Green Getaways: Top 10 Eco-Friendly Honeymoon Destinations - Passing Thru

Embark on a romantic journey that celebrates your love and respects the environment. The Green Voyage guide introduces you to 10 eco-friendly honeymoon destinations where sustainable practices meet enchanting experiences. These destinations offer the perfect blend of romance and responsibility, from secluded beaches to lush forests. Each destination has been selected for its commitment to preserving nature, offering eco-conscious accommodations, and providing unique experiences that bring you closer to each other and the environment.

1. Costa Rica

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Embrace the pura vida spirit on your eco-friendly honeymoon in Costa Rica which has become synonymous with sustainable tourism. This tropical paradise, blanketed in lush rainforests and lined with unspoiled beaches, offers an array of environmentally conscious experiences. Stay in eco-lodges nestled in the heart of the jungle, where you can wake up to the sounds of exotic wildlife.

Explore the rich biodiversity in national parks like Manuel Antonio and Corcovado, home to an impressive array of flora and fauna. For a touch of adventure, zip-lining through the forest canopy or hiking to hidden waterfalls are must-do activities. Costa Rica’s commitment to conservation is evident everywhere, making it an ideal destination for eco-minded couples.

Insider’s Tip: Visit a sustainable coffee plantation in the Central Valley to learn about eco-friendly coffee production.

When to Travel: The dry season from December to April offers sunny days ideal for wildlife viewing and beach activities.

How to Get There: Fly into Juan Santamaría International Airport in San José or Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport in Liberia for easy access to various regions.

2. The Maldives

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The Maldives, a collection of coral islands in the Indian Ocean, is a destination where luxury meets sustainability. Ideal for honeymooners seeking a balance of indulgence and eco-consciousness, many resorts in the Maldives are committed to protecting their fragile ecosystem. Stay in overwater bungalows that offer minimal environmental impact, and enjoy the crystal-clear waters right at your doorstep.

Resorts prioritize coral conservation, renewable energy, and waste reduction, ensuring your stay contributes to environmental preservation. Apart from lounging on the pristine beaches, snorkeling and diving in the Maldives provide intimate encounters with vibrant marine life in the world’s richest coral reef ecosystems.

Insider’s Tip: Choose a resort that participates in coral reef restoration projects where you can contribute to marine conservation.

When to Travel: The best time to visit is from November to April, when the weather is dry and ideal for snorkeling and diving.

How to Get There: Fly to Malé International Airport and take a seaplane or boat transfer to your resort.

3. New Zealand

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New Zealand is a destination where untouched landscapes and sustainability are at the heart of every experience. This country offers diverse eco-friendly adventures, from the geothermal wonders of Rotorua to the majestic fjords of Milford Sound. Eco-lodges and sustainable accommodations are scattered across the North and South Islands, allowing couples to immerse themselves in New Zealand’s natural beauty without leaving a footprint.

Adventure-seekers can find plenty to do, from hiking on the breathtaking Milford Track to exploring the caves of Waitomo. For those seeking a more relaxed experience, New Zealand’s vineyards offer organic wines amidst stunning scenic backdrops.

Insider’s Tip: Take a guided eco-tour to learn about New Zealand’s unique flora, fauna, and conservation efforts.

When to Travel: Visit from December to February for warm summer weather, ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Get There: International flights arrive in Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch, with domestic connections to other regions.

4. Bhutan

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In Bhutan, sustainability is a practice and a national policy aligned with the country’s philosophy of Gross National Happiness. With its stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage, this Himalayan kingdom offers an eco-friendly honeymoon experience like no other.

From trekking in the untouched wilderness to exploring ancient dzongs (fortresses) and monasteries, Bhutan provides a blend of adventure and cultural immersion. Engage with the local community in a homestay to experience Bhutanese life firsthand. The government’s strict tourism policies ensure that all travel is sustainable and beneficial to the environment and the locals.

Insider’s Tip: Engage in a traditional Bhutanese farmhouse stay to experience authentic local life and cuisine.

When to Travel: March to May and September to November offer pleasant weather for trekking and cultural festivals.

How to Get There: Fly to Paro International Airport, the only international airport in Bhutan, typically via connections in India, Nepal, Thailand, or Singapore.

5. Norway

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With its stunning fjords, northern lights, and commitment to sustainability, Norway offers an eco-friendly honeymoon experience that’s both romantic and responsible. Explore the Norwegian fjords by electric ferry, an eco-friendly way to witness some of the world’s most dramatic landscapes. The cities of Oslo and Bergen are known for their green initiatives.

They are great bases for exploring the country’s natural wonders. In the north, the Lofoten Islands provide a spectacular backdrop for hiking, kayaking, and witnessing the midnight sun or northern lights, depending on the season.

Insider’s Tip: Take a scenic train journey on the Flåm Railway to witness some of Norway’s most spectacular landscapes.

