Sustainable Travel
Discover the world and protect it at the same time: eco-tourism, low-carbon travel and green destinations for conscious travellers.
Why Sustainable Travel Matters
Tourism accounts for 8% of global CO2 emissions. At the same time, travel is one of the most enriching experiences we can have. The solution lies not in giving up travel but in travelling more consciously: slower, more locally, more respectfully.
Sustainable travel means enjoying the beauty of the world while helping to preserve it. It is about conscious choices: taking the train instead of the plane, staying in local accommodation, supporting the local economy and treating nature with respect.
This guide shows you the best destinations for sustainable tourism, gives practical tips for reducing your carbon footprint and proves that responsible travel can be just as exciting.
The 6 Best Destinations for Sustainable Travel
Countries and regions that don't just preach sustainable tourism but live it.
Costa Rica
Central AmericaThe world champion of eco-tourism: 99% renewable energy, a quarter of the country under nature protection and incredible biodiversity.
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Slovenia
EuropeEurope's greenest country: Ljubljana was European Green Capital 2016, consistently sustainable tourism.
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Sweden
ScandinaviaRight of public access, untouched nature and a society that lives sustainability.
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Azores
PortugalVolcanic islands in the Atlantic with consistently sustainable tourism, whale watching and hot springs.
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Alps by Train
Austria / SwitzerlandThe Alps by rail instead of air: night trains take you straight to the mountains, completely car-free.
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Borneo
Malaysia / IndonesiaOne of the oldest rainforests with orangutans, pygmy elephants and responsible eco-lodges.
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Sustainable Destinations Compared
| Destination | Budget | Getting There | Season | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Costa Rica | $$ | 12h flight | Dec–Apr | Eco pioneer |
| Slovenia | $$ | 1.5h flight | May–Oct | Green Europe |
| Sweden | $$$ | 2h flight | Jun–Aug | Wilderness & Nature |
| Azores | $$ | 4h flight | May–Oct | Volcanic islands |
| Alps by Train | $$ | No flight | Year-round | Low carbon |
| Borneo | $$ | 14h flight | Mar–Oct | Rainforest & Wildlife |
Tips for Sustainable Travel
Train instead of plane
For distances under 800 km the train is the better choice. Night trains even save a hotel night.
Reusable bottle instead of plastic
A stainless-steel water bottle with a filter saves hundreds of plastic bottles per trip.
Book local accommodation
Family-run guesthouses and eco-lodges instead of international hotel chains.
Offsetting as a last resort
First avoid, then reduce, then offset.
Reef-safe sunscreen
Mineral sunscreen without oxybenzone is coral-friendly.
Slow Travel
Fewer places, more time per place. You travel with a lower carbon footprint and experience more.
Ready for Conscious Travel?
Discover sustainable destinations and help preserve the world for future generations.