natural resources tourist attractions

45 Natural Tourist Attractions & Wonders of America

Discover more than the natural 40 wonders of America with our comprehensive guide. Visit unforgettable destinations, from stunning national parks to incredible historic sites.

• Diverse Natural Marvels:
• Embark on a journey across the United States as we unveil 45 natural wonders, ranging from majestic landscapes and geological formations to breathtaking national parks, showcasing the incredible diversity of America's natural beauty.
• Iconic National Parks:
• Explore renowned national parks, such as Yellowstone, Grand Canyon, and Yosemite, delving into the unique features that make each park a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and adventurers alike.
• Hidden Gems and Off-the-Beaten-Path Treasures:
• Shine a light on lesser-known but equally stunning attractions, revealing hidden gems that captivate with their beauty and offer a more secluded and intimate connection with nature.
• Outdoor Adventure Hotspots:
• Cater to outdoor enthusiasts by highlighting natural attractions that provide opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, photography, and other recreational activities, ensuring a thrilling experience for those seeking adventure.
• Conservation and Sustainability Focus:
• Discuss the importance of conservation efforts and sustainable tourism practices in preserving these natural wonders for future generations, encouraging readers to explore responsibly and contribute to protecting these precious environments.

More Than 40 Wonders of America

The USA is home to natural attractions worldwide; the  United States of America is surrounded by two oceans, bisected by the Mississippi River and the Rocky Mountains, and is home to spectacular natural attractions like the Grand Canyon and Niagara Falls. Thanks to the State and National Parks systems, beautiful natural attractions may be found in all 50 states and the U.S. territories. However, some natural attractions in the United States are worth going for and should be included on your bucket list.

These are among the best-known natural attractions in the USA. Aren't there any that you like? I can't even begin to name them all because there are so many. UNESCO has designated over a dozen national parks and natural wonders in the United States as World Heritage Sites, so you might also want to look at those.

In this travel guide, we will cover the top 45 natural attractions in the USA; every piece of content in this article is written by a travel expert who wants to share his passion for natural attractions, so prepare your coffee, and let's get started with:

• Yosemite National Park
• Grand Canyon
• Grand Canyon - National Park Service
• Grand Canyon Village
• Redwood National and State Parks (U.S)
• The Garden of the Gods Visitor & Nature Center
• Old Faithful, Yellowstone's Famous Geyser
• Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park
• Hawaii Volcanoes
• Arches National Park (U.S)
• Acadia National Park (U.S)
• Crater Lake
• Denali National Park & Preserve (U.S)
• Rocky Mountain
• Columbia River Gorge
• Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area
• Everglades National Park (U.S)
• Antelope Canyon
• Kilauea | U.S
• White Sands
• Devils Tower National Monument (U.S)
• Valley of Fire - Nevada State Parks
• Bryce Canyon
• Zion National Park (U.S)
• Niagara Falls State Park
• Carlsbad Caverns
• Luray Caverns
• Glacier National Park (U.S)
• Badlands National Park (U.S)
• John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park
• The Great Smoky Mountains
• Waterfalls - Yosemite National Park (U.S)
• Waimea Canyon State Park
• Mount Rainier
• Grand Teton - National Park
• Death Valley
• Mount Washington
• Hocking Hills State Park
• Sequoia & Kings Canyon
• Black Hills & Badlands
• Upper Falls - Powerful Waterfall on the Yellowstone River
• Tahquamenon Falls State Park's Lower Falls
• Monument Rocks, the Chalk Pyramids – Kansas
• Hells Canyon National Recreation Area USA

1-Yosemite National Park

Yosemite is a national park in the United States, located in California. The Sierra National Forest and Stanislaus National Forest border east and west. The National Park Service manages the park, which covers an area of 759,620 acres (1,187 square miles: 3,074 km2) and is located in four counties: " Tuolumne, Mariposa, Mono, and Madera ". Yosemite was designated a UNESCO World Legacy Site in 1984 for its sandstone cliffs, waterfalls, pure streams, enormous sequoia groves, lakes, mountains, meadows, glaciers, and biological variety. Almost 95% of the park has been declared wilderness. Yosemite is one of Sierra Nevada's most significant and least fragmented habitat blocks, and the park is home to a diverse array of flora and animals.

