Eco Tourism Destinations You Need to Visit Before Everyone Else Does

Finding Earth’s Green Getaways

Eco tourism destinations have become increasingly sought-after as conscious travelers seek meaningful experiences that protect rather than harm our planet. If you’re looking for the most spectacular sustainable travel spots, here are the top destinations that combine luxury with environmental responsibility:

Top Eco Tourism Destinations	What Makes Them Special
🌿 Costa Rica	25% protected land, 5% of world’s biodiversity
🏔️ Bhutan	Carbon-negative country, 60% forested
🌲 Slovenia	60% forest coverage, 54% protected land
🐢 Galapagos Islands	90% national park, strict visitor limits
🐘 Botswana	38% land as wildlife reserves, solar-powered safaris

Ecotourism isn’t just another travel trend—it’s a transformative approach that balances exploration with conservation. As defined by The International Ecotourism Society, it involves “responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment, sustains the well-being of local people, and involves interpretation and education.”

Unlike traditional tourism that often prioritizes convenience and consumption, ecotourism emphasizes minimal impact, cultural respect, and direct benefits to local communities. The difference is meaningful: your vacation dollars actively protect endangered ecosystems and support indigenous stewardship.

The most compelling eco destinations combine stunning natural beauty with innovative conservation. In Costa Rica, nearly 98% of electricity comes from renewable sources. Bhutan absorbs more carbon than it emits. Slovenia generates 75% of its electricity from hydro-electric dams.

For luxury travelers seeking authentic experiences, these destinations offer exclusivity with purpose—intimate eco-lodges nestled in pristine environments, guided experiences with wildlife experts, and cultural exchanges that respect local traditions.

Why visit now? As awareness grows, these once-secret paradises are gaining popularity. By visiting responsibly today, you’ll experience these wonders before they become mainstream, while helping establish sustainable tourism models that preserve rather than exploit.

Costa Rica: Biodiversity Pioneer

When it comes to eco tourism destinations, Costa Rica stands as the undisputed champion. This tiny Central American gem may cover just 0.03% of Earth’s surface, but don’t let its size fool you – it’s home to a staggering 5% of the planet’s biodiversity, making it nature’s ultimate treasure chest.

Imagine wandering beneath towering cloud-forest canopies as lazy sloths peer down at you from cecropia trees. One visitor perfectly captured the experience: “The towering forest canopies are more intricate than the Sistine Chapel ceiling.” Here, brilliant scarlet macaws flash through the greenery while the elusive resplendent quetzal displays its iridescent plumage – just another Tuesday in paradise.

What truly sets Costa Rica apart is its unwavering commitment to conservation. The country protects over 25% of its territory through SINAC (National System of Conservation Areas), encompassing 30 national parks, 19 wildlife refuges, and 8 biological reserves. This extensive network creates a safe haven for countless plant and animal species while giving visitors unparalleled access to pristine ecosystems.

Costa Rica’s dedication to the environment extends far beyond protected areas. The country powers itself with an impressive 98.1% renewable energy, primarily from hydroelectric, geothermal, wind, and solar sources. This green mindset permeates the entire tourism industry, with eco-lodges and hotels implementing rigorous sustainability practices that would make other environmentally conscious countries envious.

Why Costa Rica tops eco tourism destinations

Costa Rica’s leadership position among eco tourism destinations comes from its innovative balance of tourism and conservation. Rather than allowing unrestricted access, the country has implemented thoughtful policies to prevent overtourism. Take Corcovado National Park—often called “the most biologically intense place on Earth”—where daily visitor limits ensure this delicate ecosystem remains pristine.

“Costa Rica supports 5% of the world’s biodiversity single-handedly,” a local guide at Tortuguero National Park told me with pride. “Our philosophy of ‘pura vida’ extends to how we treat our natural resources.”

What makes visiting so accessible is Costa Rica’s well-developed sustainable tourism infrastructure. Travelers can conveniently schedule park visits online through the SINAC portal, ensuring controlled access while maximizing convenience. Throughout your journey, knowledgeable naturalist guides help spot wildlife and explain complex ecological relationships that might otherwise go unnoticed.

For those seeking luxury with purpose, Costa Rica delivers exceptional eco-lodges that blend seamlessly with their surroundings. Many operate entirely on renewable energy, serve farm-to-table meals using locally grown ingredients, and employ staff from nearby communities – creating a truly immersive and responsible travel experience.

