Sustainable tourism companies focus on minimizing the environmental impact of travel while promoting social and economic benefits for local communities. This industry comprises operators that offer eco-friendly accommodations, nature tours, and cultural experiences, valuing authenticity and environmental stewardship. As consumers become more aware of climate change, the demand for sustainable travel options is steadily increasing. Companies utilize various strategies, including partnerships with local providers and educational initiatives, to support conservation efforts and community engagement. This trend points to a future where responsible tourism is integral, influencing not just travelers, but entire regions as they reshape their approaches to tourism.

The companies highlighted in this list vary in size and specialization, ranging from small, locally-focused operators to larger global firms. Most were founded in the 1990s or 2000s, reflecting an increasing awareness of sustainability in tourism. Their headquarters span multiple continents, with many located in eco-tourism hotspots such as Australia, Thailand, and Peru. Each company offers unique services, including adventure travel, wildlife experiences, and cultural immersions, aimed at providing travelers with enriching experiences that also benefit the destinations.

Read on to explore the top sustainable tourism companies.

Top 24 Sustainable Tourism Companies

1. Intrepid Travel

• Website: intrepidtravel.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
• Employee distribution: Australia 20%, Sri Lanka 16%, Morocco 8%, Other 56%
• Latest funding: March 2021
• Founded year: 1989
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: intrepid-travel

Intrepid Travel, founded in 1989 and based in Melbourne, Australia, specializes in adventure travel and small group tours. With a workforce of over 2,200 employees, the company operates globally, offering a variety of travel experiences that prioritize local culture and sustainable practices. Intrepid Travel's tours are designed for adventure travelers seeking authentic experiences, often featuring local accommodations and guided experiences. The company is also a certified B Corporation, reflecting its commitment to social and environmental responsibility. Through The Intrepid Foundation, they actively support community projects and wildlife conservation, further solidifying their role in promoting sustainable tourism. Intrepid Travel's operations span multiple continents, with a significant presence in countries like Sri Lanka, Morocco, and Canada, showcasing their global reach and impact in the travel industry.

2. Responsible Travel

• Website: responsibletravel.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: France
• Employee distribution: United Kingdom (UK) 93%, Ecuador 7%
• Founded year: 2000
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: responsibletravel.com

Responsible Travel is a private travel agency founded in 2000, based in France, with a focus on responsible tourism. The company operates with a team of 11-50 employees, primarily located in the United Kingdom. They offer a wide range of holiday packages designed to support local communities and preserve natural environments. Their offerings include various types of travel experiences, from adventure tours to cultural immersions, all aimed at providing environmentally friendly and socially responsible options for travelers. Responsible Travel has made a significant impact in the industry by promoting sustainable practices and ensuring that their trips contribute positively to the destinations they serve. They have also published an impact report detailing their efforts and outcomes in responsible tourism.

3. Wilderness Safaris

• Website: wilderness-safaris.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa
• Latest funding: Other (Debt), $35.0M, October 2016
• Founded year: 1983
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: wilderness-safaris

Wilderness Safaris, founded in 1983, is an ecotourism company based in Johannesburg, South Africa. It specializes in luxury safari experiences across several African countries, including Botswana, Namibia, and Rwanda. The company operates over 60 camps and lodges, providing tailored journeys that immerse travelers in the natural beauty and wildlife of the continent. Wilderness Safaris is dedicated to conservation, managing more than 6 million acres of private land. They employ a significant number of local staff, ensuring that the communities benefit from tourism. The company has received funding, with a notable amount of $35 million reported in 2016, which supports its ongoing conservation and hospitality initiatives.

4. Local Alike

• Website: localalike.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Bangkok, Bangkok, Thailand
• Employee distribution: Thailand 100%
• Latest funding: Seed, March 2016
• Founded year: 2011
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: local-alike

Local Alike, founded in 2011 and based in Bangkok, Thailand, is a tour operator dedicated to sustainable tourism. The company specializes in creating local tour packages that connect travelers with authentic cultural experiences and local communities. With a team of 24 employees, Local Alike focuses on providing educational and engaging tours that enhance the lives of the communities they work with. They train local residents to serve as guides, ensuring that the knowledge and culture of the area are shared authentically. Their offerings include a variety of activities, from cultural tours to nature experiences, all designed to promote eco-friendly travel and community development. Local Alike has not reported any funding since its seed round in 2016, indicating a self-sustaining business model that prioritizes social impact over rapid expansion.