The park's height ranges from 2,127 to 13,114 feet (648 to 3,997 meters). It is home to five distinct ecological zones: chaparral and oak woodlands, minor montane forest, higher montane forest, subalpine zone, and the alpine. Around half of California's 7,000 plant species are found in the Sierra Nevada, and more than a quarter are found in Yosemite.

The park provides habitat for over 160 uncommon species, with peculiar local geologic formations and specific soils defining the restricted areas that many of these plants inhabit. Granite rocks and relics of earlier rocks characterize Yosemite's geology.

The Sierra Nevada was elevated and subsequently tilted approximately 10 million years ago, resulting in the mild western slopes and the more dramatic eastern slopes. As a result of the uplift, stream, and river banks became steeper, resulting in profound, slim canyons. Around one million years ago, snow and ice collected in the higher alpine meadows, generating glaciers that drifted down river valleys. During the early glacial event, There may have been ice as thick as 4,000 feet in Yosemite Valley. (1,200 meters).

The ice masses' downslope migration carved and molded the U-shaped valley that attracts many visitors today for its stunning panoramas.

2-The Grand Canyon

Visit the Grand Canyon's northern rim, home to one of its most breathtaking sights. The Grand Canyon Lodge North Rim has been a part of this picturesque location since 1928 and offers a variety of cabin and motel room options for your next visit. When you visit us for your next holiday, take advantage of all that the canyon and lodge have to offer. The Grand Canyon's most popular section is the South Rim.

Read Also: Best Time to Visit Grand Canyon 2024

Compared to the North Rim's 8,500 feet, the South Rim's 7,000 feet of elevation makes for some exhilarating descents, and the opposing cliff's intricate red-rock stairs appear like an enormous orange IMAX in front of you. If you're up for the challenge, the South Rim's hiking trails will repay your time and energy. At the very least, check out the Bright Angel or South Kaibab Trails.

NORTH RIM allows you to enjoy a peaceful stroll. Only 10% of the park's approximately 5 million yearly visitors get it to this section of the Grand Canyon, making it less developed and more serene. Misanthropes will love this! If you want to combine a trip to Bryce, Zion, and Capitol Reef National Parks, the North Rim of the Grand Canyon is a great place to start. Hike the North Kaibab Trail or one of the short trails near the views. Most services at the North Rim shut down from mid-October to mid-May, but if the route hasn't been closed by snow, you might be able to travel there in the off-season.

Early spring through late October is the peak season for lodging, campgrounds, and guides. Be prepared.

3-The Grand Canyon - National Park

is the fifteenth national park established in the United States. The Grand Canyon is the park's centerpiece, a gorge formed by the Colorado River, sometimes called one of the World's Wonders. The park, which encompasses 1,217,262 acres (1,901.972 square miles: 4,926.08 km2) of unorganized land in Coconino and Mohave counties, attracted more than six million recreational visitors in 2017, ranking it second among all American national parks behind Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

In 1979, UNESCO proclaimed the Grand Canyon a UNESCO World Heritage Site. On February 26, 2019, the park will commemorate its centennial. After railroads were completed and pioneers developed infrastructure and early tourism, the Grand Canyon became well-known to Americans in the 1880s. 

4-The Grand Canyon Village

Grand Canyon National Park, the Kaibab National Forest Grand Canyon–Parashant National Monument, Hualapai, Havasupai, and Navajo Nation encompass the canyon and its neighboring rim. President Theodore Roosevelt strongly supported the Grand Canyon area's preservation and visited it multiple times to hunt and enjoy the grandeur.

The Colorado River and its branches exposed over two billion years of Earth's geological history when they censored their channels over layer after layer of rock as the Colorado Plateau was raised. While geologists disagree on critical details of the canyon's formation, several recent studies support that the Colorado River carved its path through the area approximately 5 to 6 million years ago. Since then, the Colorado River has pushed the tributaries and cliffs down, simultaneously deepening and enlarging the canyon.

5-Redwood National State Parks (U.S)

Redwood National and State Parks are a collection of four parks in northern California, one of which is a national park and the other three jointly maintained. The United RNSP contains 139,000 acres (560 km2) of old-growth temperate rainforests, including Redwood National Park (created in 1968) and California State Parks: Del Norte Coast, Jedediah Smith, and Prairie Creek (dating from the 1920s). At a total of 38,982 acres, in the four parks in Del Norte & Humboldt Counties forty-five percent of the remaining coast redwood ( Sequoia sempervirens ) (157.75 km2).

