eco travel resort

The 15 Best Eco Resorts in the World (2023)

The 15 Best Eco Resorts in the World (2023)

Looking for the comforts of a luxury resort and want to stay eco-consciously? Welcome to the best eco-resorts in the world to stay at this year.

This is where eco-resorts come into play. These resorts embody sustainable tourism, working to preserve the environment and often contributing to the local community. Eco-resorts are becoming more popular as travelers care more about the environment and want to explore responsibly.

Most of these eco-friendly hotels and resorts are set in secluded areas. This not only lets you engage with nature intimately and harmlessly but also offers an opportunity to unwind and disconnect from the buzz of everyday life.

If you’re intrigued about venturing into the world of eco-resorts or are a seasoned visitor seeking your next eco-experience, here are my top choices for the world’s best eco-resorts. A visit to any of these resorts promises a memorable and fulfilling vacation.

What is the concept of eco-resorts?

An eco-resort is similar to any other resort with good accommodation and hospitality, but it also focuses on sustainability. These resorts are deeply committed to eco-friendly practices and making a positive difference—and in many cases, inspiring guests to do the same.

What is the difference between a resort and an eco-resort?

Eco resorts are like regular resorts, but they also focus on being environmentally friendly. They aim to have no carbon emissions and protect the environment around them, as stated by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council.

What makes a good eco-resort?

Good luxury eco-resorts and eco-friendly hotels will meet all your standards for service and amenities while implementing real sustainability practices. Some in the travel industry try to profit from misleading claims of being environmentally friendly. To avoid falling for this, research and ensure that the green hotel’s actions align with its marketing and values.

Short on Time? Here Are My Top Picks for the Best Eco Resorts in the World:

  • Turtle Bay Resort Oahu , for the best Hawaii eco resort
  • Soneva Kiri Thailand , for the best honeymoon eco resort
  • The Stanford Inn by The Sea , for the best California eco resort
  • Olas Tulum , for the best Mexico eco resort

The 15 Best Eco Resorts in the World

1. playa viva (mexico).

An hour south of Zihuatanejo is Playa Viva , with 19 rooms and an award-winning oceanfront treehouse-style property. The B-Corp Certified resort offers numerous ways to both relax and give back while on the property, including volunteering at its turtle sanctuary. Book the best rates here .

  • Playa Viva is 100% off-grid, using solar energy and an onsite well for water.
  • The resort uses reforestation to help improve soil quality and water retention. Then it captures carbon in the landscape’s soil.
  • Playa Viva supports the community in various ways from offering everything from children’s English classes to environmental and recycling projects to spay and neuter clinics for dogs and cats.

Address: Juluchuca, Zihuatanejo, Playa Icacos, 40834 Gro., Mexico

2. Keemala Eco Resort (Thailand)

This enchanting rainforest property on the Thai island of Phuket is made up of hillside villas with pools overlooking the jungle landscape. Keemala’s focus on holistic living, organic dining, and wellness contributes to a retreat-like feel and helps preserve an air of tranquility around the property.  Book the best rates here .

  • Methane from waste management is directed into the ground to reduce greenhouse effect gasses.
  • Each villa has its own water treatment system, and the treated water released back into the environment is in line with or exceeds government standards.
  • The property was designed to protect the existing ecosystem, with soil, trees, and natural water kept in their natural form or used with minimal disturbance.

Address: 10 88 หมู่ที่ 6 Nakanai Rd, Kamala, Kathu District, Phuket 83150, Thailand

3. Turtle Bay Resort (Oahu, Hawaii)

Located on the North Shore of Oahu , the expansive Turtle Bay Resort is an ideal family hideaway, with many curated activities for little ones. There are also endless activities for adults to enjoy, including award-winning golf and horseback riding. Pools, beaches, and the Nalu Spa are also at your fingertips for those seeking relaxation. Book the best rates here .

  • Turtle Bay became the first Oahu resort with a solar roof in 2013. In the last 10 years, it has saved the equivalent of 4.3 million pounds of carbon dioxide emissions.
  • A resort-wide recycling program has spurred an average increase of 1.8 tons of recycling over the last two years.
  • Turtle Bay decreases water use with upgraded toilets and showers.

Address: 57-091 Kamehameha Hwy, Kahuku, HI 96731

4. Olas Tulum (Mexico)

Sea turtles, cenotes, and the Sian Ka’an biosphere await at Olas Tulum , a boutique hotel and guesthouse in Mexico’s bohemian paradise. Visitors can relax on the beach or go to the roof for drinks or yoga with a view of the jungle. Book the best rates here .

  • Rooftop solar panels power the entire property.
  • Las Olas composts organic food onsite and uses it to feed the vegetation.
  • An underground river system feeds water to the property from a nearby cenote.

Address: 10.6 Boca Paila Rd, 77780 Tulum, Q.R., Mexico

5. Lapa Rios Lodge (Costa Rica)

Named for the majestic scarlet macaw birds that are found in the rainforest where the resort is situated, Lapa Rios Lodge has won several awards since its 1993 opening. 17 bungalows are a jumping-off pad for rainforest adventures, wildlife encounters, and ocean activities on the Osa Peninsula. Book the best rates here .

  • 1,000 acres of the Lapa Rios property is a dedicated private nature reserve, providing sanctuary to some of the world’s rarest flora and fauna.
  • Lapa Rios partners with the national university on a jaguar program, supporting the study of animals and other native species.
  • The property provides local communities with employment opportunities, and 100% of staff are native residents.

Address: Puntarenas Province, Puerto Jiménez, Costa Rica

6. Tri by Amaya (Sri Lanka)

Get to know Sri Lanka and its stunning natural landscapes by staying at Tri by Amaya , an otherworldly hideaway tucked at the end of a dirt road ( Read about my stay at Tri by Amaya here ). The hotel features 11 suites set on a 6-acre hill, as well as a pool with mesmerizing views over Koggala Lake. Book the best rates here .

  • Living roofs are planted with species such as water grass and dwarf bamboo.
  • The resort was constructed of locally sourced materials including recycled jak wood, cinnamon sticks, and natural pebble.
  • Tri implemented a mangrove planting and shoreline protection program to combat lakeshore erosion.

Address: Koggala Lake Aladuwa Watte, Pelassa, Thittha, Ahangama 80650, Sri Lanka

7. Bambu Indah (Bali)

This small boutique hotel captures what it calls “old-school Bali”—a tranquil and laid-back experience in harmony with nature. Spend your days at Bambu Indah in natural river swimming pools fed by waterfalls or in your accommodations, open-air bamboo structures on stilts above the rice paddies. Book the best rates here .

  • There are no fluorescent bulbs on-property—only oil lamps and LEDs—in an effort to reduce light pollution.
  • Mosquito nets around beds capture cool air as part of a cooling solution that avoids traditional air conditioning and lessens the carbon footprint.
  • Banana leaves are used as plates and papaya stems as straws as part of the resort’s no-plastic policy.

Address: Jl. Baung, Sayan, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia

8. Nimmo Bay Wilderness Resort (Canada)

This remote, intimate, and family-owned wilderness resort sits in the heart of Canada’s Great Bear Rainforest on the shores of the Pacific Ocean. Home to exceptional and customized wilderness, culinary, and wellness experiences, as well as opportunities to spot whales and bears. Book the best rates here .

  • A hydro-powered water system fueled by streams and waterfalls provides clean drinking water and energy for up to 80% of the resort’s power needs.
  • Nimmo Bay offers sustainable bear viewing to guests and partners on the Coastal Carnivore conservation and mapping project.
  • The resort sustainably sources its culinary ingredients and supports local farms.

Address: 100 Little Nimmo Bay, Mackenzie Sound, Mount Waddington A, BC V0N 2R0, Canada

9. The Stanford Inn By The Sea (California)

The Stanford Inn in Mendocino paints a picture of wellness that extends beyond diet and exercise. Private classes and sessions in nutrition and healthy living, breathwork, Chinese medicine, mushroom foraging and more make up the onsite programming, and a large greenhouse houses a saltwater swimming pool for year-round use. Book the best rates here .

  • The resort hosts students in its Environmental Leadership Field school, providing college students with 4- to 6-week explorations into sustainability.
  • The property has been practicing sustainable organic farming for more than 30 years.
  • The Stanford Inn offers 9 EV chargers on the property.

Address: 44850 Comptche Ukiah Rd, Mendocino, CA, 95460

10. Naturhotel Leitlhof (Italy)

If you’re looking for mountain views, you can’t do better than the Dolomites , specifically Naturhotel Leitlhof . Epic landscapes are studded with mountain peaks and lush forests that make this area of the Alps a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site. Nature preservation is at the core of the hotel’s mission. Book the best rates here .

  • The hotel built its own wood-fired heat and power plant, consisting of a wood gasifier system and a rooftop photovoltaic system.
  • The onsite Mühlhof Farm is home to a garden for fruit, vegetables, and herbs for use in the resort’s restaurant.
  • The resort keeps its own Angus cattle in line with organic livestock production principles.

Address: Via Pusteria, 29, 39038 San Candido BZ, Italy

11. Aquila Eco Lodges (Australia)

Hidden away in Australia’s Southern Grampians is Aquila , a collection of modern-day treehouses surrounded by 100 acres of private bushland. Treehouses come with wood fireplaces, fully equipped kitchens, and outdoor patios. Elsewhere, trails and historic sights provide lots of opportunities for exploration. Book the best rates here .

  • Aquila has committed to preserving its 100 acres of bushland and is regularly inspected by the Trust for Nature.
  • The property uses low-wattage appliances and solar energy capture for power.
  • Water is collected onsite and goes through a rainwater purification system.

Address: 586 Victoria Valley Rd, Dunkeld VIC 3294, Australia

12. Mashpi Lodge Quito (Ecuador)

400 species of birds, trees, frogs, and more unique to Ecuador live in the Ecuadorean rainforest that’s home to Mashpi Lodge . Conveniently located not far from Quito, the resort has programming for all ages, from day hikes to guided night tours. Book the best rates here .

  • The lodge is constructed using sustainable techniques at the site of a former lumber mill.
  • Mashpi has a conservation and resource management strategy based on findings from a biologist-led research project.
  • The property has collaboration agreements with national and international conservation organizations.

Address: Reserva Privada Mashpi, Mashpi 150150, Ecuador

13. El Nido Resorts (Philippines)

Located on the Palawan archipelago in the western part of the Philippines, El Nido is a collection of resort gems. The properties span across Apulit Island , Miniloc Island , Lagen Island , and Pangulasian Island , each boasting pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters. Book the best rates here .

  • El Nido operates a sewage treatment plant to prevent raw sewage from being discharged into the sea.
  • Marine sports guides accompany guests to supervise activities and make sure guests don’t damage or disturb the environment.
  • To avoid competing with the local community for fresh water, El Nido operates its own desalination plant to be energy efficient

Address: El Nido, Palawan, Philippines

14. Soneva Kiri (Thailand)

Just 90 minutes from Bangkok, within a tropical rainforest, guests can enjoy the unspoiled beauty and beaches of Soneye Kiri . The resort comprises 33 luxury pool villas with infinity pools ranging from one to five bedrooms. Night snorkeling with bioluminescent plankton and dining in a mushroom cave are just a couple of the unforgettable activities on offer. Book the best rates here .

  • A 2% environmental tax on all stays goes toward the Soneva Foundation, which invests in various projects.
  • Soneva funds the organization Care for Children, which opened a foster care training and resource center in Thailand.
  • Partnerships with NGOs and other organizations help protect local marine life.

Address: 110, Tambon Ko Kut, Ko Kut District, Trat 23000, Thailand

15. Mahali Mzuri (Kenya)

Mahali Mzuri , whose name means “beautiful place” in Swahili, is part of the provide Olare Motorogi Conservancy in the Maasai Mara ecosystem. It sits directly on the path of the annual great migration, offering guests unbelievable wildlife viewing opportunities. Book the best rates here .

  • Guests can take tours to local villages to experience daily life. The tour costs go both directly to families in the community and to a trust that funds community projects.
  • Solar panels heat the outdoor swimming pools.
  • 100% renewable energy is used throughout the property.

Address: Masai Mara, Motorogi Conservancy, Kenya

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Ps — are you booking a trip soon use my booking checklist.

These are the sites I use most to book my own trips. Using the links below is a great way to support Bon Traveler’s travel journalism at no extra cost to you . If you need help organizing your itinerary, get my free travel itinerary template here .

1. Book Your Flights

Use Skyscanner to find the best flights. It searches 100s of airlines and websites across the globe to ensure you’re not missing out on any route options or deals.

2. Book Your Accommodations

Use Booking.com for hotels and guest houses. They have the biggest inventory and consistently offer the best rates.

3. Book Your Tours & Experiences

Use Viator or Get Your Guide to find the best tours and experiences. They are my favorite tour search engines. I always check both as their inventory varies depending on the destination.

4. Book Your Car

Use Discover Cars or Rentalcars.com to find the best car rental deals. I recommend comparing rental agency reviews on Google to ensure you are booking with the best company in that destination, as the reviews are often more accurate than the car rental search engines.

5. Don’t Forget Airport Lounge Access

Get a Priority Pass membership to gain access to 1,400+ VIP lounges and airport experiences worldwide. The Priority Pass app is the first thing I check when I have a layover. I’ve been a member for over a decade, and having a comfortable place to relax before and between flights makes air travel so much more enjoyable.

6. Don’t Forget Travel Insurance

I never leave the country without travel insurance. It provides comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong (ie. illness, injury, theft, and cancelations, etc.). I use it frequently for my travels to stay protected.

My favorite companies that offer the best coverage and rates are:

  • World Nomads (best for all-around)
  • Safety Wing (best for frequent travelers)

Xx, Jessica

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25 Best Eco Resorts For A Sustainable (Luxurious!) Getaway

What could be better than a luxurious getaway that makes a positive impact? With sustainability becoming an increasingly important priority for travelers of all budgets, accommodations big and small are finding new ways to go green , pushing the envelope to leave their surroundings better than they found them.

In this guide to some of the world’s best eco resorts, you’ll find everything from tented getaways in the shadow of volcanoes to private island tropical retreats.  Leading the way with new projects in conservation, sustainability, and socially-responsible travel, these standout eco resorts are perfect for your next escape.

Bawah Reserve

This post contains affiliate links that may reward me monetarily or otherwise when you use them to make qualifying purchases – at no cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, please read our  disclosure policy .

25 Best Eco Resorts Around the World

1. bawah reserve – indonesia.

Painstakingly hand-built using locally sourced, sustainable materials, Bawah Reserve is a stunning retreat on a secluded archipelago in Indonesia designed to work with the pristine tropical environment rather than against it. Combining luxurious design and details with sustainability at its core, this dreamy eco resort is one you need to experience first-hand to believe.

Spread across six paradise islands, Bawah Reserve is a dream destination whether you’re looking for rest and relaxation or an active adventure. Relax at one of Bawah Reserve’s thirteen pristine beaches and three crystal-clear lagoons, and enjoy snorkeling, sailing, and boat excursions to nearby islands before ending the night at the open-air cinema, popcorn included.

Bawah Reserve continues to add new eco-friendly features to honor the environment even more; in 2022, a new solar energy farm helped the resort cut back even further on carbon emissions. Its sustainability is central to its mission to provide an unforgettable travel experience that eco-minded explorers will feel good about.

2. Magical Pond – Finland

Recharge among snow-covered pine trees and smell the fresh air from a cozy glass igloo at Magical Pond , a star eco resort in Finnish Lapland you won’t soon forget. The perfect haven amidst the snowy north, this is the perfect destination for a memorable stay, whether you’re looking to spot the Aurora Borealis or enjoy the midnight sun.

Designed to minimize the impact on this frozen yet fragile environment, Magical Pond puts sustainability at the forefront of both design and operations. Using locally-sourced and organic products throughout its igloos , travelers get a taste of Scandanavian innovation at every turn.

North Island

3. North Island – Seychelles

Home to just eleven private villas on sandy shores for the ultimate in seclusion and barefoot luxury, North Island in the paradise waters of Seychelles seamlessly combines sustainability into every aspect of its experience for an unmatched eco-friendly tropical getaway.

North Island goes beyond just preservation, as it works to ‘turn back the ecological clock’ and restore these islands to their natural glory. Throughout the island’s history, thousands of invasive plant and animal species were transported here; the extensive Noah’s Ark Conservation Programme has helped restore the island’s diversity to a fertile paradise once again.

Native populations of birds, fish, and even green turtles have returned on their own accord, meaning a stay at North Island offers an unparalleled chance to spot endemic wildlife in their natural habitats.

Whether exploring the water on diving, snorkeling, or sailing expeditions or enjoying a stroll on the island’s four pristine beaches, it’s impossible to deny that North Island feels like a sliver of paradise.

4. Concordia Eco Resort – U.S. Virgin Islands

Perched on the hillside above the warm Caribbean waters of St. John, Concordia Eco Resort offers an unexpected Caribbean getaway perfect for the sustainably-minded traveler looking to get off the beaten path. Offering villas and rustic ridge line tents perfect for families and couples alike, the ocean views from the pool deck will take your breath away, just the start of an unforgettable stay.

With the island’s 11,500 acres of protected land at its doorstep, Concordia Eco Resort is the perfect spot for a natural escape. Whether you’re looking forward to exploring forest trails or relaxing on nearby Salt Pond Bay beach after an afternoon of exploring the seas on clear paddleboards and kayaks, Concordia Eco Resort is the best spot to enjoy the very best of the Virgin Islands.

Read More: 30 Best Islands in the Caribbean To Visit

Cala Luna Boutique Hotel & Villas

5. Cala Luna Boutique Hotel & Villas – Costa Rica

Boasting the highest certification in sustainable tourism from the Costa Rican Tourism Institute, Cala Luna Boutique Hotel & Villas is a boutique property nestled among the palm trees of Baulas National Park and along one of Costa Rica’s most stunning beaches .

This family-owned luxury property offers an intimate retreat in one of Costa Rica’s most desirable locations, with complimentary open-air yoga classes and an array of holistic wellness activities perfect for a mindful getaway.

At a nearby sustainable farm, La Senda, Cala Luna guests can participate in a weekly Chef’s Table dining experience, exploring the grounds and enjoying a family-style meal from delicious, fresh ingredients. It’s a one-of-a-kind way to savor local cuisine while taking part in efforts to make this beautiful corner of Costa Rica even greener.

Plan a Trip to Costa Rica

  • 12 Best Resorts in Costa Rica
  • Puerto Viejo de Talamanca: Ultimate Travel Guide
  • 23 Best Cities in Costa Rica for Travelers

6. Picocanoa Rodavento – Mexico

Surrounded by the lush jungles of Veracruz, Mexico, Picocanoa Rodavento is the perfect spot for a sustainable adventure.

Guests can choose from countless nearby activities, including rock climbing, ziplining, and even whitewater rafting, making it easy to explore this green paradise on a trip packed with adventure. On-site spa and wellness treatments include massages with all-natural ingredients, revitalizing mud baths, and even Mayan temazcal prehispanico steam baths.

Guests can book the affordable tropical cabins at Picocanoa Rodavento instantly on Pitchup.com , for a sustainable jungle escape with all the amenities. Whether you’re looking to get your adrenaline pumping or prefer some pampering, this unique property makes for a perfect stay.

The Ritz Carlton Maldives Fari Islands

7. The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands – Maldives

Emerging from the crystal clear waters of the Maldives on a natural white-sand bank above a shallow reef, The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands has prioritized environmental preservation and protection from the resort’s inception to the most minute detail of its operation.

The environmental commitment of this luxury eco resort ranges from using sustainable materials and implementing innovative conservation projects to generating its own renewable energy to ensure it leaves little to no imprint on this slice of paradise.

Among a never-ending list of activities and amenities on offer at  The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands , guests can immerse themselves in nature by partaking in the legendary Jean-Michel Cousteau’s  Ambassadors of the Environment  program.

Led by the resort’s experienced naturalists , kids and kids at heart can discover one-of-a-kind ecosystems above and below the waves with unique, hands-on learning opportunities found nowhere else in the region.

Plan a Trip to the Maldives

  • 10 Best Maldives Resorts (For Every Budget)
  • Best Time to Visit the Maldives: Month-by-Month Breakdown
  • Maldives on a Budget: 6 Easy Travel Tips
  • How Much Does a Maldives Trip Cost?

8. Rio Celeste Hideaway Hotel – Costa Rica

Located i n the shadow of volcanoes and among the lush forest canopy in one of the most diverse corners of Costa Rica, Rio Celeste Hideaway Hotel is an award-winning and sustainable property that takes seclusion to a new level.

Featuring 26 private bungalows with an array of amenities and a curated selection of activities and excursions, it’s no wonder it snagged a spot on Travel + Leisure’s list of the 14 Most Beautiful Jungle Hotels Around the World in 2022 , one of just a few true eco resorts on the list.

Favorite ways to make the most of this eco resort’s enviable location in the Costa Rican jungle include night walks along forest trails with trained guides and naturalists, swimming and paddling down crystal-clear rivers on the hotel’s property, and epic white water rafting excursions just a short drive away .

The Laguna

9. The Laguna, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa – Bali, Indonesia

Nestled among the palm trees and white sand beaches of the exclusive Nusa Dua area of Bali, the newly refurbished eco resort The Laguna, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa offers a refreshingly sustainable take on a getaway to this bucket list destination. New green initiatives cutting down on plastic preserve this pristine spot, while partnerships with local Balinese NGOs cut back on food waste while providing thousands of meals to families in need every month.

For the ultimate in refined luxury, The Laguna, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa boasts beautiful interiors inspired by Balinese design, as well as seven stunning beach-side pools, five restaurants, bars and lounges, and a state-of-the-art fitness center and spa.

You won’t even have to leave the resort for an unforgettable experience, though its privileged spot near historic temples, plunging cliffs, and sandy islands means the best of Bali is right at your fingertips. It’s one of the best eco resorts in all of Bali!

10. Ka’ana Resort & Spa – Belize

Nestled among the jungle in western Belize, just a stone’s throw from towering Mayan pyramids, Ka’ana Resort & Spa is the best spot for exploring one of Central America ‘s most impressive yet under-the-radar destinations.

Choose from exploring crystal clear rivers with swimming holes in jungle caves, hiking to waterfalls, or ziplining above the jungle canopy as just a few of the ways to have the adventure of a lifetime while staying at Ka’ana, among the best resorts in Belize .

Ka’ana Resort & Spa is both an eco-friendly and socially-responsible hotel, perfect for travelers looking to make a difference with their travel spending. In addition to the property’s unending list of sustainability initiatives and the locally-sourced products for use throughout the resort, their admirable initiatives to support local schools have a lasting impact.

Read More: 12 Belize Beaches You Won’t Want to Miss

Playa Viva

11. Playa Viva – Mexico

The founding member of Regenerative Travel, Playa Viva is a stunning eco resort that goes beyond being simply eco-friendly to offer a restorative luxury experience for guests while keeping environmental protection and conservation at its heart.

Choose from among six luxurious and eye-catching bamboo tree houses on the property, suspended in mid-air by palm trees that serve as a protective barrier for expansive dunes along the white sand beaches. Visit the resort’s own baby sea turtle sanctuary or embark on excursions led by local tour operators to come face to face with the one-of-a-kind natural wonders and diverse communities that surround Playa Viva ‘s own 200-acre property.

With dozens of wellness and yoga retreats scheduled for the upcoming season , there are more ways than ever to enjoy an unforgettable stay at Playa Viva, among Mexico’s best eco resorts.

Tiamo

12. Tiamo – The Bahamas

Along the tranquil “Tongue of the Ocean” in The Bahamas, Tiamo combines luxury living with environmentally-conscious design and sustainable practices to preserve the white sand beaches and clear waters of the untouched Andros Island its calls home.

Home to eleven beautiful villas elevated on stilts, Tiamo takes advantage of ocean breezes for cooling and ventilation efficiency, while sustainable pine wood and locally-sourced roof thatching contribute to the property’s sustainable elegance.

Guests can choose from multiple half-day safari excursions to some of the most beautiful natural spots on Andros Island before taking a dip in warm Caribbean waters and exploring under the waves. Tiamo is also the perfect spot for more adventurous water spots like wakeboarding and waterskiing, while this area is regarded as one of the best spots for offshore fishing in The Bahamas.

Hoshino Resorts

13. Hoshino Resorts Iriomote Hotel – Japan

Nestled among the forests of Iriomote-Ishigaki National Park on one of Japan’s most remote and untouched islands, Hoshino Resorts Iriomote Hotel is a hidden gem to add to the top of your eco resorts bucket list. Perched along the dramatic coastline among stunning beaches, cliffs, and waterfalls, this is the perfect spot for exploring this unique and beautiful corner of Japan.

Explore native mangrove forests by kayak at dusk, trek to the plunging Kura Falls, and learn about the conservation efforts for the Iriomote wildcat, a critically-endangered species unique to the island. It’s all part of the property’s sustainable focus designed to protect the pristine National Park it calls home.

Finca Victoria

14. Finca Victoria – Puerto Rico

Set on a 2.5-acre property complete with just four intimate suites, Finca Victoria on Puerto Rico’s “little sister” island of Vieques is a boutique escape for an eco-friendly, wellness-focused Caribbean retreat.

Just minutes from the black sand beaches and bioluminescent coves that make the island of Vieques such a fascinating destination, Finca Victoria offers guests the best base for exploring one of the Caribbean’s most precious hidden gems.

Finca Victoria guests can enjoy the property’s fresh fruit and vegetable garden, as well as designated gardens for herbs and medicinal plants, all of which are put to good use in the ayurvedic vegan kitchen and in the property’s own natural products sold in their store and used in the wellness house. Group yoga sessions and dedicated wellness retreats await.

Read More: 22 Best Things To Do in Puerto Rico

Casa Chablé

15. Casa Chablé – Mexico

A brand new seaside resort in Mexico’s pristine Sian Ka’an Biosphere, Casa Chablé is wedged between tropical jungles and lapping Caribbean waves for eco-minded travelers looking for the best of both worlds.

Offering five beachfront bungalows and a main villa with five guest rooms, this one-of-a-kind retreat promises both seclusion and connection. Discover hidden bays, impressive archeological sites, and pristine beaches at your doorstep while enjoying the best of Casa Chablé’s barefoot luxury.

Casa Chablé draws exclusively from renewable wind and solar energy and employs reverse osmosis to repurpose gray water for irrigation. Unique projects in mangrove reforestation, eliminating single-use plastics, and sourcing local artisan-made decor support people and places in this special destination. It’s just a small part of the property’s commitment to the biosphere it calls home, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the largest protected area in the Mexican Caribbean.

Hacienda AltaGracia

16. Hacienda AltaGracia, Auberge Resorts Collection – Costa Rica

Hidden among the mountains of Pérez Zeledón, Costa Rica, t he stunning Hacienda AltaGracia, Auberge Resorts Collection promises sustainable luxury for mindful adventure seekers and nature lovers alike. Spend your days hiking to plunging waterfalls or encountering sloths and butterflies on wildlife safaris before retreating to the property’s multiple restaurants to enjoy fresh, locally-sourced dishes with sunset views.

The wellness offerings at Hacienda AltaGracia are absolutely second to none, inviting a connection to self and nature at every turn. From a calendar of seasonal visiting masters to holistic massage techniques and herbal baths alongside the Calientillo River with crystal healing sessions, the opportunities for relaxation and rejuvenation are unending.

Read More: 12 Best Beaches in Costa Rica

jungle bay dominica

17. Jungle Bay – Dominica

Jungle Bay is right at home on the island of Dominica , known as the “Nature Isle of the Caribbean.” Nestled among tropical trees and flowers, this eco-friendly resort is a dreamy refuge for nature lovers and adventurous travelers alike looking to connect with the beauty of one of the Caribbean’s few remaining hidden gems.

Guests can choose among sixty inviting villas designed with locally-sourced and environmentally-friendly decor and artwork, offering a distinctly inviting yet luxurious local flair . On-site amenities and activities abound as wellness studios, an intimate spa, a tropical fruit orchard, and an infinity pool with ocean vistas await.