When to Travel: Visit from May to July for the Midnight Sun or September to March for the Northern Lights.

How to Get There: Fly into Oslo Gardermoen Airport, which has good connections to other parts of the country.

6. Kenya

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Kenya presents an extraordinary eco-friendly honeymoon destination where the thrill of witnessing wildlife blends seamlessly with sustainable tourism practices. The Maasai Mara, a vast wilderness teeming with the Big Five, offers a chance to experience a classic safari eco-consciously.

Many lodges and camps in Kenya are at the forefront of sustainable tourism, focusing on wildlife conservation and community development. Beyond the savannahs, the Kenyan coast boasts pristine beaches and marine parks where conservation efforts are equally emphasized.

Insider’s Tip: Participate in a guided bush walk with Maasai warriors to learn about local conservation efforts and culture.

When to Travel: The dry seasons from June to October and December to February are ideal for safaris.

How to Get There: Fly into Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi or Moi International Airport in Mombasa.

7. Iceland

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Iceland, a land of fire and ice, is a dream destination for eco-conscious honeymooners seeking adventure amidst stunning natural phenomena. This country is a leader in renewable energy and sustainable practices, offering experiences like bathing in geothermal pools and exploring glaciers.

Witness the awe-inspiring Northern Lights, traverse the otherworldly landscapes of the Golden Circle, and relax in the naturally heated waters of the Blue Lagoon. Iceland’s commitment to preserving its unique environment ensures a honeymoon experience that’s both romantic and responsible.

Insider’s Tip: Rent an electric car to explore Iceland’s Ring Road, a sustainable way to see the country’s natural wonders.

When to Travel: Visit in the summer (June to August) for milder weather and longer days, or winter (November to March) for the Northern Lights.

How to Get There: Fly into Keflavík International Airport near Reykjavik, the capital city.

8. Galapagos Islands, Ecuador

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The Galapagos Islands offer an unparalleled eco-friendly honeymoon experience where unique wildlife and pristine ecosystems take center stage. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the islands have strict environmental regulations to preserve their unique biodiversity.

Eco-lodges and sustainable tours allow you to responsibly explore the islands’ flora and fauna. Snorkel with sea lions, hike to see giant tortoises, and witness the diverse birdlife, all in a setting that prioritizes conservation and sustainability.

Insider’s Tip: Opt for a small-group, eco-certified tour to have a more intimate and sustainable experience of the islands.

When to Travel: The dry season from June to November is best for wildlife viewing, while December to May offers warmer, calmer seas.

How to Get There: Fly to José Joaquín de Olmedo International Airport in Guayaquil or Mariscal Sucre International Airport in Quito, then take a domestic flight to the Galapagos.

9. Slovenia

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Slovenia is a hidden gem in Europe, offering an eco-friendly honeymoon combining natural beauty and sustainability. Over half of the country is covered in forest, and its commitment to green tourism is evident in its well-preserved landscapes and clean cities. Explore the enchanting Lake Bled, hike in Triglav National Park, and enjoy the vibrant culture of Ljubljana, Slovenia’s charming capital. The country’s size makes it easy to explore diverse landscapes, from alpine mountains to Mediterranean coastlines, all within a sustainable tourism framework.

Insider’s Tip: Experience the traditional Slovenian beekeeping and taste unique honey products, a practice integral to the country’s ecological efforts.

When to Travel: Spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) are ideal for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.

How to Get There: Ljubljana Joze Pucnik Airport is the main international gateway, with good transport links to major tourist destinations.

10. Vancouver Island, Canada

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Vancouver Island, located off Canada’s Pacific Coast, is an idyllic destination for couples seeking a tranquil and eco-friendly honeymoon. Known for its lush rainforests, rugged coastlines, and diverse wildlife, the island offers a range of sustainable outdoor activities. Enjoy whale watching, hiking in ancient forests, and exploring the charming towns dotting the island. Many accommodations on the island are eco-certified, ensuring your stay contributes to conservation efforts.

Insider’s Tip: Visit Tofino on the island’s west coast for incredible surfing opportunities and a chance to spot gray whales.

When to Travel: Summer (June to August) offers the best weather for outdoor activities, while spring (March to May) is ideal for whale watching.

How to Get There: Fly to Victoria International Airport or ferry from Vancouver to Vancouver Island.

The Bottom Line

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Your eco-friendly honeymoon is a celebration of your union and a testament to your commitment to the planet. These destinations offer the perfect blend of romance and sustainability, allowing you to start your life together in harmony with nature. Whether you’re immersing yourself in the wilderness of Kenya or relaxing in the geothermal spas of Iceland, each destination provides an opportunity to connect meaningfully with each other and the world around you.

As you plan your honeymoon, remember that the most romantic experiences preserve the world’s beauty for future generations. Embrace the adventure of love and responsibility, and let your honeymoon be a reflection of your values.

Kitty Holland

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