With a growing number of travelers keen on exploring the most sustainable travel destinations, 2024 promises an exciting array of options for those wishing to travel more lightly and mindfully. The overwhelming awareness surrounding the climate crisis is evident: over three-quarters of global travelers aim to travel sustainably this year, with 90% actively seeking eco-friendly options. Bridging the intention-behavior gap in sustainable tourism is crucial, and destinations investing in sustainability can help facilitate this transition. Moreover, mindful travel to areas recovering from unrest or disasters can significantly contribute to a more sustainable future. Here are ten destinations that are particularly welcoming to sustainable travelers in 2024.
Table of Contents
Here is the List of Most Sustainable Travel Destinations for 2024!
1. Valencia, Spain
Valencia has earned the prestigious European Green Capital Award for its unwavering commitment to enhancing environmental quality and improving the quality of life for both residents and visitors. As one of the most sustainable travel destinations, the city aims to achieve 100% renewable electricity by 2025, showcasing its dedication to a greener future. With 500 hectares of green spaces, including urban parks like Parque Central that beautifully reconnect neighborhoods, Valencia is a true haven for eco-conscious travelers.
Adding to its charm, the Huerta, a sprawling 120 sq km area of produce farms, supplies local markets, significantly reducing the carbon footprint of dining. For those looking to explore, Valencia offers improved mass transit and 200 km of bike lanes, making it a breeze to navigate. Visitors can effortlessly cycle or take public transport to two nearby national parks, Parque Natural de l’Albufera and Turia Natural Park, solidifying Valencia’s status as one of the most sustainable travel destinations for 2024.
2. High Atlas Mountains and Marrakesh, Morocco
In September 2023, a devastating earthquake hit central Morocco, claiming the lives of over 2,900 people and damaging around 50,000 homes, primarily near the 6.8-magnitude quake’s epicenter in the High Atlas Mountains close to Marrakech. Despite this tragedy, Morocco’s tourism sector has shown remarkable resilience, with record numbers of tourists arriving in 2023. However, hotels in largely unaffected Marrakech have experienced a decline in bookings, and artisans in the old medina, whose workshops were impacted, are still awaiting aid.
Fortunately, all of Marrakech’s main attractions, including the El Badi and Bahia Palaces, the Secret Garden, and the Saadian Tombs, have reopened since the earthquake. While some areas of the old medina remain off-limits, its spice-scented alleyways continue to exude an enchanting atmosphere.
Though it’s premature to explore certain regions of the snow-capped High Atlas Mountains as communities work towards recovery, Abercrombie & Kent is among several tour operators stepping in to support the area by promoting visits to less-affected locations like the Ourika Valley, a beloved trekking destination. Additionally, Intrepid Travel has introduced four new itineraries for 2024, including an exciting journey through the Happy Valley, also known as the Ait Bougmez region of the High Atlas Mountains, solidifying Morocco’s place among the most sustainable travel destinations in the world.
3. Saba, Dutch Caribbean
Welcome to Saba, the smallest special municipality of the Netherlands and a rising star among the most sustainable travel destinations in the Caribbean. This tiny, 13-sq-km tropical paradise boasts impressive sustainability initiatives, including a solar park that powers 35-40% of the island and a comprehensive recycling system. Visitors can explore the marine park encircling the island, perfect for diving enthusiasts, all while enjoying the island’s single-use plastic ban. The Rendezvous restaurant also showcases hydroponics farming, using 80% less water than traditional methods.
In 2023, the Saba Bank gained recognition as a “Hope Spot” from Mission Blue, making Saba one of the most sustainable travel destinations for marine conservation. The island features the first marine lab in the Windward Islands, while the Sea & Learn Foundation offers engaging environmental projects, from night hikes to orchid studies. With lush hiking trails and abundant wildlife, Saba invites nature lovers to discover its eco-friendly charm.
4. Singapore
Singapore’s journey toward sustainability is nothing short of legendary, positioning itself as one of the most sustainable travel destinations globally. Initiated in 1967 with a vision of a “city in a garden,” Singapore has spent over 50 years cultivating green spaces, creating over 300 km of park connectors. In 2023, Singapore became the first nation to receive sustainable destination certification from the Global Sustainable Tourism Council. This accolade reflects its commitment to the Singapore Green Plan 2030, which aims to quadruple solar energy and reduce landfill waste.
Visitors can enjoy new attractions, like the Rail Corridor and enhanced parks, as Singapore continues to evolve into one of the most sustainable travel destinations in Asia. The Pan Pacific Orchard, a cutting-edge hotel featuring eco-initiatives, joins the Parkroyal Collection Pickering, reinforcing the city-state’s commitment to low-impact accommodation. With an array of eco-friendly options, Singapore is truly a model for sustainable urban development.
5. Belfast, UK
Belfast is leading the charge in the UK as one of the most sustainable travel destinations, thanks to its strong commitment to climate action. Jumping from 47th to 11th in the Global Destination Sustainability Index in just 18 months, Belfast is recognized for its impressive strides towards a zero-emissions economy. The city’s Belfast Resilience Goal aims to cultivate a climate-resilient community by 2050, with over 90 hotels, attractions, and restaurants now participating in the Green Tourism program.
