Guatemala is a beautiful country with a rich culture and stunning natural landscapes. However, tourism can harm the environment and local communities.
If planning a trip to Guatemala, consider these sustainable travel tips to minimize your impact and support eco-friendly initiatives.
Choose eco-friendly accommodations.
One of the easiest ways to plan a sustainable travel itinerary in Guatemala is to choose eco-friendly accommodations.
Look for hotels or lodges that have implemented sustainable practices such as using renewable energy sources, reducing water consumption, and supporting local communities.
You can also consider staying in eco-lodges or homestays owned and operated by local communities, providing a more authentic cultural experience while supporting the local economy.
Remember to also practice responsible tourism by reducing energy and water consumption and properly disposing of waste during your stay.
Support local businesses and communities.
Supporting local businesses and communities is essential when planning a sustainable travel itinerary in Guatemala.
This can include staying in locally-owned accommodations, eating at locally-owned restaurants, and purchasing souvenirs from local artisans.
By doing so, you are supporting the local economy and helping preserve the region’s culture and traditions.
Additionally, consider participating in community-based tourism activities, such as visiting a local farm or taking a cooking class with a local chef.
These experiences can provide a deeper understanding and appreciation of the local culture while supporting residents’ livelihoods.
Participate in responsible tourism activities.
When planning a sustainable travel itinerary in Guatemala, choosing activities that positively impact the environment and local communities is essential.
Look for tours and activities prioritizing conservation efforts, such as visiting protected areas or participating in beach cleanups.
Additionally, consider volunteering with local organizations that work on environmental or social issues. This can be a great way to give back to the community while learning about the local culture and environment.
Responsible tourism is about positively impacting the places you visit, so choose activities that align with your values and support sustainable practices.
If you have any questions about our Guatemala Sustainable Tours, please get in touch with us!
Experience Sustainable Tourism in Guatemala with These 8 Eco-Friendly Activities
Guatemala is a beautiful destination with a rich cultural heritage and breathtaking natural landscapes.
Suppose you want to explore this Central American gem while being kind to the environment; plenty of sustainable and eco-friendly activities exist.
Here are eight ideas for eco-friendly tourism in Guatemala:
Hike to the Top of a Volcano
Guatemala is home to several active and dormant volcanoes, and hiking to the top of one is a unique and rewarding experience.
Not only will you get breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, but you’ll also get a chance to learn about the area’s geological history.
Some popular volcano hikes include Pacaya, Acatenango, and Tajumulco. Be sure to go with a responsible tour company and follow all safety guidelines.
Visit a Coffee Farm
Guatemala is known for its high-quality coffee, and visiting a coffee farm is a great way to learn about growing and harvesting coffee beans while supporting sustainable agriculture.
Many coffee farms offer tours where you can experience the whole process from start to finish, including picking the beans, roasting them, and brewing a fresh cup of coffee.
Some famous coffee farms to visit include Finca Filadelfia and La Azotea Cultural Center.
Take a Sustainable Farm Tour
One of the best ways to discover the beauty of Guatemala while being kind to the environment is by taking a sustainable farm tour.
Not only will you learn about sustainable agriculture, but you will also support local farmers and their communities. In addition to coffee farms, tours are available for organic vegetable farms, cacao farms, and more.
Some popular sustainable farm tours include De La Gente Coffee and Martsam Travel.
Explore a National Park
Guatemala has several stunning national parks, each with its unique ecosystem and wildlife.
Exploring these parks is not only a great way to explore the natural treasures of the country, but it also supports conservation efforts.
Some famous national parks include Tikal National Park, Laguna Lachuá National Park, and Semuc Champey Natural Monument.
Whether you hike, swim, or take in the scenery, visiting a national park is a must for any eco-friendly traveler in Guatemala.
Go Birdwatching
Guatemala is home to over 700 bird species, making it a paradise for bird watchers.
Some famous birdwatching spots include the Tikal National Park, Lake Atitlan, and the Sierra de las Minas Biosphere Reserve.
By watching birds, you can appreciate the beauty of these unique creatures while supporting conservation efforts to protect their habitats.
Volunteer at a Conservation Project
If you’re looking for a more hands-on way to support conservation efforts in Guatemala, consider volunteering at a conservation project.
Several organizations offer opportunities to work on reforestation, wildlife conservation, and sustainable agriculture projects.
Some popular conservation organizations in Guatemala include ARCAS, PROCREA, and the Wildlife Conservation Society.
Take a Sustainable Tourism Course
If you want to learn more about sustainable tourism and how to travel responsibly, consider taking a sustainable tourism course.
Several organizations offer courses and workshops on sustainable tourism practices, environmental conservation, and cultural preservation.
Some popular organizations that offer sustainable tourism courses include Sustainable Travel International and the Rainforest Alliance.
Stay in an Eco-Friendly Accommodation
Several eco-friendly accommodations are available in Guatemala, from sustainable hotels to eco-lodges.
These accommodations are designed to have a minimal environmental impact while providing travelers with a comfortable and unique stay.
Eco-friendly accommodations typically incorporate renewable energy sources, reduce waste and water usage, use organic and locally sourced materials, and encourage sustainable practices such as recycling and composting.
By staying in an eco-friendly accommodation, travelers can support environmentally conscious tourism and enjoy a guilt-free vacation that contributes to preserving the planet’s natural resources.
Additionally, many eco-friendly accommodations offer outdoor activities that allow guests to explore the surrounding ecosystems and learn more about sustainable living.