5. Natural Habitat Adventures

• Website: nathab.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Boulder, Colorado, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 76%, Canada 5%, Kenya 4%, Other 15%
• Founded year: 1985
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: natural-habitat-adventures

Natural Habitat Adventures, based in Boulder, Colorado, is a travel agency that specializes in adventure travel and nature tours. Founded in 1985, the company has built a reputation for offering wildlife-focused travel experiences that cater to nature enthusiasts. With a workforce of approximately 187 employees, they operate primarily in the United States, but also have a presence in countries like Canada, Kenya, New Zealand, and South Africa. Natural Habitat Adventures emphasizes sustainable travel practices, partnering with organizations like the World Wildlife Fund to promote conservation. Their innovative approach to travel includes carbon-neutral initiatives and a commitment to reducing waste, making them a notable player in the sustainable tourism industry.

6. Khiri Travel

• Website: khiri.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Bang Krasaw, Nonthaburi, Thailand
• Employee distribution: Thailand 30%, Indonesia 29%, Sri Lanka 14%, Other 26%
• Founded year: 1993
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: khiri-travel

Khiri Travel, founded in 1993, is a destination management company based in Bang Krasaw, Nonthaburi, Thailand. With a workforce of approximately 175 employees, the company specializes in crafting personalized travel itineraries and unique experiences across various Asian destinations, including Cambodia, Thailand, Indonesia, and Sri Lanka. Khiri Travel primarily serves tour operators and travel agencies, providing them with local expertise and responsible travel options. The company emphasizes sustainable tourism practices, guided by their core values centered around conservation, community engagement, cultural respect, and economic viability. They have established a reputation for supporting local businesses and initiatives, ensuring that tourism benefits the communities they operate in. Khiri Travel is also a partner of Travelife, a certification scheme that promotes responsible tourism among operators and hotels, further solidifying their commitment to sustainability.

7. Wild Frontiers

• Website: wildfrontierstravel.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
• Employee distribution: Uganda 50%, South Africa 50%
• Founded year: 1998
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: wild-frontiers

Wild Frontiers is a travel agency based in London, England, specializing in adventure tourism and tailor-made holidays. Founded in 1998 by travel writer Jonny Bealby, the company has built a reputation for offering immersive travel experiences that prioritize responsible tourism. With a team of 43 employees, Wild Frontiers operates small group tours and custom itineraries across various global destinations, including regions that are often overlooked by mainstream tourism. The company has received recognition for its ethical practices, winning the Guardian/Observer 'Best Ethical Tour Operator' Award. Wild Frontiers is also B Corp certified, reflecting its commitment to high social and environmental standards. The company actively engages with local communities through its charitable foundation, which funds sustainable initiatives in the areas they visit. This approach not only enhances the travel experience for clients but also aims to leave a positive impact on the destinations they explore.

8. Tropic Travel

• Website: tropiceco.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Cusco, Cusco, Peru
• Employee distribution: Ecuador 89%, Chile 11%
• Founded year: 1994
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: tropic-dmc

Tropic Travel, founded in 1994 and based in Cusco, Peru, operates as a Destination Management Company (DMC) focused on sustainable travel experiences in Ecuador, Peru, and Chile. With a team of 36 employees, the company caters primarily to tour operators and travel agents, offering tailored travel planning and unique local experiences. Tropic Travel emphasizes responsible tourism, community engagement, and eco-friendly accommodations, which are integral to their business model. They have developed the Tropic Collection, a curated selection of properties that exemplify sustainable tourism and support local entrepreneurship. The company is also recognized for its commitment to training guides and staff on responsible travel practices, ensuring that their operations align with sustainability goals. Tropic Travel has been certified by the Rainforest Alliance, highlighting their dedication to environmental conservation and community support.

9. Hotelplan UK

• Website: hotelplan.co.uk
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Farnborough, England, United Kingdom (UK)
• Employee distribution: United Kingdom (UK) 71%, France 18%, Italy 3%, Other 8%
• Founded year: 1947
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: esprit-holidays-ltd

Hotelplan UK, based in Farnborough, England, is a private travel agency and tour operator that specializes in adventure travel, ski holidays, and walking holidays. Founded in 1947, the company operates through several brands, including Explore Worldwide, Inghams, Inntravel, and Santa’s Lapland. With a workforce of approximately 218 employees, Hotelplan UK is dedicated to providing unique travel experiences while prioritizing sustainability and responsible tourism. The company has a significant presence in the UK and Europe, with expanding operations in Australia and North America. Hotelplan UK is a subsidiary of the Hotelplan Group, a Swiss travel organization. The company emphasizes enhancing customers' quality of life through exceptional travel experiences, while also committing to environmental stewardship and social responsibility.

