Traveling as a family brings joy, discovery, and connection, but it can also be an opportunity to teach children about caring for the planet. Eco friendly family travel means exploring the world responsibly, choosing activities, accommodations, and transportation that reduce environmental impact and support local communities.
This way of traveling doesn’t mean giving up comfort or adventure. It simply means being mindful about how your trip affects nature and the people who call your destination home. Families who travel sustainably enjoy deeper, more meaningful experiences together.
Why choose eco friendly family travel?
Sustainable travel encourages families to think beyond sightseeing. It helps children understand how small choices, such as reducing waste or supporting local businesses, can make a global difference. Traveling responsibly builds awareness, empathy, and respect for different cultures and ecosystems.
By choosing eco-friendly experiences, families often discover hidden gems — from eco lodges in rainforests to farm stays and wildlife sanctuaries. These trips help kids see the world in a more authentic and caring way.
How to plan an eco-friendly vacation
Planning an eco-friendly vacation begins with thoughtful decisions. Start by selecting destinations that value sustainability, such as countries that protect natural habitats and promote local culture. Choose direct flights when possible to reduce carbon emissions and pack light to minimize luggage weight.
Here are some simple steps to plan a green family trip:
- Research eco-certified hotels and tour operators.
- Choose destinations that promote conservation and sustainable tourism.
- Bring reusable items such as bottles, bags, and utensils.
- Eat locally grown food and support small family restaurants.
- Limit water and energy use in hotels.
- Participate in local environmental projects or nature activities with your kids.
An eco-friendly vacation doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s about creating balance — enjoying your travels while protecting the places you visit.
Tips for eco friendly family travel
- Stay in eco lodges or sustainable resorts that use renewable energy and support local workers.
- Use public transportation, bikes, or walking tours instead of cars whenever possible.
- Avoid single-use plastics and carry refillable bottles.
- Join wildlife tours that prioritize animal welfare.
- Support local artisans by purchasing handmade souvenirs instead of imported ones.
- Respect local cultures, traditions, and natural environments.
What country has the best eco-tourism?
Several countries are known worldwide for their commitment to eco-tourism. Costa Rica is often ranked the top eco destination, thanks to its vast rainforests, clean energy programs, and family-friendly nature experiences. Families can visit wildlife sanctuaries, volcanoes, and national parks where sustainability is a national priority.
Other countries leading in eco-tourism include:
- New Zealand: Known for conservation efforts, green transport, and stunning natural parks.
- Norway: Famous for renewable energy, clean cities, and family-friendly outdoor adventures.
- Sweden: Offers eco-conscious cities, forest cabins, and sustainable travel options.
- Bhutan: A carbon-negative country that measures success through Gross National Happiness, not GDP.
- Morocco: Promoting sustainable desert tourism and eco riads powered by solar energy.
Each of these destinations provides families with a balance of comfort, culture, and environmental responsibility.
Also read: Morocco Family Vacation
Best eco resorts for families
Family-friendly eco resorts are growing in popularity as travelers seek both relaxation and sustainability. Many of these resorts blend luxury with eco values — using renewable energy, reducing waste, and supporting nearby communities.
Top eco resorts for families include:
- Lapa Rios Lodge, Costa Rica: A rainforest retreat where families can enjoy guided nature walks and wildlife encounters.
- Six Senses Laamu, Maldives: An island resort focusing on marine conservation and eco education for children.
- Playa Viva, Mexico: A beachfront eco resort with farm-to-table dining and turtle release programs for families.
- Whitepod, Switzerland: Dome-style pods in the Alps powered by renewable energy, ideal for nature-loving families.
- Kasbah du Toubkal, Morocco: Located in the Atlas Mountains, it supports local Berber communities and offers hiking trips for families.
When choosing an eco resort, look for certifications like Green Globe, EarthCheck, or Rainforest Alliance to ensure genuine sustainable practices.
Best eco friendly destinations for families
- Costa Rica – Rainforests, volcanoes, and family-friendly eco lodges.
- New Zealand – A paradise for hiking, wildlife tours, and outdoor fun.
- Sweden – Forests, lakes, and eco city experiences.
- Morocco – Eco riads, desert camps, and cultural immersion.
- Bali – Sustainable villas, organic farms, and hands-on eco projects for kids.
- Canada – National parks, camping, and nature trails for families.
These destinations combine comfort, safety, and education with an eco-conscious lifestyle.
How to make eco travel fun for kids?
Children learn best through experience, and eco travel offers endless opportunities for curiosity and creativity. Involve them in activities like tree planting, wildlife watching, or recycling challenges. Encourage them to take photos or write about their experiences to keep their eco journey memorable.
You can also make sustainable habits into fun games, such as who can use less plastic or who finds the most native plants during a hike. This makes eco travel engaging and rewarding for the whole family.
Final thoughts
Eco friendly family travel is a chance to discover the world while protecting it. It helps families create meaningful experiences and instill values of respect, responsibility, and care for the planet. When planning your next trip, choose destinations and accommodations that share these values. Whether it’s a jungle eco lodge, a quiet mountain cabin, or a beachside solar resort, sustainable travel allows families to connect more deeply — with nature, each other, and the world around them. Traveling green is not just about where you go, but how you go. Together, we can make every family journey a positive step toward a more sustainable future.