Just above the quaint fishing village of Soufriere and its nearby marine sanctuaries and dive shops, Jungle Bay is also the perfect gateway for travelers looking to explore underwater terrains as unique as those you’ll find across this one-of-a-kind island.

Plan a Trip to Dominica

  • 5 Best Resorts in Dominica
  • 20 Things To Do in Dominica
  • Dominica: Ultimate Traveler’s Guide

Soneva Fushi

18. Soneva Fushi – Maldives

The first luxury resort in the pristine islands of the Maldives, Soneva Fushi has long been a pioneer of barefoot luxury .

Located in the pristine Baa Atoll , a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Soneva Fushi offers a privileged spot for guests to explore one of the most diverse and stunning below the waves in the Maldives. Spot graceful manta rays, playful dolphins, and colorful corals as you explore a true ocean paradise.

This eco-friendly resort offers an unmatched guest experience while maintaining a commitment to sustainability and best-in-practice environmental measures that guests can enjoy firsthand. From the private island resort’s Eco Centro to its protected nature reserve and marine biologist on staff to guide guests on snorkeling excursions, evidence of the environmental commitment at Soneva Fushi is everywhere.

Read More: 10 Best Maldives Resorts

VOMO Island

19. VOMO Island – Fiji

Choose a planet-positive getaway to the private island resort VOMO Island in Fiji for the ultimate in sustainable luxury. Make your private island dreams come true as you explore the resort’s 225 acres of tropical island paradise, covered in lush landscape and ringed with powdery sand.

Forward-thinking and innovative eco-friendly projects include turning desalinated water into cleaning products to eliminate harsh chemicals and building a freshwater bottling plant on the island to reduce single-use plastic consumption. The resort’s own marine biologist monitors sustainability initiatives while introducing guests to the pristine waters at VOMO Island.

Adventurous travelers will love the array of activities available for exploring VOMO Island ‘s pristine environments, both above and below the waves. Hike to the top of Mt. VOMO, stroll along 3 miles of pristine beaches, snorkel with manta rays in the Yasawa Islands, or earn your PADI scuba diving certification at this PADI 5-star gold palm dive resort .  Just a sampling of the unending list of adventures on offer at VOMO, you’ll need to book your return visit to experience it all.

Plan a Trip to Fiji

  • Mamanuca Islands, Fiji: Ultimate Traveler’s Guide
  • Ultimate Fiji Islands Guide + 4 Best Islands in Fiji
  • 10 Best Resorts in Fiji

Banyan Tree Mayakoba

20. Banyan Tree Mayakoba – Mexico

A desirable stretch of the Riviera Maya coastline is home to Banyan Tree Mayakoba , winner of TripAdvisor’s prestigious Best of the Best Award for its modern luxury and unmatched guest experience. Offering spacious private pool beachfront and lagoon-facing villas and suites, a true retreat awaits at the one-of-a-kind Banyan Tree Mayakoba.

A mix of conservation and preservation projects underpin the resort’s commitment to its pristine environment on land and below the sea.

In addition to Banyan Tree’s brand-wide pledge to reduce and eliminate single-use plastics from the operation, the property supports the reforestation and care of coral reefs, even hosting an annual “Reef Week” during which guests can get involved in planting new coral fragments on guided snorkeling excursions.

Banyan Tree Mayakoba ‘s year-round eco-tours by boat introduce guests to the stunning flora and fauna of the fragile mangrove forests.

Nayara Tented Camp

21. Nayara Tented Camp – Costa Rica

One of the first luxury camps in Central America, Nayara Tented Camp sits in the shadow of the impressive Arenal Volcano, among hot springs and dense jungles. Unobstructed volcano views await from private decks with hammocks and hot spring-fed plunge pools at Nayara Tented Camp, named Travel + Leisure’s number-one best resort in Central America. It’s easy to see what makes this destination such a special one.

Nayara Tented Camp is a sustainable paradise perfect for exploring one of the most beautiful corners of Costa Rica. Built to work with the natural surroundings to maximize breezes to naturally ventilate and cool rooms, the resort also contributes to local reforestation efforts and supports community development projects offering everything from support for local artists to free early childhood education.

Morena Eco Resort

22. Morena Eco Resort – Curaçao

With its rich history, colorful Dutch Caribbean architecture, and crystal-clear waters lapping along white sand beaches, it’s no wonder the island of Curaçao won’t remain under the radar for much longer.

Just a stone’s throw from the stellar beaches on the west end of the island, Morena Eco Resort is the perfect modern and luxurious yet sustainable resort from which to explore all that Curaçao has to offer.

Built with sustainable and eco-friendly materials from local sources, the eco resort continues its environmental commitment in its everyday operations. From using all-natural products in its spa to adding sustainable features like solar water heaters and is designed to enable ocean breezes to ventilate and cool interior spaces naturally, Morena Eco Resort is a leader among eco resorts on the island.

Read More: 20 Best Things To Do in Curacao

Mount Cinnamon Resort

23. Mount Cinnamon Resort – Grenada

Tucked among lush greenery above the turquoise waters of the Caribbean, Mount Cinnamon Resort on the island of Grenada is a beloved hideaway retreat making a positive impact on the environment and local communities.

Earning the Golden Green Globe Certification for its efforts, Mount Cinnamon Resort supports a diverse range of initiatives, from giving back to local schools to helping rebuild reefs.

Each of the property’s 37 luxurious villas offers sweeping ocean views, making it a dreamy home away from home in one of the Caribbean’s last hidden gems.

Whether you choose to spend your days at Mount Cinnamon Resort dining on farm-to-table meals prepared from ingredients from the property’s own gardens, snorkeling through crystal clear waters, or enjoying the ultimate in relaxation at the Cinnamon Spa , this is your ideal eco resorts getaway back to nature.

The Dolder Grand

24. The Dolder Grand – Switzerland

Perched on a hillside overlooking both historic Zurich and the rolling countryside, The Dolder Grand is a luxurious, sustainably-minded property for travelers looking for the best of both worlds.

A recipient of the EarthCheck Silver Certification, a global benchmark and certification for sustainable travel and tourism eco resorts, The Dolder Grand employs everything from on-site gardens to energy-efficient heating systems and food waste avoidance programs to make the resort extra environmentally friendly.

With their Cause We Care Initiative , guests are invited to make a voluntary contribution to local and international climate protection projects that make their booking climate neutral. It’s an innovative way to make an unforgettable stay at this historic property even better.

Botánika Osa Peninsula, Curio Collection by Hilton

25. Botánika Osa Peninsula, Curio Collection by Hilton – Costa Rica

Hidden among the trees of Costa Rica’s Osa Peninsula, called “the most biologically intense place on Earth” by National Geographic , the newly-opened and eco-minded Botánika Osa Peninsula, Curio Collection by Hilton is a resort worth traveling for. Opportunities to commune with pristine nature and fulfill bucket list experiences abound, with everything from guided night hikes through the rainforest to paddling alongside whale sharks on offer.

Floor-to-ceiling windows, spacious terraces, and private rooftop spaces make the most of jungle views for spotting hummingbirds and endemic flora and fauna.

For a relaxation and wellness-focused getaway, stick close by and enjoy the Botánika Osa Peninsula ‘s unending amenities like winding nature trails, a natural lagoon-style pool, themed gardens with medicinal plants and orchids, and a restaurant serving up delicious meals made with locally-sourced ingredients.

carley rojas avila

Carley Rojas Avila

Carley Rojas Avila is a bilingual New York-based travel writer, editor, content marketer, and the founder of the digital travel publications Explorers Away and Home to Havana. Carley is an expert on all things Latin America, the Caribbean, and Cuba, having lived and worked in four different countries in the region. Her writing has appeared on the Associated Press wires and in Travel + Leisure, Yahoo, MSN, Euronews, The Weather Channel, and more. When she's not writing about her travels, find her front row at a Bad Bunny concert, befriending street cats, and taste-testing every pizza in Havana.

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Green Global Travel

World's largest independently owned Ecotourism / Green Travel / Sustainable Travel / Animal & Wildlife Conservation site. We share transformative Responsible Travel, Sustainable Living & Going Green Tips that make a positive impact.

What is an Eco Lodge? The Top 20 Eco Resorts & Eco Hotels in the World

Costa Rica Eco Resort Casa Corcovado Jungle Lodge

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. All hosted affiliate links follow our editorial policies .

One of the questions we get asked most frequently by our readers involves how to choose a responsible tour operator , eco hotel, eco lodge, or eco resort .  

Research shows that global interest in ecotourism (which was defined by The International Ecotourism Society as “responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment and improves the welfare of local people”) has grown rapidly in recent years.

According to the Center For Responsible Travel’s Travel Trends & Statistics report , around one in five consumers (21%) say they would be willing to pay more for a trip with a company that has a better environmental and social record.

A report by The Travel Foundation found that 66% of travelers surveyed would like to be able to identify a “greener” holiday more easily. And 84% of those working in travel PR/marketing see “green” credentials becoming increasingly important in the near future.

Unfortunately, these sorts of stats attract a good bit of greenwashing  from profit-driven people looking to cash in on the eco-friendly movement. So how do you find a responsibly managed eco resort when you travel? And what’s the difference between an eco resort, eco lodge, and an eco hotel?

Read on for the answers to these questions and many others, as well as our guide to some of the most acclaimed eco hotels, eco lodges, eco resorts around the world…

READ MORE:  What is Ecotourism? (History & Principles of Responsible Travel)

  • What the difference in an Eco Resort, Eco Lodge & Eco Hotel?
  • How to Find A Responsibly Managed Eco Lodge or Eco Resort

Best Eco Lodges in the World

Best eco resorts in the world, best eco hotels in the world.

Beach cabana on Playa Holbox at Las Nubes de Holbox

Eco Resort, Eco Lodge, or Eco Hotel?

The primary difference between an eco resort and an eco lodge is generally the amount of services that are provided on site.

In general, eco resorts tend to be located on larger properties than eco lodges, and may offer more amenities, such as spas, a choice of restaurants, and/or a variety of local tours. However, in our personal experiences, the terms eco lodge and eco resort are used somewhat interchangeably.

The biggest difference between an eco resort or eco lodge and an eco hotel is the setting in which you’ll find them. 

Eco resorts and eco lodges tend to be more remote, located in relatively pristine natural environments such as exotic islands , forests , and mountains . Eco hotels, on the other hand, are more often associated with cities and towns.

One thing all three of these “green” accommodation options have in common is that they emphasize elements such as environmental responsibility and minimizing negative impact.

The best ones also offer renewable energy sources, recycling services, eco-friendly toiletries , energy efficient lighting, locally sourced food, organic linens, non-toxic cleaning supplies, non-disposable dishes, water conservation methods, and various other sustainability-focused initiatives.

But most eco resorts tend to be more dependent on the natural environment than eco hotels.

They’re also generally more active in nature and wildlife conservation , more focused on educating visitors about the flora and fauna of local ecosystems, and more deeply connected with the area’s indigenous culture (whose influence is often incorporated into the eco resort’s decor and restaurant menu).

The best eco resorts and eco lodges also work to ensure positive relationships with the local people. They train and employ them at fair wages, take part in community development initiatives, offer activities that help visitors conserve and appreciate local customs, and contribute to the local economy.

In this way, they reinforce the notion of ecotourism as a more sustainable long-term business model than altering or destroying habitats for quick financial gains.

And while some eco-friendly lodges are more expensive than traditional resorts and hotels, there are myriad sites that allow you to compare vacation rental and hotel prices to find the best deal for your budget.

READ MORE:   Why Responsible Travel Matters (& Greenwashing Sucks)

Patagonia Camp Eco Lodge in Chile

Choosing an Eco Hotel/ Eco Lodge/ Eco Resort

One of the biggest challenges that eco-friendly hotels and resorts face is the lack of a universal definition. Exactly how environmentally friendly does an eco lodge need to be in order to qualify? And who determines which accommodations will pass muster?

Unfortunately, some of the world’s most well-known and respected “green” certification programs are cost-prohibitive for many eco lodges, which are often relatively small and owned and operated by independent entrepreneurs rather than corporations.

But there are numerous reputable certification programs that responsible travelers can look for before they book their stay at a given eco hotel, eco lodge, or eco resort.

Many– including Green Seal in the U.S.– are part of the  Global Ecolabelling Network , a non-profit group comprised of 25 third-party organizations throughout the world. They’re all devoted to improving, promoting and developing labelling systems for eco-friendly products and services.

Sponsored in part by the United Nations World Tourism Organization, the  Global Sustainable Tourism Council Criteria are widely considered the gold standard in “green” certification. 

These criteria involve effective sustainability planning, maximizing social and economic benefits for the local community, enhancing cultural heritage, and reducing negative impacts to the environment.

Where the GSTC has guidelines for destinations, hotels/resorts, and tour operators,  Green Key Global is designed specifically for the lodging industry. Its flagship Eco-Rating Program, which evaluates properties on an environmental, social, and economic level, has certified around 2,370 eco hotels and eco lodges in 52 countries over the past 15 years.

Green Globe is another popular certification program, offering training and education for hotels/resorts, attractions, organizations, cruise ships, and various tourism industry suppliers.

Their global network of independent auditors provide third-party inspection and an internationally recognized seal of approval that’s become increasingly popular over the past 25 years.

READ MORE: How to Choose an Eco Hotel

Eco lodge

1. Daintree Wilderness Lodge  (Australia)

Named one of the Top 50 Lodges In the World by National Geographic ,  Daintree is run in partnership with the local Kuku Yalanji tribe, allowing guests a rare chance to immerse themselves in the culture of Australian Aborigines.

The lodge is set in the Daintree Rainforest, the world’s oldest, which is part of the Wet Tropics of Queensland (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) on Australia’s northeast coast .

The landscape looks like something out of  Jurassic Park , surrounded by sandy beaches, rugged mountains, waterfalls and pristine forests. The area contains around 65% of Australia’s bat and butterfly species; 30% of the frog, reptile and marsupial species; and 18% of the bird species.

The lodge’s Advanced Eco Certification ensures your stay in their elevated treehouse-style villas makes a minimal impact on the pristine environment.

Activities include painting workshops using ocher from a nearby waterfall and hiking tours to explore the ancient, otherworldly plants of the forest. And the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, of the world’s best places to Scuba dive , is less than an hour away.  Read Reviews and Check Rates

READ MORE: Top 10 Australian National Parks

EcoCamp Patagonia Eco Lodge, Chile

2. EcoCamp Patagonia  (Chile)

The first hotel in all of Patagonia with a certified Environmental Management System, this Chilean-owned eco lodge offers luxury glamping and spectacular views of the famed peaks of the Torres del Paine massif.

The carbon neutral camp’s unique geodesic dome suites offer wood-burning stoves, en suite bathrooms, and open terraces that provide occasional sightings of local wildlife.

The dome’s design was inspired by the Kaweskars (Alacalufes), the nomadic Patagonian people who once lived in what is now Torres del Paine National Park.

Their green exteriors are designed to blend harmoniously with the surrounding environment, with skylight windows designed to utilize natural heat and light.

All of the camp’s electricity is provided by a micro-hydro turbine and photovoltaic panels. Their composting toilets, aggressive recycling program, and commitment to the local community/culture are commendable as well. Read Reviews and Check Rates.

READ MORE: Torres del Paine National Park, Chile

Lapa Rios Eco Lodge, Costa Rica

3. Lapa Rios Lodge  (Costa Rica)

Recently named one of National Geographic’s Unique Lodges of the World, this award-winning eco lodge has also been voted one of Latin America’s top resorts by  Conde Nast Traveler and Travel & Leisure. 

Lapa Rios is set on the Pacific Ocean, surrounded by over 1,000 acres of protected rainforest on Costa Rica ‘s Osa Peninsula. It’s adjacent to Corcovado National Park, a soon-to-be-named UNESCO World Heritage Site widely considered one of the most biodiverse places on the planet.

The pristine lowland forest habitat is home to a stunning array of Costa Rica animals , including four species of monkeys and significant populations of endangered species such as the jaguar, baird’s tapir, white-lipped peccaries, scarlet macaws and the harpy eagle.

Opened in 1993 by former Peace Corps volunteers John and Karen Lewis, the eco lodge was a pioneer in Costa Rica’s ecotourism movement.

Their 16 thatched roof bungalows make use of cooling ocean breezes, while their salt-based pool, open-air restaurant, yoga classes and Ayurvedic massages ensure “eco-friendly” never feels anything less than luxurious.

Their community-based initiatives include working with local NGO Earth Equilibrium to build school classrooms, dining rooms, and playgrounds; provide badly needed school supplies; and install water pumps and solar panels to supply clean water and electricity in local communities around the Osa Peninsula. Read Reviews and Check Rates

READ MORE: The 15 Best Places To Stay in Costa Rica

Feynan Ecolodge, jordan

4. Feynan Ecolodge  (Jordan)

After a 14-kilometer hike through the mountainous terrain of Jordan’s Dana Biosphere Reserve , Feynan seems like a mirage rising out of the desert.

Named one of the Top 50 Ecolodges in the World by National Geographic , Feynan is part of a unique partnership between EcoHotels (a private company) and Jordan’s  Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature (RSCN) .

Feynan Ecolodge is a pioneer of sustainability, not just in Jordan but the entire Middle East region. It is fully solar-powered via photovoltaic panels mounted on the roof, with natural ventilation, and all water coming from a local spring.

A substantial portion of Feynan’s revenue helps fund conservation efforts in Dana, which  covers 320 square kilometers and contains the highest level of biodiversity in Jordan.

Activities at Feynan range from hiking and biking in the reserve to spending the day with a shepherd, learning about Bedouin culture from a local family in their goat-hair tented home, and taking a cooking class and making a 3-course Jordanian meal.

But our favorite was spending the night sleeping on a bed under the stars on the eco lodge’s roof. Read Reviews and Check Rates

READ MORE: Ecotourism in Jordan: The Ultimate Jordan Travel Guide

Campi Ya Kanzi Eco Lodge, Kenya

5. Campi Ya Kanzi Eco Lodge  (Kenya)

You can’t swing a stick in East Africa without hitting a luxury safari camp. What makes this eco lodge overlooking Mount Kilimanjaro  different is the fact that it’s actually owned and operated by the Maasai people , the nomadic pastoralists who have called this region home for some 500 years.

The 400-square-mile Campi ya Kenzi (“Camp of the Hidden Treasure”) is bordered by Amboseli , Tsavo, and Chyulu National Parks.

So there’s a diverse array of ecosystems (mountain forest, grasslands, river woodlands, bush, and savanna) and remarkable biodiversity (50+ mammals and 400+ bird species) that makes for a memorable safari experience. Can you imagine taking a morning walking safari with a Maasai guide?

The tented camp is exclusive, with a maximum of 12 guests at any given time. The tents were all built sustainably, with thatched roofs, lava rocks and traditional Masai decor.

But there’s no sacrifice in luxury, including hot and cold running water, flush toilet, brass taps, massive log beds, and a verandah providing stunning views for a sundowner at the end of the day. Read Reviews and Check Rates

READ MORE:   Animals in Kenya (Guide to 40 Species of Kenyan Wildlife)

6. Three Camel Lodge (Mongolia)

If Mongolia isn’t on your travel bucket list, this ultra-traditional eco lodge (which National Geographic Traveler  named one of the World’s Best Ecolodges in 2013) should be.

Set against the dramatic backdrop of the Gobi Altai mountains, the lodge offers 35 authentic  gers–  the yurt-style tents favored by Mongolia’s nomads– made from circular wooden frames covered in thick felts and canvas.

The interior features hand-carved furniture, wool carpets, camel-hair blankets and wood-burning stoves. The main building, from its wooden peg construction to its hand-molded roofing tiles, was designed like an ancient Buddhist temple.

With a focus on environmental and cultural preservation, the lodge is a reflection of its unspoiled natural surroundings on the Mongolian steppes.

Available activities include helping paleontologists excavate the Flaming Cliffs, home visits with local nomads, and throat-singing performances at the lodge. Or you can just immerse yourself in the beauty of your surroundings, watching spectacular sunsets over the great Gobi Desert. 

READ MORE: How to Experience Traditional Mongolian Culture

phinda forest eco lodge, South Africa

7. Phinda Forest Lodge  (South Africa) 

Considered one of the world’s first eco lodges, Phinda is part of a 170-square-kilometer private game reserve in KwaZulu-Natal (the heart of Zulu territory).

Praised by National Geographic for its blend of sophisticated luxury and environmental consciousness, the remote resort was also a seminal part of the life-changing experience in South Africa that inspired me to start Green Global Travel.

Their 16 rooms (which are spread far apart in order to increase each guest’s sense of seclusion) offer a delightful immersion in “Zulu zen.”

The floor-to-ceiling glass windows make guests feel at one with the surrounding forest, as well as providing opportunities to view wildlife that, during my visit, included a spiral-horned antelope called a Nyala , a Black-backed Jackal, and an entire family of Warthogs within a dozen feet of the back patio.

The activities are endless, including exceptional morning and sunset game drives in the private reserve, walking safaris, tracking endangered Black Rhino on foot, touring the rehab/breeding facility of the Endangered Wild Cats Project, and Scuba diving in the India Ocean’s Sodwana Bay, which is considered among the world’s top dive sites. Read Reviews and Check Rates.

READ MORE: Zulu Memories from KwaZulu Natal

Topas Ecolodge Saba Vietnam

8. Topas Ecolodge (Vietnam)

Located in the Sapa Valley of north Vietnam, Topas Ecolodge (another of National Geographic’s certified Unique Lodges) has sustainability as the core foundation upon which its reputation was built. 

The remote Sapa eco lodge is set high in the hills, overlooking the valleys of Hoang Lien National Park. The 33 chalet-style granite bungalows don’t have TV or Wifi. But with your  own expansive balcony overlooking stunning mountain tops and pastoral rice-terraced valleys, you won’t miss technology one bit.  

The lodge’s blissful infinity pool is heated by an eco-friendly system which uses 85% less energy than regular pools. If you’re looking for further relaxation, be sure to check out their spa, which specializes in traditional Red Dao herbal baths.

This Vietnam eco lodge has also preserved traditional Tay stilt houses, which now contain a restaurant and lounge that serves locally produced, pesticide-free products. In addition, Topas Ecolodge has its own chicken farm and grows organic vegetables behind the restaurant .

To reduce waste, all food leftovers are given to local farmers to feed their livestock, and cans and boxes are given to the local people to reuse in their households.

Being located in the middle of the mountains has its advantages. Just outside the property, you’ll find lots of adventurous hiking trails and mountain biking trails. But, of course, spending the day in the heated infinity pool is awesome if that’s more your speed.   Read Reviews and Check Rates.

READ MORE: The 20 Most Unusual Hotels in the World

Hamanasi Adventure and Dive Resort, Belize

9. Hamanasi Adventure & Dive Resort  (Belize)

This Green Globe-certified eco resort set on the picturesque Caribbean coast was named Belize’s Hotel of the Year in 2009.

Located just minutes from Hopkins Village, with the MesoAmerican reef system right offshore and the Maya Mountains nearby, it’s a perfect location for nature-lovers and adventurers alike.

Hamanasi is part of a pilot project supported by Conservation International, using the Caribbean Association of Sustainable Tourism’s methodology.

Their sustainable initiatives include composting, rainwater collection, eco-friendly cleansers, louvered windows and ceiling fans to minimize AC usage, extensive recycling and hiring over 90% of staff from local communities. They’ve also set aside 10 pristine acres as a nature reserve.

The ecotourism activities the resort offers are endless. But our favorites included a guided hike through Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary , Scuba diving the Belize Barrier Reef , and taking Garifuna drumming lessons in Hopkins Village.  Read Reviews and Check Rates

READ MORE:  The 16 Best Mayan Ruins to Explore

Nimmo Bay Eco Resort, British Columbia

10. Nimmo Bay Wilderness Resort  (British Columbia)

Another one of NatGeo’s Unique Lodges, Nimmo Bay is tucked away in the old growth wilderness of British Columbia’s Great Bear Rainforest. It couldn’t be more remote: Surrounded by majestic mountains, pristine forest, glistening fjords and tumbling waterfalls , it’s accessible only by helicopter or floatplane.

Widely considered one of the first true eco lodges in the world, Nimmo Bay has been owned and operated by Deborah and Craig Murray since the early 1980s.

Originally known as a hotspot for heli-fishing, the eco resort has become a bucket-list destination for adventure-seekers (drawn by hiking, fly fishing, and kayaking) and wildlife aficionados (Orcas, Bears, Humpback Whales, Salmon, Sea Lions) alike.

Thanks to a 5,000-foot waterfall originating atop Mount Stephens, their hydropower turbine creates enough energy to run the entire lodge off-grid.

They also source the majority of the ingredients served in their restaurant locally and have a partnership with the area’s First Nation communities, through which they use indigenous guides and offer educational cultural activities.

The waterside wooden chalets, cedar hot tubs, waterfall plunge pool, floating dock with fire pit, and cruises on the Mackenzie Sound are nothing to sneeze at, either. Read Reviews and Check Rates

READ MORE: Why Responsible Travel Matters

Eco Resort in Costa Rica -Casa Corcovado Jungle Lodge

11. Casa Corcovado Jungle Lodge (Costa Rica)

Casa Corcovado Jungle Lodge is as close as you can get to staying in Corcovado National Park without campin g .It’s also one of a very few Costa Rican eco resorts to have earned the 5-Leaf rating from the country’s Certification For Sustainable Tourism.

The resort is located on a pristine 170-acre nature preserve two hours by boat from the nearest town. However, don’t let the remoteness of this sustainable eco lodge fool you into thinking that it’s missing any of the amenities you expect from upscale resorts.

There’s a full-size swimming pool as well as a smaller, hidden pool fed by a natural spring. There’s also a beautiful Spanish Hacienda-style restaurant with a waterfall in the center; an outdoor bar/lounge; and a margarita bar offering exceptional views of the sun setting over nearby Caño Island. 

Before you set off with your guide for hiking Corcovado National Park , stop by the guide house to get outfitted with weather-appropriate gear. 

The resort’s sustainability initiatives include a solar electric system using photovoltaic panels, a hybrid solar convection for creating hot water, an electric (rather than gas-powered) generator, an hydroelectric “Pelton Wheel” turbine for water conservation, and a wastewater management approach that includes nine septic tank systems.

Casa Corcovado Jungle Lodge’s staff are all local Ticos who live on the property. They also financed the building of a recycling center in Sierpe, where hotels and homes in the area can recycle materials. All proceeds benefit the local high school. Read Reviews & Check Rates.

READ MORE: Ecotourism in Costa Rica: The Ultimate Eco Travel Guide

Eco Resort in Dominica - Secret Bay

12. Secret Bay (Dominica)

Located on the northwest coast of the Caribbean island of Dominica and previously featured in Travel+Leisure , Secret Bay is a 5-star eco resort with six sustainable luxury villas. 

Composed entirely of sustainably-sourced tropical hardwoods, these villas offer the perfect secluded getaway to relax in the beauty of nature.

The Dominica resort is situated high on a cliff overlooking the ocean. Guests can enjoy the lushly landscaped tropical garden (which boasts 20 different species of birds) or savor the ocean views from the comfort of their private plunge pool. 

The clear teal blue water just below the resort is filled with a diverse array of marine life and colorful coral. Secret Bay offers complimentary swimming and snorkeling gear as well as kayaks and stand-up paddle boards.

For beach lovers, Tibay Bay Beach can be reached in as little as two minutes by car, and there is a sea cave nearby that is perfect for exploring. Syndicate Nature Reserve and a popular scuba diving spot can also be found within a 15-minute drive of Secret Bay.  Read Reviews and Check Rates .

READ MORE: Exploring Dominica’s Kalinago Territory

13. Hacienda Tres Rios Resort (Mexico)

Located in Playa del Carmen, this truly sustainable all-inclusive eco resort sits in the middle of 326 acres of tropical rainforests , where three rivers ( tres rios ) meet the Caribbean Sea. Here you’ll find three distinct ecosystems– jungle, mangrove forest, and coastal dunes.