When planning your Costa Rican trip, consider venturing beyond the well-trodden paths. The seasonal Caño Negro wetland offers a fascinating ecological spectacle as its lake shrinks and disappears by February, shifting bird populations to the Frio River. Or paddle the Caribbean canals of Tortuguero, where crocodiles, sloths, and countless bird species might become your temporary neighbors.

Ready to find more remarkable eco tourism destinations like Costa Rica? Check out our guide to Eco Travel Destinations for more inspiration on where conscious travelers should head next.

Bhutan: Carbon-Negative Kingdom

Tucked away in the majestic Eastern Himalayas between India and China lies Bhutan – a small Buddhist kingdom that has quietly revolutionized the concept of sustainable tourism. This enchanting land of fluttering prayer flags and ancient monasteries perched on impossible cliffs has become one of the world’s most coveted eco tourism destinations precisely because it’s so difficult to visit.

Bhutan’s environmental commitment isn’t just policy – it’s literally written into their constitution, which mandates that at least 60% of the country remain forested forever. They’ve exceeded this goal, with forests currently blanketing about 70% of the landscape. These verdant forests act as enormous carbon sponges, absorbing more CO₂ than the entire nation produces – earning Bhutan the remarkable distinction of being the world’s only carbon-negative country.

“When I first gazed across the Paro Valley, I understood why Bhutanese people have such reverence for nature,” shares a recent visitor. “The monasteries and fortresses seem to grow organically from the mountains themselves.”

What truly sets Bhutan apart is its “High-Value-Low-Volume” tourism law. Rather than chasing visitor numbers, Bhutan carefully curates who enters its borders. All international tourists must pay a Sustainable Development Fee – currently $100 USD per adult per day. This isn’t just another tourist tax; it funds free healthcare, education, and poverty alleviation for all Bhutanese citizens.

“Bhutan measures progress not by GDP but by Gross National Happiness,” explains a local guide while trekking to Tiger’s Nest Monastery. “This philosophy shapes everything from our environmental policies to how we welcome visitors.”

Bhutan’s secret to ranking among leading eco tourism destinations

Bhutan’s success stems from refusing to separate environmental protection from economic development. Instead, both are woven together under the kingdom’s Gross National Happiness framework – a holistic approach that values spiritual wellbeing alongside material progress.

This philosophy extends to tourism infrastructure. Luxury accommodations like Six Senses lodges blend traditional Bhutanese architecture with sustainable practices. Many feature rammed-earth walls, solar heating, and organic gardens that supply their kitchens. What’s more, these properties typically employ staff from nearby villages, creating meaningful economic opportunities that don’t require abandoning rural communities.

The authentic cultural immersion here is best. “One morning I shared breakfast with young monks learning ancient Buddhist texts, and that afternoon received a traditional herbal hot stone bath,” recalls a traveler. “These weren’t staged tourist experiences but genuine cultural exchanges.”

For visitors willing to pay the daily fee, Bhutan offers extraordinary access to pristine natural environments and living Buddhist traditions. You can trek through rhododendron forests where rare black-necked cranes migrate each winter. Visit community homestays where families might invite you to try your hand at traditional archery. Or simply breathe in the tranquility of valleys largely untouched by industrial development and eco-friendly tourism at its finest.

While the daily fee might initially seem steep compared to neighboring countries, travelers consistently report the experience justifies the cost. “Bhutan is expensive by design,” notes a returning visitor, “but knowing my presence actively protects this remarkable place rather than exploits it makes every dollar worthwhile.”

When planning your Bhutanese trip, allow at least a week to appreciate the kingdom’s diverse landscapes and cultural treasures. Spring (March-May) brings spectacular rhododendron blooms, while fall (September-November) offers crystal-clear mountain views of the Himalayan peaks.

Slovenia: Green Heart of Europe

While travelers often flock to Italy or Austria, their petite neighbor Slovenia has been quietly perfecting the art of sustainable tourism. This gem at Europe’s crossroads is perhaps the continent’s best-kept secret among eco tourism destinations—a place where alpine majesty, emerald rivers, mysterious caves, and Mediterranean coastline all exist within a country you can drive across in just a few hours.

