At a time when our environmental footprint is under the microscope, sustainable travel has become not just a trend, but a necessity. And what better destination to put these principles into practice than Mexico?
With its breathtaking landscapes, incredible biodiversity and rich culture, Mexico – and Oaxaca in particular – is an ideal playground for eco-adventurers.
Travelling differently: statistics on ecotourism in Mexico
According to a recent study, the ecotourism sector in Mexico, especially in regions such as Cancun and Yucatan, has experienced impressive growth. 20% over the past five years.
This figure not only testifies to travelers’ growing commitment to more environmentally-friendly tourism, but also underlines Mexico’s immense potential as an eco-responsible destination.
Why choose to discover Mexico and Mayan culture?
Mexico is a veritable kaleidoscope of biodiversity, particularly highlighted on tours of the Yucatan region. From the lush jungles of Chiapas to the crystal-clear waters of the Riviera Maya and the mysterious deserts of Baja California, each ecosystem offers a unique experience.
But eco-responsible travel in Mexico isn’t just about admiring its natural beauty; it’s also about immersing yourself in a rich culture, meeting local communities and helping to preserve this priceless world heritage.
By exploring Mayan culture, eco-responsible travellers can discover majestic pyramids and ancestral traditions, while contributing to the preservation of Mexico’s unique heritage.
Principles of eco-responsible travel: getting off the beaten track
Going off the beaten track in eco-responsible travel invites you to discover lesser-known places, reducing the impact of overcrowded destinations while offering a more authentic and intimate experience.
This approach promotes more balanced tourism, encourages the local economy in less-visited areas, and enables respectful and enriching interaction with preserved communities and ecosystems, paving the way for unexpected discoveries far from the crowds.
Practical tips for an eco-friendly trip to Mexico
- Transportation: Use public transport, walking or cycling to get around. For longer distances, consider carpooling or eco-friendly buses, especially for trips within the Cancun tourist region.
- Activities: Focus on experiences that support conservation and environmental education, such as ziplining in the Sierra. Whether it’s guided tours of nature reserves, snorkeling in protected areas or local cooking workshops. Every activity you choose has the potential to contribute to the development of more responsible tourism.
Eco-friendly destinations in Mexico
Sian Ka’an, Quintana Roo
Sian Ka’an, which means “Gateway to Heaven” in the Mayan language, is a biosphere reserve covering more than 5,000 km². This UNESCO World Heritage Site is an outstanding example of nature and biodiversity conservation. Visitors can explore its turquoise lagoons, dense rainforests and vibrant coral reefs, particularly in the Yucatan region.
Guided excursions by kayak or boat allow you to observe exotic birds, sea turtles and even dolphins in their natural habitat, especially close to the beaches of the Caribbean Sea. Local guides, trained in ecotourism, share their in-depth knowledge of the ecosystem and conservation efforts, ensuring an experience that is both educational and eco-friendly.
Lacandona Jungle, Chiapas
The Lacandona jungle offers total immersion in one of Mexico’s last remaining tropical forests, perfect for an excursion organized by an eco-responsible hotel. It is home to the Lacandon indigenous community, who have preserved a traditional way of life in harmony with nature.
Visitors can take part in eco-friendly hikes, discover hidden Mayan ruins in the Yucatan and learn more about local flora and fauna from local guides.
Focus on the Lacandon community, whose mission is to respect and protect the paradisiacal environment in which they live:
The Lacandón Maya, legal owners and protectors of Mexico’s last remaining rainforest, have transformed their age-old traditions of forest and wildlife conservation into a sustainable economy. They have developed ecotourism lodges and restaurants to welcome national and international tourists, offering authentic, eco-friendly experiences. The Lacandón Maya continue to practice their admired agroforestry system, which combines food crops and fruit trees without clearing primary forest, demonstrating a deep commitment to preserving their natural environment.
Valle de Bravo, State of Mexico
Valle de Bravo is a perfect example of how tourism can be aligned with environmental conservation. This charming town, set beside a magnificent lake and surrounded by pine forests and Sierra mountains, is a model of sustainable development.
It is recognized for its sustainable development initiatives, particularly in the fields of renewable energy and waste management, which are exemplary in tourist destinations such as Oaxaca.
Eco-friendly activities abound:
- Paragliding flights to admire the aerial view of the landscape
- sailing on the lake,
- from horseback riding to cycling along ecological trails.
Valle de Bravo is also famous for being a key wintering site for the Monarch butterfly, offering visitors the unique opportunity to observe these fascinating creatures in an unspoilt natural setting.
Eco-friendly activities to do in Mexico during your vacation
- Observe wildlife in its natural habitat: Head to the village of Celestun in the state of Yucatán to observe local wildlife in an unspoilt environment.
- Take part in ecotourism activities in Chiapas: Explore Mexico’s Pacific coastline, between sea and jungle, by taking part in unique ecotourism experiences in Chiapas, such as hikes to discover local flora and fauna, outdoor activities and tasting local produce.
- Visit Mayan archaeological sites responsibly: Explore iconic Mayan archaeological sites such as Chichen Itza, Tulum or Coba on the Yucatán Peninsula, with guided tours that respect the environment and the preservation of cultural heritage.
- Participate in marine conservation projects in Yucatán: Get involved in marine conservation initiatives in Yucatán, such as protecting sea turtles in Akumal or taking part in beach clean-up programs to help preserve the coastal ecosystem.
- In Oaxaca, Mexico, eco-friendly activities include visits to local artisan cooperatives, exploring markets for local and organic produce, and respectfully visiting archaeological sites such as Monte Albán.
Eco-responsible travel in Mexico means a rich adventure of discovery, while contributing to the protection of the environment and the well-being of local communities.
By adopting sustainable travel practices, we can all play a part in preserving Mexico’s beauty and diversity for future generations.
