Top Sustainable Travel Destinations to Explore in 2025

In 2025, travelers are increasingly aware of their vital role in tackling the climate crisis. This growing consciousness is reflected in numerous studies showing that over three-quarters of global travelers want to embrace more sustainable travel options this year, with 90% actively seeking out eco-friendly choices. Although a gap remains between intention and action, destinations prioritizing sustainability in tourism and beyond can help bridge this divide. Here are 5 destinations that are ready to welcome sustainable travelers in 2025, from innovative green spaces to places poised for revival after adversity.

Marrakesh, Morocco

Morocco's tourism industry has demonstrated remarkable resilience, achieving record visitor numbers in 2023. However, hotels in largely unaffected Marrakech have experienced a decline in bookings, and artisans whose workshops were damaged in the old medina are still awaiting assistance. Fortunately, all of the city's major attractions, including the El Badi and Bahai palaces, the Secret Garden, and the Saadian Tombs, have reopened since the earthquake. While some areas of the old medina remain closed, its spice-scented alleys continue to exude their enchanting atmosphere.

Singapore

Singapore's sustainability journey is renowned, beginning in 1967 when then-Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew introduced his vision of a "city in a garden." After more than 50 years of intentional urban development—featuring over 300 km of green corridors as part of the Park Connector Network—Singapore made history in 2023 by becoming the first entire nation to receive sustainable destination certification from the Global Sustainable Tourism Council. This certification highlights the nation’s dedication to its Singapore Green Plan 2030, which aims to quadruple solar energy deployment by 2025, cut landfill waste by 20% by 2030, and restrict the registration of new cars to cleaner-energy models starting in 2030.

Panama, Central America

While Costa Rica has long been recognized as Central America's leader in sustainable tourism, neighboring Panama is emerging as a pioneer in community-based tourism. In 2023, Panama took a significant step by granting legal rights to turtles, further highlighting its commitment to sustainability. Although the nation is home to a rich tapestry of Indigenous cultures—comprising about 14% of the population—and boasts incredible biodiversity, its tourism has historically focused on the iconic Panama Canal and the vibrant capital, Panama City.

Now, travelers can engage more meaningfully with Panama's lush rainforests and palm-fringed islands through the eyes of those who know the land best: Indigenous and rural communities. The newly launched SOSTUR digital portal enables visitors to book local-guided experiences in areas that have remained largely untouched by tourism. From visiting the Naso (or Teribe) communities who have inhabited the jungles of northwestern Panama since before Spanish colonization to learning about the legends of the warriors and guardians of Dekö Island from an Indigenous Ngöbe guide, these adventures offer a deeper connection to the region's culture and environment.

Valencia, Spain

Each year, the European Green Capital Award recognizes a city that demonstrates a strong commitment to enhancing the environment and improving the quality of life for its residents and visitors. This year, the award went to Valencia. The Mediterranean city is on track to generate 100% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2025 and takes pride in its expansive green spaces, boasting 500 hectares to explore. This includes new urban parks like Parque Central, which connects neighborhoods that were previously separated by a railway now relocated underground. Valencia's green areas also feature the Huerta, a 120 sq km expanse of farmland that supplies local markets and restaurants, reducing the carbon footprint associated with dining out and self-catering.

With enhanced public transportation and pedestrian-friendly spaces, getting around Valencia has never been easier. The city’s relatively flat terrain is complemented by 200 km of bike lanes, allowing visitors to cycle or take public transport to two nearby national parks, including the bird-rich Parque Natural de l'Albufera.

Dominica, Lesser Antilles

Following the devastation of a category-five hurricane in 2017, Dominica's Prime Minister unveiled plans to transform the island into "the world's first climate-resilient nation." As the country develops early-warning systems and resilient housing to protect its residents, it is also promoting sustainable tourism through a new kayaking trail.

The Waitukubuli Sea Trail, which spans over 60 km along the island's stunning west coast, is the Caribbean's first dedicated sea kayaking route. It runs from south to north, showcasing welcoming communities, secluded beaches, breathtaking scenery, and local cuisine. This initiative was spearheaded by Wes Moses, a longtime Caribbean Peace Corps worker who established the Soufriere Outdoor Centre on the island's southwest coast in 2022 after making Dominica his home in 2018.