What makes Slovenia truly special is its genuine commitment to protecting its natural treasures. With forests blanketing about 60% of the country, you’ll find yourself surrounded by more trees than people in many regions. Even more impressive, over half the nation enjoys protected status, ensuring these landscapes remain pristine for generations to come.

“Slovenia is like finding Europe’s hidden garden,” a local guide told me while leading a hike through the Julian Alps. “Most visitors rush to our neighbors without realizing we’ve preserved something special here.”

The country’s sustainability credentials extend well beyond conservation. Ljubljana’s electric buses hum quietly through streets powered by clean hydroelectric energy, which generates an impressive 75% of the nation’s electricity. The picturesque capital earned the European Green Capital title in 2016, changing its center into a pedestrian paradise where café culture thrives along the Ljubljanica River.

In the stunning Soča Valley, where the river runs an almost unbelievable turquoise color, tourism development has been carefully managed to protect the fragile ecosystem while still allowing visitors to experience its beauty through rafting, fly-fishing, and hiking trips.

How Slovenia redefines eco tourism destinations in Europe

Slovenia has developed something truly innovative with its comprehensive Slovenia Green Scheme, which doesn’t just certify accommodations but evaluates entire destinations, parks, and travel agencies on their environmental practices. It’s a holistic approach that’s changing how the country thinks about tourism.

Ljubljana stands as a shining example of urban sustainability as one of the world’s first zero-waste capitals. Walking through its charming streets, you’ll notice something missing—cars. The city center prioritizes pedestrians and cyclists, creating a remarkably peaceful atmosphere for a European capital. Electric-powered public transport makes it easy to explore further afield without leaving a carbon footprint.

“What surprised me most about Slovenia was how easy they make it to be green,” one visitor shared. “You don’t have to sacrifice comfort or convenience to travel responsibly here.”

Beyond the capital, Slovenia’s farm-to-table food scene deserves special recognition. Named European Region of Gastronomy in 2021, the country’s culinary traditions emphasize hyper-local ingredients and sustainable production. Many restaurants source ingredients directly from nearby farms, and Slovenia’s small-scale vineyards produce exceptional wines with minimal environmental impact.

For those seeking unique experiences, Slovenia offers delightful surprises like its beekeeping trails—a tribute to the country’s rich apicultural heritage that doubles as support for critical pollinator populations. These routes connect visitors with local beekeepers who share their knowledge and honey-based products.

Luxury travelers haven’t been forgotten in Slovenia’s eco-revolution. From forest glamping sites with heated wooden hot tubs to boutique hotels in lovingly restored heritage buildings, accommodations with Slovenia Green certification offer comfort with conscience. Many feature thoughtful touches like natural building materials, energy-efficient design, and locally sourced breakfast spreads.

When planning your Slovenian trip, consider visiting during May-June or September-October to enjoy pleasant weather without the summer crowds. Base yourself in Ljubljana and take advantage of the country’s excellent public transportation for day trips to iconic Lake Bled, the underground wonderland of Postojna Cave, or the sun-drenched Adriatic coast—all while keeping your carbon footprint minimal.

For hikers and nature enthusiasts, Slovenia’s extensive network of hiking and e-biking routes connects traditional alpine villages where you can experience authentic rural life. These well-marked trails make self-guided exploration easy, allowing you to find hidden viewpoints and peaceful forest glades at your own pace.

Galápagos Islands: Living Eco-Museum

The Galápagos Islands are nature’s most perfect classroom. When Charles Darwin stepped ashore in 1835, little did he know his observations of the islands’ peculiar wildlife would reshape our understanding of life on Earth. Today, this remote archipelago—sitting in splendid isolation 600 miles from Ecuador’s coastline—remains one of the world’s most extraordinary eco tourism destinations.

What makes these islands magical isn’t just their beauty, but their remarkable intactness. Nearly 90% of the land area enjoys national park protection, while the surrounding waters form one of our planet’s largest marine reserves. This comprehensive shield has preserved something increasingly rare in our world—ecosystems functioning almost exactly as nature designed them.

The biodiversity statistics tell an astonishing story. A remarkable 97% of reptiles and land mammals and 80% of land birds found here exist nowhere else on Earth. These aren’t just numbers—they represent evolutionary experiments unfolding in real-time.

“I’ve guided worldwide, but nothing compares to the Galápagos,” shares Maria, a veteran naturalist guide. “Here, we don’t just talk about Darwin’s theories—we witness them with our own eyes. And the animals have no instinctive fear of humans, creating wildlife encounters unlike anywhere else on the planet.”

