Discover The Most Sustainable Destinations in South America in 2023

Discover The Most Sustainable Destinations in South America in 2023

As South America grows in popularity with travelers, with many diverse, cultural, and biodiverse destinations, sustainability is increasingly important as a responsible and ethical approach to tourism that respects the environment, benefits local communities, and preserves cultural heritage. By traveling sustainably, we can help to protect the planet and promote positive change in the world. At Kuoda, we’re committed to ensuring your trip is comfortable, personalized, and the trip of a lifetime as well as gentle on the environment and beneficial to local communities – this includes recommending sustainable destinations in South America to our clients.

The United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) launched the “Best Tourism Villages” initiative in 2021 to recognize villages around the world that are committed to sustainable tourism practices, preservation of local culture and heritage, and community development. Considered the gold standard of sustainable tourism communities, UNWTO’s list aims to promote tourism that benefits local communities and protects the environment, and these villages are examples of how this can be achieved.

Kuoda can always help you build an itinerary that meets every need, including eco-friendly travel practices. Let us know what drives you, and we’ll work alongside you to create a custom vacation that matches your bucket list. Or, visit our Responsible Travel page to find a few quick tips and ideas about the best ways to keep your vacations sustainable. Here are the South American destinations that made UNTWO’s “Best Tourism Villages” for sustainable travel, last year:

1. Puqueldón, Chile

Puqueldón, Chile

Puqueldón houses form a rainbow of color

Puqueldón is a small town located on the island of Chiloé in southern Chile. The town has been recognized as a sustainable tourism destination for its commitment to preserving local culture, protecting the environment, and supporting community development.

Puqueldón prioritizes the preservation of the town’s traditional architecture and cultural heritage. Many of the houses and public buildings in the town are constructed using local materials like wood and thatch, and they reflect the unique cultural identity of the Chiloé archipelago. The town also hosts cultural festivals and events that celebrate Chiloé’s rich history and traditions.

Puqueldón is also committed to protecting the environment and promoting sustainable tourism practices. The town is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, including forests, wetlands, and rivers, and visitors can experience ecotourism activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and kayaking. The town also promotes responsible tourism practices, like minimizing waste, conserving water, and supporting local conservation efforts.

An important component of sustainable tourism in Puqueldón is community development. The town has worked to promote local businesses and support the livelihoods of local residents. Many of the town’s restaurants, cafes, and shops use locally sourced ingredients and products, and visitors can also support local artisans by purchasing traditional handicrafts.

2. Choachí, Colombia

Choachí, Colombia

Choachí is a magical place between the mountains that preserves its nature

Choachí is a small town located in the Andean region of Cundinamarca, Colombia, not far from Bogota. It has been recognized as a sustainable travel destination for its commitment to environmental conservation, community development, and cultural preservation.

Choachí promotes responsible waste management by separating and recycling materials. The town has implemented a program for collecting and processing organic waste to create compost and reduce landfill waste. The town is also working to transition to renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power, to reduce its carbon footprint and support sustainable development.

Choachí is a champion of community-based tourism, which provides employment and training opportunities for locals while supporting the local economy. Visitors can stay with local families, share meals, and learn about daily life in the community.

The town is located in an area of high biodiversity and is home to several natural attractions, such as waterfalls, mountains, and forests. The town promotes conservation practices, such as reforestation, and regulates access to natural resources to preserve their integrity. Choachí is developing eco-tourism infrastructure to support sustainable tourism practices. The town is investing in tourism infrastructure, improving trails, and creating accommodation options that blend with the natural environment

3. Aguarico, Ecuador

Aguarico, Ecuador

A Blue Macaw peeking out from inside a tree

Aguarico is a town located in the Amazon region of Ecuador, and it has been recognized as a sustainable travel destination for its commitment to protecting the environment, promoting community development, and preserving local culture.

Environmental protection is crucial to Aguarico, as the town is located in the heart of the Amazon rainforest, which is home to a vast array of plant and animal species, is the most biodiverse region on the planet. Aguarico is committed to promoting responsible tourism practices that minimize the impact on the environment and support conservation efforts. Visitors can experience ecotourism activities such as jungle hikes, birdwatching, and visits to local indigenous communities that promote responsible and sustainable tourism practices.

