Beyond Greenwashing: 5 Destinations Leading the Future of Ethical Travel

Yes, right. Traveling to sustainable destinations often means boarding a plane—an irony not lost on the conscious traveler. While aviation certainly has a carbon footprint, we’re committed to transparency and action. That’s why every flight booked with waliki includes a CO₂ report (so you know exactly what your footprint is) and the option to contribute to verified climate mitigation projects to offset it. Because in the end, how we travel, where we spend our money, and who benefits from our presence matters. 

Here are 5 destinations setting the standard for ethical travel in 2025 and beyond:

Marine iguanas sunbathing on volcanic rocks on Santa Cruz Island, Galápagos.

꩜ The Galápagos Islands

A place like no other on Earth, the Galápagos Islands are a living museum of evolution. Located about 1,000 km off the coast of Ecuador, this remote archipelago is home to an astonishing variety of wildlife found nowhere else. Find out how the Galápagos serves as a model for future-forward destinations:

1/ home to the world's first green airport

Seymour Airport (GPS) on Baltra Island is the world's first ecological airport, built from recycled materials of a former U.S airbase. It runs mainly on solar and wind power, with energy-efficient climate control and lighting, and uses seawater desalination for freshwater.

2/ strict visitor control

Visitor numbers are capped annually—around 275.000 per year—with daily limits on certain sites to prevent overcrowding and environmental degradation.

3/ certified naturalist guides

Since 2007, all tour guides in the Galápagos must be certified naturalists, trained through the Galapagos Conservancy and the Charles Darwin Foundation. This certification ensures guides are knowledgeable about ecology, wildlife behavior, and conservation protocols in the archipelago.

4/ conservation funding

Tourism generates significant funding for conservation via the Galápagos National Park entrance fee (currently $100 USD for international visitors). These fees fund anti-poaching patrols, invasive species control, habitat restoration, and scientific research projects.

꩜ Costa Rica

Small in size but bold in action, Costa Rica is a global leader in sustainable tourism. With much of its land protected and a deep cultural respect for nature, it’s proving that conservation and tourism can thrive together. Here’s how Costa Rica is redefining what it means to travel responsibly:

1/ pioneer in establishing the Certified Sustainable Tourism (CST) Program

Established in 1997, Costa Rica's CST program certifies tourism businesses based on their environmental and social responsibility. This initiative encourages sustainable practices and supports local communities.

2/ renewable energy leadership

Costa Rica generates around 99% of its electricity from renewable sources, including hydroelectric, geothermal, and wind energy. The country takes pride in having achieved periods of running entirely on renewable energy!

3/ extensive protected areas

The country has designated over 25% of its land as protected areas, including national parks, wildlife refuges, and biological reserves. This commitment safeguards approximately 5-6% of the world's biodiversity.

4/ community-based tourism initiatives

Notable examples include Talamanca Indigenous Territories, where visitors engage with Bribri and Cabécar communities; Boruca Indigenous Reserve with its cultural festivals and artisan workshops; Osa Peninsula's family-run eco-lodges focused on conservation; and Sarapiqui's community-led river tours and organic farm visits.

Aerial view of a pristine turquoise-water beach lined with lush rainforest on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica.

꩜ Slovenia

Located right in the heart of Europe, Slovenia shows that protecting nature and welcoming visitors can go hand in hand. With vibrant ecosystems and eco-friendly initiatives, it’s creating a new model for sustainable tourism that benefits both people and the planet. Take a look:

1/ world’s first green destination

Slovenia became the world’s first fully certified Green Destination in 2016, recognized for its commitment to nature, culture, environment, and sustainability. Through its Slovenia Green Scheme, the country promotes sustainable tourism based on Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) standards.

2/ strong commitment to preserving nature and biodiversity

Over 60% of Slovenia is covered by forest, and more than one-third of its territory is under Natura 2000 protection.The country’s environmental policies prioritize conservation and responsible land use, helping protect habitats for bears, lynxes, and other native wildlife.

3/ support for local communities and farm-based tourism

Slovenia actively promotes community-based and agritourism through initiatives like Slovenia Green Cuisine label. Travelers are encouraged to stay in eco-certified rural accommodations, eat local, and engage in hands-on activities such as cheese-making, honey harvesting, or hiking with local guides. This boosts local economies and preserves rural traditions.

4/ sustainable mobility and visitor flow management

Slovenian destinations like Ljubljana and Bled prioritize car-free zones, cycling infrastructure, and eco-friendly transport (e.g., electric boats on Lake Bled). Popular parks like Triglav National Park implement visitor caps and zoning to reduce overcrowding and protect fragile ecosystems, ensuring tourism remains respectful and low impact.

꩜ Providencia Island, Colombia

As tourism continues to grow worldwide, Providencia stands out for its dedication to sustainability. This Caribbean island’s approach ensures that tourism benefits both visitors and residents without compromising its natural treasures. Here are some of the reasons Providencia is also celebrated as a model of sustainable tourism:

1/ small-scale, community-based tourism

Unlike other mass tourism hotspots in the country, Providencia emphasizes low-impact, community-owned accommodations and excursions. Family-run guesthouses, local guides, and artisanal food vendors ensure tourism revenue directly benefits the island’s residents.

2/ protection of marine biodiversity through sustainable tourism

Part of the Seaflower Biosphere Reserve, Providencia is surrounded by one of the largest coral reef systems in the Caribbean. Locally led initiatives, such as reef-safe snorkeling and eco-conscious diving tours, help protect marine life and promote environmental awareness.

3/ preservation of Afro-Caribbean and Raizal culture

Providencia is home to the Raizal community, whose Afro-Caribbean heritage is deeply rooted in the island’s language, music, cuisine, and spirituality. Tourism here supports cultural preservation by involving local families in storytelling, traditional cooking, and reggae-infused community events.

4/ resilience and sustainability after Hurricane Iota

Following the devastation of Hurricane Iota in 2020, Providencia's rebuilding efforts focused on sustainability and local empowerment. Eco-friendly infrastructure, reef restoration, and support for traditional livelihoods have made the island a model of climate resilience and ethical regeneration.

꩜ Palau

Palau’s rich marine biodiversity and strong community values create the foundation for a truly sustainable tourism experience. The island’s efforts to protect its coral reefs and engage local voices highlight how tourism can be a force for good. Let’s dig deeper:

1/ world-leading conservation commitments

Palau made history in 2009 by becoming the first country to establish a shark sanctuary, and today, it protects 80% of its ocean waters through the Palau National Marine Sanctuary. These bold efforts help preserve marine biodiversity and ensure the health of ocean ecosystems for future generations.

2/ the Palau Pledge: responsible tourism at entry

Upon arrival, all visitors to Palau must sign the Palau Pledge, a promise to act in an environmentally and culturally respectful way during their stay. This unique initiative positions sustainability as a shared responsibility between locals and tourists.

3/ traditional knowledge and community-led eco-tourism

Palauan communities incorporate centuries-old practices of conservation into modern tourism. Activities such as guided mangrove tours, traditional navigation workshops, and cultural storytelling ensure visitors connect meaningfully with local heritage.

4/ plastic-free and sustainable development policies

Palau has banned single-use plastics and introduced strict environmental regulations on tourism infrastructure. Hotels and tour operators are encouraged to follow green practices, from renewable energy use to reef-safe sunscreen policies—making sustainability a cornerstone of the visitor experience.

These are just a few examples of places that prioritize people, planet, and culture. It’s not about traveling more—but about traveling better!

Snorkeling spot on Providencia Island, Colombia.