Walking the islands feels like stepping into Earth’s workshop. Marine iguanas—the only lizards that feed underwater—snort salt from their nostrils while sunbathing on volcanic rocks. Giant tortoises with domed shells that inspired the islands’ name plod through misty highlands, potentially older than your grandparents. Blue-footed boobies perform their comical courtship dances just feet away, seemingly oblivious to your presence.

Preserving fragile eco tourism destinations off Ecuador

The Galápagos approach to tourism is as unique as its wildlife. Rather than maximizing visitor numbers, authorities prioritize ecosystem health above all. A sophisticated management system caps visitors and distributes them across carefully monitored sites to prevent any location from being overwhelmed.

Every visitor must be accompanied by a licensed naturalist guide—not just for education, but to ensure strict adherence to park rules. These passionate experts, many with advanced degrees in biology or ecology, transform what could be a simple sightseeing trip into a profound learning experience.

“The Galápagos teaches us that true luxury is experiencing nature at its most pristine,” explains Carlos, a guide with 15 years of experience. “Our visitors don’t just see wildlife—they participate in its conservation.”

The islands’ protection doesn’t come cheap. All visitors contribute a $100 conservation fee upon arrival, creating a direct financial link between tourism and preservation. This revenue funds vital work including invasive species removal, habitat restoration, and scientific research—a virtuous cycle where tourism finances the very protection that makes the destination special.

For those seeking the quintessential Galápagos experience, sustainable live-aboard vessels offer the most immersive option. These intimate ships, typically hosting 16-20 guests, can reach distant islands while minimizing environmental impact. The best operators employ impressive sustainability features—solar power, water conservation systems, biodegradable products, and waste management protocols that exceed international standards.

The underwater field offers equal wonders. “Diving in the Galápagos ruined me for diving anywhere else,” jokes Sophia, a marine photographer. “Where else can you swim alongside playful sea lions, schools of hammerhead sharks, and giant manta rays—all in waters so clear and healthy they seem from another era?”

When planning your Galápagos trip, book well ahead—6 to 12 months isn’t too early given limited capacity. While the islands welcome visitors year-round, each season offers different highlights. December through May brings warmer waters and calmer seas ideal for snorkeling, while the June to November garúa season offers cooler temperatures and more active marine life, including whale sharks at Wolf and Darwin Islands.

For more insights into responsible marine experiences worldwide, explore our guide to Eco-Friendly Vacation Spots that balance tourism with conservation.

Botswana: Solar-Powered Safari Leader

Imagine gliding silently through crystal-clear channels as elephants wade beside you, their trunks raised curiously in greeting. This isn’t just any safari experience—this is Botswana, where conservation and luxury blend seamlessly to create Africa’s most impressive eco tourism destination.

Unlike many nations that sacrifice wilderness for quick profits, Botswana has chosen a different path. This visionary country has dedicated a remarkable 38% of its territory to national parks and wildlife reserves. The result? Vast, pristine landscapes where nature thrives undisturbed by human interference.

“Our elephants roam freely across borders that exist only on maps,” smiles my guide as we watch a family of pachyderms splash playfully at sunset. “About 40% of Africa’s entire elephant population calls Botswana home.”

The jewel in Botswana’s conservation crown is undoubtedly the Okavango Delta—a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the world’s largest inland delta. Each year, like clockwork, floodwaters journey over 1,000 miles from Angola’s highlands to transform a section of the harsh Kalahari Desert into a verdant paradise. This natural miracle supports one of Africa’s most spectacular wildlife concentrations, from red lechwe antelope bounding through shallow waters to lions stalking the floodplains.

What makes Botswana truly special is its unwavering commitment to high-value, low-impact tourism. Instead of building massive hotels and bringing in busloads of tourists, the country deliberately limits bed numbers in wildlife areas. This creates a virtuous cycle where exclusivity funds conservation and improves visitor experiences.

Botswana’s blueprint for African eco tourism destinations

As the sun rises over the delta, there’s something noticeably different about the safari experience here—silence. No rumbling generators, no chugging engines. Just birdsong and the occasional elephant trumpet.