The 273-room eco resort offers six different restaurants serving everything from Mexican and Italian to Japanese and an international buffet. Almost all of the fruits and vegetables served are sourced from the resort’s 2,500-acre organic farm.

There’s a spa and more than a half-dozen bars, as well as a French bakery and café. The resort also features two huge swimming pools, including one for adults only. On the beach, king-sized cabana beds offer shade, intimacy, and exceptional views of the brilliant blue waters.

Hacienda Tres Rios was built to be sustainable. Roads and buildings were elevated on pillars to allow water from the surrounding mangroves to flow uninterrupted beneath the resort. In addition, all of the water used at the resort comes from two reverse osmosis desalination plants, and rainwater catchment systems line the roof of every building on the property.

All grey water is used for the gardens and plant nursery . Approximately 60% of the resort’s waste is recycled. Aluminum, glass, and plastic are separated and sent to local recycling facilities, while organic material from the restaurant kitchens are composted for use at the plant nursery.

But what makes Hacienda Tres Rios truly unique is the Tres Rios Nature Park, which is home to 10 cenotes (natural freshwater sinkholes), 120 species of plants, and 131 species of animals. In addition to biking and kayaking tours, you can snorkel the clear waters of the Rio Selva, a natural lazy river that allows you to float from Cenote Aguila to the Caribbean Sea. Read Reviews & Check Rates.

READ MORE: Top 20 Things to do in Cancun (for Nature & History Lovers)

Eco Lodge Coron - Two Seasons Coron Island Resort and Spa

14. Two Seasons Coron Island Resort & Spa (Philippines)

This 5-star luxury Coron eco resort is a sanctuary for Giant Clams and Sea Turtles. Located on the Malaroyroy Peninsula of Bulalacao Island in northern Palawan, Two Seasons Coron Isla nd Resort & Spa has 42 beautiful bungalows between two beaches (one for sunrise and one for sunset).

The resort’s amenities include a world-class spa with panoramic views of the sea and mangrove forest, a house reef bustling with marine life, lush tropical gardens, transparent kayaks, HydroBOB submersible scooters, Scuba diving courses, and much more. 

Since this tropical paradise is far removed from the nearest town, the resort must be 100% self-sustaining. To that end, they use solar panels to heat water and have a desalination plant which can produce over 21,oo0 gallons of fresh water in a day.

Two Seasons’ other sustainable initiatives include a sewage treatment plant that produces grey water to be used in the bathrooms for flushing, and a separate system wherein solid waste is discharged on a drying bed and used as fertilizer.

It’s a 100% zero waste resort: You’ll be hard pressed to find a more sustainable eco lodge in Coron, or any other part of Palawan . Read Reviews and Check Rates

READ MORE:  Top 15 Things to do in Coron, Palawan

Rooftop Infinity Pool at Kura Design Villas, Costa Rica

15. Kura Design Villas  (Costa Rica)

Situated high in the hills of Uvita above the pristine waters of  Marino Ballena National Park, you’ll find a 6-room luxury eco hotel created by married partners Martin Wells (who was born in Costa Rica to American parents) and Alejandra Umana (a local native).

The gorgeous rooms are incredibly spacious, with natural wood headboards, comfy king-sized beds, overstuffed couches, massive bathrooms, and an expansive private balcony that overlooks the ocean.

If someone didn’t tell you, you probably wouldn’t realize that this luxury eco hotel was built to be sustainable. Umana, a biologist, is the mastermind behind Kurá Design Villas’ sustainable initiatives.

The L-shaped infinity pool overlooking the jungle is filled with salinated water (no chlorine), and the treated septic water is used for irrigation on the lushly landscaped local plants. Much of the delicious food served in the hotel’s restaurant comes from a hydroponic garden next to the hotel.

In the rooms, there are biodegradable soaps, LED lighting powered by photovoltaic solar panels (which also heat the water), and recycling bins. In other words, Kura Design Villas balances luxury and sustainability exquisitely.   Read Reviews & Check Rates.

READ MORE:   Kurá Design Villas, Costa Rica  

Kawilal Hotel - Eco Hotel in Guatemala

16. Kawilal Hotel  (Guatemala)

Though it’s just 30 minutes from Guatemala’s capital city, the 19-room Kawilal Hotel feels like a world away. With the dramatic Pacaya Volcano in the background, this sustainable eco hotel offers the healing thermal waters of Santa Teresita to soothe sore muscles and improve circulation.

Kawilal Hotel is the first hotel in Central America with LEED-NC Gold certification. The eco hotel is built into the hillside with green (grassy) roofs and is oriented to catch evening breezes for natural cooling- no air conditioning needed! Guests can also enjoy the exclusive spa, restaurant, swimming pool, and jacuzzi.

As a guest of Kawilal Hotel, you can enjoy various activities in Santa Teresita and the Kawilal Spa, which is located at the bottom of the hill. There you will find thermal pools, massage and body treatments, hot saunas, and restaurants.

Be sure to take time to enjoy the Thermal Circuit, with water heated by the volcano. This therapy starts with a 10-minute dip in a steaming 105 ° F pool, with beautiful views of the volcano. Then you cool off by going into a 75 ° F pool (be prepared for shrieks and shivers) for 10 minutes.

You’ll rejoice as you walk into the  98.6 ° F warm pool for what seems like a short 10 minutes. The final 87.8 ° F pool will leave you feeling refreshed and relaxed after your final 10 minute treatment.  Read Reviews and Check Rates .

READ MORE:  40 Things You Should Know Before Traveling to Guatemala

Eco Hotel in India - The Green Hotel

17. The Green Hotel (India)

Located in southwest India outside the city of Mysore, you’ll find a Chittaranjan Palace that was saved from demolition and restored as a lovely eco hotel. The beautiful gardens that surround the palace have won first prize in the Mysore Horticultural Society’s Best Garden category for over ten years running.  

In addition to the 31 uniquely themed (Writer’s Room, Bollywood Suite, Princess Room, etc) rooms, guests can choose to relax in several drawing rooms decorated with antique furniture, one of many libraries, or sit outside on one of the lovely verandas.

The Green Hotel restaurant serves vegetarian and non-vegetarian food. Be sure to save room for the baked goods by a French-trained chef, which you’ll find at the women-run Malgudi Coffee Shop.

The hotel’s sustainability initiatives include using solar energy and recycled water for the garden. The work of award-winning local craftsmen decorate the hotel, and all profits are distributed to charitable and environmental projects in India. Read Reviews and Check Rates.

READ MORE:  50 Fascinating Facts About Indian Culture (by Region)

las-nubes-de-holbox-pool

18. Las Nubes de Holbox (Mexico)

Located on Isla Holbox ,  the island gem of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, Las Nubes de Holbox is a beautiful beachfront eco hotel nestled between a picturesque sandbar and the Yum Balam Nature Reserve.

Undisturbed beaches, mangroves, birds, and marine life are the main attractions on the island. And while Las Nubes de Holbox is just a short 20-minute walk from town (or a 5-minute golf cart taxi ride), the hotel’s unique location at the end of the island gives guests a sense of serene seclusion. 

Traditional Mexican decor is used to accent the 28 rooms (ours was filled with Frida Kahlo art), and each accommodation features air-conditioning and a balcony. The eco hotel also offers ocean views, a spa, paddle boats, bikes, and kayaks that guests can use.  

Locally-sourced ingredients is the foundation for all of the dishes at their excellent El Sabor de las Nubes restaurant, where everything is made fresh from scratch. For stunning sunset views, be sure to enjoy a cocktail on the top story’s bar and lounge.

For stargazing, be sure to climb the stairs to the rooftop deck that connects all of the buildings in the hotel complex. And keep an eye out for the resident Raccoons and Iguanas.  Read Reviews and Check Rates .

READ MORE: The 15 Best Isla Holbox Hotels & Resorts (Mexico)

Eco Hotel - Hotell Liseberg

19. Hotell Liseberg Heden (Sweden)

Hotell Liseberg Heden is a cozy 4-star home away from home right in the heart of Gothenburg, Sweden , on the lushest corner of bustling Heden Square. Three beautiful courtyards are at the centerpiece of this 179-room eco hotel.

The rooms are homey and comfortable and practically furnished with contemporary Scandinavian designs. In addition, there are conference facilities and a restaurant serving vegan and organic dishes as well as locally produced beers and organic wines.

In 1995, Hotell Liseberg Heden was the first business in the city of Gothenburg to gain environmental certification. It recently achieved the highest level in TripAdvisor’s GreenLeaders programme, which recognizes the quality of a hotel or resort’s green practices.

The hotel’s electricity is 100% renewable and comes from their own wind turbine. The hotel staff’s uniforms are make from over 50% recycled polyester from bottles and packaging.

If you’re traveling to Gothenburg (perhaps to visit the Volvo factory ) and are looking for a conveniently located, eco-friendly hotel, Hotell Liseberg Heden is a great value.  Read Reviews and Check Rates.

Eco Hotel in Sardinia Italy - Nascar Hotel

20. Hotel Nascar (Sardinia, Italy)

Located about 150 feet from the water’s edge, this former granary from the early 1800s has been recently renovated into a luxury 12-room eco hotel on the beautiful island of Sardinia, Italy . 

Nascar, which is named for an 11th century temple, is a lovely little coastal village that makes the perfect base for hiking the Selvaggio Blu (Wild Blue), a famous trekking route in Sardinia’s Baunei district.

Awarded the prestigious European ECCO-labEL for a sustainable management style respecting nature, all of the furnishings are hand-crafted by local artists and use local materials.

Each room is decorated with a unique theme. and most have balconies to enjoy the sea breeze. Local Sardinian dishes are served in the bar/restaurant. Massage services, tennis courts, a playground, and complimentary beach towels, sun beds, and beach umbrellas are all available to guests.

There’s a marina close by that offers boat trips to local coves and beaches. And the hotel staff will be happy to help you set up wine and nature tours at the 24-hour reception desk.

READ MORE:   The Best Eco-Friendly European Islands (World Travel Bucket List)

What is an Eco Lodge? The Top 20 Eco Resorts & Eco Hotels in the World via @greenglobaltrvl #ecolodge #ecolodging #ecolodgeCostaRica #EcoLodgePanama #EcoResort #EcoResortMexico #EcoHotel

The co-founder of Green Global Travel and Green Travel Media , Bret Love is a journalist/editor with 21 years of experience. He’s been published in over 100 print publications, including the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, National Geographic, Rolling Stone and Yahoo Travel. He’s an in-demand speaker at travel conferences, covering topics ranging from branding and content marketing to responsible travel and how DMOs can work with bloggers .  He’s also made a name for himself as a content and influencer marketing strategist, advising companies such as Discover Corps and International Expeditions. 

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Green Global Travel is the world's #1 independently owned ecotourism website encouraging others to embrace sustainable travel, wildlife conservation, cultural preservation, and going green tips for more sustainable living.

We've been spotlighted in major media outlets such as the BBC, Chicago Tribune, Forbes, The Guardian, Lonely Planet, National Geographic, Travel Channel, Washington Post and others.

Owned by Bret Love (a veteran journalist/photographer) and Mary Gabbett (business manager/videographer), USA Today named us one of the world's Top 5 Travel Blogging Couples. We were also featured in the 2017 National Geographic book, Ultimate Journeys for Two, for which we contributed a chapter on our adventures in Rwanda. Other awards we've won include Best Feature from both the Caribbean Tourism Organization and the Magazine Association of the Southeast.

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15 Best Eco Resorts For Your Next Earth Friendly Vacation

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Danielle Alvarado

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My name is Danielle and I am a mother of two, wife, CEO, and lover of vintage treasures. I created SKL in 2020 to help our community in their need for well-researched and trust-worthy articles, listicles and guides to live a more sustainable and healthy life. So happy to have you here! ( Click to learn more) .

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Looking for the best eco-resorts in the world to find the perfect vacation spot for your next slow-paced getaway? We made a list of the top half board and all-inclusive eco resorts U.S., Europe, Asia, and Latin America have to offer. From luxury retreats in the Caribbean to affordable resorts in Bali, there is something for every taste!

On this Eco Friendly Resort list:

  • Best Eco Resorts in Asia
  • Best Eco Resorts in the U.S.A.
  • Best Eco Resorts in Latin America
  • Best Eco Resorts in Europe
  • Best All-Inclusive Luxury Eco Resorts
  • Best Eco Resorts for Families

If you are looking for the most budget-friendly ways to explore the world, have a look at the 13 Best Eco Hostels For Your Next Ethical Adventure!

This post is about the best all-inclusive & half-board eco resorts in the world

best eco resorts

If the thought of spending quality time with your friends, partner, or family away from the hustle and bustle of the city lives rent-free in your head, now is the perfect time to book your next temporary home in one of the best eco resorts in the world.

If retreating away to sun-soaked days, dipping your toes in the oh-so-soft white sand and being steps away from the rich, tropical rainforest sound like the ideal way to relax and unwire, than you are in the right place! Extra bonus? Imagine if your hotel of choice is actually an award-winning sustainable resort designed to change the tourism world for a better tomorrow.

While the tourism industry continues to put a big stain on the planet , the best all-inclusive eco resorts show a true commitment to responsible traveling all while feeding into our lust for seeking the next big adventure high. 

We made it our mission to find the most well-reviewed eco resorts for families, couples, and friends who want to partake in a slew of ecotourism activities and explore the extraordinary wilderness and wildlife in the most sustainable way possible.

What is an "eco resort"?

An eco resort thrives on effectively reducing their environmental footprint by using renewable energy sources,  sustainable building materials, effective water collection systems, and recycling methods as well as organic food ingredients. Also, the best eco resorts in the world usually invest their profits into social and or environmental causes to further help nature and the local community. 

Why are eco resorts better than traditional resorts?

Eco-friendly resorts and hostels are the best way to travel sustainably knowing that the wildlife and nature was not harmed in the process of building the accommodation. From offering eco cleaning products and delicious foods with locally-sourced ingredients to using alternative energy sources and water conservation practices, the best eco resorts are not only good for the environment but also go as far as helping with ecosystem restoration through numerous initiatives.

What are the negative impacts of tourism? ​

Tourism is one of the most polluting industries in the world with a huge environmental “price” . By 2030, we are expected to see a 25% increase in CO2 emissions from tourism compared to 2016. Soil erosion is a common issue with more and more buildings popping up in otherwise virgin areas in the name of profit. Natural habitats are destroyed and endangered species are affected in the process. Also, tourism increases pollution thanks to the huge food and plastic product waste and lack of recycling. Additionally, there is the issue of water and energy overuse. 

This post is about the best eco resorts in the world

2022's best eco resorts in the world, best eco resorts in asia, keemala eco resort | thailand.

worlds best eco resorts

Set amidst a rich green scenery of tropical trees right in the hills of Phuket, Keemala is one of the best eco-resorts in the world for avid travelers who want to explore the values of Buddhism and learn about the significance of animals in Thai culture. Skillfully designed to protect the ecosystem, the eco resort offers a pool and ocean-view bathtubs as well as direct access to whimsical organic gardens that supply the local restaurants. With a strong focus on ethical eating, travelers can enjoy plant-based, vegan meals without any added chemicals before they hit the gym or fitness center.

Ethics: Water Treatment System, Recycling, Glass-Bottled Water, Rooms Designed For Minumum Energy Consumption

Location: Kamala, Thailand

Price: $459

Visit Keemala Eco Resort Here

Bambu indah | indonesia.

worlds best eco resorts

Bambu Indah is known for their commitment to sustainability and eco-consious living for quite a few years. The breathtaking view of the Balinese landscape, the luxurious private houses, and the array of educational eco experiences are only a few of the many things that make this accommodation one of the best eco resorts in the world. Each artistically-designed villa comes with an innovative mosquito net to capture cool air and eliminate the need for energy-consuming cooling devices. Also, travelers can enjoy delicious daily meals with the freshest ingredients straight from on-site gardens that are free from chemicals. 

Ethics: LED And Oil Lamps, Composting, No Plastic Policy, Water Recycling, And Organic Bath Products And Organic Food Ingredients

Location: Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali, Indonesia 

Price : $236

Visit Bambu Indah Here

Best eco resorts in the usa, post ranch inn | california.

best eco friendly resorts

The cliff-top luxury eco-resort in Big Sur is a beloved safe space for nature enthusiasts and avid slow travelers who want to sleep and wake up with breathtaking ocean or mountain views. By booking a private villa, or a treehouse, you’ll gain access to the daily yoga classes, two SPAs, the pool, and the guided tours! Sweeping views, sunset dinner above the clouds, an on-site boutique, and hours of relaxation – what more can we ask for? 

Ethics : Ecological Farming., Only Hybrid Cars Allowed, Sustainable Building Materials, Insulated With Planks From Old Wine Barrels, Recycling And Wastewater Disposing Program. 

Location : Big Sur, California

Price: $1,650 (For a much more budget friendly option, check out the Stanford Inn below)

Visit Post Ranch Inn Here

The stanford inn by the sea | california.

worlds best eco resorts

There is nothing quite like a family-owned eco-resort that dates back to the 80s. The Stanfords thrive on educating guests on the slew of topics of sustainability and inspire everyone to live a more green-minded lifestyle. Travelers can participate in a slew of exciting activities on-site like gardening lessons, meditation classes, as well as vegan cooking classes and herbal medicine! Begin your day with morning strolls in the organic gardens that supply all food ingredients, enjoy a few hours at the spa, or join the wildlife tours. Canoe and biking trains are also available for guests who want to experience the beauty of the surrounding nature. 

Ethics: Pet-Friendly & Family-Friendly, Organic Gardens, On-Site Lessons, Plant-Based Food, Paneled In Pine And Redwood,

Location:  Mendocino, CA

Price: starts at $350

Visit Standford Inn Here

Best all-inclusive eco resorts in latin america, olas tulum | mexico.

best eco friendly resorts

Olas aims to reinforce our connection with nature in the most sustainable way possible. Located in Quintana Roo, the eco-resort offers eight suites, all with earthy, organic design schemes. Aside from the curved walls that circulate air for the comfiest night’s sleep, the resort uses solar power and rainwater harvesting to minimize its environmental footprint. Travelers can enjoy massages steps away from the beach, hop on a boat ride to explore the nearby areas, wander safely around the Muyil Jungle or even attend a small sacred Maya ceremony to more about this fascinating culture. Also, the eco-resort is conveniently placed directly to the south of the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve!

Ethics : Biodegradable Soaps And Shampoos, Beach Cleanups In Collaboration With Local Non Profit Community Groups, Organic Herb Garden, Solar Panel System, Rain Collection Systems

Location: Tulum, Quintana Roo, Mexico. Be

Price:    from $310

Visit Olas Tulum Here

Morgan’s rock | nicaragua.

best eco friendly resorts

Morgan’s Rock is not only one of b est eco resorts in the world, but also the very first luxury eco lodge in Nicaragua. Nestled in 4,000 acres boasting wildlife and mesmerizing landscapes, the eco hotel aims to protect the turtles that frequent its private sandy beach and bay and preserve the beauty of nature. Monkeys and macaws are frequently spotted in exotic rainforest surroundings in which travelers can participate in a slew of activities, lay on the swinging beds, or walk the famous suspension bridge.

Ethics: Tree Planting Program, Solar Panels, Organic Gardens, Rainwater Collection

Location : San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua

Price: starts at $576 

Visit Morgan’s Rock Here

Best all inclusive eco resorts in europe,  naturhotel leitlhof | italy.

best eco friendly resorts

Naturhotel Leitlhof has won Europe’s Leading Green Hotel award in 2021 and 2016, making it one of the best sustainable small chalet-style eco resorts for admirers of the German and Italian culture, architecture, and food – because it is located in the Dolomite mountains on the Austrian border (near to where SKL was founded!). The 60-room hotel is as cozy as it can get! You can gaze at the stars from the rooms’ floor-to-ceiling glass doors and terraces, or relax in the outdoor pool or garden sauna after a long day skiing, snowshoeing, hiking, or bicycling. The family-friendly eco resort also offers a ton of activities for the kids including hours of fun at the aquatic park.

Ethics : Wood-Fired Combined Heat And Power Plant, Water Collection, Organic Spa Products, Organic Gardens 

Location:  San Candido Italy (South Tyrol)

Price: €430

Visit Naturhotel Leitlhof Here

Whitepod | switzerland.

best eco resorts

Winner of the World Prize for Sustainable Tourism in 2005, Whitepod is a safe haven for winter-sports fanatics who adore cuddling up in cozy sheepskin blankets with a cup of hot cocoa in hand, admiring the mountain and Lake Geneva views through floor-to-ceiling windows after a long day at the slopes. Some of the most amazing nature-oriented activities include skiing (the hotel has its own slopes and lifts!) dog-sledding and snowshoeing for kids and adults with a shared love for eco-adventures.

Ethics: Wood-Burning Closed Fireplaces, Organic Bedding, Wooden Or Recycled Material Furniture, Forest Stewardship Council Paper Products, 

Location : Monthey, Switzerland

Price: €378

Visit Whitepod Here

Vila vita parc | portugal.

best eco resorts

Set on 54 acres of tropical garden, Vila Vita Parc has obtained numerous eco awards over the years – including the World’s Leading Luxury Green Resort award in 2016 and 2015. The eco-resort also owns a farm in which they produce olive oil and fresh vegetables. Some villa and suite rooms boast hand-painted tiles called azulejos while other building blocks are designed to look like a traditional Portuguese village. Take in the sun-soaked Atlantic Ocean views and Portuguese culture and hospitality. Explore the picturesque tropical gardens right before you dive into one of the many pools! 

Ethics: Recycling And Composting System, Organic Farming, 

Location: Rua Anneliese Pohl Alporchinhos, Porches 8400-450 Portugal

Price : €338

Visit Vila Vita Parc Here

Best all-inclusive luxury eco resorts in the world, hamanasi belize resort | caribbean.

best eco friendly resorts

Located on the picturesque Caribbean coast, only a few minutes away from Hopkins Village, Hamanasi Belize Resort is one of the best all-inclusive eco-resorts in the world. Awarded one of the Top 10 Hotels  in the 2022 Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice Awards, it offers a slew of ecotourism activities for nature lovers. From guided hikes through Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary , to exploring the  Belize Barrier Reef underwater and joining a once-in-a-lifetime history tour at the Maya Mountains, this eco resort for families and avid travelers is luxurious, idyllic, and extremely sustainable.

Ethics: Members Of The Conservation International Pilot Project, Composting & Recycling, Rainwater Collection, Eco-Friendly Cleaning Products, Ceiling Fans,  

Location: Hopkins Village, Stann Creek, Belize

Price: $376-$534

Visit Hamanasi Belize Resort Here

Nimmo bay | canada.

best eco resorts

Nestle in the old-growth wilderness of British Columbia’s Great Bear Rainforest, Nimmo Bay is one of the best Best eco resorts in the world for families, friends and couples with a lust for quiet, secluded yet adventure-packed holidays. Surrounded by beautiful waterfalls, breathtaking mountains, and the soothing colors of the forest, this all-inclusive eco resort is accessible only by helicopter or floatplane. Relax in front of the majestic wooden chalet and take a hot bath under the night sky or lay and read a book on the floating dock amidst the extraordinary wilderness and wildlife.

Ethics: Eco-Consious Construction, Clean Drinking Water And Green Energy From The Nearby Waterfall, Pet Friendly And Family Friendly 

Location : Nimmo Islet, British Columbia V0N 2R0 Canada

Price: $1,575

Visit Nimmo Bay Here

Secret bay | caribbean.

best eco resorts

Located on the northwest coast of the Caribbean island of Dominica, Secret Bay offers boasts six sustainable luxury villas, ideal for a secluded getaway. The resort is on a cliff overlooking the crystal clear water right next to a lush tropical garden and a Private beach area. Enjoy the sounds of nature from your private plunge pool, visit the wellness facilities for a spa day and experience the local, organically-grown food at the restaurant. Also, you can take advantage of the complimentary water activities they offer.

Ethics : Organic Food, Baby Sitting, Sustainably-Sourced Tropical Hardwood Villas

Location: Portsmouth, 000000 Portsmouth, Dominica

Price: $1090

Visit Secret Bay Here

Best eco resorts for families, ulaman eco retreat | indonesia.

best eco friendly resorts

Ulaman offers nature-loving travelers the opportunity to experience the traditional Balinese culture in a secluded, lush haven without forgoing comfort. Located in the village of Kaba Kaba, it’s lauded as one of the best eco resorts in the world due to its beautiful architecture that boasts unusually curved rooftops completely made of bamboo and other natural materials. Yogis can visit the yoga-shala atop the cliff that overlooks the waterfall, book a bike ride to explore the area, and immerse themselves in the local cuisine. In fact, all food ingredients are grown in an organic garden or purchased from small farmers.

Ethics : Sustainable Building Materials, Organic Food, 

Location : Bali, Tabanan, Indonesia 

Price: $160

Visit Ulaman Eco Retreat Here

Campi ya kanz | kenya.

worlds best eco resorts

Touted as one of the best eco resorts in the world for families who want to experience the African wildness, Campi Ya Kanzi’s purpose is solely to help the Maasai tribe and preserve their culture. Located in the south of Kenya, in the Chyulu Hills, the six cottages offer stunning views of Mount Kiliman. Some of the most noteworthy activities are safari in Kanzi Reserve or Amboseli National Park where you can fully immerse yourself in the Massai culture. Last but not least, during the day, you can spot the animals visiting the watering hole right from the eco resort’s terrace area.

Ethics: Sustainable Building Materials, Furniture Crafted From Natural Wood Fallen B Elephants, Daily Environmental Fees, Photovoltaic Panels, Rainwater Collection, Food Waste Used As Fertilizer 

Location: Mtito Andei, Kenya

Price: $151 

Visit Campi Ya Kanz Here

Lapa rios ecolodge | costa rica.

best eco friendly resorts

Build in a 1000-acre private nature reserve in Central America’s last remaining lowland tropical rainforest in Costa Rica, Lapa Rios Ecolodge is not only one of the best eco resorts in the world in terms of construction but also a model ecotourism project and a sustainable tourism pioneer. The luxurious bungalows boast stunning views of the surrounding tropical rain forests and ocean. In fact, Lapa Rios is one of only 24 National Geographic Unique Eco Lodges of the World! Is there something better than starting your day with harmonious birdsong and the sound of howler monkeys along with numerous other rare species of animals that inhabit the area?

Ethics : Solar Energy, Eco-Friendly Cleaning Supplies, Organic Jungle Vegetable Garden, Non-Plastic Dishes

Location: Cabo Matapalo Costa Rica

Price : $1246

Visit Lapa Rios Lodge Here

This post was all about the best eco resorts in the world.

Best eco resorts for families, couples, and friends allow us to dive deep into the local culture all while respecting the environment and all its inhabitants. No matter if you are looking for your next sustainable luxury getaway to the Caribbean or a secluded retreat perfect for yogis and solar travelers, the above half board and all-inclusive eco-resorts in Europe, Asia, and Latin America will meet all your quality and sustainability demands.

If you liked this post, you’ll definitely want to check out these other posts from SKL:

  • 13 Best Eco Friendly Travel Products for Your Next Eco Adventure!
  •  13 Best Barefoot Sandals Your Feet Will Love in 2022
  • 14 Best Reusable Water Bottles: Stainless Steel, Glass & Safe Plastic

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Taking a vacation is often seen as the ultimate solution for all your problems. As a traveler who is environmentally conscious, you may have thought about the impact your trips have on the planet and society. Perhaps you may want to contribute to the communities you visit or reduce your carbon footprint due to the growing climate change concerns. This is where the concept of Eco travel comes in!

To help you plan your next green vacation, in this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the world of eco-lodges, eco-hotels, and eco-resorts. We will explore the key differences, sustainable practices, and the benefits they offer to travelers and the planet. By the end of this guide, you will be equipped with the knowledge and resources to embark on an eco-friendly vacation.

