Travelers all across the world are starting to embrace responsible travel, which is why ecotourism is growing more and more popular. With so many eco tours and experiences available today, ecotourism has never been simpler. Mexico is one of the top destinations for ecotourism. In this article, we’ll dig into what ecotourism is, including what it is, where to go, and what activities there are to participate in to enjoy the best of ecotourism in Mexico.
What Is Ecotourism?
Ecotourism is described as responsible travel, often to natural places, and consists of the three pillars listed below:
- safeguards or preserves the natural environment
- Helps or benefits the local population,
- Includes practical education and heightened awareness
Ecotourism is comparable to but different from sustainable travel. Ecotourism is frequently more hands-on and informative, with a stronger emphasis on environmental conservation.
For instance, ecotourism requires you spending the weekend at an organic produce farm and learn how crops are grown. After the weekend, you will have contributed funds to a local effort that conserves and protects the natural environment. In addition, you will have gained knowledge of organic farming and potentially earn a new ability.
What to Look For From Ecotourism Providers
If you’re trying to know whether a trip or activity falls under the ecotourism banner, there are a few questions you should ask before booking:
- Is your tour guide genuinely qualified to lead this tour? If you want to learn about indigenous weaving, you need to make sure the organization or guide you’re studying from knows the subject and respects the local culture. If you’re going to spend the weekend at an organic farm, is it owned locally, or does it essentially employ and support locals? Is their food distributed locally?
- Is the trip or activity consistent with the three ecotourism pillars?
- Who owns the business? Who is the staff? Where is the money spent? The majority of ecotours will be held or staffed primarily by locals. In addition, they will give back to the community in some capacity.
- Can you guarantee that the trip won’t adversely affect the surrounding ecosystem? Taking a national park tour doesn’t ensure that your guide is environmentally conscious or even aware of the need to protect the park’s natural resources. Make sure your actions don’t cause more problems than they’re worth before committing to them. If your guide is any good, they will be okay with you asking them, so be bold.
What Does Ecotourism in Mexico Look Like?
Mexico boasts one of the world’s greatest biological diversity, with terrain ranging from barren deserts to deep rainforests, and has become one of the most popular ecotourism destinations.
Historically, the combination of high tourism and enormous expanses of different terrain has encouraged the formation of several coalitions and organizations dedicated to assisting conservation efforts and providing ecotourism initiatives. With 31 distinct states within the country, there are numerous opportunities to participate in ecotourism and enjoy what Mexico has to bring.
A day of ecotourism may involve:
- Touring a local women’s weaving collective.
- Spending the day at a local mezcal distillery.
- Touring a protected biosphere with a sustainable guide to learn about the natural environment.
Eco Lodging
Ecolodges are the optimal accommodation for travelers who want to spend most of their time exploring the surrounding natural environment. On many ecolodges in Mexico, visitors can learn about the area’s local flora and fauna alongside an expert guide while soaking in serene surroundings. Some ecolodges even provide tours to nearby indigenous communities to view their traditional ways. Due to the nature of most eco-lodges, almost every amenity is likely to be solar-powered or delivered locally.
Agrotourism
Many farmers are opening their farms to travelers. This allows farm owners to earn money from tourism while travelers enjoy fun activities like horseback riding, hiking, and ziplining. It also gives people a chance to learn about agriculture firsthand. This form of tourism is called agrotourism, and it’s becoming increasingly popular worldwide. It’s a great way to support local farms and give travelers a memorable experience.
Community Development
Communities surrounding areas open to tourism often offer a variety of cultural activities and adventures; from cooking classes to boat trips, there is something for everyone. It also brings much-needed income to the local community. Since ecotourism is so new in Mexico, few managed operations are yet. However, several entrepreneurs are setting up small businesses to cater to visitors keen to experience the authenticity of the destination with a minimal negative impact on the environment.
Eco Tours
Eco tours can include visits to rural households or cooperatives where visitors can buy local handicrafts crafted by indigenous artisans or obtain a glimpse into the local community’s way of life.
