Turkey actively preserves its natural wealth and adopts sustainable tourism practices. By promoting ecotourism and environmentally friendly travel, the country contributes to protecting its natural heritage and creating a sustainable environment. tourism environment for future travelers.
These efforts not only help preserve the environment, but also support local communities through economic growth and cultural preservation. By involving local people in green initiatives, Turkey ensures that the benefits of tourism are shared fairly and that its unique natural and cultural resources are respected.
What is ecotourism and why is it important?
Sustainable tourism emphasizes the preservation of nature, biodiversity, cultural integrityand ecosystems. It emphasizes the use of natural and cultural resources in ways that benefit future generations. This approach promotes environmental stewardship, social equity, heritage preservation and economic development.
Sustainable tourism is not a specific type of tourism, it is a broader framework that encompasses various methods aimed at protecting the environment, culture and economy. Within this framework, ecotourism has made significant progress.
Discover the best ecotourism destinations in Türkiye
Turkey offers a range of destinations where travelers can enjoy natural beauty and cultural heritage while practicing sustainability. These featured locations reflect Turkey’s commitment to environmental protection and offer memorable travel experiences.
Hidirnebi Plateau Trail, Trabzon
In Trabzon, the Hidirnebi Plateau Ecotourism Trail attracts many local and international tourists, especially during the summer months. Visitors enjoy its rich vegetation and forests, making it a top choice for photography enthusiasts and an ideal place for nature tourism lovers.
Derbent, Konya
Located in Konya, Derbent Sustainable Tourism Zone offers a 15-kilometer trail. Visitors can engage in activities such as photography, hiking, nature tourism, outdoor sports, mountain biking and science tours while exploring this eco-tourism zone.
Ancient city of Dara, Mardin
The ancient city of Dara in Mardin dates back to the 6th century. The city itself was carved out of the rock. This ecotourism area includes a 13-kilometer walking trail. Local and international tourists frequently visit this area, where they can participate in photography, nature tourism, outdoor sports, scientific tours, and various sporting events.
(Baikan, Siirt)
Baykan Ecotourism Zone in Siirt offers a 22-kilometer trail. Visitors to this ecotourism zone can participate in activities such as picnics, photography, hiking, nature tourism, scientific tours and various sports events.
Baskonus Ecotourism Area, Kahramanmaras
The Baskonus Ecotourism Zone in Kahramanmaras offers an 11-kilometer hiking trail through lush vegetation. Visitors can enjoy activities such as photography, hiking, nature tourism, mountain biking and science tours.
Key goals for nations adopting sustainable tourism
Countries have an important responsibility in protecting and preserving the world's resources. To effectively manage ecotourism, governments must:
- Develop environmentally friendly travel policies and plans
Governments must develop and implement policies and plans for environmentally friendly travel. They must find ways to better protect their natural, cultural and historical heritage while preserving diversity. - Establish and enforce regulations for responsible travel
Authorities must establish clear rules for environmentally friendly travel practices and improve existing regulations. They must ensure that organisations and individuals comply with these rules and apply appropriate sanctions in the event of non-compliance. - Promote and educate the public
Governments must launch marketing and promotional campaigns to raise awareness about responsible travel. They must launch national initiatives to educate people about environmentally friendly travel practices and ensure that these opportunities are easily accessible.
In Turkey, a country rich in natural, historical and cultural treasures, it is essential to prioritize ecotourism and sustainable tourism initiatives. The country must strive to protect these wonders and pass them on to future generations.
Individual steps you can take to be environmentally friendly
Ecotourism Ecotourism activities allow you to reconnect with nature and immerse yourself more deeply and authentically in the cultural fabric of your travel destinations. By participating, you help preserve the heritage of the places you visit and have a richer and more enriching experience. So, how can you actively contribute to the ecotourism movement?
Ecotourism-focused shopping
For example, choose to shop at local stores instead of international restaurant or supermarket chains. This decision supports the local economy, helps preserve the unique character of the region, and reduces the carbon footprint of your purchases.
By adopting environmentally friendly travel practices, you are actively contributing to responsible tourism and supporting local communities. Every choice you make, whether it’s opting for eco-friendly accommodation or participating in conservation efforts, helps protect the natural and cultural treasures that make destinations like Turkey unique. Adopting these principles enriches your travel experience and ensures that future generations can enjoy and appreciate the world’s diverse and beautiful landscapes. Join the responsible travel movement and make a positive impact with every trip you take.
