourism has been a buzz word around the world, there are also some problems. There are some guides who exploit the purpose of ecotourism in an effort to make extra money. Sometimes, unethical companies lie about their impact on the environment.

In spite of its problems, the idea of ecotourism is still a worthy cause. People who are conscientious about environmental issues such as water conservation, renewable energy, and the sustainability of the local people, should consider visiting these new vacation spots, some of the best ecotourism destinations in the world.

EcuadorWhen one country contains both Amazon rainforest and the Galapagos Islands, it just isn’t fair. The Galapogos Islands were the first natural UNESCO World Heritage Site. Tourists flock to these islands each year to see evolution in real time. Of course, Ecuador is home to a portion of the Amazon rainforest as well. As a result, the country is a dream for ecotourists. In the same nation visitors can see the Galapagos tortoise and then a few days later, be under a rainforest canopy in a native jungle lodge.

Ecuador has done a remarkable job in recent years to organize and promote sustainable tourism within the confines of the rainforest ecology. From river tours to jungle stays, the country is full of ecotourism opportunities. The recent development of cooperation between indigenous people and tour operators has had a huge impact and offers ecotourists a unique chance to live with locals, the way they have lived in the rainforest for thousands of years.