Why Eco-Friendly Travel Matters

Travelling brings joy but can leave behind waste and harm nature. Choosing eco-friendly travel helps protect our planet and cultures. It’s about making thoughtful choices like staying in solar-powered lodges or supporting local guides. Sustainable travel doesn’t mean missing out—it means connecting more deeply with the world while giving back.

When we put nature first, we create a future where travel and Earth thrive together. Let’s explore consciously and leave places better than we found them.

Sapa, Vietnam – Trekking with a Lighter Footprint

Nestled in northern Vietnam, Sapa is famous for its dramatic rice terraces and rich cultural heritage. It’s a place where nature and tradition come alive in every step of the journey.

Top Attractions:

• Stunning rice terraces and mountain views
• Guided treks with local Hmong and Dao tribes
• Traditional hill tribe villages

Local Favourites:

• Eco-lodges using solar power and local materials
• Homegrown food and handmade crafts

Why Visit?

• Support local communities directly
• Experience authentic culture and nature
• Slow travel and meaningful connections

Sapa offers a chance to trek through breathtaking landscapes while respecting local ways of life. It’s perfect for travellers who want a gentle, immersive adventure.

Tasmania, Australia – A Wild Green Escape

Tasmania is a rugged island state of Australia known for its pristine wilderness and vibrant wildlife. It’s a sanctuary for nature lovers looking to escape into the wild with care.

Top Attractions:

• Cradle Mountain and ancient rainforests
• Coastal walks and wildlife spotting (wombats, echidnas)
• Organic farm-to-table dining experiences

Local Favourites:

• Carbon-neutral lodges and off-grid cabins
• Kayaking and bushwalking tours

Why Visit?

• Pristine nature with low-impact tourism
• Friendly eco-conscious community
• Perfect for outdoor lovers seeking peace and sustainability

Tasmania is a green paradise where you can enjoy wild beauty responsibly.

Costa Rica – Nature’s Playground with Purpose

Costa Rica is a lush, tropical country known for its incredible biodiversity and strong commitment to conservation. It’s a dream destination for eco-conscious travellers.

Top Attractions:

• Zip-lining through rainforests
• Hot springs near volcanoes
• National parks with rich biodiversity

Local Favourites:

• Eco-lodges built from local materials
• Organic meals supporting reforestation projects

Why Visit?

• Runs almost entirely on renewable energy
• Strong commitment to conservation
• Adventure with a green conscience

Costa Rica combines thrilling experiences with world-class sustainability.

The Azores, Portugal – Islands of Intention

The Azores are a group of volcanic islands in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, known for their untouched landscapes and rich marine life. This archipelago blends natural beauty with strong eco-conscious values.

Top Attractions:

• Whale watching with strict environmental guidelines
• Emerald crater lakes and geothermal springs
• Hiking scenic nature trails

Local Favourites:

• Eco-certified accommodations using solar heating
• Composting systems and locally sourced food

Why Visit?

• Committed to clean energy and responsible tourism
• Peaceful, green, and low-impact experience
• Perfect for nature lovers seeking quiet and care

The Azores offer a pure, mindful travel experience where nature is cherished.

Bhutan – Where Happiness Meets Sustainability

Bhutan, a small kingdom in the Himalayas, is famed for its Gross National Happiness and deep respect for nature. It’s a place where ancient traditions and modern eco-practices blend beautifully.

Top Attractions:

• Himalayan trekking with stunning mountain views
• Visits to monasteries and cultural festivals
• Protected forests and wildlife

Local Favourites:

• Zero-waste policies and locally guided tours
• Eco-friendly lodges built from natural materials

Why Visit?

• Carbon-negative country with limited tourism
• Sustainable tourism fees fund education and conservation
• A meaningful journey into culture and nature

Bhutan offers travellers a chance to explore with purpose and respect.

Lake Bled, Slovenia – Tranquil, Timeless, and Green

Lake Bled is a fairy-tale setting in Slovenia, famous for its turquoise lake, island church, and surrounding mountains. It’s also a shining example of eco-friendly tourism in action.

Top Attractions:

• Rowing to the iconic island church
• Walking and cycling around the lake
• Exploring nearby castles and nature parks

Local Favourites:

• Energy-efficient hotels with organic menus
• Electric boats and green mobility options

Why Visit?

• Strong waste reduction and water protection policies
• Encourages “green guests” to respect the environment
• Perfect for a peaceful, eco-conscious getaway

Lake Bled balances natural beauty and sustainability with ease.

Palawan, Philippines – Paradise with a Purpose

Palawan is often called the Philippines’ last frontier, with crystal-clear waters, dramatic limestone cliffs, and vibrant coral reefs. It’s a place where eco-tourism truly matters.

Top Attractions:

• Kayaking in El Nido’s lagoons
• Diving among colourful coral reefs in Coron
• Exploring limestone caves and beaches

Local Favourites:

• Solar-powered eco-resorts with composting toilets
• Partnerships with marine conservation groups

Why Visit?

• Protects marine life through responsible tourism
• Tours led by knowledgeable local guides
• Experience paradise while preserving it

Palawan shows how paradise can thrive when we travel mindfully.

Eco-Friendly Travel Destinations

Destination	Best Time to Visit	Eco-Friendly Highlights	Activities to Do	Accommodation Types
Costa Rica	Dec-April	National parks, wildlife conservation	Hiking, zip-lining, wildlife spotting	Eco-lodges, jungle cabins
Iceland	June-August	Geothermal energy, zero waste initiatives	Glacier hiking, hot springs, whale watching	Eco-friendly hotels
New Zealand	Sept-November	Renewable energy, protected nature reserves	Kayaking, hiking, Maori cultural tours	Eco-resorts, farm stays
Bhutan	March-May	Carbon-negative policies, cultural preservation	Trekking, monastery visits, cultural festivals	Eco-lodges, guesthouses
Sweden	June-August	Sustainable cities, eco-tourism	Forest walks, cycling, archipelago exploration	Green hotels, cabins
Kenya	July-October	Wildlife conservancies, community projects	Safari tours, cultural visits	Eco-camps, lodges
Japan	April-June	Waste reduction programs, eco-friendly transport	Cherry blossom viewing, temple visits, hiking	Eco-hotels, ryokans

Budget Chart (Budget Range in AUD)

Travel with Purpose

Eco-friendly travel is more than a trend—it’s essential for preserving our planet and cultures. Each destination proves that sustainable tourism enriches both travellers and local communities.

By choosing responsible options and respecting nature, we help protect these beautiful places for generations to come. Small actions like supporting local guides or reducing waste truly make a difference.

As you plan your next trip, remember to travel thoughtfully and leave a positive impact. Together, we can enjoy the world while safeguarding it.

Safe and sustainable journeys!