Save the Planet: 20 Eco-Friendly Spots That Beat Your Usual Destinations

As travelers become more environmentally conscious, the appeal of eco-friendly destinations grows. These places not only offer stunning natural beauty and unique cultural experiences but also prioritize sustainability through conservation efforts, responsible tourism practices, and community involvement. Here are 20 destinations around the world that are perfect for the eco-conscious traveler.

1. Costa Rica

Known for its biodiversity, Costa Rica is a pioneer in ecotourism and conservation, with a high percentage of its land protected as national parks and wildlife reserves.

2. Palau

This Pacific island nation is a leader in marine conservation, famous for its pristine dive sites and the Palau Pledge, which all visitors must sign, promising to act responsibly to protect the environment.

3. Norway

Norway offers breathtaking landscapes that range from fjords to northern lights, with a strong commitment to sustainability seen in its low carbon footprint and high usage of renewable energy.

4. Bhutan

Bhutan measures its success through Gross National Happiness rather than GDP, emphasizing sustainability and conservation as key factors. It’s known for its commitment to remaining carbon neutral.

5. Slovenia

With lush forests covering a significant portion of the country, Slovenia is one of Europe’s greenest destinations, boasting clear waters, fresh air, and a commitment to sustainable tourism.

6. New Zealand

New Zealand’s commitment to preserving its natural beauty is evident in its extensive network of national parks, marine reserves, and its dedication to protecting native species.

7. Iceland

With its use of geothermal energy and its untouched landscapes, Iceland is a prime example of eco-friendly travel. It’s a sanctuary for those who love the outdoors and prefer to leave minimal footprints.

8. Galapagos Islands, Ecuador

The Galapagos Islands are a unique natural habitat and have strict regulations to ensure the wildlife and natural beauty are conserved, making it a model for sustainable travel.

9. Kenya

Kenya is renowned for its wildlife conservation efforts, offering eco-friendly safaris that help fund conservation and support local communities.

10. Tasmania, Australia

With over 40% of the land reserved for national parks and wilderness, Tasmania is a leader in conservation and offers a plethora of eco-friendly activities and accommodations.

11. Portugal

Portugal is making significant strides in sustainability, particularly in its energy usage, with a strong focus on solar and wind energy to power its tourism infrastructure.

12. Vancouver, Canada

Vancouver aims to become the greenest city in the world by 2020, with initiatives like extensive bike trails, green buildings, and sustainable public transportation.

13. Finland

Finland offers vast expanses of untouched natural beauty and is a leader in sustainable living, from eco-friendly lodging options to conservation efforts.

14. Montenegro

Montenegro’s stunning Adriatic coast and old-growth forests are complemented by its commitment to becoming an eco-tourism destination.

15. Austria

With a focus on clean energy and sustainable practices, Austria offers green hotels, organic restaurants, and plenty of parks that make it a top eco-friendly destination in Europe.

16. Switzerland

Renowned for its environmental policies, Switzerland promotes eco-friendly travel experiences, from its efficient public transport system to well-maintained hiking trails throughout the country.

17. Scotland

Scotland is on its way to having its electricity 100% generated by renewable sources, and its preservation of natural landscapes makes it a perfect destination for eco-conscious travelers.

18. Botswana

Botswana limits the number of visitors to its wildlife reserves to reduce the impact on the ecosystem, providing a more sustainable way to experience African wildlife.

19. Japan

Japan offers a blend of tradition and modernity, with its efficient public transport and emphasis on sustainability practices in its rural and urban areas.

20. The Netherlands

The Netherlands is a world leader in environmental innovation and urban sustainability, making it a great destination for sustainable city travel and cycling culture.

Do Both

These destinations showcase that traveling the world and taking care of the planet can go hand in hand. Each location offers a chance to experience beautiful landscapes and rich cultures while also making a positive impact on the environment.

Unveiling the 21 Places Single Women Should Avoid at All Costs

Traveling solo as a woman? It’s an adventure with its own set of challenges. From street safety to discrimination, some spots are riskier than others. We’ve used the Women’s Danger Index and other resources to craft a guide that helps you choose your destinations wisely. Unveiling the 21 Places Single Women Should Avoid at All Costs

Ghost Roads of America: 12 Haunted Highways with Tales of Terror and Creepy Rest Stops

Discover chilling tales from the America’s spookiest roads complete with ghostly figures and eerie phenomena in this thrilling guide to paranormal hotspots—perfect for adventure seekers and ghost enthusiasts. Ready for a supernatural road trip? Ghost Roads of America: 12 Haunted Highways with Tales of Terror and Creepy Rest Stops

18 High-Crime Cities in the US You Should Avoid

American cities dazzle with culture and history, yet rising crime rates demand cautious exploration. This guide ensures you stay informed and safe. 18 High-Crime Cities in the US You Should Avoid

20 Things That Americans Tolerate That Canadians Would Never Accept

Canadians often find American customs ranging from amusing to astonishing. From the quirky to the confounding, let’s explore the U.S. through a Canadian lens—maple syrup and poutine in hand. Get ready for a journey that’s both odd and insightful, seen from the Great White North. 20 Things That Americans Tolerate That Canadians Would Never Accept

22 of America’s Most Charming Towns

Hit the road and discover America’s coziest towns, real-life versions of those quaint settings from your favorite novels. Explore charming streets where every storefront tells a story and locals greet everyone with a hello. Ready to dive into the charm? 22 of America’s Most Charming Towns

The post Earth-Friendly Journeys: 20 Best Travel Spots Worldwide republished on Passing Thru with permission from The Green Voyage.

Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / trabantos.

For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.