10. Ecoventura - Galapagos

• Website: ecoventura.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Guayaquil, Guayas, Ecuador
• Employee distribution: Ecuador 88%, United States (USA) 12%
• Latest funding: December 2022
• Founded year: 1991
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: ecoventura-galapagos

Ecoventura - Galapagos is an eco-tourism company based in Guayaquil, Ecuador, specializing in luxury expedition cruises in the Galapagos Islands. Founded in 1991, the company has built a reputation for offering unique travel experiences that prioritize sustainability and responsible tourism. With a fleet of low-impact yachts, including the Origin, Theory, and Evolve, Ecoventura caters to eco-conscious travelers seeking intimate and exclusive adventures. Their services include guided excursions led by knowledgeable naturalist guides, premium accommodations, and gourmet dining, all designed to immerse guests in the natural beauty of the Galapagos. The company has been proactive in greening its operations and supporting conservation initiatives, ensuring that the islands remain a sanctuary for future generations. Ecoventura's commitment to sustainability is at the core of its mission, making it a notable player in the eco-tourism sector.

11. Explora

• Website: explora.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
• Employee distribution: Chile 81%, Peru 8%, Argentina 5%, Other 6%
• Latest funding: June 2024
• Founded year: 1993
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: explora

Explora, founded in 1993 and based in Las Condes, Santiago, Chile, is a travel company that specializes in crafting unique exploration journeys in some of South America's most remote and breathtaking locations. With a workforce of approximately 676 employees, Explora operates award-winning lodges that serve as bases for immersive travel experiences in destinations such as Patagonia, the Sacred Valley, Atacama, and Easter Island. The company emphasizes a deep connection with nature and local cultures, offering travelers the opportunity to engage with the environment in meaningful ways. Explora is also dedicated to conservation efforts, managing conservation reserves like the Puritama and Torres del Paine reserves, and actively participating in initiatives that protect endangered species and promote sustainable practices. Their commitment to education and community involvement further enhances their role in the sustainable tourism sector.

12. Sticky Rice Travel

• Website: stickyricetravel.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
• Employee distribution: Malaysia 100%
• Founded year: 2012
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: sticky-rice-travel

Sticky Rice Travel is a private travel agency based in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia, founded in 2012. The company specializes in tailor-made adventures in Malaysian Borneo, focusing on responsible travel. With a team of 26 employees, Sticky Rice Travel crafts personalized trips that explore sensitive ecosystems and indigenous cultures. Their offerings include jungle trekking, cultural tours, and eco-camp adventures, catering to travelers seeking unique experiences that respect local traditions and environments. The company is dedicated to environmental conservation and the preservation of local communities, striving to leave a positive impact through their travel experiences. Sticky Rice Travel has not reported any funding, indicating a self-sustained business model that prioritizes sustainable practices over rapid expansion.

13. Inkaterra Hotels

• Website: inkaterra.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Lima, Callao, Peru
• Employee distribution: Peru 100%
• Founded year: 1975
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: inkaterra-peru

Inkaterra Hotels, founded in 1975, is a private hospitality company based in Lima, Peru. It specializes in luxury accommodations and nature experiences, catering to travelers seeking to explore Peru's rich cultural and natural attractions, including iconic sites like Machu Picchu and the Amazon rainforest. With a workforce of around 222 employees, Inkaterra operates several properties across key tourist destinations in Peru, such as Cusco, Machu Picchu, and the Amazon region. The company is recognized for its commitment to sustainable tourism, having been acknowledged by the United Nations as the world’s first 'Climate Positive' hotel brand. Inkaterra is also 100% carbon neutral, reflecting its dedication to environmental stewardship. Each year, the company hosts over 200,000 travelers, offering unique packages and excursions that highlight Peru's biodiversity and cultural heritage. Through its initiatives, Inkaterra aims to rescue, present, and showcase Peru’s culture and nature to the world.

14. Reisen Mit Sinnen

• Website: reisenmitsinnen.de
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Dortmund, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany
• Employee distribution: Germany 100%
• Founded year: 1995
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: reisenmitsinnen

Reisen Mit Sinnen, based in Dortmund, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, is a travel agency founded in 1995. With a team of 16 employees, the company specializes in crafting sustainable and unique travel experiences across various continents, including Europe, Africa, Asia, and Oceania. Their offerings range from individual trips to group tours, catering to travelers who seek immersive and authentic experiences. A key aspect of their operations is the commitment to CO2 compensation for all trips, which reflects their focus on environmental responsibility. The agency promotes fair tourism practices and actively engages in projects that support local communities. Their approach to travel emphasizes the importance of connecting with nature and local cultures, making them a notable player in the sustainable tourism sector.

