Most common forms of travel today aren’t very eco-friendly or sustainable. However, there are still ways for us to enjoy travelling and exploring this world while being more eco-conscious and sustainable.
These are three main tips that could help you travel while being mindful of this planet and nature surrounding us:
- Get off the beaten path – Many popular destinations fall victim to a very common issue of over-tourism. As tempting as it may be to visit some of the most popular bucket list destinations, it may be even more exciting to explore the less known destinations. Plus, it’s better for the environment.
- Take it slow – Travelling to multiple different places at once will have you rushing through your destinations and not really sticking around for long. This kind of “fast travel”. Not only is this stressful, but it’s also harming the environment. So, try to really take in the beauty of your environment and spend more time in one place trying to get to know it before you move to the next location.
- Use efficient modes of transportation – Pretty much all modes of transportation (planes and cars mostly), leave large carbon footprints behind. If you by any chance are in a position to use a more sustainable mode of transportation such as travelling by train, try opting for that option instead. Also, when you arrive at your destination, you can always choose to move around and explore the city by walking or biking instead of using cabs and buses.
Now that we’ve covered some of the most essential tips for travelling more eco-friendly and sustainably, let’s move on to some of the most beautiful places you can visit while travelling sustainably.
Angel Falls, Venezuela
The first one on the list is Venezuela with its breathtakingly beautiful Angel Falls. Located in the UNESCO-protected Canaima National Park, Angel Falls include the world’ highest waterfall. This happens to be the most popular attraction in this country. The waterfalls stretch up to 19 times higher than Niagara Falls. Fun fact: this location was used as the main inspiration for the Paradise Falls in the famous Pixar animation Up.
Antarctica
This might be one of the most unique travel destinations you can visit. Even though 99% of Antarctica is covered in ice, the landscape is still extremely diverse and there is a lot to be explored. Active volcanoes, magical blue glaciers, the waterways of the Drake Passage, and the stunning 360-degree views of untouched snow are just some of the features that make this destination so magical.
Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Japan
The famous Bamboo Grove in Kyoto, Japan should be on everyone’s bucket list. The experience of standing below this magnificent bamboo grove that seems to be stretching on forever is one of a kind experience you shouldn’t miss out on. Back in 1996, Japan’s Ministry of the Environment also included some of the sounds such as leaves rustling and wood creaking as a part of the top 100 Soundscapes of Japan.
Antelope Canyon, Arizona
Antelope Canyon is a slot canyon located in the American Southwest and its name translates to “the place where water runs through rocks”. The stunning and unusual shape and pattern of this canyon allow the sunlight to filter through and create such a magical atmosphere.
Atacama Desert, Chile
A trip to Valle de la Luna in Chile’s the Atacama Desert is like a trip to the moon. After many and many years of erosion, this place has been left with some stunning dry riverbeds, jagged peaks, and a landscape that resembles the one we’ve come to observe on the Moon.
Avenue of the Baobabs, Madagascar
Madagascar holds many wonders worth exploring. Located about 250 miles away from the African continent, this magical island will truly intrigue with its beauty and nature. If you happen to go to Madagascar one day, make sure to visit the Avenue of the Baobabs, the home of centuries-old trees as tall as about 100 feet.
Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
If you ever want to volunteer abroad, Mexico is one of the best places to visit. There are about 67 national parks, more than 5,000 miles of beautiful coastline, and stunningly beautiful landscape that stretches across the entire country. Cabo San Lucas is definitely one of the places you should visit if you go to Mexico. The spot where the Gulf of California meets the Pacific Ocean is just one of the most breathtakingly beautiful spots you should visit there.
Banff National Park, Canada
Canada has many beautiful spots and destinations to offer, but Banff National Park definitely takes the number one place on that list. The amazing views of the Canadian Rockies and the wildlife are just two main features that make this destination so special. This park is also known for its stunning lakes such as Lake Louise, glacial Lake Minnewanka, and Moraine Lake.
Boracay, Philippines
Lastly, Boracay Island in the Philippines is one of the most stunning islands in the world. Unfortunately, it has become a victim of over-tourism, so the island closed for rehabilitation for a while and is now opened only to a limited number of visitors.
Conclusion
All things considered, travelling sustainably is now important more than ever before. Making sure to be eco-friendly and sustainable while travelling should be our top priority. No matter what destination you choose to visit, make sure you are being mindful of your surroundings and environment.