The Ultimate Eco Travel Guide

What is Eco-Tourism?

According to The International Ecotourism Society , the definition of ecotourism is “responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment, sustains the well-being of the local people and involves interpretation and education” with an emphasis on educating staff and guests. 

Or, in simple words, we can say that ecotourism is tourism centered around the conservation of the natural environment while supporting the local communities, educating travelers about the importance of the environment, and imparting knowledge about the cultural heritage of the locals. 

Research shows that global interest in ecotourism has grown rapidly in recent years. The Travel Trends & Statistics report by the Center For Responsible Travel reveals that 21% of consumers are willing to pay a higher price to travel with a company that has a strong environmental and social record.

Why Choose Eco-Tourism?

Tourism has experienced significant growth over the years. In 1950, there were only 25 million international arrivals, but by 1990, this number had increased exponentially to 435 million. From 1990 to 2018, international arrivals tripled to 1.442 billion. And by 2030, this number is expected to reach 1.8 billion unequivocally. This tremendous growth has significant economic benefits for the country but also poses substantial challenges to the local communities and the environment.  

For this reason, Eco-travel has emerged as a powerful movement in the tourism industry with increasing concerns about environmental conservation and the desire to minimize the negative impact of travel. Eco-travel offers a way for individuals to explore the world while supporting sustainable practices. 

The concept of ecotourism /travel goes beyond simply reducing carbon emissions. It encompasses a holistic approach that embraces sustainable principles, such as conserving natural resources, supporting local economies, preserving cultural heritage, and fostering community engagement. By practicing eco-travel, travelers can make a positive difference while experiencing an enriching and authentic travel experience.

What are the Ecotourism Principles and Practices?

Ecotourism involves bringing together conservation, communities, and sustainable travel. To achieve this, those involved in implementing, participating in, and marketing ecotourism activities should adhere to the following ecotourism principles :

  • Minimize physical, social, behavioral, and psychological impacts.
  • Build environmental and cultural awareness and respect.
  • Provide positive experiences for both visitors and hosts.
  • Provide direct financial benefits for conservation.
  • Generate financial benefits for both local people and private industry.
  • Deliver memorable interpretative experiences to visitors that help raise sensitivity to host countries’ political, environmental, and social climates.
  • Design, construct and operate low-impact facilities.
  • Recognize the rights and spiritual beliefs of the Indigenous People in your community and work in partnership with them to create empowerment.

Practices in Eco-Hotel, Eco-Lodge, Eco-Resort

Characteristics or practices’ of any eco-friendly accommodation will be more or less the same and focus on environmental conservation and sustainable use of natural resources while also supporting the local communities. These are but not limited to the following:

  • Eco-accommodations contribute to the local economies and help demonstrate that ecotourism is a more sustainable approach for travelers.
  • People who are trained in biology or have significant knowledge are employed as nature guides. They can provide educational tours to tourists about the local ecosystem and culture.
  • These accommodations have a sustainable infrastructure, and rainwater harvesting tanks, and are certified by various national and international organizations focusing on green travel.
  • Some of the newly constructed buildings are made of natural products like bamboo, reclaimed wood, recycled glass, or plastic.
  • Food is sourced locally and is usually organic, and crockery is non-disposable.
  • They frequently employ energy-saving strategies, and energy-efficient lighting, and may utilize renewable energy technology.
  • All the products are sustainable: sheets and linens are organic, and toiletries are reusable/refillable & ordered in bulk from organic vendors to reduce waste.
  • Gray water recycling is done; this water is then used for gardening and landscaping.
  • They have Strict solid waste management rules.

Differences Between Eco-Hotel, Eco-Lodge, Eco-Resort

Eco-friendly lodging options

The concept of ecotourism is centered around responsible travel to natural areas, conserving the environment, engaging in eco-friendly practices, and improving the well-being of local communities. 

The primary difference between an eco-resort, eco-lodge, and eco-hotel is the settling in which you’ll find them. Eco resorts and lodges are located in pristine natural environments, and the difference usually is the amount of services provided in them and the size of the property. Eco-resorts are usually located in large properties like isolated islands, mountains, etc., and provide many amenities like spas, choices of restaurants, and local tours. However, these terms are used interchangeably. Eco hotels are often associated with cities and towns, but that’s not the case always. In the past, these hotels were commonly referred to as eco-lodges due to their location in jungles and their use of traditional building methods crafted by skilled locals.

The best eco-accommodations offer recycling services, eco-friendly toiletries, energy efficient and well-illuminated infrastructure, source their food locally, have organic linens, non-toxic cleaning supplies, reusable crockery, water conservation methods, operate on renewable energy, and have various other initiatives focused on sustainable living practices. 

Therefore, eco-hotel, eco-lodge, and eco-resort all have one thing in common, i.e., they are all “green” accommodation options emphasizing elements such as environmental responsibility and minimizing the negative impact of tourism. So you can choose whatever option you want, but as long as it’s “green,” you’re good to go!

Benefits of eco-travel for Communities and the Environment

Ecotourism offers a plethora of benefits not just to the environment but to the local communities as well. While as a traveler, you can have an experience of a lifetime, indulging in the rich cultural heritage of the locals and having an overall immersive experience. Some of these benefits are listed below:

  • It helps combat climate change as the concept revolves around the conservation of natural resources; thus, by supporting responsible travel, you can help lower carbon emissions. 
  • Ecotourism often provides incentives to enhance conservation efforts for biodiversity protection and preservation of natural resources.
  • Responsible travel will help boost the income of locals and address problems like poverty while empowering the indigenous communities by creating employment opportunities.
  • Ecotourism activities promote environmental awareness among travelers and locals by educating them about the importance of biodiversity conservation.
  • Ecotourism offers a more authentic travel experience than simply visiting landmarks, museums, and other popular sites. It allows travelers to gain a better understanding and appreciation of the natural world.
  • Both visitors and locals have the opportunity to share and learn about each other’s cultural values and traditions. Additionally, travelers have the chance to fully immerse themselves in the diverse cultures of the world.

One example is the tropical forests in Tambopata, which are currently under threat of deforestation. However, local lodge owners have recognized the potential for profits through ecotourism and have invested in preserving forested lands while implementing conservation efforts to ensure continued forest cover.

Overall, ecotourism is a great alternative to traditional tourism, which often has a huge carbon footprint and pollutes the environment while also affecting local communities. 

What are the Famous Ecotourism Activities?

Sustainable accommodations for eco-conscious travelers

Many people enjoy ecotourism activities as a way to interact with nature responsibly and sustainably. By minimizing the impact on the natural environment, ecotourism allows for an authentic and immersive experience that fosters a growing appreciation for the natural world. As a result, ecotourism is quickly becoming one of the fastest-growing sectors in the tourism industry. Some of the fun activities you can do are:

Hiking or Trekking Through Nature

Engaging in ecotourism through hiking and trekking is one of the best activities you can do. You can opt for beginner-friendly or advanced options depending on your skill level. You can choose to go on single-day hikes or embark on multi-day expeditions to explore diverse terrains such as deserts, jungles, and mountains.

A Small-Group Eco-Tour 

Small-group tours are an excellent option for exploring the natural world if you’re interested in nature, ecotourism, and adventure. These tours are designed to be ethical and immersive, allowing travelers to witness some of the world’s most incredible wildlife in a responsible manner.

Ecotourism activities are gaining popularity, and cycling holidays are among the top choices. The biggest plus point? It combines exercise with the beauty of nature. The freedom of strapping your bag to the bike and cycling off allows you to explore places inaccessible by cars, such as mountain trails and off-road routes!

Diving or Snorkeling

Exploring the marine world is an unforgettable experience. Life underwater is diverse and colorful, with corals and fishes of hundreds of different types. But be careful not to damage these extremely fragile ecosystems. Also, sunscreens contain harmful chemicals that can damage corals, so make sure you’re wearing a coral-safe sunscreen.

Dolphin or Whale Watching

It is a once-in-a-lifetime experience if you get to see a dolphin or a whale. But ensure that you do not feed or touch them as these species are wild; any human interference is a no. Also, choose responsible travel guides and take care of your safety if you are planning on doing such activities. 

There are plenty of other activities that you can do depending on the location you’re traveling to and the kind of landscape there. If you plan to engage in activities like diving or whale watching activity, make sure to select travel companies that prioritize responsible practices. Look for those with marine biologists on board or donate some of their profits towards conservation efforts. Overall you will have plenty of eco-friendly activity options to keep you engaged!

Exploring Eco-Lodges, Eco-Hotels & Eco-Resorts

Typically, these establishments have fewer than 30 rooms, making them smaller and less impactful on the environment. Eco-lodges are usually located in isolated locations in jungles and forests and can be found around the world, especially in African countries, Indonesia, Gambia, and Costa Rica. These accommodations are found in areas that are much more nature-focused.

Best Eco-Lodges For Your Next Travel:

Sarinbuana eco-lodge , bali.

Sarinbuana Eco-Lodge, Bali

Nestled amidst the lush greenery of Bali, Sarinbuana Eco-Lodge offers a tranquil and sustainable haven for eco-conscious travelers. This eco-lodge embraces a harmonious blend of traditional Balinese architecture and modern eco-friendly practices. From its eco-friendly accommodations made with natural materials to its organic farm-to-table dining, baliecolodge.com strives to minimize its environmental footprint while providing guests with a memorable and rejuvenating stay.

Terragna Mountain Hut , Italy

Terragna Mountain Hut, Italy

Terragna Mountain Hut, a captivating destination offered by Wildlife Adventures, is a hidden gem nestled in the breathtaking Italian wilderness. Surrounded by stunning vistas, lush forests, and captivating wildlife, Terragna Mountain Hut provides a tranquil haven where guests can indulge in hiking, wildlife observation, and peaceful relaxation.

Eco Camp , Patagonia

Eco Camp, Patagonia

Eco Camp is an exceptional destination that combines sustainability and adventure in one unforgettable experience. With a commitment to preserving the environment, Eco Camp provides guests with immersive opportunities to explore the stunning landscapes of Patagonia and Torres del Paine National Park. From guided treks and wildlife encounters to cultural experiences and gourmet cuisine, this remarkable destination allows travelers to connect with nature while leaving a positive impact on the planet.

They usually have fewer than 50 rooms. Are surrounded by nature and have a tranquil feel. Eco-hotels are more or less similar to eco-lodges but are sometimes associated with cities and towns though not limited to these. These eco-friendly accommodations follow strict policies regarding waste management, the use of chemical-free cleaning, and the conservation of local biodiversity. 

Las Neubes Holbox , México

Las Neubes Holbox, México

Las Nubes Holbox is a captivating beachfront resort nestled on the pristine shores of Holbox Island in Mexico. The resort features luxurious accommodations, including stylish bungalows and spacious suites, providing guests with a tranquil and comfortable retreat. With its emphasis on sustainability, Las Nubes de Holbox offers eco-conscious amenities and practices, ensuring a harmonious coexistence with the island’s natural beauty.

Kura Design Villas , Costa Rica

Kura Design Villas, Costa Rica

Kura Costa Rica is a luxury eco-resort nestled in the lush rainforests of Costa Rica. With its stunning panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and its commitment to sustainability, Kura offers an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts. From its beautifully designed accommodations and infinity pool to its farm-to-table dining experiences and curated adventure activities, Kura Costa Rica is a haven for those looking to connect with nature and indulge in luxurious comfort.

Kawilal Hotel , Guatemala

Kawilal Hotel, Guatemala

Kawilal Hotel is a tranquil oasis located in the heart of Guatemala, offering a serene escape for travelers seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. With its soothing thermal waters and luxurious spa facilities, Kawilal Hotel provides a unique wellness experience. Guests can indulge in a range of therapeutic treatments, immerse themselves in thermal pools of varying temperatures, and unwind in the lush gardens.

Eco-Resorts

Eco Resorts are located in large pristine areas like isolated islands, mountains, or pristine natural surroundings and have over 100 rooms. The amenities provided are many compared to eco-lodges and hotels and include spaces, restaurants, sports courts, gyms, libraries, pools, bars, etc. 

Various activities are carried out like hiking, trekking, cycling, educational tours around the site, yoga sessions, eco-volunteering opportunities, cooking sessions and, live music, keeping in mind sustainability and making sure that no harm is done to nature or local communities. 

Best Eco-Hotels For Your Next Travel:

Bawah reserve , indonesia.

Bawah Reserve, Indonesia

Bawah Reserve is a breathtaking private island resort nestled in the Anambas Archipelago of Indonesia. Surrounded by crystal-clear turquoise waters, lush tropical forests, and pristine white sandy beaches, it offers an idyllic getaway for discerning travelers. The resort boasts luxurious eco-villas and overwater bungalows, each designed with sustainable materials and offering stunning views of the surrounding natural beauty. Guests can indulge in world-class dining experiences, explore vibrant coral reefs, engage in thrilling water sports, or simply unwind at the serene spa.

Picocanoa Rodavento , Mexico

Picocanoa Rodavento, Mexico

Pico Canoa Rodavento is a captivating adventure retreat located in the heart of Mexico’s stunning Valle de Bravo. From zip-lining through the treetops and exploring the scenic hiking trails to kayaking on the tranquil lake and embarking on thrilling mountain biking adventures, Pico Canoa Rodavento provides endless opportunities for adventure and adrenaline. With comfortable accommodations, delicious cuisine, and warm hospitality, it is the perfect destination for those seeking an unforgettable outdoor escape.

The Laguna, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa – Bali, Indonesia

The Laguna, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa – Bali, Indonesia

The Laguna, a Luxury Collection Resort and Spa in Nusa Dua, Bali, is a prestigious hotel offering a captivating blend of elegance, luxury, and natural beauty. Situated on a pristine beachfront, the resort boasts stunning panoramic views of the Indian Ocean and lush tropical gardens. With its spacious and beautifully designed rooms, world-class amenities, and exceptional service, The Laguna provides an unforgettable retreat for discerning travelers seeking tranquility.

What are the Top Green Accommodation Certifications?

LEED. The LEED program acknowledges buildings that are constructed with sustainable practices, starting from the ground up. It’s important to note that this program only applies to newly built buildings, so it may not be relevant for everyone. However, if you are currently undergoing a major renovation, it’s worth considering the LEED certification standards to see if you qualify. This is a valuable credential that showcases your commitment to sustainability to environmentally conscious travelers.

EarthCheck. EarthCheck is a global organization that has been providing consulting, software, and certification services since 1987. They offer certification for all types of accommodations, from small lodges to large resorts. The certification process is thorough and covers various criteria, such as land-use patterns, waste management techniques, reduction of greenhouse gases, and management of the local community and culture.

Green Seal. The non-profit organization Green Seal empowers consumers, purchasers, and companies to create a sustainable world through science-based programs. Their certification process, which involves annual compliance monitoring and a commitment to continuous improvement, is rigorous.

Audubon Green Lodging Program. Audubon International is a non-profit organization that focuses on the sustainable use of natural resources and environmental education. They also certify hospitality properties through their Audubon Green Lodging Program. This program verifies hotel properties that meet specific environmental standards, with a strong emphasis on water quality, resource conservation, waste reduction, and energy efficiency.

There are also numerous other certifications like Green Tourism Active, Green Key Global, TripAdvisor Green Leaders, and Travelife, which provide certification for eco-friendly stays around the world to make it easier for you to choose the best eco-friendly stay for your next vacation.

When we travel, we have the chance to support sustainability and improve the lives of indigenous communities. By staying in eco-friendly accommodations like eco-lodges, eco-hotels, and eco-resorts, we can make a positive impact. Each of these options prioritizes green living with some slight variations. Embracing sustainable and responsible tourism on your next vacation can have tremendous benefits and contribute to making the world a better place. So on your next trip, choose your accommodation wisely. Have a wonderful trip, eco-champion!

For more eco-friendly inspiration, be sure to check out our Home and Lifestyle section. Discover sustainable tips, green ideas, and innovative solutions to make your daily life more environmentally conscious.

Table of Contents

Shruti Jagani

Shruti Jagani

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What It Means to Stay at an Eco Resort

Enjoy your vacation and do some good, too.

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Related To:

As avid recyclers, animal lovers and supporters of our local community, my husband and I wanted to spend our one-year anniversary at a place that shares the same values as we do. When we came across Sandos Caracol Eco Resort in Playa del Carmen, Mexico, we knew we could have an equally relaxing, educational and adventurous vacation with a guilt-free conscience. Yes, we had to travel by plane to get there, but our accommodations, meals and activities impacted the environment in a more positive way than most places we could have chosen.

eco travel resort

Sandos Caracol Eco Resort & Spa, Playa del Carmen, Mexico 

Photo by: Kayla Kitts

Kayla Kitts

So, what does it mean to be a true eco resort? Simply put, an eco resort is a lodging facility that takes active steps toward environmental sustainability and social responsibility by helping its natural surroundings and the local community. Sandos Caracol, the resort at which we stayed, offers several programs to minimize their eco footprint, and here are the ones that top my list:

Recycling, Reducing + Reusing

Throughout the resort you'll find recycling containers so guests can separate organic and inorganic trash. In 2016, all four Sandos resorts in Mexico recycled more than 200 tons of materials.

Plastic Elimination

Since this is an all-inclusive resort, guests go through  a lot  of drinks. But to eliminate waste, Sandos has integrated a program that includes reusable cups, a "Say No to Straws" policy and the inclusion of water jugs in guest rooms. (We went through three, five-gallon jugs during our stay!)

On-Site Organic Garden

Yes, there's an on-site garden and yes, it's beautiful. The staff uses all organic leftovers from the restaurants and kitchens as compost.

eco travel resort

Guests can stop at the garden on their way around the bike path. 

eco travel resort

Photo By: Kayla Kitts

On-Site Plant Nursery

The resort created an on-site plant nursery to grow and reforest endemic plant species into the Riviera Maya jungles.

Plant a Tree Program

Before guests leave Sandos Caracol, they're encouraged to plant a local tree to commemorate their stay and help reforest the area. In 2016, guests planted approximately 140 trees a month as part of the "Plant a Tree" program.

On-Site Water Treatment Program

Each Sandos property houses an on-site water treatment plant that takes used water and makes it clean again. The water is then used in the gardens and nurseries.

Animal Rescue

Sandos Caracol houses three natural ecosystems, so you'll find a variety of wildlife roaming freely and happily throughout the resort, including coatis, spider monkeys, iguanas, raccoons and turtles. Sandos is also dedicated to animal rescue. Just behind the outdoor lobby you'll find a mini farm with donkeys, pigs, roosters, peacocks, rabbits, birds, cats and more. Some of these animals, however, roam free around the resort (and love making friends with guests).

eco travel resort

A few of the rescued animals at the Sandos Caracol Mini Farm. This donkey loved neck scratches.

eco travel resort

Signage along the bike path.

Veterinary Care

As a Cat Lady, I loved seeing the rescued felines roaming around. They had escaped a lousy past to now live happily on the grounds of a beautiful resort. Sandos has programs to provide food, shelter, spaying/neutering and veterinary care to the resort's rescue cats.

Xcalacoco Experience

Xcalacoco loosely translates as 'jungle life,' and it's all about living in tandem with the plants and animals of the Mayan jungle. We were there during Spring Equinox, a particularly special time, so we got the ultimate Xcalacoco experience including amulets that had been purified by a Mayan chaman. Created to celebrate the history and heritage of the Mayan region, the resort's Xcalacoco program provides eco tours, cultural workshops, evening Mayan performances, traditional Mayan cooking, sensory experiences and so much more. There are activities every day, with each day honoring a different element — Earth, Wind, Corn, Water, Sun, Fire and Roots.

eco travel resort

Making our way to the Mayan Herbalist path.

eco travel resort

Early risers at Plaza del Sol.

eco travel resort

Walking quietly and safely around Mayan ruins.

Turtle Camp

Each summer, Sandos protects sea turtle nests on the beach then releases the newly hatched baby sea turtles into the ocean in the fall. The Sandos Turtle Camp helps eggs and hatchlings survive potential predators and bad weather so they can reach the ocean.

Is an eco resort the right fit for you? Research the hotel and find out. But remember, you can always travel sustainably no matter where you go .

Source: blog.sandos.com

Top Eco-Friendly Resorts

eco travel resort

Eco Beach Resort

Eco Beach is an award-winning eco-resort set amongst a pristine and untouched environment in Western Australia. With no televisions or telephones, Eco Beach strives to offer a complete wilderness experience and to have minimum impact on its surroundings.

Photo By: Steve Lloyd Smith

Longitude 131°

Luxurious and eco-sensitive, Longitude 131° lies at the gateway of the dual World Heritage listed wilderness of Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park in Australia, complete with stunning and private views of the sun rising and setting over Ayers Rock.

Photo By: Voyages Hotels & Resorts

Finca Rosa Blanca

Finca Rosa Blanca is the perfect getaway for nature and coffee lovers. This boutique hotel has the highest rating in Costa Rica for sustainable tourism and even its own organic shade-grown coffee plantation.

Photo By: Finca Rosa Blanca

Located in California's Napa Valley, Bardessono is a LEED Platinum Certified boutique hotel offering intimate spa suites and eco-friendly luxury set in beautiful wine country.

Photo By: Bardessono

WildSpring is a small, secluded eco-friendly resort on the Southern Oregon Coast. Set on five acres of old Native American ground, with a zero carbon footprint, you'll sleep in a peaceful forest and enjoy breakfast overlooking the ocean.

Photo By: WildSpring

Laguna Lodge Eco Resort

Laguna Lodge Eco Resort and Nature Reserve is set on Guatemala's stunning Lake Atitlan. Enter this modern Mayan world by boat and stay in suites inspired by nature and created from volcanic stone, adobe and palm.

Photo By: Laguna Lodge Eco Resort

Each of the rooms at Chaa Creek 's 365-acre eco-resort in Belize promises peace and tranquility.

Photo By: The Lodge at Chaa Creek

There's beauty at every turn at Chaa Creek with a prime location by the Macal Chaa Creek and the Maya Mountains.

El Nido Resort

El Nido Resort in the Philippines are a great choice for eco-friendly dive enthusiasts.

Photo By: El Nido Resorts

El Nido's Lagen Island Resort

Some rooms at El Nido's Lagen Island Resort are surrounded by trees while others sit above the water.

El Nido's Miniloc Island Resort

The lights twinkle on the cove as night falls on El Nido's Miniloc Island Resort .

Hotel Punta Islita

The 1492 restaurant at Hotel Punta Islita in Costa Rica serves tasty regional seafood.

Photo By: Brendan Austin/BAARK

The Hotel Punta Islita is a pristine mountain outpost with a luxurious infinity pool overlooking the Pacific Ocean.

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The Ultimate Eco Resort Guide

Luxurious, eco friendly, pristine beaches – these are the terms that come to mind when you think about an Eco Resort. But what exactly does it take to be an eco resort? Can any resort or hotel change a few parts of their establishment (like switching to eco friendy products or energy saving lightbulbs) and then label themselves as “eco”?

With many hotels, lodges, and resorts jumping on the eco and sustainable buzz, “greenwashing” is becoming more and more prevalent. So what is a true eco resort and where can you find them? Here is the eco travel guide to this hot topic.

Please note, this article has been updated in 2020 with the latest tips and advice for choosing an eco resort.

Table of Contents

What Are Eco Resorts?

Eco resorts are designed to exercise the principles of eco tourism . In theory they should:

  • energy,   water , waste, ( saying no to plastic where possible)
  • Promote the wellbeing of local people through education
  • Promote and care for the local landscapes & wildlife

Whether the eco resort in situated in a national park, a nature reserve or on an island, it will be striving to achieve the 8 principles of eco tourism. The more of these principles that it can achieve, the more “eco” it is (in a sense).

What Is The Difference Between An Eco Resort, Eco Hotel And Eco Lodge?

Eco Resorts are generally a self-contained destination. They can provide for all of your travel needs whether it’s entertainment, experiences, relaxation, or privacy that you are after. They are usually situated somewhere remote (like a pristine beach or island) and cater for eco conscious guests who like the finer ammenities. Private villas including swimming pools are offered by some of the top eco resorts. The Rockhouse Negril & True Blue Bay Boutique resort are great examples of eco resorts around the world

Eco Hotels  are usually smaller in size, and cater for lodging and eating. Guests are more likely to leave the premises for entertainment and experiences. They are often more centrally located (near the town). La Fortuna and The Good Hotel are some beautiful eco hotels we have stayed in.

An Eco Lodge tends to be in a more remote environment like a pristine beach, up in the jungle treetops, or in the mountains. For example, Laguna Lodge in Guatemala protects over 100 acres of nature reserve behind their property, and Hobbitenango has built their zero waste hobbit holes, into the mountain side.

Regardless if an accommodation has labelled itself as an:

  • Green hotel
  • Eco Island Resort/Mountain Resort

They should be striving to achieve the 8 principles of eco tourism. 

The 8 Principles Of Eco Tourism

Let’s start off by looking at an ideal scenario. What makes an eco resort as “eco” as possible.  Here are potential solutions or implementation techniques to achieve the principles of eco tourism.

1. Minimise physical, social, behavioural and psychological impacts

  • The resort is built with consultation of local community. Built using local materials, minimalist footprint fo clearing of land.
  • An eco resort encourages local communities to continue their traditions and rituals by sharing with tourists. 
  • Financial distribution occurs throughout a community with help of an eco resort to ensure “fair” treatment of all those involved.

2. Build environmental and cultural awareness and respect

  • The resort has programs set up for guest volunteering or donation to local environment

3. Provide positive experiences for both visitors and hosts

  • Employing passionate, friendly staff who are educated on the eco tourism industry and local culture.
  • A friendly hotel is a memorable one.

4. Provide direct financial benefits for conservation

  • Through some form of donation or percentage of sales, financial aid goes direct from the resort to local or global conservation projects or positive  animal tourism .

5. Generate financial benefits for both local people and private industry

  • Hiring local staff, training local people to cater for tourist markets in a sustainable way.
  • Providing resources for locally owned & operated tours.

6. Deliver memorable interpretive experiences to visitors that help raise sensitivity to host countries

  • Through the use of social platforms or information boards, eco resorts can share awareness of local social, political and environmental topics relevant to the time.

7. Design, construct and operate low impact facilities

  • Low impact design – limiting natural land or trees that need to be removed for resort construction.
  • Using local contractors and construction materials from sustainably sourced providers
  • Water saving  (showerheads, limited cleaning in rooms – towels etc.)
  • Light saving (energy efficient bulbs)
  • Heat saving (solar heating, fans instead of air-conditioning)
  • Solar power
  • Hydro power
  • Goethermal power
  • Onsite water treatment
  • Food Composting
  • On site  recycling  program
  • Access to public transport
  • Chemical free / natural products used
  • Use  save water slogans  to remind guests of sustainable water use

8. Recognise the rights and spiritual beliefs of the Indigenous People in the community

  • The resort provides educational platform for local Indigenous People (if suitable).

A resort who does not accomplish all of the above mentioned principles is not “not eco”. It may just be somewhere on the spectrum. There are many different tourists looking for very different types of tourism. And it is impossible to cater to everyone’s expectations. However, the name “eco” is directly related to the above mentioned table.

Eco Resorts & Greenwashing

The term “eco” is being used more and more. So much so that a counter term “greenwashing” has been invented.

“Greenwashing” refers to the overuse of “eco” labelling. Many “eco resorts” will advertise themselves as being eco, when in fact only a small (or insignificant) part of their establishment is actually eco.

What To Check For When Choosing A Resort

There are a few practices that are particularly “not eco”, these include

Resorts or hotels that have animal shows or animal entertainment. Animals practicing “entertainment” is unethical and should not be encouraged. Many places run animal eco tourism programs that are not abiding by international guidelines. Learn how to avoid negative animal tourism  and pick  positive animal tourism experiences .

Generally, “all-inclusive resorts” are not practicing eco-initiatives. This is due to the food. Buffets are one of the highest sources of food waste. And while many hotels are currently undergoing significant changes to improve this “ On average hotels  waste 35 per cent of all food purchased “

Are There Luxury Eco Resorts?