15. Footprint Travel (Vietnam, Cambodia & Laos)

• Website: footprint.vn
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Hanoi, Hanoi, Vietnam
• Employee distribution: Vietnam 100%
• Founded year: 2001
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: footprint-vietnam-travel

Footprint Travel, based in Hanoi, Vietnam, is a travel agency that specializes in responsible tourism across Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia. Founded in 2001, the company has built a reputation for offering unique and immersive travel experiences, including trekking, cycling, and cultural tours. With a team of 24 employees, Footprint Travel focuses on creating personalized travel packages that prioritize sustainability and community engagement. They have worked with various international partners to bring travelers to the region while ensuring that their operations benefit local communities. Footprint Travel is notable for being the first Vietnamese-owned tour operator to achieve Travelife Certification, which recognizes their commitment to sustainable practices. Their initiatives include community projects, educational tours, and efforts to minimize the environmental impact of tourism. Through their positive travel philosophy, Footprint Travel aims to protect the environment and respect local cultures, making them a significant player in the sustainable tourism sector.

16. Pugdundee Safaris

• Website: pugdundeesafaris.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Gurugram, Haryana, India
• Employee distribution: India 100%
• Founded year: 2009
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: pugdundee-safaris

Pugdundee Safaris is a wildlife safari company based in Gurugram, Haryana, India, founded in 2009. The company specializes in eco-tourism and offers immersive wildlife experiences across several national parks in Central India. With a team of around 300 professionals, including naturalists and hospitality experts, Pugdundee operates seven intimate jungle lodges that provide unique accommodations and activities tailored for wildlife enthusiasts. Their offerings range from luxury safaris to educational programs aimed at fostering a deeper understanding of nature. Pugdundee is actively involved in conservation and community development, believing that local communities play a crucial role in wildlife preservation. They have received recognition for their commitment to sustainability and have implemented various eco-friendly practices in their operations.

17. G Adventures

• Website: gadventures.com
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Toronto, Ontario, Canada
• Employee distribution: Canada 34%, Peru 12%, South Africa 8%, Other 45%
• Latest funding: February 2021
• Founded year: 1990
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: g-adventures

G Adventures, founded in 1990 and based in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, specializes in small-group adventure tours. With a workforce of approximately 1,435 employees, the company operates globally, offering a variety of travel experiences that cater to those seeking authentic interactions with local cultures. Their tours include options like National Geographic Journeys and wellness tours, which are designed to provide deeper insights into the destinations visited. G Adventures is committed to responsible travel, ensuring that their operations benefit local communities and promote sustainable practices. They have established a partnership with Planeterra, which focuses on community development through tourism. This collaboration allows travelers to contribute positively to the places they visit. G Adventures also promotes environmental initiatives, such as planting trees for each day of travel, reinforcing their commitment to sustainability.

18. Borneo Nature Tours Sdn. Bhd.

• Website: borneonaturetours.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
• Employee distribution: Malaysia 100%
• Founded year: 1996
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: borneo-nature-tours-sdn-bhd

Borneo Nature Tours Sdn. Bhd., established in 1996, is a private tour operator based in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia. The company specializes in nature and adventure tourism, offering a variety of guided tours, cultural experiences, and accommodations in the rainforest. With a team of approximately 39 employees, Borneo Nature Tours aims to provide unique and immersive experiences for tourists seeking to explore the natural beauty of Sabah. The company operates under the Sabah Foundation Group of Companies and has built a reputation for prioritizing sustainability and customer satisfaction. Their services include eco-friendly practices and community engagement, making them a notable player in the sustainable tourism sector.

19. Venezuela Verde

• Website: venezuelaverde.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Venezuela
• Employee distribution: Venezuela 100%
• Founded year: 2008
• Headcount: 10001+
• LinkedIn: venezuela-verde

Venezuela Verde is an eco-tourism company based in Venezuela, founded in 2008. The company specializes in providing unique ecological and adventure travel experiences that highlight the natural beauty of the country. With a strong commitment to environmental conservation, Venezuela Verde aims to educate travelers about the importance of preserving the flora and fauna of the region. Their tours are crafted to engage eco-conscious travelers who seek sustainable tourism options. Venezuela Verde collaborates with local communities and educational institutions to enhance the quality and responsibility of their services. The company emphasizes eco-education, aiming to transform travelers into advocates for environmental protection. Their mission is to create meaningful learning experiences that promote ecological awareness and inspire action towards sustainability.