“Our entire lodge runs on solar power,” explains the manager at my camp in the Moremi Game Reserve. “Even our game-viewing vehicles are electric. Animals are more relaxed without engine noise, which means guests enjoy more natural wildlife interactions.”

This commitment to clean energy is no small feat in the African bush. Sophisticated solar arrays and battery systems ensure 24-hour electricity without compromising comfort. Guests can enjoy hot showers and chilled champagne while knowing their footprint remains minimal.

Perhaps most impressive is Botswana’s community-based natural resource management program. Through carefully structured community trusts, local populations directly benefit from tourism revenue. These trusts receive concession fees from safari operators and often hold equity stakes in lodges themselves. This innovative approach ensures conservation makes economic sense for those who live alongside wildlife.

“Before the community trust, we saw animals as competition for land,” explains a local guide whose village borders the delta. “Now, every elephant footprint represents school fees and healthcare for our children.”

Anti-poaching efforts receive substantial funding from tourism, creating a protective shield around vulnerable species like rhinos and elephants. Many luxury lodges maintain dedicated conservation teams that monitor wildlife, remove snares, and conduct vital research.

For travelers seeking unforgettable experiences, Botswana delivers magic without compromise. Picture yourself in a copper bathtub overlooking a floodplain where giraffes graze at sunset, or enjoying a candlelit dinner under the Milky Way after tracking lions through pristine wilderness. The country’s top lodges achieve this luxury with minimal environmental impact—recycling water, eliminating single-use plastics, and sourcing ingredients locally.

The traditional mokoro (dugout canoe) experience perfectly captures Botswana’s sustainable approach. These silent, human-powered vessels allow intimate exploration of waterways without disturbing wildlife. Many operators now use more sustainable fiberglass versions that preserve trees while maintaining the authentic experience.

When planning your Botswana trip, aim for the dry season (May-October) when wildlife congregates around permanent water sources. Book well in advance—the limited accommodation in prime areas fills quickly. Consider exploring different regions for a comprehensive wildlife experience: the Okavango Delta’s waterways, Moremi’s diverse habitats, Chobe’s elephant herds, and the Central Kalahari’s desert-adapted species.

In Botswana, luxury and conservation aren’t competing priorities—they’re partners in creating Africa’s most sustainable safari destination. As The Global Sustainable Tourism Council has recognized, Botswana’s model shows how tourism can protect wilderness while empowering communities.

Frequently Asked Questions about Eco Tourism

What is ecotourism and how is it different from traditional tourism?

Have you ever finished a vacation feeling like you’ve taken more than you’ve given? That’s the fundamental difference between traditional tourism and ecotourism.

Ecotourism invites us to travel differently—to explore natural areas while actively preserving them, to connect with local communities in ways that support rather than exploit them, and to return home transformed by genuine understanding rather than mere photos.

Unlike traditional tourism’s “take-only” approach, ecotourism creates a beautiful cycle of giving back. When you choose an eco-friendly trip, you’re supporting operations that power their facilities with renewable energy, conserve precious water resources, minimize waste, and actively protect the very landscapes and wildlife that drew you there.

“Traditional tourism takes; ecotourism gives back,” explains a passionate operator in Costa Rica’s cloud forests. “We’re not just selling experiences—we’re investing in the future of our environment and communities.”

The differences become clear when you look at where your money goes. Traditional tourism often funnels profits to distant corporate headquarters, while ecotourism prioritizes local ownership and employment. Your dollars directly support community development, conservation initiatives, and cultural preservation programs.

Perhaps most importantly, ecotourism transforms how we experience a place. Rather than skimming the surface of a destination, you’re invited to dive deeper—to learn about delicate ecosystems, to understand conservation challenges, and to appreciate cultural traditions through respectful exchange.

How can travelers identify genuine eco-friendly operators?

With “green” marketing everywhere these days, finding truly sustainable operators requires a bit of detective work. But don’t worry—spotting the real champions of sustainability isn’t as difficult as it might seem.

The most reliable sign is verified certifications from respected organizations like Green Globe, Rainforest Alliance, or those accredited by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council. These certifications aren’t handed out lightly—they require rigorous third-party verification of environmental and social practices.

Pay attention to how operators talk about their sustainability efforts. The genuine ones practice transparent communications, sharing specific details about their environmental initiatives rather than vague claims about being “green.” They’re honest about both achievements and challenges.

