Solidarity Tourism, Responsible Travel & Ecotourism: Rethinking the Way We Explore

Tourism is evolving. Once seen as a mere leisure activity, it is now being redefined in the face of environmental, social, and ethical challenges. Alternative models such as solidarity tourism, responsible travel, and ecotourism are emerging as sustainable ways to explore the world—combining joy, ethics, and a deep respect for nature and local communities.

A More Authentic and Enriching Travel Experience

Rethinking travel doesn’t mean giving up on comfort or pleasure—quite the opposite. Eco-friendly accommodations, local encounters, and hands-on activities offer a meaningful and heartfelt experience. Instead of impersonal tourism, travelers are invited to slow down, engage with local cultures, enjoy traditional plant-based cuisine, learn ancestral skills, and support a more just way of living.

What Do We Mean by Solidarity, Responsible, and Eco Travel?

Solidarity Tourism

This model centers around ethical travel experiences that respect local people and their culture. It encourages authentic connections and ensures that economic benefits are fairly redistributed—often through community projects or local activities.

At Haven Lands, for example, our volunteer stays help fund animal sanctuaries, like our partner Sanctuaire la Garie. By staying at the ecolodge, guests contribute directly to the care and well-being of rescued animals.

Responsible Travel

Responsible tourism involves a broader approach, encouraging eco-conscious behavior from travelers. It means choosing sustainable accommodations, reducing carbon footprint, and engaging respectfully with cultural traditions. It’s about traveling with intention and awareness.

Ecotourism

Ecotourism focuses on discovering and preserving natural environments. It supports educational activities, biodiversity awareness, and conservation efforts. Unlike mass tourism, eco-travel offers immersive, small-scale nature experiences with minimal environmental impact. One of our signature trips, Israel découVerte, invites you to explore breathtaking nature reserves, eco-villages, and hidden gems far from the tourist trail—some of which even locals don’t know exist!

Why These Travel Models Are the Future

Responding to Environmental Challenges

With climate change and ecosystem collapse accelerating, sustainable tourism offers concrete solutions: renewable energy, waste reduction, and responsible land use.

Supporting Local Communities

By directly involving local people in tourism activities, these models generate income while helping preserve local knowledge, traditions, and land sovereignty.

A More Equitable Economy

Unlike mass tourism, where profits often go to global hotel chains, ethical travel keeps money within the community by prioritizing small-scale, local enterprises and short supply chains.

Growing Demand from Travellers

Today’s travellers want more than just holidays—they seek meaningful, sustainable experiences. In fact, 74% of travellers say they want to reduce their environmental impact while exploring the world.

Conscious Travel Doesn’t Mean Sacrificing Comfort

Sustainable travel redefines luxury—think natural design, low-impact materials, and a warm, human connection. Many eco-lodges now offer discreet luxury, modern comfort, and soul. Workshops, artisan encounters, and guided nature hikes make for deeply fulfilling adventures.

Plant-based gastronomy also takes center stage in responsible travel, offering both delight and sustainability.

Beware of “Fake Ecotourism” – Stay Vigilant

As responsible travel grows in popularity, many unethical operators are using it as a marketing trend. Here are red flags to avoid:

Fake animal sanctuaries: Many so-called "refuges" exploit animals under the guise of ecotourism. Avoid experiences like elephant rides, tiger selfies, or shows with captive wild animals.
Staged community visits: Some agencies stage artificial interactions with locals for tourist entertainment, without offering real connection or benefit to the community.

Greenwashing hotels: Some accommodations claim to be green with no real sustainability policies in place.

How to Travel Responsibly

Choose certified eco-accommodations (such as Green Key or equivalent).
Avoid attractions involving wild animals in captivity.
Support ethical businesses with transparency and clear sustainability commitments.
Shop local: Buy from artisans, eat at locally-owned vegan restaurants, and avoid global chains.
Respect ecosystems and cultures: Leave no trace, and interact with humility and kindness.

And of course—work with a truly committed vegan travel planner (like me!) to make sure your trip aligns with your values.

Ethical Travel for a More Sustainable Future

Solidarity tourism, responsible travel, and ecotourism offer a new way to explore—one that blends meaning, connection, and awareness. These models place nature and justice at the heart of the journey. They’re not just a trend—they’re a necessity. As travelers, we have the power to protect the planet, empower local communities, and create memories that are both joyful and transformative. It’s time to travel differently, consciously, and with purpose.