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How Can You Travel Sustainably in South America?

8 June 2024

Exploring the diverse landscapes, vibrant cultures, and rich history of South America is a dream for many travelers. However, as we become more conscious of our environmental impact, it’s crucial to consider how we can travel in a more sustainable and responsible way. In this guide, we’ll dive into the best tips and strategies to help you make your South American adventure both enriching and eco-friendly.

To discover more about this topic, you can watch the video.
Table of Content

Embrace Slow Travel

One of the hallmarks of sustainable travel is the concept of “slow travel.” Instead of rushing from one destination to the next, embrace the joy of taking your time and immersing yourself in the local way of life. This not only reduces your carbon footprint but also allows you to truly connect with the places you visit.

Consider exploring a single country or region in-depth, rather than trying to cram in as many destinations as possible. This gives you the opportunity to use public transportation, such as buses or trains, to get around, minimizing your reliance on carbon-intensive air travel. Additionally, you’ll have the chance to support local businesses, sample regional cuisine, and engage with the community in a more meaningful way.

As an example, during my recent trip to Peru, I spent three weeks traveling from Lima to Cusco, with stops in the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, and the stunning Colca Canyon. This allowed me to fully appreciate the rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality of the Peruvian people, without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

Prioritize Eco-Friendly Accommodations

When it comes to sustainable travel in South America, your choice of accommodation can make a significant difference. Look for hotels, hostels, or eco-lodges that have implemented eco-friendly practices, such as using renewable energy, minimizing waste, and supporting local communities.

One standout example from my travels is the Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel in Peru. This award-winning eco-resort is situated in a private 12-acre cloud forest reserve and uses sustainable building materials, renewable energy sources, and water conservation methods. The hotel also supports local artisans and community initiatives, providing an authentic and immersive experience for guests.

Another option to consider is staying in community-based tourism projects, where you can directly support local communities and their efforts to preserve their cultural heritage and natural environments. These types of accommodations often offer unique insights into the daily lives of the people you’re visiting.

Reduce Your Plastic Footprint

One of the biggest environmental challenges facing many South American destinations is the issue of plastic waste. To minimize your contribution to this problem, make a conscious effort to reduce your plastic usage during your travels.

Carry a reusable water bottle and refill it from reliable sources, such as filtered water stations or eco-friendly establishments. Avoid single-use plastic bags and opt for reusable tote bags or mesh produce bags when shopping. Additionally, be mindful of your consumption of single-use plastics, such as straws, plastic utensils, and disposable food containers.

Many South American countries are taking steps to address the plastic pollution crisis, and you can support these efforts by being a responsible and conscientious traveler. For example, in Chile, a law was recently passed banning the use of plastic bags in retail stores, and several cities have implemented initiatives to reduce single-use plastics.

Support Local Economies

Sustainable travel is not just about minimizing your environmental impact; it’s also about supporting local communities and economies. When you choose to patronize local businesses, artisans, and service providers, you’re directly contributing to the economic well-being of the people who call these destinations home.

Look for opportunities to purchase handcrafted goods, such as textiles, ceramics, or jewelry, directly from the artists and craftspeople who create them. Seek out locally-owned restaurants, cafes, and markets that showcase regional cuisine and support small-scale producers.

During my time in Ecuador, I was particularly impressed by the Otavalo Market, where I had the chance to browse the vibrant stalls of indigenous artisans, weavers, and farmers, learning about their traditional techniques and purchasing unique souvenirs to take home.

Embrace Sustainable Transportation

When it comes to getting around South America, consider opting for more sustainable modes of transportation. Public buses, trains, and even bicycles can be excellent alternatives to renting a car or taking taxis, which can have a higher environmental impact.

Many South American cities, such as Bogotá, Colombia and Santiago, Chile, have invested in extensive public transportation networks and bike-sharing programs that make it easy for visitors to explore without relying on private vehicles.

During my trip to Argentina, I took advantage of the country’s extensive bus system, which allowed me to travel between cities like Buenos Aires, Mendoza, and Bariloche with relative ease. Not only was this a more eco-friendly option, but it also gave me the opportunity to admire the stunning landscapes along the way.

Offset Your Carbon Footprint

Even with the best intentions, it’s difficult to completely eliminate the carbon footprint associated with air travel and other aspects of your South American adventure. To help offset your environmental impact, consider investing in carbon offset programs or supporting local initiatives that are working to protect the region’s natural resources.

Many airlines and travel companies now offer the option to purchase carbon offsets, which fund projects that reduce greenhouse gas emissions, such as reforestation or renewable energy initiatives. Additionally, you can research and support organizations that are dedicated to conservation and sustainability efforts in the countries you plan to visit.

For example, the Rainforest Trust works to protect endangered ecosystems in South America, and the World Wildlife Fund has numerous projects focused on preserving the Amazon rainforest and its biodiversity.

Comparison Table: Sustainable vs. Conventional Travel in South America

Sustainable TravelConventional Travel
Slow travel, using public transportationRushed itinerary, reliance on air travel and private vehicles
Eco-friendly accommodations that support local communitiesGeneric hotel chains with minimal sustainability initiatives
Reduction of plastic waste and single-use plasticsContribution to plastic pollution through disposable items
Support for local businesses, artisans, and small-scale producersPatronage of large, multinational corporations
Investment in carbon offset programs and conservation effortsLack of consideration for environmental impact

Comparison Table: Sustainable vs. Conventional Travel Costs in South America

Sustainable TravelConventional Travel
Eco-lodges and community-based tourism projects: $50-$150 per nightChain hotels and resorts: $100-$300 per night
Local transportation (buses, trains, bikes): $5-$20 per tripTaxis and private transfers: $10-$50 per trip
Locally-sourced meals and artisanal products: $10-$30 per mealTouristy restaurants and imported goods: $20-$50 per meal
Carbon offset program contributions: $10-$50 per tripNo carbon offset considerations
Supporting conservation initiatives: $20-$100 per tripNo direct support for environmental efforts

Conclusion

Traveling sustainably in South America is not only better for the environment but can also lead to a more enriching and authentic travel experience. By embracing slow travel, prioritizing eco-friendly accommodations, reducing your plastic footprint, supporting local economies, and offsetting your carbon emissions, you can make a positive impact on the destinations you visit.

Remember, sustainable travel is a journey, and every small step you take can make a difference. Embrace the challenge, be open to new experiences, and let your South American adventure be a catalyst for a more sustainable and responsible approach to global travel.

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