Ecotourism has been defined by the World Tourism Organization as all nature-based forms of tourism in which the main motivation of the tourist is the observation and appreciation of nature as well as the traditional cultures prevailing in natural areas.
Ecotourism adventure highlights the remarkable natural and cultural values of the environment while offering both visitors and locals alike unique experiences.
All around the world, located in different countries across the globe are various breathtaking ecotourism destinations, however, we would be narrowing them down to the five most spectacular destinations that you might want to take a trip to in the year 2023.
- Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda
The Volcanoes National Park in the northwest area of Rwanda is on the forested slopes of the Virunga mountain range. It houses about half of the world’s mountain gorilla population and it is one of Africa’s most biodiverse parks, within the dense forests of Volcanoes National Park resides over 180 bird species.
The Volcanoes National Park is known for its gorilla conservation efforts with about 400 mountain gorillas living in the rainforest.
The National Park offers guests the opportunity to hike in the dense forests where they can have the memorable experience of meeting the gorillas face to face.
However, guests need to obtain the required gorilla trekking permit before visiting the Volcanoes National Park. Also, they are required to follow strict conservation rules to ensure they tread lightly.
The park is an ideal romantic getaway destination for adventurers and potential conservationists.
- Agbokim Waterfalls Cross River State Nigeria
The Agbokim waterfalls are located at the Etung Local Government Area of Cross River State in the southeastern part of Nigeria, on the Nigeria-Cameroon border.
The white frothy cascade of water is created by the convergence of seven different rivers which plunge 6817.73m down slippery hills.
The waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery which provides homes to thousands of birds that fill the environment with the symphony of their chirping.
Visit to the falls is open at any time of the year, however, tourists are encouraged to visit during the rainy season when they can be fortunate to catch a glimpse of the rainbow arched across the foamy cascade.
Its proximity to Cameroon also provides tourists with a chance for a cross-border experience.
- Seychelles Indian Ocean Islands
An Island once overrun by rats, invasive birds, and plant species, Seychelles Islands which is off the coast of East Africa, northwest of Madagascar has become a paradisiac destination for tourists due to the relentless conservation efforts which had an exponential impact on the island.
The conservation of the Island involved restoring indigenous flora and indigenous bird species and also monitoring the endangered green and hawksbill turtle populations.
Ecotourists visit the Island and volunteer in league with the Wildlife Act to conduct daily turtle patrols at sunrise. Fresh turtle tracks are often seen during their nesting seasons. These nesting seasons run from October to March for the Hawksbill turtle while the Green turtles’ nesting season runs from March to October.
Tourists have the opportunity to see these magnificent creatures come out of the sea to lay their eggs. The Seychelles Indian Ocean Islands is a perfect romantic beach getaway for honeymooners.
- Lake Nakuru National Park, Kenya
The Lake Nakuru National Park located in central Kenya, northwest of Nairobi is a perfect destination for couples seeking a romantic hideout while engaging in wildlife conservation efforts.
The wet seasons between March and May are the suggested visiting periods when the park is green with lush vegetation and beautiful flowers. This is also a time when tourists can enjoy bird watching as many migratory birds will be present. Also, newborn animals will be present at those times.
The Park also promises fascinating views of safari animals such as the Rothschild giraffe, Hippo, and Buffalo. There are also occasional sightings of the famous tree-climbing lions and leopards which visitors are sometimes fortunate to experience. However, visitors are more fascinated by the presence of the elegant pink flamingos.
- Phinda Private Game Reserve, South Africa
The Phinda Game Reserve is located in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. The flourishing game reserve which was once used for farming sits on a land mass of 28,622 hectares. While 790 hectares consist of critically endangered ancient sand forests.
The game reserve is home to various wildlife like rhinos, cheetahs, and pangolins. It’s a perfect destination for a small group of tourists traveling together and looking to make a notable difference in the world of wildlife conservation.
Phinda focuses on energy conservation and other sustainable practices to ensure a responsible approach to tourism.
