Ecotourism: What It Is
& Why You Should Try It

“Ecotourism, noun: tourism directed toward exotic, often threatened, natural environments, intended to support conservation efforts and observe wildlife.”

Leave nothing but footprints, Take nothing but pictures, Kill nothing but time.

I remember reading that on a sign posted near Kitch-Iti-Kipi, Michigan’s largest freshwater spring located in the Upper Peninsula. Curious as to its origin, I researched it and found that it was the motto of the Baltimore Grotto – a caving society. It’s part of the “Leave No Trace” philosophy that naturalists all over the world believe; when you’re in a natural setting, leave no trace of human intervention. Leave it exactly how you found it.

This naturalist philosophy brings us to the topic of today’s blog: ECOTOURISM.

What is ecotourism?

Ecotourism is tourism that is supports conservation efforts and observe wildlife. It’s choosing travel that engages in outdoor, nature-based activities (like hiking, biking, kayaking, etc.) and learning to respect and appreciate wildlife, nature, and sustainablity – rather than traveling to a city. Due to the growing popularity of adventure travel, more people than ever today are choosing ecotourism.

Ecotourism promotes SUSTAINABLE TRAVEL.

Going somewhere outside doesn’t necessarily qualify as “Ecotourism.”

According to the International Ecotourism Society, travelers who want to engage in ecotourism need to also adopt certain principles when traveling. For instance, a hiker should not just respect nature while on a trip, but should maintain their respect and help build awareness for respect towards the environment and wildlife.

Ecotourism Encourages…

Minimizing all environmental impacts.
Building and promoting environmental and cultural awareness and respect.
Maintaining that respect and awareness in all aspects of your life (ie, adopting eco-friendly habits and ways to help the environment at home and while traveling).

Why should I try ecotourism rather than just normal tourism?

In a nutshell, ecotourism provides a beautiful way to connect with nature and the earth on your travels. By engaging in outdoor activities – hiking, biking, kayaking, rock climbing, etc. – you learn to respect nature and wildlife and it helps you remember that humans are not the only beings that inhabit the planet.

Are there businesses that encourage Ecotourism that I can support while traveling?

Absolutely! The first time we came across a business that embraced all these concepts was in Bald Eagle State Park in Pennsylvania at the Nature Inn. The first thing we saw that confirmed our belief that they embrace sustainability was the parking lot – the pavement was made from recycled plastic milk cartons. Read What Makes Them Green here.

They were recently voted the #1 Eco-Lodge in the United States by USA Today. It goes to show that you don’t necessarily have to go camping to embrace ecotourism; you can choose a hotel or lodging that embraces and promotes sustainability and eco-friendliness.

Alla Lala Cupcakes and Sweet Things is an Official Best of The Interstate Destination in Gillette, Wyoming, that practices Ecotourism by only using plant-based, compostable, decomposable plastics and straws.

Ecotourism means supporting businesses that promote sustainability and eco-friendliness!

Rather than choosing Disney World, or a city, or places that are high in waste (meaning use of plastics, lack of reusing/recycling, etc.), choose Ecotourism.

Choose learning about nature and how to reduce human impact in the wild by supporting conservation efforts and wildlife.