- Voices of the Ocean
Ethical adventures – Why choose eco-tourism?
There’s a whole world out there waiting to be explored. It’s only natural that more people, like myself, want to go and experience everything our planet has to offer.
Whilst some may see tourists flocking to an area as a positive for the local economy, the impact on local wildlife is often forgotten.
When I travelled across Australia and New Zealand, I was excited to immerse myself in the wonderful array of wildlife they have to offer. I wanted to be able to experience these places without harming the environment or exploiting wildlife. Choosing ethical tours was important to me, supporting conservation, local communities, and the delicate ecosystems that make these places special.
In this article, I’ll be sharing insights about how eco-tourism can have a positive impact on marine life and offering helpful hints to help you make informed choices on your next trip of a lifetime.
What is eco-tourism?
Eco-tourism is all about traveling in a way that respects and benefits both the natural environment and local communities. It’s about making meaningful connections with the world around us while ensuring we leave a positive impact.
Whether it’s visiting conservation areas, participating in wildlife tours like snorkeling trips, or choosing eco-friendly accommodation, eco-tourism opens up opportunities to experience the planet in a sustainable and enriching way.
Eco-tourism is also a fantastic way to spread awareness of conservation issues. People tend to care more about issues they witness first hand. Educating travelers while they’re immersed in the environment helps break down barriers and inspires them to actively support conservation efforts.
One of my most memorable experiences was going snorkelling with manta rays in Ningaloo reef – an experience I will never forget. Swimming with such majestic creatures in their natural habitat was a true privilege, made even more meaningful by being guided by locals who prioritised the safety and well-being of all the wildlife we were lucky enough to encounter.
The locals ensured we followed respectful practices, like maintaining a safe distance from the mantas and avoiding swimming directly over them to prevent undue stress.
The local guides shared their knowledge of wildlife and conservation efforts in the area, something that has inspired my own journey into the world of marine conservation. Since my travels, I have volunteered with various charities, from boat surveys collecting vital data to running educational talks helping spread awareness and inspire others.
Why does choosing ethical tourism matter?
Supporting ethical tourism isn’t about doing things perfectly – it’s about making mindful decisions. Many local tour operators work tirelessly to preserve wildlife and protect the planet. By choosing them you can contribute to conservation and sustainable livelihoods all while having unforgettable experiences in nature.
What I learned about mindful travel: Tips to travel with purpose
There’s no one-size fits all approach to eco-tourism, but here are a few tips that have helped me:
1.Researching local operators – Looking for local tour operators was a great place to start when I was searching for eco-friendly trips. Choosing local companies gave me the confidence that they truly valued and cared about the local community and environment often with a key emphasis on conservation. Checking reviews, certifications, and the company’s values was a helpful way to decide their practices align my own.
2. Trust your instincts – Nobody is perfect, despite your best efforts. I experienced this when I visited a wildlife park, that wasn’t what I expected. If something feels off, whether it’s overcrowding, unethical practices, or harm to wildlife, don’t feel embarrassed to walk away. You won’t always get it right, and that’s okay. The key is to learn from experience.
3. Support local business – I found choosing locally owned accommodation, restaurants, and tour operators a great choice. You get the best locally sourced food and the best travel tips. They are the people who care deeply about the area, and this allows you to support them directly. If you’re lucky, they often offer deals on local excursions, which is invaluable when traveling on a budget, like I was.
Leaving a positive footprint
Every small step we take to travel more sustainably adds up. While social media is a great tool for discovering inspiration and opportunity, it’s equally important to do your own research. Learning about wildlife and ecosystems through documentaries, books, or reputable online sources helps you understand what feels right and what to watch out for.
By making informed choices, we can ensure that the places we visit remain beautiful and thriving for generations to come.
Thank you for raising your voice for the Ocean, Amelia!
Connect with Amelia on LinkedIn, follow her on Instagram or learn about how to submit your own Wavemaker Story here.
Cover image by Will Nolan.