These trees are some of the largest and oldest on the planet. There are 37 miles (60 km) of pristine shoreline, various native plant and animal life, and grassland prairie. Social elements are also protected, as are sections of rivers and streams.

6-The Garden of the Gods Visitor & Nature Center

The Garden of the Gods Visitor & Nature Center is open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The park is open from 5:00 a.m. to 9 p.m. from November through April and 5:00 a.m. to 10 p.m. from May through October. Here, the pinon-juniper forests of the American Southwest mix with Great Plains grasslands, and the 14,115-foot Pikes Peak – America's Mountain – rises above the landscape.

With its 300 million years of geological history, the Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs offers one of the most comprehensive portraits of Earth's past anywhere in the country. It's a natural wonder.

7-Old Faithful, Yellowstone's Famous Geyser

Yellowstone's Upper Geyser Basin is home to the park's most famous geyser, Old Faithful. To help visitors better understand the geyser's behavior, a ranger station monitors the eruption's start time, height, and duration to predict when the next one will occur. With a range of 100-180 feet, Old Faithful is typically around 130-140 feet tall. In the past, its height has been measured in this range.

Read Also: Best Time to Visit Yellowstone 2024

On average, eruptions commonly last between 1.5 and 5 minutes. Old Faithful in Yellowstone, the world's most famous geyser, erupts roughly 20 times daily.

Based on the preceding eruption's duration and height, these eruptions can be forecast with a 90% confidence level and a 10-minute variation. After hours, geyser forecasts and statistics are kept by the naturalist crew. Observation, timing with a stopwatch, and recording findings in a logbook are the best methods for accomplishing this.

8-Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park

The 17-mile circular route has regenerated and now accepts only five automobiles per hour, under the NNDOH's 50% residence limit at all tribal park conveniences. With the Winter hours in force, we want to remind all tourists that all entrances are on a " First Come, First Served " basis. Due to the rocky terrain, watch for all low-level vehicles. We request that you anticipate longer wait times and harsh weather.

Follow all signage, remain on the approved route, and stay hydrated and safe. Our primary concern is for the protection of our citizens. It is one of the planet's most gorgeous – and photographed – locations.

This magnificent valley is home to sandstone marvels that soar to 400 to 1,000 feet and are framed by gorgeous clouds that send graceful shadows on the desert floor. The sun's perspective highlights these exquisite patterns, creating awe-inspiring vistas. The environment is overwhelming, not only in terms of beauty but also in terms of scale.

The fragile rock pinnacles are flanked by miles of mesas and buttes, plants and trees, and windblown sand, all contributing to the valley's beautiful colors. All of this combines to provide a genuinely spectacular experience at Monument Valley. Take advantage of this lovely land.

9-Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Kilauea, one of the most active volcanoes on the planet, may be found in the park. One of Hawaii's most popular tourist attractions, and a sacred location, is the Big Island's Volcanoes National Park. From the top of Maunaloa to the ocean, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park spans 335,259 acres, or nearly 523 square miles (by comparison, the island of Oahu is 597 square miles). A tourist center, petroglyphs, Maunaloa (which last erupted in 1984), and Kilauea (which last erupted in 2018) are among the highlights of the region's 150-mile network of hiking trails (1983-2018). Many people call Kilauea " The only drive-in volcano in the world ".

Read Also: Best Time To See The Lava in Hawaii 2024

On any day, this active volcano would spew out enough lava to cover the surface of a 20-mile two-lane road. More than 875 acres of land have been added to the island of Hawaii since January 1983. UNESCO declared the park a World Biosphere Site in 1980 and a World Heritage Site in 1987 to recognize the region's exceptional ecological variety.

10-Arches National Park (U.S)

Arches National Park is a United States national park located in eastern Utah. The park is located just north of Moab, Utah, about 4 miles north of the river. Delicate Arch is just one of many natural sandstone arches that can be seen in the park, along with other unique geological features and structures. This park has more natural arches than any other in the world.

