The World's Top Five Destinations for Ecotourism

Kenya makes the eco cut.

On Mother's Day, moms get props, so we figured Earth Day is the perfect time to recognize those eco-destinations around the globe that are doing their part to preserve the environment while simultaneously providing travelers an amazing place to visit.

You might find your next vacation inspiration and you might be surprised by our choices for the Top Five Eco-Destinations Worldwide. Check them out, after the jump

· Costa Rica
Costa Rica strives to be eco-friendly in all areas, from conserving its big cats to encouraging its tourism sector to adopt green measures. The tourism board implemented a Certification for Sustainable Tourism program to rate tour companies so that travelers can pick eco-friendly hotels and more. Of course, the main attractions for visitors are those lush rain forests, which allow tons of animals and plant life (many of which are endangered, rare species) to thrive.

· Portland, Oregon
Portland is such a sustainability hot spot that the International Ecotourism Society will hold its annual conference there this year. Consistently making lists of sustainable cities, Portland earns the title by doing things like piloting a compost collection program and giving out free water conservation devices. We also love it for its towering tree-filled forests, great skiing and bicycle friendliness.

· Brazil
Brazil may be known for its thong-clad ladies on Copacabana Beach, but it's also earning a name for itself in eco-friendly lodgings. And according to the New York Times, 85 percent of its electricity comes from renewable sources, electricity that then goes into helping it be a top producer of eco products like vegetable-dyed leather.

· Kenya
Forget caged animals at zoos; Kenya keeps its open plains free for roaming elephants, zebras, giraffes and gazelles. The abundant wildlife in the African nation's 54 national parks and reserves makes it one of the top safari destinations. The diverse scenery isn't bad, either; you'll see everything from savannahs to sandy beaches, forests to snow-capped mountains, deserts to coral reefs, all of which the country is interested in keeping as pristine as possible.

· Antartica
Due to its low tourist levels and its extremely cautious wildlife practices, Antarctica's chilly natural beauty remains intact. That, combined with the fact that it's remote and costly to visit, makes it a must-visit-in-your-lifetime place. You'll return from a visit to Antarctica with a renewed respect for nature and the beauty of the earth.

Related Stories:
· Eco-Tripping: Brazil Three Ways [New York Times]
· What Are the Top Ten Ethical Destinations? [Jaunted]
· Ecotourism Coverage [Jaunted]

[Photo: Ai@ce]

Comments (2)

Return to » The World's Top Five Destinations for Ecotourism

Ecotourism is great. It is such a wonderful way to travel while giving back to an incredible destination. I've known quite a few people who've traveled to Costa Rica to work with sea turtles. I am hoping to plan a trip there this coming year, so it'g great to learn about what options are available and what I can do as a tourist to support green travel. Great post!

Thank you for this article. It's create and I live in Portland, Oregon and can atest to our Eco Friendliness personally. Another country that is prime for ecotourism is Colombia. I was there for 3 months and spent time all around the country with http://www.colombiaecotravel.com. It's safe, the people are extremely friendly and the country is the most beautiful place I've been to in South America. Highly Recommended.

Jaunted

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