Your Next Luxury Eco-Tourism Destination
Six sustainable spectacular sojourns
Written by Emilly Bunn
MARCH 10, 2022
As the travel industry begins to resume its regular operations, hospitality destinations are now more than ever prioritizing sustainability. The move toward responsible tourism which supports the conservation of land, wildlife, and local communities has been termed “ecotourism.” This ethical approach to globetrotting allows guests to feel confident in their climate-friendly travels, and lets hoteliers make a difference in not only the communities in which they reside, but also on a global scale. Seeking eco-friendly properties that don’t compromise luxury accommodations, EQ chose to highlight some of the dreamiest ecotourism destinations in the world.
Banyan Tree Ilha Caldeira – Mozambique
Described as a “Sanctuary for the Senses,” Banyan Tree Ilha Caldeira in Nampula, Mozambique welcomes guests to go with the flow of the Indian Ocean. During their stay, travelers will reside in spacious poolside villas that overlook the Indian Ocean. Located on a private island that is a world-renowned diving hot spot, this marine protected archipelago is home to 20% of Mozambique’s intact, living coral and other aquatic species. General Manager of Banyan Tree Ilha Caldeira, Eduardo Johnston da Silva, discusses the unique, delicate eco-system within which his resort resides, “The crystal-clear turquoise waters of the archipelago are home to the majority of our mammal species.”
Johnston da Silva continues, “From humpback whales and dolphins to seals and even dugongs. Add to this the extensive list of fish and other sea creatures such as giant groupers, different species of rays that inhabit the archipelago’s pristine reef and unbleached coral system, and you have a veritable marine Eden.”
Sustainability is of the utmost priority for The Banyan Tree Group, who is working to design and implement conservation programs across the globe. Johnston da Silva concurs with Banyan Tree’s mission, “This entire archipelago is a marine reserve, and we are going to be focusing particularly on helping to protect its integrity.”
The oceanfront, eco-conscious hotel is set to be 100% solar powered and has hired a full-time conservationist to assist with their efforts. Mozambique’s Ilha Caldeira resort is to be Southern Africa’s “first globally branded five-star ultra-luxury private island destination,” claims Banyan Tree in a press release.
Already planning your next vacation? Banyan Tree is set to open in July 2023.