For more than three-and-a-half million square feet (76,680 acres), the park is located on the Colorado Plateau and spans 310.31 square kilometers. Elephant Butte, the park's highest point, rises to a height of 5,653 feet (1,723 meters) while the visitor center, at 4,085 feet (1,245 meters), is the park's lowest point. The average yearly rainfall is below the 10-inch mark (254 millimeters).

On April 12, 1929, the National Park Service designated the area a national monument, and on November 12, 1971, it was renamed a national park. In 2018, around 1.6 million people visited the park. 

11-Acadia National Park (U.S)

This national park preserves the natural grandeur of the highest rocky headlands along the Atlantic coast of the United States, a plethora of habitats, and a rich cultural history. It is one of the most popular national parks in the United States, with an average of 3.5 million visitors annually. There are 27 miles of historic motorways, 158 miles of hiking trails, and 45 miles of carriage roads for visitors to explore.

On the coast of Maine, the United States, there is a spectacular national treasure known as the Isle au Haut. Natural beauty abounds no matter which vantage point you choose. Unsurprisingly, it is one of the most popular parks in North America and the United States. Located on Mount Desert Island's northeastern coast, the little seaside town of Bar Harbor enjoys a special bond with the nearby Acadia National Park.

12-Crater Lake

Located in Southern Oregon's Cascade Mountains, Crater Lake National Park is home to the seventh-deepest lake in the world and the country's deepest lake. The caldera, or volcanic basin, where the 1,943-foot-depth lake is located, was shaped after the 12,000-foot-high Mount Mazama distorted 7,700 years ago after a massive eruption. To maintain its crystal-clear appearance, the lake relies on snowfall.

Mount Hood and Mount McKinley are the park's most prominent landmarks. The park's varying elevations provide various habitats for various creatures, making it an excellent outdoor classroom and laboratory.

13-Denali National Park & Preserve (U.S)

Denali National Park and Preserve, home to North America's tallest mountain, Denali, is a U.S. national park in Alaska's interior. More than the entire state of New Hampshire, the park and its neighboring preserve 6,045,153 acres (9,446 square miles; 24,464 square kilometers).

The 2,146,580-acre Denali Wilderness was established in the park on December 2, 1980. In the lower elevations of Denali, you'll find deciduous taiga, tundra, and glaciers; at the middle elevations, you'll find bare rock, snow, and glaciers. The Kahiltna Glacier is the longest in the world. Skiing, snowmobiling, and dog sledding are popular winter pastimes. In 2018, the park welcomed 594,660 recreational guests.

14-Rocky Mountain

North America's largest and most prominent mountain ranges. In a straight line, the Rocky Mountains cover an area of 4,800 km2 and extend from northernmost British Columbia, Canada, to New Mexico, USA.

Its northern terminus can be found in the Terminal Range in northern British Columbia, south of the Liard River and east of the Trench, or in the northern foothills of the Brooks Range/British Mountains, which face the Beaufort Sea coasts between the Canning and Firth Rivers across the Alaska-Yukon border, depending on definitions differing between Canada and the United States.

New Mexico's Rio Grande Basin and the Sandia–Manzano Mountains are to the north of its southernmost point. The Rockies are unique from the tectonic activity newer the Cascade Range and the Sierra Nevada, which lie further to the west since they constitute the easternmost part of the North American Cordillera.

Colorado, Wyoming, New Mexico, Montana, and Utah are home to most of the Rocky Mountains' tallest peaks with a 500-meter topographic prominence (78 of the 100, including the 30 highest). Mountaineering, camping, fishing, hunting, mountain biking, snowmobiling, skiing, and snowboarding are just a few activities in the area's public parks and forests.

15-Columbia River Gorge

It's an esoteric Columbia River gorge in the United States Pacific Northwest. The river cuts a 130-mile (240-kilometer) swath through the Cascade Mountains as it flows westward, providing a natural border between Washington and Oregon at a depth of up to 1,200 meters (4,000 feet).

The only navigable path over the Cascade Mountains and access to the Pacific Ocean is provided by the water gap between the Columbia Plateau and the Pacific Ocean (approximately from the confluence of Columbia and Deschutes Rivers in the east to the eastern outskirts of Portland urban area in the west). Interstate 84, US Route 30, Washington State Route 14, and train tracks comprise this corridor.

