Media headlines threatening the drowning of the Maldives and pollution destroying citi-scapes has led to a fear of the vast environmental changes and tragedies that have been taking place over recent decades. In turn, ecotourism has been on a rise, with travellers desiring to see natural and beautiful wonders, with a minimized environmental impact.

The problems of mass tourism seem to be counteracted by an increase in conservation and a decrease in environmental footprints as luxury resorts from destinations around the world are catering for the ever-growing demand of ecotourist hotspots. With that in mind, we’ve curated a list of the best Ecotourism Destinations in the world, for which there is no compromise in terms of luxury, experience and relaxation, for the benefit of conserving the beauty of the wildlife.

Rwanda

Reducing an impact beyond banning plastic bags, ecotourism in Rwanda has popularised through the greenery and beauty of the country as well as animal conservation efforts, including the famous Rwandan gorilla population in Volcanoes National Park, once endangered, and now a tourist highlight. Aside from trekking with the gorillas, lions and rhinos that have been reintroduced to the countries’ wildlife, Rwanda boasts scenery capable of capturing any visitor in its splendour, especially the landscapes of Lake Kivu.

New Zealand

For those wishing to escape the harsh European Winter months, New Zealand seems like the perfect destination. Popular for city breaks and sunny beaches, ecotourism has recently become one of the highlights, thanks to the nature and wildlife surrounding the tourist attractions like Whale Watching, hiking, and admiring the spectacle that is Wai-O-Tapu.

Iceland

With 24 hours of daylight during Summer months, Iceland is the perfect eco-tourist location, allowing any wild-life lover ample time to enjoy all the beauty the country has to offer: the landscapes, fyords, glaciers and geothermal lagoons to leisurely bathe in.

Finland

Known to be one of the most eco-tourist-friendly countries, all tourism in Finland seems to be eco-tourism, as the environment and love for nature is of prime importance for the country and its people. National parks are scattered over the country, often covered overhead by the beautiful Northern Lights.

Costa Rica

Corcovado, located in the southern part of Costa Rica, has been described as ‘the most biologically intense place on Earth’ by National Geographic – the warmest welcome for wildlife and nature lovers. Whilst Costa Rica itself is a popular, vibrant location for its culture, location, beaches and even volcanoes, biodiversity is at the heart of the Central American country, as nearly a quarter is protected jungle, home to species including sloths, anteaters, spider monkeys and a multitude of birds.

South Tyrol in Northern Italy

Ecotourism isn’t just about wildlife and nature, as the Ski Resort Carezza Ski in South Tyrol in Northern Italy proudly shows. Protecting the fragility of the Alps, this ski resort focuses on sustainability, using renewable energy sources and adapting to the devastating changes that are taking place in the world.

Kenya

Known for its Masai culture and safaris showcasing some of Africa’s most incredible animals including giraffes, lions, rhinos and elephants, Kenya’s up and coming tourism also boasts a whole host of other eco-systems, from mountains to coral reefs. The hot weather and scenic surroundings attract tourists especially to luxury camping sites, where safaris and camping can be visited in style sustainably.

The Galapagos Islands

Declared the first ever Natural World Heritage Site in 1978, the Galapagos Islands in the Pacific Ocean consist of 19 islands and a whole host of marine species and wildlife. Seismic and volcanic activity has created the beauty of the islands themselves, as well as homed thousands of creatures exploring freely. Although the islands are under the effects of mass tourism, ecotourism has risen and helped to protect a flux of endangered marine species, and tourists in most of the resorts can explore and learn about the beauty the islands and its inhabitants have to offer.

Travelling in luxury does not mean you can’t travel responsibly and sustainably, and as more of the world’s species become endangered, there is no better time than the present to explore what the beauty of the natural world has to offer. From the ski slopes of Italy down to the jungles of Costa Rica, the world’s hidden gems really can be explored with luxury, leisure and an environmentally friendly outlook.