20. Futurismo Azores Adventures

• Website: futurismo.pt
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Ponta Delgada, Azores, Portugal
• Employee distribution: Portugal 100%
• Founded year: 1990
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: futurismo-azores-adventures

Futurismo Azores Adventures is a family-owned travel agency and tour operator based in Ponta Delgada, Azores, Portugal. Founded in 1990, the company specializes in adventure tourism, offering a range of outdoor activities such as whale watching, hiking, and van tours. With a workforce of around 44 employees, Futurismo is dedicated to providing unique experiences that connect travelers with the natural beauty of the Azores. The company places a strong emphasis on sustainability and responsible tourism, implementing various policies to protect the environment and wildlife. Their initiatives include ceasing swimming with dolphins to prioritize animal welfare and promoting mindful travel practices. Futurismo has also engaged in scientific research, collaborating with universities to enhance their understanding of marine life. Their commitment to sustainability has earned them accolades, including the WTM Global Responsible Tourism Award, highlighting their role as a responsible operator in the tourism industry.

21. Erga

• Website: ergatourism.it
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Syracuse, Sicily, Italy
• Employee distribution: Italy 100%
• Founded year: 2015
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: erga-tourism

Erga is a private tour operator based in Syracuse, Sicily, Italy, founded in 2015. The company specializes in sustainable travel experiences, offering a variety of services that include travel itineraries, accommodations, and transportation. Erga aims to provide travelers with authentic experiences that foster genuine interactions with local cultures. Their operational model is built on collaboration with local partners, ensuring that their tourism practices are sustainable and beneficial to the communities they engage with. By focusing on slow tourism and cultural immersion, Erga positions itself as an advocate for responsible travel in Italy, promoting the preservation of the country's rich cultural and natural heritage.

22. FairMoove

• Website: fairmoove.fr
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Paris, Île-De-France, France
• Employee distribution: France 100%
• Latest funding: Seed, $5.9M, September 2023
• Founded year: 2021
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: fairmoove

FairMoove, founded in 2021 and based in Paris, is a private equity travel agency dedicated to eco-responsible tourism. With a team of around 68 employees, the company focuses on providing unique travel experiences that prioritize sustainability. They offer a range of accommodations, including glamping options, and curate travel packages that align with responsible tourism practices. FairMoove's clientele primarily consists of travelers seeking distinctive and environmentally friendly vacation experiences. The company has recently secured funding of approximately €5.86 million in September 2023, which positions them for further growth and innovation in the sustainable tourism sector. Their commitment to promoting eco-friendly travel is evident through initiatives like the FairScore, a system designed to assess the environmental impact of various travel destinations.

23. EcoColors Tours

• Website: ecotravelmexico.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Cancún, Quintana Roo, Mexico
• Employee distribution: Mexico 100%
• Founded year: 1997
• Headcount: 1-10
• LinkedIn: ecocolors-tours

EcoColors Tours, founded in 1997, is a private tour operator based in Cancún, Quintana Roo, Mexico. With a small team of around 26 employees, the company has carved a niche in the ecotourism sector by offering a variety of nature, cultural, and adventure tours. Their offerings include guided experiences to natural attractions and cultural sites, catering to tourists who seek sustainable travel options. EcoColors Tours emphasizes responsible tourism practices, ensuring that their activities respect local ecosystems and wildlife. They have received positive recognition, including recommendations on platforms like TripAdvisor, which highlights their commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. The company operates exclusively in Mexico, showcasing the country's rich biodiversity and cultural heritage through their tours.

24. Beyond Green

• Website: staybeyondgreen.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Newport Beach, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 55%, United Kingdom (UK) 14%, China 10%, Other 20%
• Founded year: 2020
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: staybeyondgreen

Beyond Green, founded in 2020 and based in Newport Beach, California, is a private company dedicated to sustainable travel. They offer luxury hotel accommodations and eco-friendly travel experiences, catering to eco-conscious travelers seeking meaningful adventures. Beyond Green emphasizes cultural engagement and environmental stewardship, ensuring that their offerings not only provide comfort but also contribute positively to the communities and ecosystems they operate within. Their members undergo a rigorous vetting process based on sustainability indicators, and they actively participate in initiatives that protect wildlife habitats and promote local cultures. With a focus on reducing carbon footprints and eliminating single-use plastics, Beyond Green is committed to making travel a force for good.

Sustainable Tourism Insights: Key Companies

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