Eco travel is not about roughing it. You can stay in resorts with private villas, swimming pools or even a private beach.

All around the world, the concept of eco luxury is exploding, with new options on the market on a seemingly daily basis.

In most cases, the really high end options are luxury with a hint of eco. As per the above mentioned resort spectrum. You can still be eco if you incorporate some of the principles into the resort.

Popular Luxury Eco Resorts

Luxury Eco is becoming its own type of tourism, fast. People want something nice, unique and to know that they aren’t causing significant environmental damage while doing so. Here are a few top trending luxury eco resorts to get you started.

  • The resort has strong ties to the local community and runs educational programs for guests with donations and volunteering experiences to local schools which the Rockhouse help fund.
  • Considered one of the top green hotels in the Caribbean close to some of Jamaica’s best beaches
  • Natural Conservation: with carbon-neutral villas and organic farm to table food, Itz’ana is mindful about minimising their environmental footprint.
  • Arts & Heritage: the resort focuses on preserving the Mayan traditions and art forms
  • Health & Wellness: they are committed to an organic and healthy lifestyle, ensuring their staff and guests eat farm to plate food.
  • The resort has 984 solar panels that allow it to be purely powered by the sun
  • They say no to single use plastics and use natural and organic toiletries
  • Fish and seafood is caught locally from suppliers that use sustainable fishing practices
  • They have a partnered with Manta Trust and offer sustainable diving and snorkelling experiences with a marine biologist.

Each of the above mentioned have facebook, twitter and instagram so you can get a real feel for guest experiences, check what events might be or ask for additional info.

Where To Book Eco Resorts

Greenpearls.

  • This amazing site has handpicked some of the most incredible eco accomodations around the world and placed them into a conveniently designed platform. 
  • They’ve also created their own ranking system so you can compare just how “eco” the places really are in comparison with others!

Booking.com

  • When searching a location, you can simply type “eco” and some options will come up. But it’s not until you check the accommodation yourself that you will see just how “eco” it is.

Platforms To Find Eco Accommodation

If you want to stay in an eco accommodation but not looking for a resort there are plenty of other platforms where you can find eco hotels, eco lodges, glamping tents, volunteer exchanges and more.

Check out the top 7 platforms to find eco accommodation!

Eco travel is about making conscious actions to travel better & greener. Choosing a good eco resort is one way, but there are lots of different ways to eco travel, check out more eco travel tips, here ! Or learn how to eco shop and bring your own reusable gear!

Like This Article? Pin it!

Aaron is one of the co-founders of The Dharma Trails. His background in marine eco tourism and writing have blended together to create the eco travel platform read by users around the world.

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eco travel resort

7 Eco-friendly Resorts – 100% Sustainable Tourism

Imagine waking up to the symphony of nature, surrounded by lush greenery, pristine beaches, or majestic mountains. Eco-friendly resorts not only provide a haven of tranquility but also prioritize minimizing their ecological footprint. From innovative architectural designs that harmonize with the environment to renewable energy sources that power their facilities, eco-friendly resorts are committed to sustainability in every aspect of their operations.

Indulge in organic and locally sourced cuisine, pamper yourself with eco-conscious spa treatments, and embark on adventures that allow you to explore the natural wonders of your surroundings. Discover how eco-resorts support local communities, engage in conservation efforts, and offer immersive experiences that deepen our connection to the Earth.

As the travel industry embraces a greater sense of responsibility towards our planet, these resorts stand out as shining examples of how hospitality and environmental stewardship can go hand in hand.

  • Soneva Fushi – Baa Atoll, Maldives – Soneva Fushi is a luxury eco-resort situated in the Maldives. It focuses on sustainability, conservation, and community development. The resort implements various eco-friendly practices, such as using solar power, recycling waste, and supporting local communities. Soneva Fushi offers exquisite accommodations, pristine beaches, and a range of sustainable activities.
  • Song Saa Private Island – Koh Rong Archipelago, Cambodia – Song Saa Private Island is a secluded eco-luxury resort set amidst the turquoise waters of the Koh Rong Archipelago. It aims to protect the surrounding marine environment and promotes sustainable practices. The resort features stunning villas, a spa, and various eco-friendly initiatives, including water conservation and waste management.
  • Lapa Rios Lodge – Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica – Lapa Rios Lodge is an ecolodge located in a remote rainforest reserve in Costa Rica. It is dedicated to conservation, community empowerment, and sustainable tourism. The lodge offers immersive nature experiences, comfortable accommodations, and eco-friendly practices such as using renewable energy, supporting local initiatives, and protecting wildlife habitats.
  • Six Senses Yao Noi – Phang Nga Bay, Thailand – Six Senses Yao Noi is a luxury resort situated on a picturesque island in Thailand. The resort is committed to sustainable practices, including renewable energy usage, water conservation, and supporting local communities. It offers stunning villas, spa services, and various eco-friendly activities.
  • Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort – Vanua Levu, Fiji – Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort is a luxurious eco-resort in Fiji, founded by renowned ocean explorer Jean-Michel Cousteau. The resort follows sustainable practices, including coral reef conservation, renewable energy usage, and supporting local communities. Guests can enjoy pristine beaches, water sports, and educational marine activities.
  • Lefay Resort & SPA Lago di Garda – Gargnano, Italy – Lefay Resort & SPA Lago di Garda is an eco-friendly wellness retreat nestled in the scenic Italian Lake District. The resort is built to high energy efficiency standards, features sustainable architecture, and utilizes renewable energy sources. It offers spa treatments, holistic wellness programs, and organic cuisine.
  • Islas Secas – Gulf of Chiriquí, Panama – Islas Secas is a private island resort in Panama’s Gulf of Chiriquí. The resort is dedicated to marine conservation and operates sustainably by employing solar power, desalination systems, and recycling initiatives. Guests can enjoy luxurious accommodations, water activities, and nature exploration.

These resorts showcase a commitment to sustainability and offer luxurious experiences while minimizing their impact on the environment. However, it’s worth noting that achieving 100% sustainability can be challenging, and different resorts may have different interpretations and approaches to sustainability. It’s always a good idea to research and contact the resorts directly to inquire about their specific sustainable practices and certifications.

How to Verify if a Resort Is Eco-Friendly

When verifying if a resort is eco-friendly, there are several certifications and awards that you can look for.

LEED Certification

LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) is a globally recognized green building certification program. It assesses a building’s design, construction, and operation based on factors such as energy efficiency, water conservation, materials usage, and indoor environmental quality.

Green Globe Certification

Green Globe is an international sustainability certification program for the travel and tourism industry. It evaluates a resort’s environmental performance, social responsibility, and contribution to local communities.

EarthCheck Certification

EarthCheck is a leading scientific benchmarking and certification program for the travel and tourism industry. It assesses a resort’s environmental, social, and economic sustainability based on rigorous criteria and performance indicators.

Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) Recognition

The GSTC is a global authority on sustainable tourism standards. Their recognition indicates that a resort aligns with internationally recognized criteria for sustainable tourism.

Also look out for awards and accolades specifically related to sustainability and eco-friendliness, such as TripAdvisor’s GreenLeaders Program, National Geographic’s Unique Lodges of the World, or Sustainable Travel International’s Sustainable Tourism Awards.

What Makes a Resort Eco-Friendly

An eco-friendly resort is characterized by its commitment to minimizing its environmental impact and promoting sustainability in various aspects of its operations.

Sustainable Design and Construction

Eco-friendly resorts often incorporate sustainable design practices, such as using locally sourced and renewable materials, maximizing natural light and ventilation, and implementing energy-efficient technologies. The resort’s buildings and infrastructure are constructed with a focus on reducing their environmental footprint.

Renewable Energy

Eco-friendly resorts prioritize the use of renewable energy sources such as solar power, wind energy, or geothermal systems. They aim to minimize reliance on non-renewable energy sources like fossil fuels and actively seek ways to reduce energy consumption throughout the property.

Water Conservation

Sustainable resorts implement water conservation measures through initiatives like rainwater harvesting, wastewater treatment and recycling, low-flow fixtures, and landscaping practices that minimize water usage. They also educate guests about the importance of water conservation and encourage responsible water usage.

Waste Management

Eco-friendly resorts are conscientious about waste reduction, recycling, and proper waste disposal. They implement recycling programs, use composting systems for organic waste, and minimize single-use plastics and packaging. These resorts also aim to educate guests about waste reduction practices and encourage them to participate in eco-friendly initiatives.

Conservation and Biodiversity

Eco-friendly resorts often operate in harmony with their natural surroundings and take steps to protect local ecosystems and biodiversity. They may engage in conservation efforts, support local wildlife rehabilitation programs, and implement sustainable practices that preserve the natural beauty of the area.

Community Engagement

Sustainable resorts strive to have a positive impact on local communities. They may source products and services from local businesses, provide employment and training opportunities to local residents, and support community development initiatives. These resorts often collaborate with local organizations to implement environmental and social projects that benefit the community.

Guest Education and Engagement

Eco-friendly resorts aim to raise awareness among guests about sustainability practices and environmental conservation. They may offer educational programs, nature tours, and workshops to encourage guests to engage with and appreciate the natural environment. By fostering a sense of environmental stewardship, these resorts empower guests to make eco-friendly choices during their stay and beyond.

By incorporating these elements, eco-friendly resorts create a harmonious balance between luxurious experiences and responsible, sustainable practices that contribute to the preservation of our planet.

How to Prepare and Enjoy Your Eco-Friendly Vacation

Preparing for an eco-friendly vacation involves taking conscious steps to reduce your environmental impact while enjoying your trip.

Pack Light and Responsibly

Opt for eco-friendly travel essentials such as reusable water bottles, cloth bags, and eco-friendly toiletries. Avoid single-use plastics and excessive packaging.

Respect Nature and Wildlife

Follow guidelines and regulations when visiting natural areas. Avoid disturbing wildlife, refrain from feeding them, and observe animals from a safe distance. Leave nature as you found it, avoiding littering or damaging ecosystems.

Conserve Water and Energy

Be mindful of your water and energy usage during your stay. Take shorter showers, turn off lights and air conditioning when not needed, and reuse towels and bed linens instead of requesting daily replacements.

Respect Local Communities and Cultures

Learn about and respect the local customs, traditions, and cultural practices of the destination you’re visiting. Support local communities by purchasing locally made products and by interacting with respect and cultural sensitivity.

Leave No Trace

Practice the “Leave No Trace” principle by taking your waste with you and disposing of it properly. Leave natural areas as you found them, without leaving any garbage or traces of your visit.

Remember, small actions collectively have a significant impact on preserving our planet for future generations.

Eco-Friendly and Sustainable Resorts

Soneva fushi – baa atoll, maldives.

Situated in the idyllic Maldives, Soneva Fushi is not just a luxury resort but a beacon of sustainability and conservation. This eco-resort embraces a holistic approach to environmental responsibility, implementing a variety of eco-friendly practices.

Soneva Fushi harnesses the power of the sun through its extensive use of solar energy, reducing its carbon footprint. Waste is carefully managed through recycling and waste reduction initiatives.

The resort actively engages with local communities, supporting their development and fostering a sense of shared responsibility. Amidst the stunning surroundings, guests can enjoy the exquisite accommodations, relax on pristine beaches, and immerse themselves in a wide range of sustainable activities, creating unforgettable memories while leaving a positive impact on the environment.

Visit the Soneva Fushi website for more information.

Song Saa Private Island – Koh Rong Archipelago, Cambodia

Tucked away in the captivating Koh Rong Archipelago, Song Saa Private Island is a hidden gem, offering a secluded and eco-luxurious escape. This pristine resort takes its commitment to environmental preservation seriously, with a focus on protecting the surrounding marine environment and promoting sustainable practices.

Guests are treated to stunning villas that blend seamlessly with the island’s natural beauty. The resort also boasts a luxurious spa that rejuvenates both body and mind.

Embracing eco-friendly initiatives, Song Saa Private Island prioritizes water conservation by implementing measures such as rainwater harvesting and efficient water usage. Waste management practices ensure that the resort minimizes its environmental impact through recycling and responsible disposal.

To learn more about Song Saa Private Island head over to their website.

Lapa Rios Lodge – Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica

Snuggled within a remote rainforest reserve in Costa Rica, Lapa Rios Lodge stands as an extraordinary ecolodge that harmonizes conservation, community empowerment, and sustainable tourism. This eco-conscious retreat invites guests to immerse themselves in transformative nature experiences while enjoying comfortable accommodations that blend seamlessly with the surrounding environment.

Lapa Rios Lodge is committed to eco-friendly practices, utilizing renewable energy sources to power its operations. By harnessing the power of the sun and wind, the lodge minimizes its carbon footprint and sets an example for sustainable living.

Lapa Rios Lodge actively supports local initiatives and empowers the surrounding communities. Through collaborations with local organizations, the lodge contributes to community development, creating a positive impact on the lives of the residents.

The eco-lodge also plays a vital role in protecting wildlife habitats, ensuring the preservation of the rich biodiversity found in the rainforest reserve. By promoting responsible tourism and respecting the natural surroundings, Lapa Rios Lodge fosters an environment where guests can witness the beauty of nature firsthand while actively contributing to its conservation.

Visit the website to learn more about Lapa Rios Lodge.

Six Senses Yao Noi – Phang Nga Bay, Thailand

Perched on a scenic island in Thailand, Six Senses Yao Noi is an exceptional luxury resort that showcases a deep dedication to sustainable practices. Embracing renewable energy usage, the resort minimizes its environmental footprint and harnesses the power of nature to create a luxurious experience for guests. Water conservation is also prioritized, ensuring responsible usage and preservation of this precious resource.

Beyond its commitment to the environment, Six Senses Yao Noi actively supports and engages with local communities, fostering sustainable development and cultural preservation. Guests can revel in the beauty of the surroundings, indulging in the stunning villas and rejuvenating spa services offered by the resort.

With a range of eco-friendly activities, such as nature walks, kayaking, and organic cooking classes, Six Senses Yao Noi provides guests with a truly immersive and sustainable experience. Whether exploring the island’s natural wonders or simply relaxing in the lap of luxury, guests can feel good knowing they are supporting a resort dedicated to sustainability and responsible tourism.

Six Senses Yao Noi website .

Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort – Vanua Levu, Fiji

Situated in the paradise of Vanua Levu, Fiji, the Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort is a luxurious eco-resort that reflects the passion for conservation and exploration of its founder, Jean-Michel Cousteau. With a strong commitment to sustainable practices, the resort takes an active role in coral reef conservation, preserving the vibrant marine ecosystems that surround it.

The Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort embraces renewable energy usage, minimizing its impact on the environment and showcasing the potential for sustainable living. The resort also engages with and supports local communities, recognizing the importance of community empowerment and cultural preservation. Through initiatives that provide economic opportunities and educational programs, the resort contributes to the well-being and sustainable development of the local area.

Guests at the Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort are treated to the epitome of luxury, with immaculate beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a range of water sports activities available. Beyond recreational pursuits, the resort offers educational marine activities that provide insights into the incredible underwater world, allowing guests to deepen their understanding of the importance of marine conservation.

Visit the Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort website to find out more.

Lefay Resort & SPA Lago di Garda – Gargnano, Italy

In the beauty of the Italian Lake District, Lefay Resort & SPA Lago di Garda stands as an exceptional eco-friendly wellness retreat. With a strong commitment to sustainability, the resort has been built to high energy efficiency standards, ensuring a minimal ecological impact.

The resort’s architecture harmoniously blends with its natural surroundings, showcasing sustainable design principles and utilizing locally sourced materials. Lefay Resort & SPA Lago di Garda embraces renewable energy sources, harnessing the power of nature to minimize its carbon footprint.

Guests can indulge in a wide range of spa treatments and holistic wellness programs that promote relaxation, rejuvenation, and overall well-being. From yoga classes to meditation sessions, the resort offers a serene sanctuary for nourishing the mind, body, and soul.

The resort’s commitment to sustainable and locally sourced ingredients ensures a dining experience that is both delicious and environmentally conscious.

Check out the Lefay Resort & SPA Lago di Garda website.

Islas Secas – Gulf of Chiriquí, Panama

Located in Panama’s Gulf of Chiriquí, Islas Secas is a private island resort that seamlessly blends luxury with a profound commitment to marine conservation. The resort serves as a steward of the surrounding marine environment, employing sustainable practices that leave a minimal ecological footprint.

Islas Secas operates with a focus on renewable energy, utilizing solar power to meet its energy needs. The resort also employs desalination systems to ensure a sustainable freshwater supply, reducing its reliance on external sources.

In line with its dedication to sustainability, Islas Secas implements comprehensive recycling initiatives, minimizing waste and promoting responsible waste management practices.

Guests of Islas Secas are treated to luxurious accommodations that harmonize with the natural beauty of the island. They can partake in a wide range of water activities, including snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding, while witnessing the vibrant marine life that the resort strives to protect.

Nature exploration is also encouraged, with opportunities to discover the diverse flora and fauna found on the island and engage in educational activities that foster a deeper understanding of the surrounding ecosystem.

Visit the Isla Secas website to find out more.

Read 10 BEST SUSTAINABLE FASHION BRANDS .

Let’s Have a Conversation:

Have you been to any of these resorts? Do you plan on visiting an eco-friendly resort soon? Tell us about it in the comments below.

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Sandra Roussy

Sandra Roussy

Sandra is the middle-aged woman you hear about who sheds everything she owns and sets out into the world to rediscover and redefine herself. After more than twenty years spent in the fashion industry designing collections for brands such as La Senza, Victoria’s Secret, and JACOB Lingerie, she shifted her path and pursued her longtime passion for writing, traveling, and photography. Sandra was published in the NY Times best selling book Eat Pray Love Made Me Do It. A deeply personal essay hand-picked by Elizabeth Gilbert about loss, facing fears, and going after dreams. Visit her website: www.sandraroussy.com

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The best eco-resorts in Belize for sustainable encounters in a tropical wonderland

Tobey Grumet Segal

Jul 6, 2022 • 8 min read

A taste of tropical luxury at Blancaneaux Lodge, one of Belize's most stylish eco-resorts

A taste of tropical luxury at Blancaneaux Lodge, one of Belize's most stylish eco-resorts © Blancaneaux Lodge

Belize is a land of wonders – a heady mix of Caribbean reefs, lush rainforest and Mayan culture. Travelers come to this low-key Central American country to unplug, unwind and create their own personal eco-adventures.

The country's environmentally-focused resorts are agreeably uncrowded, providing luxury, community and amazing food – and exotic cocktails – without sacrificing sustainability. If you want to experience the natural beauty of Belize while reducing your ecological footprint, here are seven of the country's best eco-friendly resorts.

Blancaneaux Lodge, San Ignacio

Best luxury eco-resort.

Part of an upscale family of eco-friendly resorts owned by acclaimed American film director Francis Ford Coppola (of Apocalypse Now and Godfather fame), Blancaneaux Lodge lies ensconced in the remote forests of the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest in the Cayo District in southern central Belize.

For nearly 30 years, the property has combined Coppola’s love of style, luxury, fine food and sustainability. Blancaneaux boasts a hydroelectric system harnessing the power of the on-site Privassion Creek and all-saline swimming pools – a promise to eschew single-use plastic and use only timber from certified local suppliers highlights the resort's commitment to conservation. The resort also supports local artists, schools and the Belize Wildlife Clinic .

While staying at the resort, you can immerse yourself in the fauna and flora of Belize, enjoy waterfall views and seek out local wildlife in the nearby Elijio Panti National Park . Visitors can choose from an impressive roster of activities such as hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking and sunrise bird watching. Or, if you're feeling more adventurous, sign up for a tour of Mayan ruins, cave exploration or even a detour into Guatemala for the day.

The pool at the Lodge at Chaa Creek, Belize

The Lodge at Chaa Creek, San Ignacio

Best sustainable jungle resort.

An oldie but a goodie, this pioneering eco-resort located on the country's western fringe, was one of the first eco-lodges in Belize. A short drive from the town of San Ignacio, the lodge has been a home for luxury, adventure and conservation for over 30 years. Pick from a wide range of cottage-style rooms, a treehouse, comfy suites or even a private villa that comes with it's own Jacuzzi and personal butler.

Owners Lucy and Mick Fleming are the helpful proprietors of this 400-acre property, which is spread along the banks of the Macal River in a rainforest reserve. The owners donate 10% of all accommodation revenue to local environmental and community projects.

The lodge offers a soothing combination of wild jungle and comfort. On-site activities and amenities include an infinity pool, a full-service spa, a walking trail focused on rainforest medicine, an organic farm and a butterfly farm.

As an added bonus, the well-known Maya sites of Cahal Pech and Xunantunich are nearby. You can also hit local trails by foot or on horseback, or book an adventure to spelunk in a local cave, explore Mayan ruins, go ziplining through the forest or snorkel on the Belize coast.

The 23 best things to do in Belize: snorkeling, fishing and cave tubing

Chan Chich Lodge, Gallon Jug

Best eco-resort for mayan encounters.

Located on the Gallon Jug estate surrounded by the 30,000-acre tri-national Maya Forest, the Chan Chich Lodge was constructed to deter looters from raiding a genuine Mayan archeological site for artifacts.

The 12 luxe, thatched-roof cottages – situated on the main plaza of a Mayan Temple – were crafted using wood from the trees and palms that were originally cleared when the property was constructed, and each comes with a wrap-around verandah.

The resort has been devoted to conservation ever since it opened in the 1980s, and more than half of the food served at the restaurant comes from the resort’s organic, 3000-acre farm, which is committed to growing and saving Belize’s traditional crops. Rainwater is gathered and purified for cooking and cleaning, and the lodge provides sustainable housing, electricity and water for its all-local staff.

Visitor experiences include 9 miles of trails that can be explored on foot or on horseback, canoeing in a nearby lake and driving tours through the dense surrounding jungles. Alternatively, you can choose off-site experiences such as tours of Mayan caves or in-depth birding adventures.

A diver watches an invasive lionfish on a reef in Belize

Hamanasi Adventure and Dive Resort, Stann Creek

Best eco-resort for diving  .

Nearly 1000ft of beachfront at Hamanasi Adventure and Dive Resort means easy access to the beauty of the Caribbean Sea and its dazzling coral reefs . And unlike many of the country’s beach resorts, Hamanasi is located on the mainland, south of Hopkins in southern Belize, so you’ll be able to easily extend your activities beyond the water and diving.

Hamanasi has set aside 26 acres of their property as a nature preserve, making a happy home for everything from birds, bats and orchids to fish, turtles and crocodiles. Its organic garden composts over 100 pounds of biodegradable waste per day. 

Accommodation options include rooms, suites and 16 stilt-raised “treehouses,” all decorated with furniture handcrafted on-site using local materials. When it comes to activities, you can stick close to the sea for barrier reef diving or snorkeling, go canoeing, birding or hiking, or take a day trip to nearby Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary , the world’s first and only dedicated jaguar sanctuary.

Why I traveled to the rainforests of Belize to learn about medicinal plants

Copal Tree Lodge, Punta Gorda

Best eco-resort for rum and excursions.

Tucked into a rainforest preserve in the mountains near the southern town of Punta Gorda, the Copal Tree Lodge offers a welcome respite from the norm. Guests can revel in privacy and eco-chic luxury in its 16 private villa, each with its own hammock and screened-in deck.

Rooms are spacious, bright and draped in earthy, natural tones, but it's the stunning spa-like showers with floor-to-ceiling, jungle-facing windows that will make you feel fully immersed in your stunning, green surroundings. Copal Tree Lodge also offers a three-bedroom villa for guests traveling with family.

Most of the resort’s food is produced from its 3000-acre organic farm or at the very least, locally sourced, and guests can fill their complimentary water bottle with filtered water at water stations dotted around the property.

The resort's on-site Copalli Rum distillery, supplied by organic sugarcane fields, is the largest non-government employer in southern Belize, paying three times the average salary. Copal Tree also donates five Belizean dollars to the local community for every booked room and has an outreach program to train employees and their families.

Activities abound. You can hang by one of the two pools with the monkeys, go kayaking or fishing on the river, or join cave expeditions and jungle hikes. You can also book onto the popular Snorkel with the Chef trip – you’ll travel down the Rio Grande river with the lodge’s chef and a local guide, and any fish, spiny lobster or conch caught during your snorkeling adventure will be cooked up on the boat’s wood grill.  

Copal also offers a range of agritourism adventures, including a farm-to-flask rum initiative with mixology classes or a bean-to-bar chocolate experience, taking advantage of the resort's own organic cacao. And did we mention the craft cocktails at the bar?

The thatched restaurant at Table Rock Lodge, Belize

Table Rock Lodge, San Antonio Village

Best eco-resort for privacy.

Tiny and tasteful, this peaceful eco-lodge has just 10 guest cabanas located inside a 105-acre jungle reserve in central western Belize, five miles south of San Ignacio Town, on a raised bank above the Macal River. Guests can choose from garden-facing rooms, a thatched-roof cabana, jungle or river view suites, or a two-bedroom rainforest cabin that used to be the owners' home.

Because of its more intimate size, Table Rock Lodge has been able to stay completely off the grid, producing all its own electricity from solar panels. This means you’ll only have access to USB outlets in rooms, which have no larger electrical devices. Laptops and other items with a 110V power cord can be charged at a power station at the lodge.

Most of the resort's water needs are supplied using purified rain and river water, and the owners have spent years replenishing the local area through the Mahogany Reforestation Project , which has planted approximately 1000 new mahogany trees.

An organic farm offers a farm-to table dining experience and allows guests to pick Valencia oranges, Key and Tahitian limes, mangoes, coconuts and avocados. The only caveat – if you pick it, eat it. Activities and adventures around the property include canoing, tubing and hiking. You can also take a guided excursion to the Cahal Pech Mayan site, the Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM) cave, or the Community Baboon Sanctuary (an important reserve for howler monkeys).

The best time to go to Belize for sunshine, diving and conch

Black Rock Lodge, San Ignacio

Best resort for self-sufficiency .

Sitting on the banks of the Macal River, tucked into a stand of dense rainforest across from Elijio Panti National Park , Black Rock Lodge serves up adventure, conservation and relaxation. Guests stay in one of 20 airy cabins – each comes with its own hammock and floors made from local slate stone to keep them cool.

A fully off-the-grid property, Black Rock Lodge relies on solar and hydroelectric energy to reduce its carbon emissions. To avoid polluting surrounding water sources, they also use a natural wetland wastewater treatment system, which won’t degrade over time. And there's a goat and chicken farm that provides milk, eggs, yogurt and cheese for the restaurant (don’t forget to pop in and give the goats some love).

Because of its close proximity to the river, guests can go tubing or head down to a nearby waterfall; other on-site experiences include hiking, canoeing and kayaking and spelunking in the Flour Camp Cave. You can also spend the day ziplining, exploring Mayan sites, or checking out the habitat of Belize's green iguanas.

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These Eco-friendly Hotels in Costa Rica Have Organic Gardens, Beachfront Pools, and National Park Views

The concept of the eco-lodge — now so prevalent around the world — has been perfected in Costa Rica over four decades. Meet the new generation of pioneers taking green tourism to the next level.

Where to Stay

Where to eat.

Jake Naughton

Sunlight filtered through the treetops as I surrendered my body to the harness. It would soon be time to drop back down to the forest floor, but for now I stayed put, spinning in a slow circle and marveling at the explosion of epiphytes — moss, lichens, and ferns in every shade of green — that surrounded me.

I was dangling from an enormous tempisque tree at Savia Monteverde, a 17-acre private reserve in the Costa Rican cloud forest. Savia is the latest project by the owners of Hotel Belmar , the oldest continually operated eco-lodge in the town of Monteverde , and my home for the first few nights of a 10-day journey through Costa Rica’s Puntarenas province.