Ecotourism in Mexico is driven by the momentum of larger conservation initiatives set up by government bodies such as the GEF (Global Environment Facility) and UNDP (United Nations Development Program). These initiatives help keep Mexico’s environment in shape while encouraging sustainable and responsible travel practices.
Eco tours can range in length from snorkeling with sea turtles to hiking through a national park and are most typically offered as half-day and day trips.
Ecotourism Activities in Mexico
Mexico is full of options and is open to all travelers, but we all have our tastes, so here are some methods to explore these options based on your travel interests!
For adventure seekers:
- Backpacking through the great outdoors
- Cycling through the various towns and communities
- Rafting across the canyons
- Horseback riding through jungles and desert areas
- Watching birds in their natural habitats
- Guided tours through jungle trails
- Diving in underwater caves and reefs
For the ocean lovers
- Scuba diving in the coastal areas
- Snorkeling in the coastlines of Mexico
- Kayaking around the coastlines of Mexico
For the culture lovers
- Visiting historical buildings and museums
- Discovering the flavors of Mexican cuisine
- Volunteering in a local community
Tours That Offers Ecotourism in Mexico
Ecotourism is a way to explore and appreciate these wonders while promoting conservation and sustainable development. Here we highlight some of the top tour companies in Mexico that offer ecotourism experiences. From exploring lush jungles and pristine beaches to encountering rare wildlife and learning about indigenous cultures, these companies offer a wide range of activities for nature-loving travelers.
1. Coyote Canyon Adventures
Embark on a thrilling journey with Coyote Canyon Adventures, where the wild outdoors becomes your playground. As an adventure and ecotourism company, they take you on an exhilarating journey filled with hiking, biking, and horseback riding. Whether you’re searching for a heart-pumping adrenaline rush or a peaceful retreat, their custom tour options are tailored to make your trip truly unforgettable.
2. EcoExperiencias
Discover the natural beauty and ancient cultures of Southeast Mexico and the Riviera Maya with EcoExperiencias Tour Operators. Established in 1999, this company was born from a passion for offering unique ecotourism experiences to travelers. Immerse yourself in the mysticism and harmony of nature while fulfilling your travel dreams with EcoExperiencias’ carefully crafted tours
3. Ecotours de Mexico
Explore the natural wonders of Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit with Ecotours de Mexico. As a leading provider of nature tours since 1996, they specialize in designing immersive outdoor experiences that showcase the best of Vallarta’s natural beauty. With small groups and personal attention from their expert biologist and naturalist guides, you’ll get an authentic and intimate look at the local flora and fauna. And you can feel good knowing that we actively support conservation efforts through partnerships with local and national organizations dedicated to preserving the whales, sea turtles, and birds that call this region home.
4. EcoColors
Step into a world of vibrant colors and breathtaking natural beauty with EcoColors, a sustainable tour operator based in Cancun, Mexico. Founded in January 1997, this company is dedicated to showcasing nature’s rich array of colors, from the lush forests to the sparkling seas of tropical America. Experience the best of the Mayan World through our ecotours, designed to showcase the biological and cultural wealth of the region. Whether you have one day or more, they offer various itineraries that incorporate natural, cultural, and adventure experiences in the Riviera Maya, other parts of Mexico, and even Central America and Cuba.
5. Baja Expeditions
Experience the true beauty of Baja beyond the resort towns with Baja Expeditions. As Baja’s original and oldest ecotourism company, we have been leading the way since 1974. We take you on an off-the-beaten-path journey, where you will discover the raw beauty of the land, the unique wildlife, and the rich culture of the people. Join us, and let us take you on an adventure you’ll always remember.
Bottomline
Mexico offers adventure, beautiful beaches, and unique cultural and natural attractions. Ecotourism in Mexico allows travelers to enjoy all the country has to offer while giving back to the community and preserving the local environment.
Whether it is enjoying the indigenous culture and learning about traditional crafts or discovering the country’s natural beauty, ecotourism in Mexico offers something for every type of nature lover. We hope this helped you choose the right tour operator for your next eco tour to Mexico!
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