The town has worked to promote local businesses and support the livelihoods of local residents, which in turn supports the economy and creates jobs, while also giving visitors a more authentic experience. Visitors can stay with local families, share meals, and learn about daily life in the community. Additionally, visitors can support local artisans and purchase locally produced handicrafts.

Finally, Aguarico is committed to preserving its cultural heritage. The town is home to several indigenous communities, each with its own unique customs and traditions. Visitors can learn about the local culture through visits to community centers and cultural events. Additionally, the town has worked to preserve traditional knowledge and practices related to the use of natural resources and traditional medicine.

4. Angochagua, Ecuador

Angochagua, Ecuador

Small town near Cayambe-Coca Ecological Reserve

Angochagua is a small town located in the Imbabura province of Ecuador, and it has been recognized as a sustainable travel destination for its commitment to environmental conservation, community development, and cultural preservation.

Environmental conservation is a key element of sustainable tourism in Angochagua. The town is located in an area of high biodiversity and is home to several protected natural areas, such as the Cayambe-Coca Ecological Reserve.

Angochagua also focuses on supporting local communities through sustainable tourism. The town has created several initiatives to improve local livelihoods, such as providing training and employment opportunities in the tourism industry, promoting the production and sale of local products, and investing in tourism infrastructure, like improved roads and accommodation options.

Cultural preservation is also a key element of sustainable tourism in Angochagua. The town has a rich history and cultural heritage, and visitors can experience traditional music, dance, and handicrafts. The town has also developed programs to preserve and promote traditional knowledge related to agriculture and food production.

5. Lamas, Peru

Lamas, Peru

Castillo de Lamas in the San Martin region, Peru

Lamas is a town located in the San Martin region of Peru, and it has been recognized as a sustainable travel destination for its commitment to environmental conservation, community development, and cultural preservation.

Environmental conservation is another key aspect of sustainable tourism in Lamas. The town is located in an area of high biodiversity and is home to several protected natural areas, such as the Cordillera Escalera and Abiseo National Parks.

Lamas has a strong focus on sustainable agriculture practices, such as organic farming and agroforestry. By using eco-friendly farming methods, the community helps protect soil and water resources, prevent erosion, and reduce the use of pesticides.

Lamas is known for its indigenous Quechua culture, and the community has taken steps to preserve and promote its traditions. Visitors can participate in cultural activities such as traditional music, dance, and food while supporting local artisans.

6. Raqchi, Peru

Raqchi, Peru

Archaeological site in San Pedro, province of Carchis

Raqchi is a small town located in the Cusco region of Peru, and it has been recognized as a sustainable travel destination for its commitment to environmental conservation, community development, and cultural preservation.

One of the key features of sustainable tourism in Raqchi is the protection and conservation of the town’s natural and cultural resources. Raqchi is home to the Inca ruins of Raqchi, a significant archeological site, and efforts have been made to ensure the preservation of the ruins for future generations.

The town has worked to promote local businesses and support the livelihoods of local residents. Many of the town’s hotels, restaurants, and tour operators are locally owned and operated, and they provide opportunities for visitors to experience the local culture and traditions. Additionally, visitors can support local artisans and purchase locally produced handicrafts.

Cultural preservation is also a key element of sustainable tourism in Raqchi. The town has a rich history and cultural heritage, and visitors can experience traditional music and dance.

South America is home to a dozen unique nations, each with its own vibrant culture, stunning natural wonders, and rich history to explore as you travel through ancient empires. Each country offers its own diverse ecosystem, coloring the continent with a breathtaking array of flora and fauna.

Experience Sustainable Travel With Kuoda

As you prepare to jet off and see the natural beauty through your own eyes, it is essential to be conscious about how you are traveling. When booking a trip with Kuoda, know that sustainability is one of our top priorities, and we’re committed to helping you explore South America responsibly and support the environment and community culture along the way. Learn more about Kuoda’s sustainability initiatives and discover more about traveling to sustainable destinations in South America, by chatting with a Kuoda advisor, today.

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