The Belmar family designed Savia as a forest immersion: part ecology lesson, part meditation session, part thrill ride, and a tranquil alternative to the high-speed zip lines that scream through the canopy elsewhere in the region. “When we are in the trees, we are in an environment that is not our own,” said Savia’s cofounder, Andrés Valverde, as he dangled beside me in his own harness. He gestured to the sea of bromeliads that had taken root on the tempisque’s mossy branches. “It is like being in a coral reef.” On another limb we spotted a cluster of micro-orchids with flowers so small they can only be pollinated by a particular species of tiny, metallic-green bee.

As I began my descent, a blue-throated mountain-gem hummingbird darted into the foliage in an iridescent blur. In the distance, sheaves of mist swirled through the treetops. “We use awe as a catalyst for change,” Valverde said. He must have seen the look of wonder on my face. “With 17 acres, I’m not saving the world. But if every person who passes through here feels that connection, I think they will do something for conservation.”

Pura vida . Pure life. The phrase has been part of Costa Rica’s vernacular for decades, as both a greeting and a goodbye. It’s an expression of thanks, a way to say “No problem!” and a reminder to be present and live simply. For Costa Ricans, pura vida is a way of life.

This concept partly explains the country’s commitment to conservation. In 1948, it abolished the army, diverting the funds into education, health care, and environmental initiatives. In subsequent years, the country doubled its forest cover; protected more than 25 percent of its land by putting it into reserves, wildlife refuges, and national parks; and amended its constitution to include the right to a healthy environment.

Prioritizing people and nature has made Costa Rica an attractive destination for international travelers. In the 1960s and 70s, those travelers were mostly scientists drawn by the country’s biological riches. But it wasn’t long before word of those riches got out, and by the early 90s, Costa Rica had emerged as a plum vacation spot for nature lovers. Rustic lodges and guide services cropped up — some owned by Costa Ricans (or Ticos, as they call themselves), others by foreigners, laying the groundwork for a new, environmentally conscious style of travel called ecotourism.

But there was a caveat. Alongside the many businesses that implemented responsible tourism policies were others that rode the ecotourism wave simply by marketing themselves as “green.” In response, the country unveiled its Certification for Sustainable Tourism program in 1997, which set rigorous standards to evaluate a tourism entity’s sustainability practices. These days, many Costa Ricans in the travel industry are implementing creative initiatives that draw upon the lessons of the past while building a more sustainable future.

Surrounded by fruit trees and organic vegetable gardens on the edge of Monteverde’s cloud forest, Hotel Belmar is an oasis within an oasis. My room, lined with honey-colored wood, felt like a tree house, with a huge wraparound terrace and windows that opened to a real-life nature soundtrack. Early each morning a pale-billed woodpecker came rat-a-tatting at my window. Green parakeets produced a cacophony of squawks from the nearby trees.

If Costa Rica has become a global model for sustainable tourism, Monteverde is where that model began. In 1951, a group of Quakers arrived from the U.S. after refusing to register for the peacetime draft. They purchased 3,400 acres of land and divided it into individual homesteads for dairy farming and agriculture. They left the forested mountaintop untouched to protect their watershed, which burbled with springs that spilled into the Río Guacimal.

The little town quickly emerged as a magnet for biologists who wanted to study the teeming biomass of the cloud forest, particularly the now-extinct golden toad. The scientists shared concerns about the region’s unchecked deforestation with the Quakers, and in 1972 the two groups worked together to establish the Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve.

I spent a morning with Hotel Belmar’s founder, Vera Zeledón, at Finca Madre Tierra, her farm in the nearby hamlet of Alto Cebadilla. Small in stature but with a firecracker personality, Zeledón drove up in a rugged ATV wearing a baseball cap and muddy red-rubber boots. “When we first came here there was just a little Quaker pensione, ” she said. “That’s where I learned how to make bread, granola, and cheese.” In 1985, she and her husband, Pedro Belmar, built their own place — a Tyrolean-style guesthouse inspired by the decade they had spent working in Austria.

These days she spends most of her time at the farm — the first in Costa Rica to receive carbon-neutral certification. She started it with just a few cows and horses, but over the past 15 years it has grown to include coffee production, cheese making, and an extensive composting system. Produce, eggs, and cheese from the farm appear on the menu at Celajes, Belmar’s restaurant; in turn, the hotel’s food scraps fuel both the chickens and the compost heap, while spent barley from Belmar’s new microbrewery goes to the cows.

“Everything moves in circles here,” Zeledón said as we snacked on homemade tortillas with eggs and fresh cheese. “When people come to visit, we spread the seeds of ecological consciousness around the world. That’s our goal.”

Vera Zeledón, Hotel Belmar

When people come to visit, we spread the seeds of ecological consciousness around the world.

In 2004, National Geographic Fellow Dan Buettner identified five places around the world where people live unusually long and healthy lives, dubbing them “blue zones.” The Nicoya Peninsula, on Costa Rica’s northwestern coast, is one of those places.

My next stop was Santa Teresa , a bohemian beach town on Nicoya’s southernmost shore. In the past decade or so the town has blossomed from a quiet fishing village into a haven for the surfers who ride its year-round breaks. Though I didn’t go for the swells, the ocean beckoned. As soon as I found my bungalow at Hotel Nantipa, I laced up my running shoes and headed for the beach. In the water, surfers straddled their boards, eyes on the horizon. On the shore, dogs splashed and chased. I ran until the sky streaked pink and then threw on my bathing suit for a sunset swim. The tide had retreated, revealing a deep pool where I floated on my back and decided that Santa Teresa was a place where I could happily grow old.

“Santa Teresa has something magical to it,” said Harry Hartman over dinner at the hotel’s Manzú restaurant. Born and raised in San José, Costa Rica’s capital, Hartman, who co-owns the hotel with his childhood friend Mario Mikowski, first visited the peninsula when his children were small. Eventually he purchased the wild, oceanfront property where we sat eating patacones — crispy plantain fritters — heaped with refried beans, guacamole, and fresh pico de gallo .

The friends wanted to create a place reminiscent of those free-and-easy days Hartman spent in Santa Teresa with his young family, upping the ante on luxury but not distracting from the area’s natural beauty. Nantipa, which means “blue” in the language of the Indigenous Chorotega people who once inhabited the peninsula, is the realization of that goal. Only six trees were removed during construction, despite permits to cut down 80. Later, Hartman and Mikowski developed robust sustainability standards that extend far beyond eliminating single-use plastics. They now support the efforts of multiple, often underfunded, initiatives that, as Hartman put it, “work with their fingernails.” They have forged relationships to make sure tourism dollars go directly into the pockets of local producers and providers.

Early the next morning I drove south to Malpaís to meet one of those local providers: Tico fisherman Jason Rodriguez Ugalde, who runs charters off the coast near Cabo Blanco Natural Reserve. In his bright turquoise boat we cruised over calm seas past Isla Cabo Blanco, an important nesting site for Costa Rica’s population of brown boobies. Overhead, the birds swooped and soared.

During high season Ugalde might go out two or three times a day — business that enables him to hire extra crew. On off days, he fishes with his wife. There’s never a shortage of fresh fish for his family, he told me. To prove his point, we spent the next couple of hours reeling in one fat yellowfin after another, until my arms began to ache from the effort.

That afternoon I walked through Santa Teresa, passing funky boutiques, surf shops, and hip, California-style juice bars. At a little family-owned restaurant called Soda Tiquicia, I met Camila Aguilar, Nantipa’s concierge, for lunch. Afterward we climbed into the hotel’s utility vehicle and joined the parade of ATVs and motorbikes bumping through the potholes on the town’s unpaved main drag. 

About eight miles up the coast, we arrived at the Caletas-Arío National Wildlife Reserve, where a stretch of shoreline is an important nesting site for endangered sea turtles. Between June and December, hundreds lay their eggs on the beach. “Only one will survive out of a thousand,” said Keylin Torres Peraza, a project coordinator at the Center of Investigation for Natural & Social Resources (cirenas), the organization that oversees the reserve. cirenas began its sea-turtle conservation program in 2018, enclosing a large, sandy area above the high-tide line in driftwood and mesh. Inside, roughly 200 nests contained eggs rescued from poachers and predators by staff and volunteers during their nightly patrols.

At Peraza’s feet sat a bucket filled with wriggling olive ridley turtles that had emerged from their eggs just a few hours earlier. Peraza tipped the bucket on its side. The hatchlings tumbled out and began their pilgrimage to the sea. Their progress, tentative at first, quickly grew purposeful, tiny flippers propelling them forward until, one by one, they disappeared into the surf.

In late December, just six weeks after my visit, an arson attack destroyed the hatchery. “Some people feel territorial about this beach,” Peraza told me over the phone. “They don’t like what we’re doing.” To soothe the friction, cirenas works with local schools, offering lessons in conservation and inviting the students and their families to join them on the beach for turtle releases. But with limited staff and resources, they can’t do as much of that as they’d like. For now, rebuilding the hatchery and increasing awareness about their work is the priority — efforts Nantipa helps to fund.

Whenever I told people in Costa Rica that I was headed to the Osa Peninsula, their reaction was always the same: “You are so lucky!” A holy grail for nature lovers, remote Osa is home to 2.5 percent of the earth’s biodiversity, while covering less than a thousandth of a percent of its surface. Intact primary forest makes up the majority of the landscape, an untamed wilderness that provides habitat for tapirs, jaguars, ocelots, giant anteaters, two-toed and three-toed sloths, and the largest population of endangered scarlet macaws in Central America. Separating the peninsula from the mainland is Golfo Dulce, one of just four tropical fjords in the world, where Pacific humpbacks come to breed and birth their young.

The last time I visited Osa I was on a small ship that cruised up the Pacific coast from Panama, stopping for just one day to explore a sliver of Corcovado National Park. This time I would get the full rainforest experience, staying for four nights at Lapa Rios Lodge, one of Costa Rica’s first — and most sublime — eco-lodges.

Lapa Rios was established in 1993 when Karen and John Lewis, avid birders from Minnesota, traveled to the Osa Peninsula intent on buying land and conserving it through tourism. “Costa Rica’s leaders knew they had beautiful, remote places full of tropical biodiversity,” Karen told me. “But when we told them what we planned to do, they said that nobody would ever come. Sustainable tourism as a concept didn’t exist back then.”

Inspired by their work in the Peace Corps, the couple forged ahead, developing relationships with the community, building a primary school, hiring local people to build the lodge and, later, training those same people as staff. In 2019, after three decades spent cultivating their vision, which included securing a conservation easement to forever protect Lapa Rios’s 1,000 acres of tropical lowland rainforest, they sold the lodge to longtime Costa Rican conservationists Roberto Fernández and Luz Caceres.

I arrived at Lapa Rios at dusk to find an environment so wild and raw that I could feel it pulsating. The rainforest reverberated with the chirps of thousands of nocturnal creatures. I woke the next morning to sounds coming from the tree beside my window: squirrel monkeys, their little white faces adorned with black goatees, chattering away. Outside my bungalow, one of 17 that sprawl across a ridge above the Pacific, I heard something hitting the ground with a thud. Then I spied a pair of scarlet macaws feasting on beach almonds. They dropped the thick husks onto the path.

The days I spent at Lapa Rios felt like rainforest summer camp, albeit with a dazzling wine list. Each evening during dinner, the lodge’s charismatic concierge, Andres Lopez, outlined the next day’s adventures — an early morning birding tour, a walk to a nearby waterfall, a visit to one of the secluded beaches that wrap around the end of the peninsula. One morning I set out with Danilo Alvarez Seguro, the lodge’s most senior guide, to hike the Ridge Trail. With keen eyes and ears, he identified armies of leaf-cutter ants toiling in the red earth, calamine trees oozing with skin-soothing sap, and tiny poison-dart frogs, their obsidian skins painted in Day-Glo swirls.

On my last evening at Lapa Rios, I sat at the open-air bar chatting with Angel Artavia while he mixed me a mojito with Cacique Guaro, a Costa Rican spirit made with sugarcane. “Once you work in a place like this you see how important it is to take care of nature,” he told me. “You see how everything is connected.” Inspired, Artavia studied biology and conservation basics with Danilo Alvarez Seguro. Now he volunteers with other members of the Lapa Rios staff to teach environmental education in the local schools. 

Artavia slid my mojito across the bar. “ Pura vida, Gina,” he said. Behind me, the sun dropped toward the Pacific, its final rays threading a light mist with strands of gold. I watched a pair of macaws glide over the ocean and disappear into the canopy. I heard the guttural calls of howler monkeys. Raising my glass, I smiled and took a sip. Pura vida, indeed.  

Hotel Belmar

This 26-room carbon-neutral boutique hotel in the mountains of the Costa Rican cloud forest has been owned by the Belmar family since 1985. It has a microbrewery, lush flower and vegetable gardens, and rooms with sweeping views of the Gulf of Nicoya. Doubles from $319.

  Hotel Nantipa

In the boho town of Santa Teresa, this collection of 29 breezy suites and villas sits amid tropical rainforest steps from the Pacific Ocean. Doubles from $520. 

 Lapa Rios Lodge

One of four properties in the Böëna Wilderness Lodges collection, this luxurious eco-resort on the remote Osa Peninsula has 17 airy ocean-view bungalows set within a 1,000-acre private rainforest reserve. Doubles from $1,070, all-inclusive.

La Cuchara de la Abuela  

Tuck in to huge plates of casado and arroz con pollo at casem, a nonprofit artisans’ cooperative in the heart of the Monteverde cloud forest. Entrées $5–$10.

Soda Tiquicia

This open-air restaurant on Santa Teresa’s main road serves Costa Rican fare like gallo pinto, patacones, and tangy ceviche. Entrées $4–$12.

Cabo Blanco Absolute Nature Reserve

Two trails lead though lush, tropical forest at this protected area on the southernmost tip of the Nicoya Peninsula.

Cooking classes, lessons in regenerative agriculture and permaculture, and sea-turtle releases are just a few of the visitor experiences on offer at this environmental-education campus on the Nicoya Peninsula.

Finca Madre Tierra

At this family-owned, carbon-neutral farm in the hills of Alto Cebadilla, visitors can tour the grounds on horseback before learning about sustainable agriculture, cheese making, and coffee production.

Jason Tours

This small, Tico-owned company in Malpaís offers snorkeling, whale watching, and fishing tours in the Gulf of Nicoya.

Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve

Established in 1972, Monteverde’s first nature reserve protects more than 10,000 acres of pristine cloud forest and provides habitat for 120 species of mammals, 658 species of butterflies, and 425 species of birds, including the resplendent quetzal.

Wander among massive old-growth trees dripping with epiphytes and climb high into the lush canopy of the cloud forest at this 17-acre nature reserve just a few minutes’ drive from Hotel Belmar.

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  • What is an Eco Resort
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  • May 2, 2022

Eco resorts are a type of tourism accommodation that focuses on sustainable practices and environmental conservation. They aim to provide a meaningful and authentic travel experience that has a positive impact on the environment and local culture. Eco resorts come in a variety of forms, including treehouses, yurts, caves, domes, and lodges, and often offer a range of activities that allow guests to immerse themselves in nature.

One of the main principles of eco resorts is the use of sustainable materials and practices. This may include the use of renewable energy sources, such as solar or wind power, and the implementation of water conservation measures. Eco resorts may also prioritize the use of locally sourced materials and support local businesses and communities.

Another key principle of eco resorts is the promotion of environmental conservation. This may include the protection of natural habitats and wildlife, as well as the implementation of waste reduction and recycling programs. Eco resorts may also offer educational opportunities for guests to learn about the local environment and its unique features.

Permaculture , a design philosophy that seeks to create self-sustaining systems that mimic the natural environment, is often incorporated into the design and operation of eco resorts. Permaculture principles include the use of natural resources efficiently, the creation of diverse ecosystems, and the promotion of natural patterns and processes. These principles can be applied to the design of eco resorts in a variety of ways, including the use of native plants and the integration of natural elements into the built environment.

The best eco resorts are those that effectively balance environmental conservation with the needs and desires of guests. This may include the provision of comfortable and well-equipped accommodation, as well as a range of activities and amenities that allow guests to fully experience the local environment. Eco resorts that successfully incorporate permaculture principles and make a positive contribution to the local community are likely to be the most successful and sustainable.

Overall, eco resorts offer a unique and authentic travel experience that allows guests to immerse themselves in nature while still enjoying the comforts of modern amenities. By prioritizing sustainable practices and environmental conservation, eco resorts can contribute to the long-term health and well-being of local communities and ecosystems.

By now, we all have a sense of what ecotourism means. However, words like sustainability enc eco have been flung around too much by different groups and have begun to lose their original meanings. 

Eco historically has referred to the environment. But, like how the word sustainability probably had original meanings in the environment, ecosystems have increasingly come to represent part of the economy at the expense of … ( expense well now I am using a market metaphor, aren’t I).  The point is, not everything needs to get consumed into market systems to have value. 

Sustainable Eco-Resorts  accessed from https://www.irbnet.de/daten/iconda/CIB_DC24679.pdf

Ecotourism  wiki https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ecotourism

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Travel Tips and Trivia

Last Updated: January 23, 2024

Eco Travellers 101: A Complete Guide to Eco travel

What are eco travellers? What’s eco travel? How do you “travel eco”? Check out this ultimate guide to eco travelling to learn everything you need about this hot travel topic.

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Danny Newman

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Trying to find out about eco travellers? I hope this guide helps!

Do you remember seeing pictures of blue skies in Beijing and dolphins in the canals of Venice during the COVID lockdowns?

That was no coincidence.

Researchers have found that the pandemic had a profound positive effect on the environment, from reducing air and water pollution to reversing the damage done to popular tourist destinations.

These findings have only accelerated a trend that was slowly becoming more popular anyway: eco travel.

You may have heard of eco travelling already. But what is it, exactly? What do eco travellers do? What do eco trips involve? Where are the best places to take eco tours?

And, most importantly, why should you (or any of us) care?

Read on for a deep dive into ecological travelling, why it’s so important, and some expert tips to help you get started!

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Here we go, then: a comprehensive look at eco travel and what it involves!

Interested in eco travels? You might also like these posts…

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Eco Travel: What Is It?

Simply put, eco travel is any type of tourism that focuses on travelling responsibly and sustainably.

It might even go a step further, as many eco travellers try to have a positive impact on the environment and the local community too.

Eco travel is closely associated with other terms such as:

  • Sustainable travel
  • Sustainable tourism
  • Green travel
  • Ecological travel

According to the UN , this type of tourism:

“Takes into account its current and future economic, social and environmental impacts, addressing the needs of visitors, the industry, the environment and host communities.”

Another organization, TIES, defines ecotourism as “ responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment, sustains the well-being of the local people, and involves interpretation and education. ”

In other words, eco travellers are highly aware of the impact their visit has on the local flora and fauna, community, economy, and environment.

Furthermore, they seek to minimise any negative impact and, if possible, create a positive local impact instead.

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In the coming section, I’ll run through a few examples of what eco travelling looks like in practice.

Examples of Ecological Travelling

This sounds great in theory, but what does eco travel look like in real life? Let’s consider some examples of what eco travellers might do:

  • Staying with an indigenous community in Ecuador
  • Hiking and camping along the Appalachian Trail
  • Volunteering with a wildlife conservation agency in South Africa
  • Ziplining above the rainforest on an eco tour of Costa Rica
  • Horse trekking across the island of Iceland
  • Glamping or sleeping in eco-friendly lodging
  • Helping local farmers through an agritourism program
  • Signing up for an eco tour cruise to Antarctica or the Galapagos Islands
  • Walking or riding a bicycle instead of renting a car or taking an Uber
  • Buying food from a local market instead of a chain grocery store
  • Souvenir shopping from local artists rather than buying “Made in China” knickknacks
  • Bringing reusable drink containers instead of buying plastic water bottles
  • Taking a train or a bus across a country instead of flying

Of course, just because you hike, camp, or bring your own water bottle doesn’t mean you’re eco travelling.

You must also visit in such a way that you minimise (or even eliminate) your carbon footprint , along with any negative impact on your destination.

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Ecological travelling involves looking after our planet and the local community instead of acting in ways that harm it.

Why Is Eco Travelling Important?

If you’re like me, you feel frustrated when you see news stories like this one , where a popular Thai island had to remove 3 tonnes of plastic trash from its beautiful beaches.

Then there are popular cities like Venice and Barcelona that are overrun with tourists , putting strain on the local infrastructure, environment, and economies.

Eco travellers aim to do the opposite.

They have a keen awareness of the world around them and the fact that everyone and everything on the planet is interconnected. They might adopt a popular catchphrase like, “Take only memories, leave only footprints.”

In other words, leave no trace.

Here are some reasons why all of us should consider becoming eco travellers in the future:

  • It protects fragile natural environments and historical sites
  • It benefits local economies and creates local job opportunities
  • It helps to conserve and spread awareness of indigenous cultures
  • It preserves biological diversity among plant and animal species
  • It empowers local communities with knowledge and resources
  • It reduces carbon emissions and unnecessary waste products
  • It creates authentic relationships with local residents and businesses
  • It shows respect for the planet, the climate, and each other
  • It’s more fulfilling than traditional tourism activities and destinations

Around the world, there’s a greater awareness of what’s happening to our global environment.

More and more people — as individuals and as organisations — are interested in contributing to this cause.

Eco travel is one of the best ways to get involved without sacrificing the chance to see the world.

Instead, eco travellers get the chance to make the world a better place!

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Now let’s dive into some of the best places to go for eco trips and some awesome companies with a strong eco-reputation.

The Best Destinations for Eco Trips

Where should you go for an eco-friendly holiday?

As you might expect, most eco trips venture off the beaten path. Forget those big cities overrun with tourists or tropical beaches lined with all-inclusive resorts.

Instead, eco travellers might consider exciting destinations such as:

  • New Zealand
  • Bhutan (the world’s only carbon-negative country )
  • South Africa

Again, keep in mind that just because you visit an “eco-friendly” destination or even sign up for an “eco-friendly” tour doesn’t mean it’s truly eco travel.

You need to do your due diligence to ensure that your accommodations, activities, and habits will have a positive impact on the destination.

The Best Travel Companies for Eco Tours

To make your research easier, I’ve compiled a list of companies that have a stellar reputation for eco trips. These include:

1. Seacology Expeditions

Join an expedition to exotic island destinations such as Borneo, Fiji, or the Philippines.

Go scuba diving, kayaking, and hiking while taking part in active projects that support the local ecology and benefit local communities.

2. Responsible Travel

One of the global leaders in eco-tourism, Responsible Travel offers more than 5,000 adventures in beautiful destinations all over the world.

Rest easy knowing their eco tours focus on giving back to local businesses and supporting wildlife conservation efforts.

3. Intrepid Travel

Hailed as one of the first carbon-neutral tour operators, Intrepid Travel loves to give back to great causes — for example, the 2015 Nepal earthquake.

They offer exciting tour options across the globe and are a leader in both child protection and the use of local guides.

Specialising in adventure travel for 18 to 35-year-olds, Contiki is paying to offset carbon emissions on all current and future trips.

Travel with them and you’ll help to support forest conservation efforts in Australia as well as renewable energy efforts in the US.

5. Discover Corps

With a tagline like “unforgettable vacations with a purpose,” Discover Corps is the leader in volunteer holidays.

Join a project in Asia, Africa, or Latin America that focuses on helping local schools, families, or wildlife.

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Has eco-travel piqued your interest? Read on for a bunch of tips to help you travel in this way.

25 Top Tips for Aspiring Eco Travellers

What do you think? Are you ready to join the ranks of eco travellers and revamp the way you holiday?

Even if you’re not ready to sign up for a major eco tour or volunteer project, you can adopt an eco travel mindset right now.

Here are 25 simple tips to keep in mind as you travel across the globe (or even around your hometown).

1. Stay at locally-owned accommodations instead of corporate chain hotels.

2. Pay the entrance fees to national parks and historical sites, as these contribute towards conservation efforts and support the local economy.

3. Book activities with local tour guides (or companies that employ local guides).

4. Use public transportation such as trains or buses to get around. Only rent a vehicle or hire a taxi if there’s no other way to reach your destination.

5. If you must fly, book a direct point-to-point flight. Takeoffs and landings create the biggest impact on the environment, so try to avoid layovers if/where possible.

6. While swimming, snorkelling, or scuba diving, never touch the coral, rocks, or animal life. Use only reef-friendly sunscreen to protect your skin while you’re in the water.

7. Buy locally-made goods and souvenirs from local vendors. Not only will you support the local economy, but you’ll minimise your carbon footprint because those goods didn’t have to be shipped across the globe.

8. The same goes for food consumption. Buy your food from farmer’s markets or locally-owned stores instead of large chain grocery suppliers.

9. Consider travelling to locations closer to home that don’t require a long flight (or a rental car once you arrive).

10. Avoid crowded destinations struggling with over-tourism, such as Macchu Picchu or Thailand’s Phi Phi islands. Instead, choose places that are “off the beaten path” or, better yet, book an eco tour with a reputable company.

11. Skip the beachfront resorts and massive cruise liners. Look for accommodation that’s locally owned (such as bed-and-breakfasts or hostels) or choose a hotel that’s accredited by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council .

12. Bring reusable items like water bottles, travel mugs, and cloth shopping bags. Carry them with you so you won’t have to use any plastic, paper, or styrofoam products.

13. Look for accommodations that tout “green” travel, such as solar power, composting, and recyclable water systems (just make sure they aren’t greenwashing ).

14. Always respect local customs. This might mean adapting the way you dress (for example, covering your head or your shoulders) or avoiding actions that could be offensive (for example, pointing your feet at a person or at a statue of Buddha).

15. Consider volunteering for all or part of your holiday. Many organisations offer volunteer experiences that only last a day (or even a few hours), allowing you to experience the joy of giving back.

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Eco tours are all about preserving the natural beauty of our planet and supporting local communities – while still having the time of your life!

16. Never leave trash or litter on the street or on a trail. Stop to pick up anything that other (less responsible) travellers have left behind.

17. Never approach wildlife or attempt to feed them. Be respectful of the distance between you as you observe or take pictures.

18. Don’t stray off the path if you’re hiking or trekking, especially in a remote area. You could easily damage the local flora and fauna — not to mention the possibility of getting lost!

19. Whenever possible, walk or ride a bicycle. Take advantage of local public transportation options too — they’re more eco-friendly than cars and they’re cheaper too.

20. Before you leave for one of your eco trips, make your home environment more eco-friendly. Turn off all lights and unplug any electronics that could zap “phantom electricity” from your home . Do the same at your destination with your chargers, light switches, and heating/cooling.

21. Be mindful of travelling during times that could disturb local wildlife, such as breeding or hatching seasons. Avoid fragile environments that are at risk of erosion, collapse, or over-tourism.

22. Unless you’re staying for an extended period of time, opt-out of fresh towels and sheets in your room every day. You’ll help to conserve local water and power resources by reusing towels and sleeping on the same sheets during your stay.

23. Bring your own water filter or water purifier so you can safely drink the local tap water (if you’re somewhere where it’s safe to do so , of course). This eliminates the need to buy bottled water during your travels.

24. Look for eco-friendly travel bags made from sustainable and recycled materials. You can even find backpacks equipped with solar chargers to power your devices all day long.

25. Consider making a carbon offset donation when you book a flight. Look for airlines that offer the option to donate a portion of the ticket price to a reputable environmental agency.

Eco Travels: The Wave of the Future

As we’ve discussed, there’s no need to give up our favourite hobby (travelling) because of changing conditions on the planet.

Instead, we can each do our part to contribute to a healthier environment by focusing on ecological travelling.

Whether you volunteer for a conversation effort abroad, take an exciting eco-adventure tour, or simply use some of these tips for eco travellers, you’ll be doing your part to make our world a better place!

Would you like to learn more on a similar travel topic?

Click here to learn more about the different types of vacation.

Going Green: The Ultimate Guide To Eco-Tourism & Eco-Travel

Going green doesn't always mean sacrificing creature comforts; there are ways to enjoy eco-tourism and eco-travel.

