Sustainable Traveler? Here Are Some Destinations That Are Actively Combatting Overtourism Javier Peinado March 5, 2024 Sustainable Tourism When it comes to planning your dream vacation, it’s understandable to be drawn to the world’s most popular travel spots. Why wouldn’t you, right? With popularity, however, comes challenges. That’s why some destinations are taking steps to manage the influx of visitors, acknowledging concerns about overtourism. So, before embarking on your next adventure, try to familiarize yourself with overtourism and its implications first. Because overtourism isn’t just about crowded streets, but also preserving the charm and resources of a place for future generations. In the spirit of Earth Day, here are some destinations that deal efficiently with overtourism on a regular basis. While they remain viable options for sustainable travel, be sure to plan your visit thoughtfully to minimize your impact on the environment and local communities! Barcelona, Spain Barcelona, a city celebrated for its Antoni Gaudi architecture and exceptional art museums, has taken significant steps to manage its popularity among tourists while preserving its charm. Firstly, legislation limiting new hotel developments in central areas helps control the influx of visitors. To further ease congestion, a specific bus service directs tourists towards the beaches, mitigating traffic and environmental impact. Additionally, managing the flow of visitors at key landmarks, such as the Sagrada Familia, through timed entry tickets has been effective in reducing overcrowding. Barcelona has also introduced a tourist tax, an economic measure to help fund tourism infrastructure and sustainability projects. This tax also serves as a deterrent against excessively long visits. Lastly, the city is actively promoting lesser-known attractions and neighborhoods, encouraging visitors to explore beyond the traditional tourist hotspots. This not only alleviates pressure on the main sites but also offers a more diverse and authentic experience of Barcelona’s rich culture and heritage. Machu Picchu, Peru Machu Picchu is a 15th-century architectural wonder and a symbol of the Inca Empire’s ingenuity. Trouble is, everyone seems to know this, and can’t seem to resist the allure of the many social media posts that showcase the beauty of this remarkable site. To combat the negative effects of this popularity, authorities in Peru have implemented various strategies: they limit the daily visitor count to 2,500 and restrict the number of people who are allowed to hike the Inca Trail up to the site to 500 per day. Beyond these measures, they have also introduced timed entry tickets to stagger visits throughout the day, reducing overcrowding and environmental strain. Furthermore, efforts to promote alternative, less frequented paths within the site, alongside education campaigns about sustainable tourism, are also in place. These combined efforts are crucial for preserving Machu Picchu’s mystical allure and historical significance for future generations. Tuamotu Archipelago, French Polynesia The Tuamotu Archipelago in French Polynesia, a serene expanse of 76 islands in the South Pacific, has launched an innovative five-year tourism strategy. Reflecting a commitment to sustainable travel, this plan permits only one foreign tourist for each local resident. With the four largest islands of the archipelago home to a combined population of just 16,000, this approach promises a balanced and intimate travel experience, preserving the distinctive charm and ecological integrity of these remote gems. So, if you’re considering a visit, plan well ahead. Another key conservation effort is the establishment of marine protected areas (MPAs) around the islands, particularly around Fakarava and Rangiroa. These MPAs are crucial in preserving the biodiversity of marine life, including safeguarding the habitats of endangered species. Additionally, there’s a strong focus on sustainable tourism practices. This includes encouraging eco-friendly accommodations and promoting activities that have minimal impact on the environment, like sustainable fishing practices and pearl farming that adhere to environmental standards. Amsterdam, Netherlands Amsterdam is renowned for its historic architecture, picturesque canals, and vibrant culture. But the sheer beauty and appeal of the city have created a major problem with overtourism. In response, Amsterdam city officials have restricted the number of Airbnb rentals, a move designed to mitigate the impact on local housing markets and preserve neighborhood integrity. Simultaneously, the city has placed a limit on the establishment of new tourist-centric shops in the central areas, aiming to maintain a balanced urban landscape that caters to both residents and visitors. The city is also actively promoting its less-traveled neighborhoods, encouraging visitors to spread out and discover the diverse and rich experiences beyond the usual tourist spots. Additionally, Amsterdam is investing in infrastructure improvements to better manage tourist flow, including enhancing public transportation and cycling paths, making it easier for visitors to explore the city in a more sustainable way. You May Also Like: Going Green and Giving Back: How to Be a More Sustainable Traveler The Galápagos Islands, Ecuador Located about 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador, the renowned Galápagos Islands boast a rich history and amazing biodiversity, hosting around 9,000 animal species, many of which are unique to the islands. Recognizing the fragility of its ecosystem, local officials have intensified conservation efforts. Today, 97 percent of the land is designated as a natural park and tightly regulated to safeguard the distinctive flora and fauna. Additional preservation efforts include a reservation system for popular sites like the Charles Darwin Research Station and the Giant Tortoise Breeding Center. This carefully managed approach limits visitor numbers at any given time, effectively reducing the environmental impact and preserving the islands’ pristine ecosystems for future generations. FAQs: Q: How can I contribute to reducing overtourism in popular destinations like Barcelona or Amsterdam? A: As a traveler, you can help by visiting during off-peak seasons, exploring lesser-known areas, and choosing accommodations and activities that support local communities. Additionally, respecting local customs and being mindful of your environmental impact goes a long way in mitigating overtourism. Q: What are some sustainable travel practices I can adopt in destinations like Machu Picchu or the Tuamotu Archipelago? A: Sustainable travel practices include staying on designated trails, using eco-friendly transportation options, supporting local businesses, and avoiding activities that harm the environment or wildlife. Also, consider engaging in educational tours or conservation activities that contribute to the preservation of these sites. Q: Is there a way to enjoy popular attractions without contributing to overtourism? A: Yes, you can visit popular attractions responsibly by booking in advance, choosing less crowded visiting hours, or opting for guided tours that emphasize sustainable tourism. Additionally, seeking out alternative sites or experiences that are less known but equally enriching can help distribute tourist traffic more evenly. Q: Can individual tourist choices make a real difference in the fight against overtourism in destinations like Machu Picchu or the Galápagos Islands? A: Absolutely. Individual choices can collectively have a significant impact. Opting for responsible tour operators, respecting site-specific guidelines, limiting your footprint by avoiding littering, and choosing eco-friendly products and services can contribute greatly to the conservation efforts in these sensitive destinations. Do you know any other destination that fights against overtourism? Let us know in our comments section below!