With 75% of hotel rooms certified for sustainability, Belfast proudly showcases attractions like the Titanic Belfast museum, targeting zero waste by 2030. With ample bike docking stations, exploring this vibrant city is not only enjoyable but also reinforces its status as one of the most sustainable travel destinations in the UK.
6. Southern Great Barrier Reef, Australia
While most visitors flock to the northern hubs of the Great Barrier Reef, the Southern Great Barrier Reef offers some of the most sustainable travel destinations with low-impact experiences. Lady Elliot Island, an eco-resort powered by renewable energy, is a haven for manta rays and marine life. Just a short distance away, Lady Musgrave Island provides an unspoiled setting for glamping and eco-friendly tours.
Bundaberg, the main port for this region, achieved sustainable destination certification in 2023. The Mon Repos turtle education centre enhances local conservation efforts, while Taribelang Bunda Tours offers Indigenous-guided experiences showcasing traditional sustainability practices. By exploring the Southern Great Barrier Reef, visitors contribute to preserving one of the most sustainable travel destinations on the planet.
7. Panama, Central America
While Costa Rica has long been recognized as Central America’s leader in sustainable tourism, Panama is stepping into the spotlight as a community-based tourism innovator. In 2023, Panama granted legal rights to turtles, signaling its commitment to conservation. Traditionally, the nation’s tourism revolved around its famous canal and vibrant capital, Panama City, but now travelers can engage with Indigenous and rural communities to explore the country’s lush rainforests and picturesque palm-fringed islands.
The recently launched SOSTUR digital portal allows visitors to book local-guided adventures in areas mostly untouched by mass tourism, such as the Naso (Teribe) communities living in the jungles of northwestern Panama and learning about the legends of Dekö island from an Indigenous Ngöbe guide. This initiative is part of the Panamanian government’s $301 million Sustainable Tourism Development Master Plan, set to run through 2025, prioritizing the well-being of people and nature while growing visitor numbers.
8. Maui, United States
The tragic wildfires that swept through Maui in August 2023 resulted in at least 115 fatalities, the destruction of over 2,200 buildings, and the displacement of thousands, leaving a lasting impact felt worldwide. In the aftermath, many locals urged tourists to avoid the island. However, with local businesses facing layoffs and a spike in unemployment rates, officials are now encouraging responsible tourism to aid recovery.
While extensive devastation has rendered Lāhainā closed indefinitely, the Hawai’i Tourism Authority (HTA) suggests checking accommodations in nearby communities like Kā’anapali, Nāpili, and Kapalua for availability before planning a visit. Meanwhile, the island’s wilder eastern side is open for exploration. Adventurers can embark on the stunning Road to Hana, a 103-kilometer route featuring breathtaking coastlines, wild beaches, picturesque waterfalls, and lush trails. Don’t forget to pack a flashlight for a self-guided tour of the Hana Lava Tubes near road Marker 31, and be sure to check the Maui Nui First website for local businesses to support.
9. Greenland
Once overshadowed by the groundbreaking sustainable tourism initiatives of its lower Nordic neighbors, Greenland is stepping boldly into the spotlight as one of the most sustainable travel destinations. As it navigates its future at the frontline of the climate crisis, Nuuk became the world’s first capital city certified by EarthCheck as a sustainable tourist destination in 2020. In a decisive move toward eco-friendly tourism, Visit Greenland announced in 2022 that it would cease support for conventional cruise tourism and, in 2023, invited the industry to commit to a shared pledge aimed at fostering more sustainable and responsible tourism development.
As the nation prepares for a new international airport in Nuuk, slated to open in 2024, operators are encouraged to embrace the pledge’s five themes, promoting local products and creating unique seasonal experiences for tourists. By banning future oil and gas exploration in 2021, Greenland is focusing on renewable energy, with government-run company Nukissiorfiit striving to produce 100% green energy by 2030. This initiative is expected to save 127 tonnes of CO2, with the churches of Nuuk set to be powered by green energy starting in 2024.
The excellent Icefjord Centre in Ilulissat, which is also preparing for its own new airport in the coming years, encourages visitors to explore beyond the capital. By supporting sustainable local industries, travelers can make a significant impact in this island nation. Be sure to try a musk ox burger and look for the “Authentic Nunavut” sticker, certifying Nunavut Inuit-made crafts. With these remarkable efforts, Greenland is firmly establishing itself as one of the most sustainable travel destinations in the world.
10. Dominica, Lesser Antilles
Dominica is on a mission to become “the world’s first climate-resilient nation,” making it one of the most sustainable travel destinations in the Caribbean. In the wake of Hurricane Maria, the island has implemented sustainable initiatives, including the newly launched Waitukubuli Sea Trail, the Caribbean’s first dedicated sea kayaking route. This scenic 60 km trail invites travelers to explore its breathtaking coastline and local communities.
As visitors paddle along the trail, they can enjoy local cuisine and engage in cultural experiences, enriching their understanding of Dominica’s heritage. With its commitment to sustainability and resilience, Dominica proudly stands out as one of the most sustainable travel destinations in the region.
