Travel with purpose: how regenerative tourism is changing the game

As the world becomes more aware of the environmental and social impacts of tourism, a new trend is emerging: regenerative travel.

This approach goes beyond sustainability. It focuses on leaving destinations better than they were found.

Regenerative travel encourages tourists and businesses to actively restore and rejuvenate local communities, cultures, and ecosystems.

Why move towards regenerative travel?

Regenerative travel is a form of tourism that seeks a net-positive impact. It transforms tourism into a tool for revitalisation. Instead of merely reducing harm, it aims to improve the health of ecosystems and communities.

This approach fosters a deeper connection between travellers and the places they visit.

It encourages actions such as reforestation, community conservation, and supporting local businesses. The goal of regenerative travel is to ensure that the benefits of tourism - environmental, social, economic and cultural - outweigh the costs.

Travellers are encouraged to engage in restorative actions.

This can include volunteering for environmental projects or participating in community-led initiatives. By doing so, they contribute positively to the well-being of the destinations they explore.

How to experience regenerative travel?

For travellers looking to embrace regenerative travel, consider the following tips:

• Seek local tour operators: Choose operators that focus on improving the destination.
• Participate in local projects: Engage in activities such as permaculture or traditional farming.
• Support conservation efforts: Select accommodations that contribute to local ecosystem preservation.
• Engage with local communities: Look for opportunities to learn from local cultures.
• Embrace a mindset of giving back: Be a traveller who actively contributes to the places you visit.

With that said, regenerative travel is a powerful way to make a positive impact while exploring the world.

By choosing destinations that prioritise restoration and community engagement, travellers can contribute to the well-being of the places they visit.

Whether it's through supporting local initiatives or participating in conservation efforts, every action counts. 

As we celebrate Tourism Month, here are some of the best destinations for regenerative travel, where you can explore while giving back.

Indonesia (including Bali)

Indonesia, particularly Bali, is a prime example of regenerative travel. The region promotes leaving places better than they were found.

Visitors can engage in activities like mangrove replanting and supporting village-led initiatives.

This model ensures that local communities benefit from tourism, fostering economic growth and preserving cultural heritage.

In Bali, travellers can participate in restoring natural environments. They can learn about traditional farming practices that revitalise local ecosystems.

The Indonesian government supports these initiatives through campaigns like "Wonderful Indonesia #KeepTheWonder."

This encourages conscious travellers to connect with nature and contribute positively to the region.

South Africa

South Africa is another excellent destination for regenerative travel. The country's tourism sector actively contributes to restoring local environments and communities.

South Africa has a history of pioneering ecotourism and responsible tourism policies.

Visitors can participate in hands-on conservation experiences and sustainable agriculture.

Many safari lodges operate with conservation at their core. This ensures that tourism supports the protection of wildlife and wildlands.

Local communities benefit from tourism revenue, which supports training and education programmes.

Initiatives like the Khwa ttu San Heritage Centre allow indigenous guides to share their stories, fostering cultural pride and economic independence.

Boracay, Philippines

Boracay is a remarkable example of regenerative travel.

The Philippine government closed the island for rehabilitation in 2018 to address severe environmental degradation.

This closure allowed for cleaning up beaches and restoring the natural environment. Visitors are now encouraged to take an "oath" to protect the island, committing to leaving it better than they found it.

The rehabilitation focused on educating local communities about sustainable tourism practices. This empowers them to participate in the island's recovery.

Boracay's transformation represents a shift from mass tourism to regenerative tourism, aiming to restore its natural, cultural, and economic capital.

Okavango Delta, Botswana

The Okavango Delta is a unique destination for regenerative tourism.

Its wetland ecosystem relies on conservation efforts and sustainable practices that benefit local communities. Key factors include community involvement in resource management and the creation of wildlife corridors.

Tourism operations in the Delta focus on minimising environmental impact while creating economic benefits. Local communities are actively involved in conservation efforts, ensuring they benefit from tourism.

Visitors can gain meaningful connections with local cultures while supporting the preservation of this vital ecosystem.

Pemba Island, Zanzibar

Pemba Island is a hidden gem for regenerative travel.

Its natural environment, including coral reefs, acts as a refuge for marine life affected by climate change. Tourism is carefully managed through marine protected areas and partnerships with local communities.

Visitors can experience Pemba's unique cultural heritage, a blend of Arab, Persian, and African influences. The island offers tranquil, off-the-beaten-path experiences, appealing to travellers seeking unique adventures.

Conservation initiatives, such as coral restoration, are integrated into the tourism model, allowing visitors to engage with local conservation efforts.

Rubondo Island National Park, Tanzania

Rubondo Island National Park is a sanctuary for endangered species, particularly chimpanzees. The park integrates tourism with conservation efforts that empower local communities.

It offers a unique, immersive experience for travellers to witness and contribute to conservation work. Visitors can participate in educational treks and the chimpanzee habituation programme.

This fosters a deeper connection to the wildlife and environment.

Sustainable travel in Rubondo aims to provide economic benefits to the local community, ensuring the long-term sustainability of the wildlife refuge.