Australian Ecotourism

Ecotourism is an increasingly popular option for travelers who are interested in reducing their carbon footprint. Australia has a number of activities and locations for ecotourists to enjoy, combining a love for and protection of nature with exciting exploration of Australia.

Geography

• Australia offers ecotourism opportunities throughout the continent. On the east end, near the Gold Coast, there are a number of national parks and conservation areas, like Lamington National Park and Numinbah Valley. Ecotourism is also popular in South Australia, especially near the Eyre Peninsula and along the Limestone Coast, where the Naracoorte Caves are located.

Eco Certification

• Ecotourism Australia, an organization that formed in 1991, has created an Eco Certification program that hospitality service providers can apply for. By becoming eco-certified, they let travelers know that they are dedicated to protecting the environment and the activities they offer will work towards that. This is the first program of its type anywhere in the world.

Activities

• Hiking, biking and nature sightseeing are popular activities at all of Australia's national parks. Along the coast, swimming and scuba tours are popular. Near Baird's Bay, for example, travelers can swim with sea lions and dolphins. There are even programs that put travelers in contact with aboriginal tribes still living in Australia, which helps tourists learn about a way of live that merges with nature, rather than destroys it. When run by an ecotourism company, these activities pay special care to not disturb the natural environment. When hiking or biking alone, for example, it is important to dispose of garbage and to leave Australia's natural habitats as undisturbed as possible.