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More than just a nature vacation, ecotourism is an approach to vacationing that, while often misunderstood, is beneficial to both society and the environment when practiced correctly. The Ecotourism Society defines it as “responsible travel to natural areas [that] conserves the environment and improves the welfare of the local people.”
Ecotourism has grown rapidly since the 1980s as awareness of humans’ impact on the environment has grown. For many destinations, such as Costa Rica, Nepal, Kenya and Antarctica, ecotourism is not merely a socially conscious fad, but a major industry driving local economies.
In South America, a myriad of options for ecotourism exist in the Andes, the Amazon or the Galapagos Islands. Watching gorillas in Uganda or birds in Kenya, exploring the snow leopard’s environment in India or swimming with humpback whales in Tonga are all intriguing ecotourism choices. Just be sure to find a responsible tour operator or guide.
Featured Ecotourism Destinations
Articles on Ecotourism
Feature
Exotic Costa Rican Adventures for the Entire Family
by John Higham July 25, 2008Costa Rica offers an exciting yet safe entrée into exotic ecotourism and soft adventure vacations, from coast to coast.
Ecotourism
Costa Rica’s Monteverde Cloud Forest Adventure
by Regina W.B. July 25, 2008Walk in the clouds and volunteer at a nature school in Costa Rica’s tropical rainforests.
Offbeat Travel
Costa Rica’s Tortuguero Is Turtle Heaven
by John Higham July 25, 2008Tortuguero, on the Atlantic side of Costa Rica, provides a wealth of opportunities to see a variety of sea turtles and other jungle life.
Feature
Into the Wild in Costa Rica
by Regina W.B. July 25, 2008From scarlet macaws to leatherback turtles, Costa Rica’s unique biodiversity is a world all its own.
Chilling Out in Costa Rica
I came face-to-face with a poisonous snake during my visit to Costa Rica and was nearly attacked by a monkey, but I'd return in a heartbeat. »
Hybrid Car Rentals Go on Vacation
Want to color your travels green? Save gas money and possibly the planet by renting a hybrid car for your next vacation. »
Family Voluntourism Strengthens Bonds and Local Communities
Give back to local communities by participating in voluntouring projects on your next family vacation. »
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