Ecotourism & Sustainable Travel in Walking Holidays

People are becoming increasingly eco-conscious and making decisions that will minimize their environmental impact. In recent years, there has been a sharp rise in demand for ecotourism with people realising the harm that tourism can have on the planet. As a result of this, walking holidays have emerged as a popular type of trip that can reduce environmental impact while allowing people to explore beautiful natural areas and improve their physical health. 

The Importance of Sustainable Practices in Walking Holidays

Hiking trips will be a lot more sustainable than trips that involve a lot of travel, but it is important to adopt sustainable practices. This means protecting the local environment as you walk through it, minimizing waste, and respecting local cultures and communities. 

Destinations Prioritising Environmental Conservation

There are many places around the world that are prioritizing environmental conservation and promoting sustainable tourism, which can include national parks, protected areas, and UNESCO World Heritage sites known for biodiversity and ecological significance. There are a growing number of places, but here are a few of the best examples:

• Costa Rice

• Galapagos Islands

• Yellowstone National Park, USA

• Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

Support For Local Communities

Walking holidays can also provide support for local communities, so they can be an excellent way to contribute to the well-being of particular areas. This can be through creating employment opportunities, supporting local businesses, stimulating the local economy, and preserving indigenous cultures. Again, there are a growing number of places, but a few of the most notable examples include:

• Camino de Santiago, Spain

• Inca Trail, Peru

• Nepal

Tips for Responsible Walking

So, what can you do to minimize your impact on the environment on a walking holiday?

First, it is important to stick to designated trails so that you can avoid disturbing fragile ecosystems. This is why you should always follow walking trails and look up routes ahead of time to avoid getting lost. You should also show respect to wildlife and practice Leave-No-Trace principles—this means leaving an area in the same condition as when you arrived (or in even better condition if there is rubbish). 

To reduce waste on a walking holiday, you should pack light and use reusable items where possible. You should also take any rubbish away with you so that it can be properly disposed of. 

You can also be a responsible traveller by making responsible purchasing and dining choices - supporting local businesses will boost the local economy while giving you the most authentic travel experience. 

Walking holidays are growing in popularity as a way to see the world while minimizing impact on the environment. There are many excellent destinations to choose from that will allow you to engage in ecotourism, but it is still important to be aware of what you should and should not do to protect the local environment.