  • Responsible tourism is growing as more vacationers seek environmentally friendly and community-conscious travel options.
  • Eco-tourism focuses on conservation, sustainability, and respect for local cultures and aims to minimize the negative effects of tourism.
  • Travelers can be responsible by choosing eco-friendly flights, booking with eco-tourism businesses, and spending more time in nature. Popular eco-tourism countries include Costa Rica, Ecuador, Nepal, Kenya, and Madagascar.

It is hardly surprising that responsible tourism has developed into a burgeoning sector as society has grown more aware of its impact on the environment and sought to lessen it. More vacationers than ever are searching for responsible travel options and focusing on locations that are environmentally friendly and more considerate of the local communities they visit. Adopting a sustainable tourism approach does not require one to swear off flying altogether or to exclusively visit remote locations.

Instead, eco-tourists channel their wanderlust into locations that are launching programs to reduce the environmental effect of tourism. In different and numerous ways, travel can be a force for good. To start an eco-friendly getaway off right, travelers can choose one of the exciting locations that are actively promoting sustainability. These destinations range from hotels dedicated to consuming less energy to trailblazing tours and activities created to support local communities and ensure the survival of wildlife. Here is an ultimate guide to eco-tourism and eco-travel.

Related: Trees4Travel: How You Can Plant A Tree While Traveling Sustainably

What Is Eco-Travel?

A responsible method of traveling that places an emphasis on conservation, sustainability, and respect for native cultures is known as eco-travel or eco-tourism .

Minimizing the detrimental effects of tourism on local populations and the environment entails making thoughtful judgments. As with all forms of tourism, eco-tourism gives a lot of importance to respect —respect for the places eco-tourists go, the species they see, and the locals.

The goal is to preserve travelers' favorite vacation spots for the next generations to discover and enjoy. There are eight principles of eco-tourism that have been established by the famous International Ecotourism Society . These are regarded as the principles around which the eco-tourism sector is built.

Eco-tourism aims to:

  • increase respect for and awareness of the environment and cultures
  • create satisfying experiences for guests and hosts alike
  • reduce the effects on the body, society, behavior, and psychology
  • give conservationists immediate cash gains
  • create financial gains for local residents as well as a private enterprise
  • deliver visitors with enduring interpretive experiences that heighten awareness of the environmental, political, and social climates of the host nations
  • create, build, and run low-impact facilities,
  • respect the rights and religious convictions of the indigenous people living in the community, and collaborate with them to foster empowerment. For instance, the more standards that a resort upholds, the more "eco" it truly is when picking one.

Popular eco-tourism countries include Costa Rica, Ecuador, Nepal, Kenya, and Madagascar.

How To Be A Responsible Traveler

Traveling sustainably may be less stressful and even time and money-saving.

Eco-tourists can do numerous things to travel responsibly on their eco-trips, from packing a list of carry-on products that support the growth of sustainable tourism including reusable products and skipping plastics, to making a reservation with a tour operator that is environmentally friendly, and booking eco-friendly lodging and airlines.

Book An Eco-Friendly Flight

Eco-tourists can reduce the environmental impact of their travel. They may enter their flight's departure and destination airports on Carbon Fund, then contribute a certain amount to initiatives that reduce carbon emissions to lessen their effect. This process has a good impact for less money than they may imagine.

  • Eco-friendly airlines: Delta Airline, JetBlue, British Airways, United Airlines, Ryanair, Easy Jet, and others

Opt For Eco-Friendly Options

Tourists may travel with businesses that promote eco-tourism. They may also pay attention that the organizations and travel agencies they travel with prioritize eco-tourism, whether they are spending three months helping in the Amazon or a week at a yoga retreat.

For instance, travelers can make sure that the organization partners with environmentally responsible retreat centers and provides service projects, so they may give back to the neighborhood while on retreat.

Spend More Time In Nature

Eco-tourists can visit the globe's natural parks more frequently. There are many magnificent natural parks around the world , from Plitvice Lakes in Croatia to Monteverde in Costa Rica .

By including them in their schedule, responsible travelers will not only get to spend a few days admiring some of the most breathtaking natural beauties on earth, but they will also get the chance to help local groups who are working to make the world a bit greener.

Contrary to common opinion, camping is not always considered eco-tourism. Campers may have an undesirable impact on the environment. Therefore, the next time they plan a trip, they are recommended to take some extra time to research their accommodations and activities and attempt to incorporate some eco-tourism.

Famous Eco-Travel Destinations

Eco-travel destinations around the world are increasing daily. People are becoming more aware of eco-tourism and its importance. Here are some of the best eco-friendly destinations:

Related: 10 Ways To Sustainably Upgrade Your Summer Camping Adventure

Known as an eco-tourism pioneer , Costa Rica is home to diverse animals, beautiful jungles, and a dedication to sustainability. It offers an outstanding selection of eco-lodges and excursions that support local communities and conservation initiatives. In fact, the nation has set a lofty objective to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050 .

  • Eco-friendly destinations in Costa Rica: Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, Arenal Volcano National Park, Cano Island, and more.

Sustainability is deeply ingrained in the culture of Iceland. The country is well-known for its stunning landscapes , which include geysers, hot springs, glaciers, and waterfalls, and is almost totally powered by renewable energy .

  • Eco-friendly destinations in Iceland: Thingvellir National Park, The Blue Lagoon, The Golden Circle, and more.

New Zealand

With its breathtaking scenery and distinctive species, New Zealand provides eco-tourists with an unforgettable experience. It is dedicated to conserving its natural beauty and offers a large number of eco-friendly lodgings and tour providers that have an emphasis on sustainability and environmental sensitivity.

  • Eco-friendly destinations in New Zealand: Tongariro National Park, Whakaari or White Island, Wai-O-Tapu Geothermal Reserve, and others.

With several wonderful national parks and conservation zones that safeguard various ecosystems, Kenya is a pioneer in African eco-tourism. In order to ensure that tourism helps both the locals and the animals, several safari companies in Kenya give special attention to environmentally sustainable techniques and community engagement.

  • Eco-friendly destinations in Kenya: Maasai Mara National Reserve, The Chyulu Hills, Meru National Park, and more.

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LUXURY CAMPING

  • Jun 30, 2023

What is an Eco Resort and Why It Matters: Ecotourism and Responsible Travel Explained

Updated: Aug 22, 2023

Hand holding an Eco puzzle piece

Buzzwords like ecotourism, eco resort, responsible travel, and sustainable tourism have likely crossed your social media and news feeds within the past decade. Who doesn't want to be on trend, especially when nature's involved! But what does any of it really mean, and why should you care? Regardless of their trending status, these terms and concepts are important; they’ve never been more relevant, yet they’re not as young as you might think.

A Few Definitions

While often used interchangeably, sustainable tourism and ecotourism are not, in fact, synonymous. According to the Global Sustainable Tourism Council, sustainable tourism is not a specific type of tourism but rather efforts made by the tourism industry to acknowledge the impacts of tourism, good and bad, and work toward minimizing the bad.

Sustainably diagram

The UN World Tourism Organization defines it as “tourism that takes full account of its future economic, social and environmental impacts, addressing the needs of visitors, the industry, the environment and host communities.” Bottom line: the goal is for all travel to be sustainable.

Ecotourism , on the other hand, is a type of tourism specific to natural areas. It is sustainable tourism but with a focus on local environments and cultures and proactive efforts in preservation, conservation and sustainability.

An eco resort , then, provides eco-friendly accommodations for your stay within these natural areas served by ecotourism. We’ll circle back to this momentarily.

Ecotourism: A Brief History

Natural wonders of the world and historic landscapes have long enchanted, sustained and engaged humankind, considered not only beautiful but sacred by cultures and adventurers over thousands of years. Met with surges in population and advancements in accessibility and technology, governments have historically and repeatedly faced the inevitable question: how do we protect these areas? How do we safeguard and help unique ecosystems thrive while appropriately benefiting from their meditative, healing and reflective properties that undoubtedly make us better humans for experiencing them?

Establishing protected areas throughout the world has been a giant step toward large-scale preservation. Whether preserving sacred mountains, giant glaciers, or endangered species, countries around the world have historically made great efforts to establish and maintain protected areas.

First Global Protected Lands

Bogd Kahn Mountain in Mongolia was protected by the local community as early as the 1680s and was officially declared a protected site by the Qing Dynasty in 1783.

Yellowstone National Park became the first national park in the United States in 1872.

The Royal National Park in Australia was established in 1879.

Sarek National Park in Sweden became Europe’s first protected park in 1909, home to glaciers, elk and other wildlife.

Virunga National Park (formerly Albert National Park) in the Democratic Republic of Congo was established in 1925 to protect mountain gorillas.

Nahuel Huapi in Argentina was named the first national park in Latin America in 1934.

yellowstone river falls. Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone River Falls, Yellowstone National Park

As natural areas worldwide gradually came under the protection of various branches of government, environmental and conservation clubs and organizations were formed and books on related topics were published; research performed by explorers, scientists, naturalists and the like proliferated as did the interest in visiting these untouched places in informed and conscientious ways so as not to harm or disturb their unique environments and local cultures.

The origin of the term “ecotourism” is debatable. Some attribute the coining of the word to Claus Dieter Hetzer in 1965. An adventurer at heart, he began leading what he called "ecotours" in the Yucatan in the early 1970s. Architect and researcher Hector Ceballos-Lascurain has also been considered the father of the term ecotourism. Also doing work in the Yucatan, he increased interest in and popularity of the concept by creating an official definition of ecotourism in 1983:

Ecotourism is that tourism that involves travelling to relatively undisturbed natural areas with the specific object of studying, admiring and enjoying the scenery and its wild plants and animals, as well as any existing cultural aspects (both past and present) found in these areas.

The definition has since been modified and adapted by many individuals and organizations, making it difficult to pinpoint a standard. But the gist across the board today suggests that ecotourism is observing and appreciating nature in a way that minimizes ecological impact and is proactive in having positive and sustainable effect.

Back to Eco Resorts

For every government-protected area there are thousands of other natural environments that should, too, be protected by those within them and those who visit them. And choosing where and how we will stay on adventures to these locations (protected or not) is a huge component of ecotourism.

Backland Glamping Tents

Resorts are designed to accommodate, entertain and provide rest, relaxation and recreation for their visitors. Unfortunately, offering common resort amenities is sometimes achieved through wasteful practices that come at a cost to the local environment and culture. Eco resorts are designed to provide the unique and authentic stay you’re looking for while focusing on sustainability and preservation of the surrounding environment through materials, practices and offerings.

Backland: The Natural Choice

Backland Luxury Glamping Resort is an eco resort located on 160 acres of private land in Williams, Arizona. Surrounded by beautiful meadows and the largest ponderosa pine forest in the world, it’s a secluded and pristine site at which to responsibly recreate, observe local plant and wildlife, and unplug.

Backland Lobby, Pond and Beach

With an onsite restaurant, spa, hiking trails, beach and water activities, fire pits, nature scavenger hunts, birdwatching and more, we have the variety in amenities that you might expect at a typical luxury resort. But we are anything but typical as we have worked tirelessly to create an eco-friendly environment with existing sustainable features and planned projects that firmly place us in the family of ecotourism.

Sustainability Initiatives

Backland Glamping Tent

Backland lodging consists of luxury tent suites that redefine the glamping experience. All are fully insulated, energy efficient, and automatic climate controlled using ultra efficient heat pump heating and cooling systems. This is very rare for tented lodging. Provided toiletries are all eco-friendly as are the cleaning products used in all resort structures. You’ll find recycling receptacles in public spaces and complimentary electric car charging stations.

Water Savings

Being in a high desert environment, we take water saving seriously. All our water fixtures are efficient and low flow. For shower heads we use state of the art Nebia water saving shower heads, which provide a luxurious shower experience at half the standard flow. Our toilets use proprietary vacuum flush systems that reduce toilet flushing water by half. Our vanity sinks utilize push button faucets that significantly reduce flow. In the restaurant our meals are served on high quality compostable palm leaf dishware to limit dishwashing water usage. Finally, our landscaping is predominantly native and natural, requiring no irrigation. These water saving initiatives may seem small individually but they add up. Even in our first phase alone we estimate that we save roughly 1,000,000 gallons of water per year compared to a similar sized hotel!

Backland Glamping Tent

Positive Impact Initiatives

We don't want to be content with just limiting our environmental impacts. As committed as we are to implementing sustainable practices, we are equally dedicated to making a positive impact on our land.

Native Plant and Pollinator Gardens

Monarch Butterfly

In 2022 we seeded two acres of milkweed. Milkweed habitat loss due to pesticides and agricultural and roadside management practices has contributed to the decline in the monarch butterfly population. Our planting will support the monarch as well as other prolific pollinators.

Moving Forward

We have big dreams for what Backland can become. Backland is young, and we have future phases to complete and projects to carry out. But even upon completion of all build phases, we will still be 95% open space.

Backland Pond

Here are some of the plans and initiatives we are hoping to implement as we grow.

We are planning for our future tent phases to utilize an advanced wastewater treatment system to purify the wastewater and release it into constructed wetlands or underground drip systems that will be used to create new habitats for a wide variety of plant and wildlife.

Solar electric generation to achieve net-zero electrical use

Development of a rainwater catchment system will help provide water to any future limited landscaping, plantings and green house.

Native tree orchards will also be cultivated for additional habitat and natural use.

Hydroponic green house to produce food for our restaurant.

Holistic Managed Grazing. In our meadows we would like to utilize livestock in holistic planned grazing. This method of grazing is used to restore native grasslands and improve the depth and quality of the soil.

Grass and Backland

As an eco resort, it is our extreme pleasure and honor to participate in ecotourism and continually add to our list of positive impact projects. We are here to provide an authentic experience that honors the land and helps it thrive. But now it’s your turn.

Responsible tourism involves you: the conscientious traveler. It means adopting habits in your travel practices that limit your own impact on the environment and help places like Backland remain pristine and protected. We hope that a sustainable stay with us will inspire you to sightsee responsibly wherever you choose to adventure, and we encourage you to seek out other eco lodging options as you travel the world. During your time with us as well as when you leave our secluded oasis, we hope you’ll consider the following suggestions.

Tips for Responsible Travel

walk or use public transportation when possible to reduce carbon emissions

carry reusable water bottles

reduce the amount of water you use when bathing, showering, brushing teeth, etc.

take only what you need when it comes to maps, brochures and other travel publications or, better yet, find the information online to eliminate excessive paper material production and waste.

shop locally, eat locally

minimize waste and reuse/recycle whenever possible

respect wildlife and nature—look, but don’t touch or disturb animals or your surroundings

Our Commitment

Our relationship with the earth is like any other relationship: it requires respect, collaboration and nurturing to be successful and fulfilling. It takes not simply appreciation but effort and commitment. Backland’s commitment to you is that we will forever strive to positively impact our land in implementing the tenets of ecotourism while providing you with a one-of-a-kind, immersive experience. We hope that you, in turn, will be inspired to seek out other travel experiences and amenities that support these values and apply them to your own communities and wild spaces.

Group walking along a nature trail

Humans have an incredible responsibility to care for the earth and protect it. But we mustn’t forget that the relationship is reciprocal. Communing responsibly with nature fundamentally changes us. It can help us become more patient, tolerant, and compassionate. It can remind us of what we truly value and increase our awareness of important issues. Furthermore, it inspires us to act. We’re trying our best to do our part, and we hope you will too.

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25 of the Best Eco Resorts in India, for the Conscious Traveller (2021)

There are some incredible Eco Resorts in India – if you know where to look! Here are some of our favourite eco resorts and lodges that celebrate India’s biodiversity and support local communities too.

This  post contains compensated affiliate links.  Click  here for our full disclosure . 

My Favourite Eco Resorts in India

Often overshadowed by her architecture and colourful culture, it’s arguably India’s nature that is the real star of the show. And although it may not be as well known as destinations like, say, Costa Rica, for its ecotourism, India is leading the way in Asia with some inspiring eco resorts and lodges that will leave you not wanting to… well, leave.

A little known fact: India is actually home to 7% of the world’s biodiversity. And where better to immerse yourself in that (and enjoy a slower pace of living for a few days) than at one of the country’s growing number of sustainable resorts?

From simple eco lodges to high end sustainable luxury resorts that will cater to your every need, we’ve put together this guide to some of our favourite eco resorts and lodges around India. These are not simply places that involve the outdoors, but places that have actively put measures in place to minimise their environmental impact, use renewable energy sources, and are directly benefiting local communities too.

As this list continues to grow, thanks to huge interest in responsible tourism in India, we will keep adding – and please feel free to let us know any of your favourite eco resorts or lodges at the end of this post!

READ MORE: Responsible Travel in India – What you Need to Know

ⓘ TIP: Planning a trip to India? Join our free India Travel Facebook group here !

Eco Resorts in Rajasthan

The desert state of Rajasthan is one of India’s most-visited areas and home to some of the country’s top tourism attractions. It’s also home to some beautiful eco lodges and resorts, too!

Khem Villas (Ranthambore)

Khem Villas is a luxury jungle camp at Ranthambore, Rajasthan’s best known tiger reserve. The camp is designed to provide peace and tranquility within its luxurious and very personal atmosphere. Accommodation is high end, and you won’t want for anything at this beautiful glamping cum eco resort.

The focus at Khem Villas is not just tigers but to go beyond the tigers by engaging visitors and informing them about the various challenges that threaten the survival of Ranthambhore and its striped cats. The resort is involved with two NGOs:  Ranthambhore Foundation and Tiger Watch which help in providing health care, education, afforestation, dairy development, employment generation, monitoring of Tigers and more importantly sustainable livelihoods.

For more info & rates at Khem Villas, Click here. 

Although the tiger concentration is lower at Ranthambore than in Madhya Pradesh, many visitors flock here for its location in Rajasthan as well as the temple ruins within the park which make for a unique backdrop to see the tigers.

READ: Rajasthan Travel Guide – Rajasthan without the Crowds

Hara House (Bikaner)

If you want to experience the best of Rajasthan’s princely grandeur and desert culture, but with fewer of the crowds that make it to Jaipur and Jaisalmer, Bikaner may just be the place for you.

India’s first “zero waste guesthouse”, Hara House is a simple, budget friendly guesthouse that invests 20% of its profits in building community in Bikaner through social development initiatives and its community centre, as well as putting focus on eliminating plastic waste from tourism that crosses its doorstep. Hara House’s goal is to achieve 90% diversion from landfill and refuses to buy and products wrapped in plastic, and helps their guests to do the same! The guesthouse is also working towards 100% solar power by 2021.

Hara House is located just steps from Bikaner’s city centre and Junagarh Fort, and offers simple basic doubles and dorm style accommodation.

For more info & rates at Hara House, click here . 

Chandelao Garh (near Jodhpur)

Around 40km outside of Jodhpur, Chandelao is a beautiful grand house, transformed into a luxurious homestay – and comes highly recommended! If you stay here, we highly recommend taking a trip around the village with Chandelao’s local guides for an insight into desert life.

Chandelao Garh is the home of former generals of Marwar (as the region of Jodphur, Rajasthan, was once known). The main part of the house was built in 1744 and has been well looked after to retain its charm and beauty.  Chandelao is the ancestral home of the rulers of Chandelao village and the surrounding area and is still run by the family today.

Alongside the homestay, Chandelao is home to Sunder Rang arts and crafts centre. The centre provides employment opportunities to women from Chandelao village and beyond.

Women apply to come and work at the centre to make handicrafts (which are sold to visitors of Chandelao and beyond). 60% of the profit of each product sold goes directly to the woman who made the item, the remaining 40% towards running costs for the centre. Sunder Rang centre provides optional schooling programs for the ladies that work there, providing the opportunity to learn languages or study at the computer centre next door.

For more info & rates at Chandelao Garh, click here .

Eco Resorts in Madhya Pradesh

Jungle Book central, Madhya Pradesh is the place to come if you want to try your luck searching for India’s regal big cats on a Tiger Safari, and is home to some of India’s best National Parks and Tiger Reserves. Make sure you book ahead, especially between November – February as accommodation and jeep safaris book up fast on a fist come first served basis (all tiger reserves have a maximum quota of visitors per day).

Pench Tree Lodge (Pench National Park)

Recommended by  Abbie of Speck on the Globe

Spend your evenings after a safari sleeping in a tree house in the Jungle! Pench Tree Lodge not only is comfortable, but they are conscious about the environment. There are 6 cottages and 6 treehouses, making the property feel peaceful and exclusive without being overcrowded. The treehouses are a perfect unique accommodation experience. They are constructed around existing trees, with the utmost care not to disturb the wildlife.

The buildings at this boutique property are made from reclaimed or locally sourced materials. The Lodge is located in a more underdeveloped area adjacent to the park, helping to spread tourism economy while still being mindful of the original residents of the region.

The commitment to the environment is clear from check in at the lodge. There are reusable water bottles provided with clean drinking water stations placed throughout the property. Small details like organic, refillable toiletries in the bathrooms are noticeable during a stay here. The property has an on site garden and the menu is reflective of seasonal ingredients that are grown just steps from the kitchen.

Safari tours through Pench Tree Lodge have conservation efforts as their main goal. The jeeps are small and a naturalist accompanies each vehicle to the park so that you can learn more about the park and its inhabitants. Along with the guide, the naturalists makes sure that the cars are following the rules of the park and are there to ensure safety for the animals as well as the guests. Their knowledge and commitment to conservation is what makes them stand out above the rest.

Click here for more rates & info for Pench Tree Lodge!

Kanha Earth Lodge (Kanha National Park)

Kanha National Park and Tiger Reserve is thought to be the original inspiration for Rudyard Kipling’s book, the Jungle Book. If you’re intent on living out your own Mowgli fantasy, Kanha would seem like the natural place to start.

So perhaps it’s no surprise that Kanha National Park gets busy and books up quickly. If you’re planning on visiting Kanha, we recommend booking your accommodation and safaris several months in advance. Many of the area’s lodges can help with booking your safaris directly.

Adjoining the buffer zone of Kanha Tiger Reserve, Kanha Earth Lodge offers a true wilderness experience – close to the park, but away from many of the Kanha resorts that surround it.

The lodge has 12 luxury bungalows which have been inspired by Gond tribal architecture. They offer environmentally sensitive, low-impact accommodation through their design and use of local stone and waste wood, while the absence of neighbouring lodges or highways creates an ideal setting for nature walks, birding and cycling trips through the surrounding forest, so you can see plenty of wildlife from the Lodge itself!

For info & rates at Kanha Earth Lodge, click here . 

Eco Resorts in Maharashtra

Often overlooked by visitors (apart from Mumbai, perhaps), Maharashtra has more than its fair share of beauty, and some game-changing sustainable lodges and hotels, too.

Abode Bombay (Mumbai)

More one for urban jungle lovers, Abode Bombay is a boutique hotel that has done everything in its power to keep its environmental impact low and its social impact positive. The hotel has introduced a number of sustainable initiatives, from eliminating plastic to recycling soap ends in partnership with the Kalwa-based Sundara Fund .

The hotel employs local guides, partners with a firm of all-women taxi drivers, and works with the national association of the blind to work with their therapists for the hotel’s spa offerings.

Abode is a welcome retreat in the beautiful – but sometimes crazy – city of Mumbai.

For info & rates at Abode Bombay, click here .  

Maachli (Sindhudurg)

Award-winning Maachli is a rustic retreat-cum-farmstay in the depths of Maharashtra, on the beautiful (and as yet little known) Konkan coastline. Less than 50km north of Goa, this part of India has lots of the lush greenery and coastline, but without the Goan crowds.

Maachli is designed with the concept of bringing man back into union with nature, and it manages to do just that. This is a place for embracing the simplicity of life, rather than expecting all modern conveniences. Simple A-framed huts are designed in a way to maximise the breeze as natural air conditioning (rather than the electric alternative), and the activities here extend to going for a walk, appreciating the plants, learning about pottery making, or simply sitting back and reading a book.

We challenge you not to be rejuvenated by a few days at Maachli.

For info & rates at Maachli, click here. 

Eco Resorts in Goa

Despite its fame for partying and just soaking up the sun, there is a more sustainable version of travel in Goa, too – one which embraces the lush jungles and cultural diversity that is found here.

Yab Yum Beach Resort (Ashwem)

The owners of this garden-like resort, right by the beach in Ashwem might be modest about their environmental achievements, but this is one of our favourite eco-minded resorts we have stayed at in India.

The high-end mud-hut like rooms are built from local mud and clay, painted in a beautifully comforting shade of dark red inside and thatched with local palms, to provide a cooling place to sleep (no air con required) that feels nurturing to the soul. Not only does it leave no environmental trace, but it’s scientifically proven that sleeping surrounded by natural mud is good for you.

The resort doesn’t have a pool (that’s called the Arabian Ocean, about 100 meters’ walk from your bed), and the emphasis here is on tranquility and yoga. There are daily yoga classes (which were medicine for our limbs that were tired from travelling), and most early mornings you can have Ashwem beach to yourself.

Ashwem is located within easy access of Arambol, Morjim and Anjuna for those looking for more action.

For info & rates at Yab Yum, click here . 

Wildernest Resort (Chorla Ghats, North Goa)

Wildernest could be said to be one of the few places in Goa where you can hear silence.

Located well away from the coast up in the hills and border with Maharashtra and Karnataka, Wildernest is a true nature retreat for those that really want to be away from it all (don’t come here expecting wifi), but the rooms are modern and stylishly decorated. Nature takes centre stage whether it is from the resort’s infinity pool that looks out over the ghats (hills), or on a hike with one of the resort’s naturalists. There are also a number of hides here which make it the perfect spot for birding and wildlife enthusiasts.

Wildernest also runs a wildlife research and conservation facility which attempts to raise awareness about the wildlife habitats of the Western Ghats in particular and the environment in general amongst the local communities and villages of the region.

For info & rates at Wildernest, click here . 

READ: A Travel Guide to Goa, without the Crowds

La Mangrove (Galgibag)

Tucked away in the very south of Goa, south of Palolem, La Mangrove is a real “hidden gem”. Not many travellers venture this far south in Goa – so if you want Goan beaches that are quiet and un-developed, this may be the place for you.

La Mangrove is a luxury ‘glamping” resort with just six teepee style tents – which come with full size double beds, plush linens, power outlets to charge your phone, and even space to hang your clothes inside. Private bathrooms are a few meters away with composting toilets and wonderful outdoor rain-showers.

The resort itself is located a few minutes walk from Galigbag beach “turtle beach”, on the banks of the Galgibag River. Wake up to views of the serene mangroves and river and enjoy time to relax away from Goa’s crowds.

For info & rates at La Mangrove, click here . 

Eco Resorts in Karnataka

Less visited than the neighbouring states of Goa and Kerala, Karnataka is an important region in India for bio-diversity, with some of the last remaining virgin forest in the country. For wildlife enthusiasts craving a little peace and quiet, Nagarhole and Bandipur are national parks you won’t want to miss.

Bandipur Jungle Lodges (Bandipur)

Recommended by Sinjana from Backpack n Explore

Started in 1980, Jungle Lodge Resorts group is a Public-private partnership (PPP) of the Karnataka government and Tiger Tops. This is the first eco-tourism venture in India, and they have many branches in exotic locations of Karnataka. I stayed at one of them which is in Bandipur. It is in a serene area near the jungles of Bandipur and organizes ethical safari tours for boarders. The packages are at the per-person level including lodging, meal and safari. We booked a twin-sharing room and were pleasantly surprised to see they were independent cottages in the lap of nature.

Each the cottage was named after an animal found in Bandipur forest and had exquisite wall paintings of the same. Rooms are clean and spacious but do not have Television or air-conditioners. However, because of the way they are built and the green cover of the surroundings, we never felt hot inside the room, even in summer. They provide three meals per day, and evening snacks. I loved the quality of food, thought options are limited. There is a hammock outside each cottage but beware of the monkeys around. As a part of the basic safari package we also got a chance to enjoy a documentary about the life of a tigress in the Bandipur jungle.

For info & rates for Bandipur Safari Lodge, click here . 

