5 Myths About Ecotourism Debunked

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Photo by Ted Bryan Yu

As we become more aware of how we affect the planet, we look to find ways we can help and minimise our effect on it. Ecotourism is a way of travelling the world while making as little negative impact as possible, but many people avoid it as they feel it isn't for them. There are plenty of myths swirling around about the phenomenon of ecotourism, so let's debunk them here and now. 

1.Ecotourism Is Just For Backpackers

When you think of ecotourism, it's easy to think of backpackers, going out into the world with just a bag on their back. There's a lot to be said for backpacking, but if it's not your style you may think that backpacking just isn't for you. 

The truth is that while you can partake in ecotourism by backpacking, it's not the only way to do it. You can also find other ways of traveling that are a little more luxurious and still give you the experience that you're looking for. There are all kinds of ways you can travel in a more environmentally friendly way, from booking off grid cabins to zero waste hotel rooms. 

2.It's Difficult To Take Part In Ecotourism

When it comes to being more eco-friendly, people tend to have an idea that it's very hard to do. This can be true in some cases. For example, you may find it difficult to dispose of old electronics safely in your area, or you may not have many recycling centers near you. However, this isn't the case when it comes to ecotourism. 

A few minutes on Google, and you'll be able to find everything you need when it comes to ecotourism. You may need to do a little digging, as there are places that say they're eco-friendly, but are simply using it as a marketing tactic. However, it doesn't take long to find out if they're really walking the walk. 

Aside from booking your vacation, you can easily make some changes that ensure you'll be traveling in an eco-friendly way. Take a reusable water bottle, use public transport, and eat locally. It's very easy to do, and you'll be able to make a real impact that way. 

3.Ecotourism Is Expensive

This is a very common misconception about ecotourism. “Many feel like you need to go on special eco tours and spend a lot of money” says Monica Burbank, a travel writer at Revieweal and Essay Services. “In fact, you'll find that most eco travelers are on a budget.” 

You'll actually find that is you're being eco-concious as you're traveling, you're actually going to save money. For example, eating locally and using a reusable bottle will actually save you a lot of money in the long run. Plus, you can travel quite cheaply if you are volunteering with a charity, or looking for eco BnB options. 

4.You Can't Find Eco-Friendly Transport

It's true that you're going to need to get to where you're going, and often transport isn't the most eco-friendly. However, there are options out there for you that make it much easier than you would think. For example, if possible you can travel by train or bus, as these are much more sustainable than other options. It's especially useful in areas like Europe, where you can visit multiple countries like this. 

While flying isn't as eco-friendly, there are ways you can offset it. “If possible, only book direct flights to shorten your flight time” says Sam Naylor, a journalist at State Of Writing and Elite Assignment Help. “You can also buy carbon offsets if you need to.”

5.You Can't Travel In Luxury With Ecotourism

This is another common myth, as the idea of 'eco' and 'luxury' don't often go together. However, you have to remember that 'eco' just means 'doing things in an eco-friendly way', it doesn't mean you can't enjoy some luxury on your travels. There are plenty of 5 star eco-friendly hotels out there, and you can enjoy the very best of what a country has to offer without having to rough it or affect the planet. 

These are some of the most common myths about ecotourism. As you can see, it's more of a way of traveling, rather than a specific vacation type. Everyone can travel while being eco-friendly.

Madeline Miller is a writer at Assignment Writing Services and Lia Help. She covers travel news, and blogs for College Assignment Help. 

Sea Going Green, a sustainable tourism consultancy, provides insights to tourism operators looking to diversify their sustainable tourism offerings by developing new experiences or “greening” business operations.

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