When you make your travel plans, be sure to take your love of nature on the road with you. Here’s how to be sure you’re traveling in a responsible, eco-friendly manner.
1. Choose an Eco-Friendly Destination
Snorkeling the Belize Barrier Reef. Photo by Duarte Dellarole
Belize has passed many strict conservation laws, including a recent ban on single-use plastics. In addition, Belize has many wildlife sanctuaries, marine reserves and other protected areas. As such, Belize was into eco-tourism before eco-tourism was cool.
2. Protect Our Reef
Lionfish hunting on the Belize Barrier Reef. Image via DOUGLAS KLUG/GETTY IMAGES
The Belize Barrier Reef is the second largest barrier reef in the world. It’s an amazing ecosystem that supports dozens of species. We ask everyone to use a reef-safe sunscreen when you visit.
3. Stay at Eco-Friendly Lodges
Belize has several jungle lodges that are off-grid and eco-friendly. They range from basic but comfortable camp sites to luxury, full-service resorts.
4. Eat Like a Local
Have you tried panades in Belize? Image courtesy The Belize Collection
Support local farmers and the local economy by eating locally sourced food. In Belize, eating like a local means enjoying our incredibly diverse, delicious cuisine that includes freshly caught fish, tropical fruits and island spices.
5. Don’t Waste Water
Vacasa Belize.
When you stay at a hotel, don’t insist on getting fresh towels every day. Don’t use the washing machines or leave the tap running when you’re not using it.
6. Choose Animal-Friendly Adventures
A jaguar experience at The Belize Zoo! Photo by Duarte Dellarole
Take tours that treat wild animals with respect. Don’t choose tours that exploit animals. The tour should not encourage riding, hugging or petting wild animals. It should not use food to lure wild animals out. In Belize, we love and protect our native animals, but we also respect them as wild creatures.
7. Participate in Pack for a Purpose
The Pack for a Purpose program allows travelers to have a positive impact on the communities they visit. Several Belize hotels participate in Pack for a Purpose programs that benefit local conservation and community efforts.
8. Get Close to Nature
Hummingbird Highway, Belize. Photo courtesy Vista Real Estate
Instead of driving around looking for photo opportunities, slow down and enjoy the natural scenery of your destination. Take a walk, swim in a meandering river and admire the beauty all around you.
9. Support Local Businesses
Tamales from Ms Bertha
When you travel, choose locally owned restaurants and hotels over big chains. In Belize, local families own most of our hotels, restaurants and tour operations.
If you want an eco-friendly destination where going green is a given, visit Belize.