Red Earth Kabini (Kabini, near Nagarhole)

Red Earth Kabini is an unpretentious resort on the back waters of the Kabini dam and in close proximity to Nagarhole tiger reserve.

Described as “as close to silence as you can get”, Red Earth is for those who want to deeply relax and surround themselves with nature. There are 20 well spaced out cottages here, complete with your own private jacuzzi for stargazing! The resort helps you organise jeep safaris and walks with naturalists, both around the property and in the Nagerhole reserve.

Red Earth are a small group of hotels that were founded with the commitment to sustain the environment around them as well as the local community. The focus is on local: Local people, local produce, supporting local arts and crafts that are at risk of dying out, and sourcing from local fishing and farming communities.

The group support and run Nilgiris Wayanad Tribal Welfare Society (NWTWS), an NGO working in the field of health, education and community development in the forested areas of the Nilgiris in Wayanad by running schools for tribal communities and helping provide medical care.

For info & rates for Red Earth Kabini, click here .

Eco Resorts in Kerala

Referred to as “God’s own Country”, Kerala is not short of charms, and it’s not a surprise that it’s one of India’s more popular regions for travellers. Parts of Kerala, though, have been feeling the burden of tourism, and we recommend staying at one of these eco resorts that care about their impact if you can – especially when in or around Kerala’s delicate backwaters ecosystem.

Spice Village (Thekkady)

Nestled up in the hills (western ghats) in Kerala, Spice Village has been recognised again and again for its pioneering sustainability efforts. When it comes to sustainable luxury resorts in India, it’s hard to beat Spice Village.

Located in the perfect position for visitors interested in exploring Thekkady and visiting Periyar National Park (or just cooling down from the humidity of the coast), Spice Village is feel good luxury at its best. The resort is designed around the concept of a traditional Keralan spice village, with every guest room laid out as a private bungalow within the grounds. The grounds itself are full of tropical vegetation and wildlife (as well as an organic garden), and the resort has naturalists on hand to show you around.

READ: Kerala Travel Guide – The Best of Responsible Travel in Kerala

The resort houses a huge solar plant which provides nearly all of the resort’s energy, and the emphasis here is on self-sufficiency. Spice Village grow their own food, use ayurvedic, natural cleaning products, make their own soaps and even paper too.

For info & rates for Spice Village, click here . 

Spice Coast Cruises by Coconut Lagoon (Kumarakom)

Nestled along the shores of Lake Vembanad, Kumarakom is one of the leading places in Kerala for responsible tourism and is one of your best bets for experiencing the Kerala backwaters in a way that supports the local environment.

Houseboat tourism on Kerala’s backwaters has been at the centre of controversy among local communities, who are feeling the effects of polluted water thanks to houseboat fuel, waste and noise pollution from a huge number of boats plying the water blaring loud music. CGH Earth, who run the serenely beautiful Coconut Lagoon Resort  have developed a more sustainable version of the houseboat too: A traditional Kettuvallom  (rice barge) that operates using a mixture of solar power and vegetable oils in order to mitigate environmental damage.

For info & rates for Spice Coast Cruises, click here . 

Vythiri Resort (Wayanad)

Recommended by Imma from A World to Travel

These days – motivated by the popularity of all things eco-friendly – many hotels claim to be responsible, when the truth may be a little different.

I visited Vythiri Village in 2014. Back then, it was already a luxury resort classified as responsible. And so it seemed to me. In the middle of a lush forest near Wayanad, in the popular Indian state of Kerala, Vythiri stands as a haven of peace, in perfect communion with nature. There are hanging bridges that cross rivers, cabins in the trees, a menu adapted to the reality of the area, local workers, and a construction that respects the materials of the area.

“Tread softly, you’re entering nature’s home ground” is Vythiri’s motto, which is fitting for a thoughtfully designed resort located in dense, tropical rainforest on the edge of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve (which contains the Nagarhole and Bandipur parks over the border in Karnataka).

Accommodation here is made up a range of tree houses, pool-side villas and suites, and some secluded cottages for a complete jungle hideaway experience. There’s a spa, Ayurveda centre and a choice of pools to soothe your limbs after hiking around the property’s grounds.

For info & rates for Vythiri resort, click here . 

Eco Resorts in Pondicherry

The former French enclave on India’s south eastern coast is a world away from other parts of India, and has some hidden eco-gems, too:

Dune Eco Village & Spa (Pondicherry)

Recommended by Priya from Outside Suburbia

We have made several trips to India over the years and stayed at a few different hotels and luxury resorts. The simple yet serene Dune Eco Village and Spa resort in Pondicherry is by far our favourite.

It is a place of peace, a far cry from the fast-paced world and traffic-clogged Chennai were my family lives. There are over 50 bungalows of which no two are alike – each one is uniquely designed and created by various artists, designers and architects from all around the world are on a 35 acre beachfront land. The bungalows bring together luxury and natural living. They are reclaimed from Colonial houses, Chettinad palaces, and Kerala planter’s mansions.  The bungalows are fully equipped with solar water systems and organic linen.  They even had an outdoor shower which was fun.

The 2 restaurants in the resort serve healthy gourmet fusion food, prepared using organically farmed vegetables.  The Spa at Dune offers Ayurvedic treatments, yoga and meditation as well as many alternative therapies.

Dune Eco Village now even has a Deepak Chopra Healing Center inside which offers Ayurvedic treatments and yoga and meditation, as well as many western massages and hot water therapies like Water Shiatsu and Water Yoga.  I can vouch that the Ayurvedic massages are the most relaxing ever had during my travels and my kids to this day remember and rave about the activities at this eco-resort.

For info & rates for Dune Eco Village, click here . 

Eco Resorts in North East India

North East India is little wandered in comparison to the rest of the country, and is culturally diverse from many other parts of India. Here nature rules, with organic farming widespread, bridges made from tree-roots, and lush monsoon wetlands. Big-hitter Kaziranga draws visitors to Assam, with hopes of spotting its famous Rhino.

Diphlu River Lodge (Kaziranga, Assam)

Fit for royalty (literally – even Wills and Kate have stayed here), Diphlu River Lodge is a much acclaimed haven of calm and natural beauty in North East India, close to Kaziranga National Park.

The resort has a casual, laid back but intimate environment with a focus on appreciating the surroundings. There are 12 cottages, all beautifully made with natural materials such as wood and bamboo, and thatched with palm leaves to blend in seamlessly with the surroundings. They also practice organic farming and a number of waste reducing methods, such as composting and grey-water recycling.

The lodge has its own trained team of naturalists who accompany guests on visits to Kaziranga. Alongside jeep safaris in the park, the resort also arranges river trips to see river dolphins, river cruises on the Brahmaputra, and tea garden visits.

For info & rates for Diphlu River Lodge, click here . 

La Maison de Ananda (Majuli, Assam)

Located on the biggest river island in the world, Majuli is an island on the Brahmaputra river which – despite concerns about its erosion and ultimate disappearance – is a serene corner of India to unwind in, and as yet sees only a trickle of travellers.

La Maison de Ananda is the first and best loved guesthouse on the Island. Literally meaning “house of happiness”, it’s not hard to see why. Constructed on stilts with timber, the guesthouse belongs to a local tribal family (the Mishing tribe), and the house has been built in their traditional style. It’s a simple affair, just like the laid back way of life on this island.

For info & rates for La Maison de Ananda, click here . 

Kohima Camp, The Ultimate Travelling Camp (Nagaland)

Set up for summer each year for the Hornbill festival, Kohima camp is a luxury tented camp set up in the forest wilderness, lending a touch of glamour and luxury to enjoying staying in beautiful north east India’s outdoors.

The tents are large and come with en suite luxury bathrooms and verandahs. Each tent is boasts a large four-poster bed, colonial style desks, chairs, sofas and armchairs and large cupboards. Each camp has a Reception Tent and a Dining Tent, with the former equipped with an extensive library and board games and the latter offering local, Indian and international dishes made from locally sourced ingredients.

The camps offer guided, immersive tours ensuring that guests get an insider’s experience of Nagaland, its traditions and cuisine. Perhaps the perfect place to fully experience nature in the region.

Click here for more info and rates for Kohima camp!

Eco Resorts in Himachal Pradesh

The wanderer’s nest (chitkul, kinnaur).

Recommended by Pashmina from The Gone Goat . 

If you ever solo travelled to Northern India, you will come across quaint villages like Chitkul in the Kinnaur region of India under the shadow of the Himalayan ranges. Staying in an eco-friendly lodge like The Wanderer’s Nest in Chitkul provides you an experience of living in the last inhabited village on the old India-Tibetan border.

It is not a place where one can simply expect modern amenities but you can be assured of the simplicity of the lodge and the most scenic river – the Baspa River covered with huge oak and pine trees.

The lodge focuses on offering creative musicians, writers, artists and other people in similar fields an opportunity to reconnect with nature with its trekking and fishing activities. During the day, it feels freeing to hike to the Baspa river valley, engage with the the local tribes’ people in nearby Raksham village under the cherry blossom trees, and even go fishing for trout in the river.

The lodge focuses on offering an experiential-oriented stay that complements the nature and its work through human creativity with your only companion, the solitude of the Himalayas. The lodge keeps to its eco-friendly ways in respecting the environment an offering a humble abode in the Himalayas without destroying the environment. Annual events like the Artists Meet are held to gather all creative thinkers in the Baspa valley.

For info & rates for The Wanderer’s Nest, click here . 

Eco Resorts in Ladakh

Referred to in tourism literature as the roof of the world , Ladakh can’t fail to impress. It’s popularity as a destination has been steadily increasing, but the ecosystem of Ladakh – as a mountain desert – is delicate. The best way to explore Ladakh is on foot, on one of its stunning treks , or shoulder to shoulder with locals travelling to and from Leh in a bumpy  bolero  (share taxi).

Nubra Eco Lodge (Nubra Valley)

At a comfortable 2,700m altitude (compared to the surrounding areas that is), Nubra Eco Lodge is nestled into Nubra’s sandy valley with stunning views onto the Karakoram mountain range and desert valley. Wild apricots grow in the orchard, and much of the vegetables are grown on site in the lodge’s organic garden.

In addition to the organic garden and low-impact tented accommodation, Nubra Ecolodge uses solar power for all its hot water (meaning deliciously hot showers on demand) to lower its environmental footprint. There is plenty of filtered drinking water available, meaning you can happily forget buying plastic bottled water (and use a refillable bottle instead). The lodge does its best to encourage guests to drink the fresh Himalayan filtered water as opposed to adding to Ladakh’s plastic waste problem through buying bottles.

For info & rates for Nubra Eco Lodge, click here . 

Nimmu House (near Leh)

Located in the small village of Nimmoo about 45 minutes outside Leh, Nimmu House is a seamless immersion into Ladakh and its culture. Nimmu house is a heritage home, that once belonged to the royal family of Ladakh. This hotel is part of restoration project filled with passion (as well as a commitment to sustainability), driven by the goal to preserve Ladakhi culture in an authentic way, using sustainable materials.

Meals are cooked using authentic, local Ladakhi ingredients (a hot topic in Ladakh as local crops have gradually been replaced by thirsty rice fields), and there are four beautiful guest rooms inside the heritage house. Additional accommodation is in 7 luxury tents spread in the orchard that surrounds the house.

The hotel arranges a number of activities, from river rafting, trekking, guided village walks, to cooking workshops mountain biking.

For info & rates for Nimmu House, click here . 

Eco Resorts in East India

Off the beaten path for many, East India from Bengal to Orissa and further south is far less known and explored by foreign tourists – reason enough to visit in our opinion!

Calcutta Bungalow, Kolkata

Located in North Kolkata, this beautiful period bungalow is full of charm, character and little touches that make a stay here every bit a warm and memorable experience. With only 6 rooms, this Kolkata hotel is a bit of a secret and is run by the founder of Calcutta Walks . All the rooms face onto a courtyard in the centre of the house.

The hotel is located in an old Kolkata neighbourhoods that is made up of closely-knit communities, making this somewhere to experience the “real Kolkata”. The hotel provides bicycles to explore the neighbourhood, and the ghats (steps) of the Hooghly River are a 10-minute walk away. Or you can opt to join one of the tours offered by Calcutta walks.

Click here for more info & rates for Calcutta Bungalow!

Where’s your favourite eco resort in India? Let us know in the comments below! 

Read more about India on Soul Travel: 

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Home » Asia » India » 15 STUNNING Eco Resorts in India [2024 Edition]

15 STUNNING Eco Resorts in India [2024 Edition]

From the sandy beaches of Goa to the mountains and rivers of the Himalayas, India has a diverse and exceptional natural landscape. Its rich and vibrant culture is second to none. Wherever you go in India, you will be greeted with warm hospitality, amazing cuisine, ornate temples, and rustic villages and towns.

There’s no doubt that India is one of the most popular destinations for travellers from around the world, who come to immerse themselves in the culture, art, spirituality, and spice of this country. Travellers are often spoiled for choice when it comes to accommodation, which is why we always like to recommend somewhere a little bit special.

India has a lot to offer, but it also has a big environmental problem. That’s why staying in an eco-resort in India is a fantastic idea! Rather than contributing to the problem, you can do your bit to help.

We’ve gathered this list of some of the best eco-resorts in India to help you choose something that’s right for you. Not only will it meet your budget requirements, but it’ll also help you reduce your impact on the environment while you travel.

These properties will offer a comfortable and environmentally-friendly retreat close to nature.

In a Hurry? Here’s Where to Stay in India for One Night

Goverdhan Greens

Goverdhan Greens

Goverdhan Greens is an eco-resort in Dwarka, an important Hindu pilgrimage site. It offers a fully eco-conscious experience where ‘Reduce, Reuse, Recycle’ underpins all resort operations. From the resort, you can enjoy yoga and alternative therapies and explore this vibrant city on the Arabian Sea.

  • Shree Dwarkadhish Temple
  • Gomti River
  • Poshitra Beach

Is this amazing India Eco-Resort  booked for your dates ? We’ve got your back with our other favourite properties below!

eco travel resort

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Staying in an Eco-resort in India

The top 15 eco-resorts in india, final thoughts on eco-resorts in india.

Staying in an Eco resort in India

Choosing to stay in an eco-resort in India is more than just following the current trends. By choosing a unique accommodation in India such as an eco-lodge, you’re also supporting the local communities and honouring their culture and heritage. It’s a way to make tourism work for all parties, ensuring the local community benefits as much as tourists. 

Eco resorts can be found in various places all over India, but the concept is most developed in popular tourist areas. Starting off by staying in a Goa eco resort could be a good introduction to this kind of accommodation.

Knowing that your stay isn’t harming the environment unnecessarily also provides peace of mind. Most eco-resorts in India bring you closer to nature, as well as offer a unique and memorable experience. There are many ways to travel more sustainably , but where you stay makes the biggest impact. 

What to Look For in an Eco-resort in India

An eco-resort is an accommodation that takes steps towards environmental sustainability and social responsibility. This can be done using solar power or traditional building methods or using natural and locally sourced materials among other things. You should make sure to choose an eco-resort that cares about the impact it has on the environment.

Another aspect to look for in the best eco-resort in India is its focus on supporting and uplifting local communities. From employing locals to promoting nearby businesses, there are many ways in which tourism can positively impact local communities. Look for eco-resorts in India that also provide ample opportunity for you to explore and immerse yourself in local culture in a more meaningful way. 

  • > Organic farm and yoga centre
  • > Neat and stylish décor

Agonda Eco-Friendly Cottage

Agonda Eco-Friendly Cottage

  • > Pine cottage shaded by palms
  • > Rustic and simple

Bamboo Beach Bungalow

Bamboo Beach Bungalow

  • > Bungalow built by traditional craftsmen
  • > Located on the shores of Mandrem Beach

Dancing Dugong

Dancing Dugong

  • > Constructed without cutting any trees
  • > Laidback island living

Vasundhara Eco House

Vasundhara Eco House

  • > Eco house made from natural materials
  • > Private garden and pool

Aru Eco Resort

Aru Eco Resort

  • > 16 guests
  • > Eco-friendly camping
  • > Amazing mountain setting

Grand Ayur Island

Grand Ayur Island

  • > Tranquil natural setting
  • > Accessible only by boat

Here’s our list of the best eco-resorts in India. Each one will offer a comfortable and well-managed stay while making a real effort to be sensitive to the planet and local communities.

1. Overall Best Value Eco-resort in India – Goverdhan Greens

Goverdhan Greens eco-resort India

  • Organic farm and yoga centre
  • Neat and stylish décor

Goverdhan Greens is a sprawling eco-resort set on three acres of land, generously scattered with over 10,000 trees. You’ll find it in Dwarka , a sacred Hindu holy pilgrimage site that offers easy access to the main highway.

The resort is underpinned by the ‘Reduce, Reuse, Recycle’ philosophy, and guests can enjoy meals made from organic produce farmed on the property. The resort also has a yoga centre and various alternate therapies. 

Guests at the resort can enjoy various amenities, including a swimming pool, restaurant, a children’s park, and an indoor games room. There’s plenty to see and experience outside of the resort too; we highly recommend heading out on a sea safari on the Arabian Sea. 

2. Best Budget Eco-resort in India – Agonda Eco-Friendly Cottage

Agonda budget Eco-resort Cottage

  • Pine cottage shaded by palms
  • Rustic and simple

Agonda Eco-Friendly Cottages are situated near Agonda Beach in a peaceful setting surrounded by gardens. The village is within walking distance of local shops, restaurants and bars. 

The cottages are built entirely from wood and also feature wooden furnishings. It’s a little rustic and perfect for anyone backpacking India on a budget. Swaying palms provide shade, minimising the need for air conditioning. A/C is also available, but for an extra fee. 

Agonda Beach is a short walk from your cottage. If you’d like to explore the coastline further, hire a bike or car and head off to explore other nearby beaches and scenery. Other activities on offer include fishing and scuba diving. 

Budget Tip: Dorms in India start from $10USD per bed. They’re the cheapest accommodation in the city. Search for hostels in the area!

3. Best Eco-resort for Couples – Bamboo Beach Bungalow

Bamboo Beach Bungalow

  • Bungalow built by traditional craftsmen
  • Located on the shores of Mandrem Beach 

The idyllic Bamboo Beach Bungalows are authentic beach cottages built by traditional craftsmen. This unique accommodation in India sits on Mandrem Beach and offers a tranquil and well-furnished retreat. 

Not only are the bungalows made using traditional methods, but they also use locally sourced, all-natural materials. Each bungalow has a balcony and outdoor seating area, as well as access to a pool, restaurant, and bar. 

From the resort, you can spend days on the beach soaking up the sun on a lounger. There’s no need to go far as you can order food and drinks to be delivered to you as you relax in your lodge. If it gets too hot, cool off with a dip in the Arabian Sea or in the resort swimming pool. 

4. Best Wellness Eco-resort – Ayushkamy

Ayushkamy eco-resort India

  • Traditional vegetarian cuisine
  • Daily yoga and Ayurveda treatments

Tucked in a peaceful village bookended by the Arabian Sea and Paravur Lake, Ayushkamy offers a tranquil eco-retreat. While the location is remote, the bustle of the city is just a few minutes away.

The resort is dedicated to minimizing environmental impact and uplifting the local community. Guests can enjoy traditional cuisine at the on-site restaurant and partake in daily yoga and ayurvedic treatments for a full immersion in local culture. 

Guest can enjoy direct access to the beach, free wifi, a library, and can partake in a variety of local tour activities. In all, Ayushkamy is the ideal place to restore inner balance and recover from the stress of daily life. 

5. Most Ecological Eco-resort in India – Dancing Dugong 

Dancing Dugong

  • Constructed without cutting any trees
  • Laidback island living

Located on a small island in the Andaman Sea, Dancing Dugong is a small resort offering a low eco-footprint and a quirky personality. Set overlooking the sparkling waters, the Dancing Dugong is one of the best eco-resorts in India for a relaxing and comfortable stay. 

The resort was constructed without the need to fell any trees. In fact, over 40 trees were planted! They attract a multitude of local species, including the Andaman day gecko, Asian toads, bullfrogs, insects of many descriptions, and birds. 

The resort sits right by the jetty where you can head out on diving excursions or relax in a hammock with a good book. For a little more adventure, grab a bicycle and explore the rest of the island.

6. Best Eco-resort for Families – Vasundhara Eco House

Vasundhara Eco House

  • Eco house made from natural materials
  • Private garden and pool

Vasundhara Eco House is a quirky, vibrant, free-standing house in Parule on India’s east coast, surrounded by manicured gardens. The bustling village marketplace is within easy reach of the resort, and a variety of tourist sites are within an accessible radius. 

The house has been built using local wood and clay. This ensures that the house is well insulated from the heat, making the absence of air-conditioning a non-issue. Guests can enjoy authentic local cuisine while staying here. 

In addition to neat gardens surrounded by a fence for privacy, the house has a hammock and a private swimming pool. The beach is a short drive away where you can enjoy scuba-diving and water sports. 

7. Best Eco-resort for Backpackers – Aru Eco Resort

Aru Eco Resort India

  • Eco-friendly camping
  • Amazing mountain setting

Aru Eco Resort is a tented camp in Pahalgam in Kashmir. Set in the scenic foothills, the resort offers majestic scenery and simple living. Guests can hire a spacious tent or bring their own and add it to the campsite on the meadow. The resort is a very basic campsite with individual bathrooms for each room, ideal for anyone travelling on a tight budget.

Aru Eco Resort is a unique accommodation in India. It offers memorable treks into the hills and mountains of Kashmir, past lakes and across rivers, and even to glaciers. Near to the resort, guests can visit the Aru Wildlife Sanctuary or the Golf Club at Pahalgam. 

8. Amazing Luxury Eco-resort in India – Grand Ayur Island

Grand Ayur Island

  • Tranquil natural setting
  • Accessible only by boat

The stylish Grand Ayur Island is one of the best eco-resorts in India, situated on a private island in the backwaters of Alappuzha in Kerala. Surrounded by a network of canals and lagoons, the setting is truly tranquil and restorative. 

Modern amenities and luxurious furnishings provide a comfortable retreat in this beautiful natural setting. Included in your stay is a complimentary consultation with a traditional Ayurveda doctor, where a variety of traditional rejuvenation therapies and treatments are available. 

Accessible only by private boat, the Grand Ayur Island is a haven for healing and restoring balance. Day excursions from here include a cruise, fishing, and canoeing.  

9. Best Eco-resort for a Weekend in India – Na La Ri Resort

Na La Ri Resort

  • Traditional nature lodge
  • Pristine natural setting

Na La Ri Resort is an authentic eco-resort in a lush setting in Sumer. Comprising a combination of tents, small cottages and larger units, Na La Ri Resort is a haven for nature lovers. 

The cottages and other resort buildings have been constructed in a traditional manner out of locally-sourced bamboo and wood. The resort is located within a small village and guests can enjoy the slow pace of village life here. 

The surrounding forested hillsides, ponds, and rivers make a fantastic playground for anyone wanting to enjoy fishing, walking, bird watching and picnics. 

10. Eco-resort With an Epic Location – Lchang Nang Retreat

Lchang Nang Retreat

  • Completely solar-powered
  • Rustic setting surrounded by mountains

Tucked in the Nubra Valley, Lchang Nang is an eco-conscious resort on the old silk route. Lchang Nang translates to ‘The House of Trees’ in reference to the beautiful green surroundings against a backdrop of towering mountains. 

The resort is entirely solar-powered and obtains drinking water from glacial melt, which is then UV treated and filtered. Local methods and materials were used to create these stunning cottages. 

Guests at the resort can soak up this tranquil setting from the idyllic outside seating areas or from a hammock in the sunshine. There’s a meadow perfect for a gentle stroll, a river, and a vegetable garden that guests can explore. 

11. Best Eco-resort for Views – Latoda Eco Lodge

Latoda Eco Lodge

  • Biodiversity walks through the area
  • Pristine Himalayan setting

Latoda Eco Lodge lies in the beautiful Jibhi Valley in a village bisected by a small river that originates in a sacred place. Oak, walnut, and pine trees surround the accommodation, which is close to the jungle as well as a waterfall. 

This unique accommodation in India consists almost entirely of wood. The lodge and everything inside it, from the bedding to the furniture, was created by the owner’s family.

You can learn about the diverse fauna and flora of the region on a biodiversity walk through the surrounding wilderness. Alternatviely, you can spend your time rock climbing, hiking, and even angling in this pristine landscape.

12. Best Surrounding Landscape Eco-resort – Royal Luxuria at Finch Eco Resort

Royal Luxuria at Finch Eco Resort India

  • Solar powered home
  • Surrounded by green hillsides

Royal Luxuria at Finch Resort is a spacious modern home. It sits in Kodanad, Tamilnadu, in a lush landscape of rolling hills and greenery. The home runs entirely on solar power and features plenty of large windows to make the most of the natural light. 

Around the house, guests can enjoy luscious lawns that stretch down to a small lake with incredible birdlife. The sound of the wilderness provides a soothing soundtrack to relax to. Traditional meals are provided by the on-site cook. 

Explore the surrounding area on peaceful walks, spend time at the lake enjoying the serene setting, or head out to explore. With Kodanad Viewpoint only an hour away, this is a great base for exploring rural India. 

13. Best Eco-resort for Long-term Travellers – River Side Resort

River Side Resort

  • Light footprint resort on the river
  • Beautiful valley views

River Side Resort is one of the best eco-resorts in India with 12 comfortable and well-equipped cottages. Perfectly located for an exploration of the wilderness of the Himalayas and the lush setting surrounding them. 

The eco-friendly cottages offer great views of the valley from their small balcony and outdoor seating area. Cottages each have their own private bathroom and are kept neat and clean. 

From the resort, you can trek through the wilderness to the nearby Patna waterfall, hang out next to the river or take a gentle stroll through the lovely gardens. You can also head into Tapovana, a nearby town, where you can visit the temples, cafes and shops. 

14. Best Eco-resort for Long-Stay Travellers – Vedic Village Resort and Spa

Vedic Village Resort and Spa

  • Green roof eco bungalow
  • 20-minutes from Kolkata

Vedic Village Resort and Spa is a luxurious eco-resort located in a peaceful setting just 20-minutes from the bustling city of Kolkata. Combining natural beauty and excellent amenities, Vedic Village is an excellent retreat. 

The Aqua Home Rooms at the resort has a unique rooftop terrace garden that not only helps the building blend into its surroundings but also helps regulate the interior temperature of the room, minimizing the need for additional cooling. 

Guests can enjoy a wide range of Ayurvedic wellness therapies, as well as a variety of leisure and sporting activities to unwind and destress. Tennis, cricket, soccer, swimming, kayaking, and even bowling is available from the resort.

15. Best Eco-resort for Honeymooners – Konark Eco Beach Resort

Konark Eco Beach Resort India

  • Pine bungalow with thatch roof
  • Romantic beach cottage

Overlooking a secluded stretch of beach, Konark Beach Resort lies between the river and the ocean in a lush and leafy setting. The resort is within easy reach of the market and several temples.

The rustic bungalows are built from pinewood and have a thatched roof. As well as adding to the overall ambiance of the beach resort, the roofs also assist with regulating the internal temperature of the bungalows. 

Guests can soak up the sunshine on the sandy beach, explore the nearby Konark market for a bargain, or visit one of the many temples in the area. The resort also has a gym for those wishing to stay in shape. 

Don’t Forget Your India Travel Insurance

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

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Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

India is a spiritual destination for many travellers, and so preserving the environment of this destination comes almost naturally out of respect. In a country with such a rich cultural heritage, it’s no wonder it’s such a desire to protect and conserve the gorgeous landscape that you see today. 

Our list features a mere fraction of the best eco-resorts in India, but it does aim to illustrate the sheer variety of unique accommodation in India that you have to choose from. Whether you’re backpacking India or enjoying a honeymoon, you’ll find an eco-lodge for every type of traveller. 

eco travel resort

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Suzanne Borders

Suzanne Borders

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IMAGES

  1. What is an Eco Lodge? The Top 20 Eco Resorts & Eco Hotels in the World

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