Some of the most pristine places on earth are the least industrialized and the most visited. Tourists enjoy visiting these places because they are so untouched, and to keep areas like these in pristine condition, the movement of ecotourism has evolved. Trips centering on ecotourism are designed to minimize impact on the host area.

Some ecotourism organizations are better than others, so if you are going this route, you need to do your homework and find out which organizations are solid. This will ensure you put valuable dollars into the local economy and make minimal impact on the environment.

After you have selected a good organization and planned your trip itinerary, you need to do your part to be a well-informed ecotourist. You should research the culture and customs of the area beforehand and bring the right clothing. Once at your destination, you should respect residents and their customs. Dress as they do, follow their etiquette and observe their customs. Don’t take pictures of residents without their permission.

Watch your use of resources while in the area. Chances are they will be in limited supply, so use only what is absolutely necessary. Stay at smaller inns when given the choice because they will use fewer resources than larger establishments. Drink and eat only what you need. Conserve energy where possible. Don’t hunt or harvest endangered animals or plants, or allow anyone in your group to do so.

Be careful when camping. Use designated sites and follow the same principles as you do when camping at home. Bring clean clothing and gear, which are free of invasive organisms that could affect the environment. Stay on marked trails, watch wildlife from afar and dispose of human waste properly. Finally, leave the site as you found it. Pack out everything you brought in and remove any litter you come across from other parties.

While visiting the area, do your best to support the local economy. This is one of the main purposes of ecotourism, so give back when you can. Take local transportation, hire local guides and use local inns, restaurants and markets. This will put money back into the economy and prevent residents from taking up destructive practices to make their living. Finally, do not contribute to any destructive practices you see, like buying products made from endangered animals and plants.

Being a good ecotourist isn’t difficult. It just takes some preparation and diligence. Do your best to keep the area you visit pristine and make as little impact on it as possible.

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