“If a hotel isn’t talking about its sustainability initiatives, chances are it doesn’t have any,” notes a thoughtful Bhutanese tour operator. “Conscious communication is the key indicator for guests evaluating a hotel’s sustainability.”

Look for businesses with deep local connections. Do they employ local staff in meaningful positions? Is there substantial local ownership or profit-sharing? Are they actively involved in community projects like education programs or cultural preservation?

The best eco-operators also implement comprehensive environmental management systems—think solar panels glinting on rooftops, clever water recycling systems, and zero-waste kitchens serving delicious meals from locally-sourced ingredients.

And remember, especially in fragile natural areas, smaller is often better. Operators offering intimate experiences with small group sizes typically create less environmental impact while providing more meaningful connections with both nature and local communities.

Which certifications should I look for before booking?

Navigating eco-certifications can feel overwhelming, but focusing on a few respected standards will simplify your research.

The Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) sets the gold standard for sustainable tourism certification. When you see a GSTC-accredited certification, you can trust that the business meets internationally recognized criteria for environmental and social responsibility.

Biosphere Responsible Tourism certification takes a comprehensive approach, evaluating environmental practices alongside cultural sensitivity and socioeconomic benefits. This certification aligns specifically with UN Sustainable Development Goals.

For tropical destinations, the Rainforest Alliance certification is particularly meaningful, with its focus on biodiversity conservation and community wellbeing. Meanwhile, Green Globe requires compliance with over 40 rigorous sustainability criteria, making it a trusted indicator worldwide.

Many countries have developed their own excellent certification systems. Look for Slovenia’s Green Scheme, Costa Rica’s Certificate for Sustainable Tourism (CST), or Kenya’s Eco-Tourism Certification when traveling in these regions.

It’s worth remembering that small, community-based operations might practice outstanding sustainability without formal certifications—the application process can be prohibitively expensive for small businesses. In these cases, look for clear descriptions of their environmental and community initiatives, and read reviews from environmentally conscious travelers who’ve visited before you.

By choosing certified operators or thoroughly researching smaller providers, you’re not just planning a vacation—you’re casting a vote for the kind of tourism our planet desperately needs.

Conclusion

As we’ve journeyed through these remarkable eco tourism destinations, one truth emerges: the most meaningful travel experiences preserve rather than deplete our planet’s precious resources. At Soaring in Style, we’ve finded that luxury and sustainability aren’t opposing forces—they’re perfect partners. The most exclusive and transformative trips often spring from genuine environmental stewardship and authentic community connections.

Imagine yourself tracking elephant herds across Botswana’s untouched wilderness at sunset. Picture sharing tea with monks in a centuries-old Bhutanese monastery perched on a misty mountainside. Feel the wonder of snorkeling alongside curious sea lions in the pristine waters of the Galápagos. These destinations offer something increasingly rare in our hyperconnected world: the chance to experience nature’s masterpieces exactly as they should be—wild, authentic, and thriving.

To truly accept the spirit of eco-travel, consider adopting slow travel principles on your next trip. Rather than cramming five destinations into a week-long itinerary, spend more time in fewer places. Not only will this reduce your carbon footprint, but you’ll also develop deeper connections with local environments and the people who call them home. Trust us—those unhurried conversations with local guides often become the memories you cherish most.

Responsible travel extends beyond your destination choice to your moment-by-moment choices. Follow leave-no-trace principles during wilderness excursions. Respect wildlife by maintaining appropriate distances (that perfect Instagram shot isn’t worth disturbing an animal’s natural behavior). Choose locally owned accommodations where your tourism dollars directly benefit communities. And yes, even in luxury eco-lodges, be mindful of water and energy use—small choices add up to significant impact.

Most importantly, pack your curiosity alongside your camera. Take time to learn about local conservation challenges. Ask thoughtful questions about cultural traditions. Listen deeply to the stories shared by your hosts. Consider how your presence as a traveler can contribute positively to the places that have welcomed you so warmly.

By choosing destinations that prioritize environmental protection and community wellbeing, you’re casting a powerful vote with your travel dollars. You’re supporting a vision of tourism that regenerates rather than depletes—and that might be the most luxurious feeling of all.

Are you ready to explore these remarkable eco-destinations before they hit the mainstream travel radar? We’d love to hear which sustainable paradise has captured your imagination in the comments below!

Exploring the World with Elegance: A Guide to Luxury Travel