Benefits in the world when we do sustainable tourism

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Are you responsible enough when you travel? Are you aware of the importance of sustainable tourism?

As we explained in our post on how to be a responsible tourist and make a sustainable tourism, there are many actions you can do when you travel to positively influence the environment, economy, and society of the places you visit.

The impact of sustainable tourism can greatly help the development of the regions you choose to visit. Therefore, we are going to explain all the benefits of sustainable tourism to convince you that it is the best thing to do.

Benefits of sustainable tourism

Minimizes environmental impact

Through the optimal use of environmental resources, we seek to have a minimum environmental impact when we travel. This is why, for example, the use of public transportation or hiking trails such as the Inca Trail or the Salkantay Trek to reach Machu Picchu is always recommended.



Preserves the ecosystem

Also, respecting nature and animals, it contributes to the conservation of the ecosystem. This is the case of the trekking through Torres del Paine where local agencies develop strategies to conserve the species of the area.

Integration of local communities

On the other hand, with sustainable tourism, we seek to integrate the local communities of the area we visit into these tourism activities. A great example of integration is the Iquitos Jungle. There, the locals take advantage of the stunning Peruvian Amazon to add value to their region.



Rural areas

Yes, it boosts rural areas, where they benefit directly and indirectly from this economic boost. Places like El Calafate, are greatly benefited by the interest of travelers to do the minitrekking on the Perito Moreno Glacier. This is why they can focus their economy on this economic activity.

Heritage preservation

As a result of sustainable tourism, the conservation of archaeological sites is promoted, and any construction that is of historical importance for travelers and locals. Without any doubt, both the indigenous communities of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta and any adventurer who wants to do the trekking to the Lost City of Colombia, benefit from this mutual care.



Construction of community places

Thanks to sustainable tourism, part of the profits are allocated to the construction of works of community interest. Schools, medical centers, sports facilities, cultural centers…

Promotes local cultures

What is more, promotes and values local, regional and national cultural manifestations. Traditional markets such as the Chinchero Market in the tour to Maras and Moray are a clear example of craftsmanship that continues to be preserved through sustainable tourism.



Infrastructure improvement

In the case of Torres del Paine National Park. With the money raised in those early years from hikers curious to discover this place, the facilities and infrastructure of the O Circuit Torres del Paine shelters were improved to continue attracting more travelers.



Economic and social improvement of the quality of life

Improves the quality of life of the local population, both economically and socio-culturally. The local population is enriched by the travelers, who bring them income, as well as cultural aspects that they would not otherwise have been able to experience.

Promotes the creation of businesses

Promotes the creation and development of local tourism businesses, along with other services associated with this economic activity, such as restaurants, local businesses, etc. Through them you can learn first-hand, for instance, the typical Latin American gastronomy.

Local employment generator

Some data says that for every direct job created, three indirect jobs are created. From Howlanders we always support hiring a local guide to conduct the tours, helping the development of employment in the area.



Powering the local economy

Distributing this income among all local actors. This helps to reduce poverty in places where there was no possibility of economic development in other ways before.

Boosting local use

Everything has an influence. If you consume local and natural products from the area, you collaborate in the economic development and improve the quality of life of the locals.

What do you think of all these benefits of sustainable tourism for local populations? Do you think that we are helping the development of these areas? Do you have any other ideas to improve sustainable tourism?