Since 1980, World Tourism Day has taken place every 27th of September, thanks to the United Nations (UN). This day celebrates a sector that fosters cultural expression and bridges gaps. Over four decades later, tourism remains an essential pillar in the global economy and an unmatched force in human connection. In time for World Tourism Day 2025, the UN has announced this year’s theme: “Tourism and Sustainable Transformation”. Read on to learn about some more sustainable travel options to inspire your next eco-friendly getaway.
Costa Rican Eco-Lodges
Looking for a tropical vacation amidst the trees? Check out an eco-lodge in Costa Rica. Originating in Costa Rica themselves, eco-lodges are beautiful stays nestled in natural areas like the rain forest. They are built with the ethos of leaving the surrounding earth as undisturbed as possible, operating with as little environmental impact as they can. So, if protecting and immersing yourself in nature is top of mind, this is the accommodation for you. You can head to Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails Nature Reserve to learn about conservation of the Arenal Volcano or Ocean Forest Ecolodge Retreat Centre if you’d like to go for a dip in the sea.
Indigenous-Guided Nature Tours
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One of the most important things to consider when travelling sustainably is connecting with those who know the land best. Learning from Indigenous communities can enrich your own knowledge of local ecosystems and reciprocity while supporting invaluable initiatives. Itching for an island getaway? Go for a beautiful, eye-opening canoe tour on Vancouver Island with Songhees Tours. Staying on the mainland? Embark on a fossil hunting and hiking tour with Terradise Eco Tours through the Skeena region.
Camp in Patagonia
Camping is a low-impact and especially rewarding way to explore this big blue Earth. If you’re the outdoorsy type (or want to get a bit out of your comfort zone), pitch a tent in one of the most picturesque landscapes in the world. Travelling to Patagonia will afford with you unmatched views and mountainous terrain. Visit the Neuquén Province from the Argentinian side or go to the fully-equipped campsites in Torres del Paine on the Chilean side. On your way out don’t forget a particularly important rule of thumb, “Leave it better than you found it.”
Volunteer on an Organic Farm
Ready to get your hands dirty? Volunteering your time to support global agriculture can give you a new perspective on everyday goods while also allowing you to explore new parts of the world. There are many organizations you can work with to find exciting opportunities like WWOOF or Worldpackers. Through adventures like these, you can choose from seemingly endless experiences like harvesting olives in the Italian countryside or soaking in the herbal scents of a traditional Korean tea farm.
Being mindful of how we move through the world is essential to meaningful, climate-friendly travel. These are just some of the amazing options you can choose from when it comes to sustainable adventures. Have any more suggestions for eco-friendly ideas? Comment down below!
Happy green travels,
Jacqueline
