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Which countries implement sustainable travel policies?

You understand the importance of sustainable travel, you agree we should promoting responsible tourism - but where can you travel and have environmental peace of mind?

We hear a lot about 'sustainable tourism' and 'eco-tourism', but sometimes it’s difficult to know what they mean, given that they appear on every page of the travel brochure. Type these terms into the internet and you’ll receive millions of results from every country on Earth boasting about their sustainable policies. Tour operators and even official tourist boards that lack a real commitment to sustainable tourism use the phrases loosely and apply it to anywhere and anything.

Don’t give in to cynicism though because there are plenty of countries out there who demonstrate a genuine commitment to sustainable tourism. Putting green policies and a commitment to the local environment before money isn’t always easy for governments, but in the long-term it’s the only workable solution. We’ve gathered together a list of 5 countries that have matched their words with actions by developing great sustainable travel policies.

Costa Rica

Costa Rica is the model for any country that wants to develop its tourism industry in a sustainable way. Cloudy rainforests and dazzling beaches provide more than enough to lure adventure travellers and eco-tourists alike. The number of photo-worthy views is matched only by the number of animals swinging, crawling and flying through its trees. National parks teem with life despite the existence of a big travel industry here. Travellers can easily recognise truly eco-friendly accommodation thanks to the Costa Rican Tourism Institute, which maintains lists of all the country’s eco-hotels, lodges and resorts.

Laos

This is perhaps one sustainable-tourism destination you haven’t heard about. Tightly squeezed between its more famous neighbours, Laos is making a burst for the limelight by adopting ecotourism as one of its central economic strategies. It may not be long before it is recognised as an eco-tourism destination on a par with the others on this list. The government has vowed to make the country a world renowned destination for sustainable travel, without losing its reputation as the 'hidden Asia'. The number of tourists will be kept to a minimum so the World Heritage sites and protected villages remain special for years to come.

Kenya

Not so long ago, while large operators raked in millions from safaris in the north of the country, the local Samburu people were being neglected. Frustrated and feeling powerless, they torched the savannah. Thirty years later and the Samburu operate wildlife reserves in the area and practice the sort of sustainable tourism that has come to symbolise Kenya’s efforts to protect its mountains, lakes, deserts and beaches. This diversity is guarded by over 50 National Parks and Ecotourism Kenya , which protects the environment through active education programmes. Check out the website to find the best eco-lodges too.

South Africa

South Africa has shrugged off its troubled past to become a major player in the sustainable-tourism industry. There is barely anything you can’t see or do here. Eco-tourism has provided a major boost to those in South Africa who were previously marginalised under an oppressive political regime. Green tourist polices have brought foreign tourists, and with them economic sustainability for many remote villages. A strong commitment to eco-tourism means wandering around Kruger National Park and the Eastern Cape will be a unique experience for years to come.

Belize

It can’t be long before the mainstream holiday-makers burst out of their coastal hotels and compete with eco-tourists for the best views in Belize. Our hope is that this growth continues to be managed responsibly. The country has become a leader in eco-tourism and despite its diminutive size, a plethora of plant and animal life call Belize home. A low population density for the area guarantees the animals few interruptions from humans and a generally peaceful existence. Belize has developed a responsible tourism industry which embraces a strong 'eco-ethic' and along with Costa Rica, provides the best eco-tourism in Latin America.