Belize

Belize beckons travellers with its enchanting blend of natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. This Central American gem is renowned for the Belize Barrier Reef, a diver’s paradise bursting with vibrant marine life. On land, lush jungles shelter ancient Mayan archaeological sites like Caracol and Xunantunich, offering a glimpse into a mysterious past. Belize’s unique blend of cultures, from Creole to Garifuna, enriches every interaction. Whether you’re kayaking through mangrove-lined rivers, exploring underground caves, or simply soaking up the laid-back Caribbean vibe on caye beaches, Belize promises an unforgettable adventure that feels both exotic and welcoming.

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Explore the options for a responsible trip

GOOD PLACES TO VISIT

Explore destinations that were certified for their sustainability efforts

São Miguel do Gostoso

Tibal do Sul

GOOD TRAVEL BUSINESSES

Discover accommodations, restaurants, shops and activities that are committed to sustainability. Their efforts are summarised in a SCORECARD (click on the picture). For the Good Travel Seal, the higher the number of stars or the level (level 3 is the highest), the more aspects of sustainability are checked by an independent auditor.

Accommodations
Restaurants
Activities
Others

Centro Holístico Akalki

Good Travel Seal Level 2

Akalki Holistic Center is an Oasis nestled in front of the Seven Colors Lagoon in Bacalar Q.Roo Mexico. It is the perfect place to reconnect with your essence, both spiritually and physically. Akalki emerges from the need for a space where humans can harmoniously coexist with nature, fostering greater awareness of self-care and the environment. We seek to heal the body, mind, and spirit through the various therapies we offer in this sanctuary.

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Eco Hotel Casa Lamat

Good Travel Seal Level 2

Eco Hotel Casa Lamat, offers you a unique experience of rest, coexistence, awakening and adventure on the shores of the beautiful Bacalar Lagoon of the 7 colors. Casa Lamat connects you with Nature, Ecotourism, Healthy Food, Holistic Programs, Loving People, Sustainable Practices and Social Responsibility... You will love it, come soon! Casa Lamat is a place where you can join and participate in Social Service and Earth Care projects.

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Sadhu Blissful Living

Good Travel Scan

As a spiritual epicenter of the West, in SADHU, we will live in commitment to the evolution of the self. Our doors are open to welcome people from all over the world in search of peace, harmony, natural beauty, and inner transformation. It will be a magical space that, being built in the midst of the rainforest, will have a strong sense of unity and community.

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Sustainability

Belize demonstrates a deep commitment to protecting its unique ecosystems. It was one of the first countries to ban offshore oil drilling to safeguard its UNESCO-listed Belize Barrier Reef. The country also invests in eco-tourism, encouraging visitors to explore its natural wonders responsibly. Community-based initiatives promote sustainable farming and forest conservation, supporting local livelihoods while preserving biodiversity. Belize’s progressive environmental policies and conservation efforts help maintain the health of its rainforests, reefs, and rivers. Plus, they serve as a model for sustainable development, aligning the growth of its tourism sector with environmental stewardship.

GOOD PRACTICE STORIES

Get inspired with stories from places and people that are acting for a fair and responsible tourism

Bacalar

The Mexican Caribbean, on the Quintana Roo state coast, has been for more than 5 decades, the massive tourism hub of Latin America. Currently, Quintana Roo is turning its history around, and is seriously searching for mechanisms to diminish the social, economic and psychological gaps between its residents, therefore creating the conditions for a shared prosperity. Today, Bacalar, in the south of the state, is at a critical turning point in its history: finding a balance between tourism activity and the fragile health of its lagoon ecosystem. The lagoon ecosystem of that “”Magical seven colored lagoon [as it is internationally known], has a social ecosystem of vibrant citizens, businessmen and authorities with a great commitment to the common good and a shared vision: To recover the bio-physical and chemical condition of the water. KNOW THEIR STORY

Costa Mujeres

Currently, Quintana Roo is turning its history around, and is seriously searching for mechanisms to diminish the social, economic and psychological gaps between its residents, therefore creating the conditions for a shared prosperity. Today, Costa Mujeres is an example of lessons learned, a new model of respectful coexistence with the protected area of the Mexican Caribbean Biosphere Reserve, which surrounds Costa Mujeres on its coastline at the front and the lagoon at its back. This new model responds to the regulations established in the municipality of Isla Mujeres, as it is the mainland part of the municipality and it was clear, a few decades ago, that this would be a renovated corner of Quintana Roo. KNOW THEIR STORY

Cozumel Island

Cozumel is the third largest island in Mexico and the second most populated in the country. Their effort towards sustainabiltity are based on the continuos damage caused by climate change. With the help of some local association for natural conservation the whole island is been activated towards the same goal. KNOW THEIR STORY

Playa del Carmen

Playa del Carmen is a popular tourist destinations with a rich eco-system, both land and underwater. The local administration started collaborations with associations and local business owned by women (natural resources experts and scientist) to create new business opportunities (eco tours) while protecting the natural environment KNOW THEIR STORY

Tourism & People

Tourism is vital to Belize’s economy, fostering interactions between visitors and the local populace that enrich both parties. Belizeans are known for their warmth and hospitality, readily sharing their diverse cultures, from Maya and Mestizo to Creole and Garifuna. This cultural mosaic is reflected in vibrant festivals, music, and culinary traditions that offer a taste of local life. Responsible tourism initiatives ensure that visitors contribute positively to the community, supporting local artisans and eco-friendly businesses. Such interactions not only boost the economy but also promote cultural exchange and understanding, making Belize a prime destination for those seeking authentic and meaningful travel experiences.

Travel tips from our editors

Getting around

Getting around Belize is an adventure in itself, offering a mix of conventional and uniquely local transportation options. For longer distances, domestic flights connect major destinations quickly, while water taxis are a scenic way to travel between the coastal cayes. Buses, although more rustic and slower, are economical and provide a real taste of local life, connecting all major towns and many villages. Car rentals are available for those seeking flexibility to explore at their own pace, though driving requires caution due to variable road conditions. For a truly local experience, try cycling or even hitching a ride in rural areas.

Nature & Wildlife

Belize is a treasure trove of biodiversity, offering an exceptional array of natural landscapes and wildlife. The country’s lush jungles are home to elusive jaguars, howler monkeys, and countless bird species, including the iconic toucan, which is protected through the efforts of the Programme for Belize and other organizations. Over 50% of Belize’s land is under some form of protection—whether through conservation, restoration, or sustainable development protocols—making it a leading model of sustainable development. The Belize Barrier Reef, the second largest in the world, teems with vibrant coral, turtles, and tropical fish, providing spectacular opportunities for snorkeling and diving. Inland, the dense rainforests hide crystal-clear rivers, mysterious caves, and waterfalls that invite exploration. Belize’s commitment to conservation and focus on local well-being ensure these natural wonders are preserved, allowing visitors to experience pristine environments and encounter wildlife in their natural habitats.

Sustainability Recognitions

Brazil has 9 destinations featured in the Top 100 Sustainable Destinations 2021.

Other sustainability certifications can be seen here (English) and here (Portuguese).

Fernanda Rodak | Page Editor

“Brazil is a worldwide known hotspot for biodiversity as well as home to a multitude of cultural expressions. The natural and cultural heritage and immense variety of tourism experiences in the country are valuable assets for its competitiveness. Yet, as we envision a post Covid-19 era, sustainability in tourism becomes crucial to build resilience and guarantee the long-lasting health of Brazil’s ecosystems and well-being of the hosting communities. This would also ensure an active contribution of the country’s tourism sector to the Sustainable Development Goals.”