Eco-tourism sounds great; a combination of caring for the planet and planning a getaway. What could be better? 

However, eco-tourism goes way beyond staying in a hotel that relies on solar panels to keep the lights on. It’s a broad, inclusive term that asks you, the tourist, to consider your space, the people who live there, and how your presence affects all of it. 

This style of traveling offers an incredible opportunity to have a mindful, informed trip. Scroll down to learn a little more about what eco-tourism means for you and for the country you want to see. 

Before you go

One of the biggest differences between eco-tourism and a standard visit to a new place is trip prep. While both require you to pack, confirm reservations, and put together an itinerary, eco-focused travel asks for one additional step; education.

Visitors who want to avoid any negative impact on the environment should look into things like public transportation. Will you be able to move by train, bus, or communal ride? Can you walk or rent a bike? 

If cars appear to be the only option, take a moment to find out if hybrid or electric cars are an option for rent or for ride shares. Make greener rides a priority. 

Explore hotel and lodge options to find the most eco-friendly place to stay. Look for:

• Alternate sources of power
• A limit or ban on plastics
• A recycling program
• A list of food suppliers and if it is locally sourced

Expect a small-yet-charming space in most eco-lodges. Some of the more chic hotels are jumping on the eco-travel train and thinking more about how to host responsibly, so keep an eye out for mindful spots. 

When you arrive

One of the best things you can do as an eco-traveler is patronize local, eco-conscious businesses. Start with packaging. 

Step away from anyone who sells their goods in brand new plastic wrapping. That’s a sign that this business regularly orders huge amounts of plastic bags, sleeves, or boxes and that’s horrible for the environment. 

Look for anyone who uses paper, fabric, or a creatively reused package for sale. This is someone who’s thinking about the local flora and fauna and is deserving of a purchase. 

When you go out to eat, take reusable cups or mugs with you so you don’t add to major piles of plastic or paper trash. If a seller hands you any plastic cutlery, ask, (politely), if you could please have a reusable option. 

Even if the place doesn’t offer what you want, it’s still good to plant that seed wherever you go. If an owner or boss comes by and asks how you are, say something like, “Everything is great. I’m just sorry to see so much plastic this close to the beach.” 

Be mindful of your own waste while you stay. Do you throw out packaging and bags? Try taking your own reusable bags to local shops. Better yet, buy one while you’re in town so you can use it for your shopping back home. 

And if you go on a day trip…

Be sure to look into the company, how they interact with the local environment, and if they give back to the local community in any way. 

For example, a day spent riding elephants in Thailand sounds fun, but the companies who offer these rides are highly unethical. These animals are captured and taken from their families as small babies, then held in captivity and treated terribly. 

But, you have an eco-conscious and environmentally friendly alternative – visit an elephant refuge. While you won’t get to climb up on a giant pachyderm’s back and parade through the streets, you will get to help make a lot of animals’ lives better. 

Wildlife refuges help protect animals and raise money. Visitors can see wild animals in their natural habitat while under the supervision of professionals. Many help you take incredible photos, get up close without disturbing or distressing any wildlife and teach you how the animals live and how you can help. 

Be sure to leave a donation or pick up a souvenir on your way out. Even a small purchase helps keep these places open. 

Want to travel and help the environment?

Get in touch with our team at Maritur DMC. We help you create the perfect Meeting, Incentive Travel, Conference, or Exhibition that puts Mother Earth first. 

Want to know more? Reach out today and let our incredible team show you how we work with your company to make your next visit to Mexico unforgettable.