The Columbia River Gorge Commission and the U.S. Forest Service jointly manage the gorge, a popular tourist destination designated as the Columbia Gorge National Scenic Area by the federal government.

16-Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area

Incredible natural beauty may be seen in the Columbia Gorge. This diverse ecosystem, which includes everything from tropical rainforests to arid grasslands, has the largest concentration of waterfalls in North America and is home to innumerable bird, fish, and plant species, including 15 unique species of wildflowers.

Many people live in the Gorge because of its natural beauty and sensitive community-nature balance. However, this equilibrium has been and continues to be jeopardized by the development demands.

17-Everglades National Park (U.S)

The Everglades is a 1.5 million-acre wetland area in southern Florida. Planning is essential because the park spans a vast swath of southern Florida. Everglades National Park has three entrances, none connected; visitors must travel to separate parts of South Florida to reach each one. Every one of these locales has a vast choice of things to do! On the Anhinga Trail, you can see many species, including turtles, herons, and alligators! To get a bird's eye perspective of the glades, climb the 65-foot observation tower at Shark Valley. To see crocodiles, manatees, and dolphins in their natural habitat, take a boat or kayak tour of Florida Bay, Mainland Florida's southernmost point, Flamingo is the perfect place to catch the sunset.

The pinelands can be explored on a bike, the Nine-Mile Pond can be paddled through the mangroves, or the historic Nike Hercules missile facility can be visited. You'll have to slog through a cypress dome to get there. Camping along the Wilderness Waterway's 99-mile length is an excellent opportunity to escape it all for a week. The Everglades National Park in Florida protects the southern twenty percent of the original Everglades in Florida. Located east of the Mississippi River, it is the largest tropical forest in the United States and the largest wilderness east of the Mississippi River. The park attracts an average of one million visitors each year.

In the contiguous United States, the Everglades National Park is third in size behind Death Valley and Yellowstone. The Ramsar Convention classified the park as a Wetlands of International Importance 1987. UNESCO established the Everglades & Dry Tortugas Biosphere Reserve in 1976 and listed it as a World Heritage Site in 1979.

Only three places, including the Everglades, have made all three lists. Everglades National Park was the first to be established to save a particularly vulnerable ecosystem. Wetlands and woodlands are nourished by a river that flows out of Lake Okeechobee, southwest into Florida Bay, every day. The park's mangrove ecology is the largest in the Western Hemisphere, making it an important nesting place for tropical wading birds. In addition to the Florida panther and the American crocodile, there are 350 species of birds, 300 kinds of fresh and saltwater fish, 40 species of mammals, and 50 species of reptiles that call the park home. The Biscayne Aquifer, which holds most of South Florida's freshwater, is refilled at the park. 

18-Antelope Canyon

A slot canyon is located in the American Southwest, east of Lychee, Arizona. One of the Navajo Reservation's most popular tourist attractions, it consists of five unique, beautiful slot canyon portions, each of which is referred to as " The Crack " " Rattle Snake " " Owl " " Mountain " or " The Corkscrew ". It is the park's most famous feature with a trail leading to Rainbow Bridge National Monument.

Navajos refer to Upper Antelope Canyon as "the location where water is running through the ( Slot Canyon ) rocks," hence the name Tsé bighánln. The Navajo Parks and Recreation Division refers to the spiral rock arches' in Lower Antelope Canyon as " Hazdestwazi ." Only a Navajo guide can give you entrance to these two Navajo sites, which are located in the LeChee Chapter of the Navajo Nation.

19-Kilauea U.S

Kilauea is a Hawaiian shield volcano still erupting lava into the atmosphere. The Big Island of Hawai'i comprises five volcanoes, the most active of which is Kilauea. About 100,000 years ago, a volcano erupted on the island's southeastern shore. The Hawaiian–Emperor seamount chain's present eruptive center, is the second-youngest product of the Hawaiian hotspot.

Kilauea was initially believed to be a satellite of Mauna Loa due to its lack of topographic prominence and historical coincidences with its activity. One rift zone extends 125 kilometers (78 miles) east and the other 35 kilometers (22 miles) west of the top of Kilauea as an active fault that moves vertically an average of 2 to 20 millimeters per year. 

20-White Sands National Park

White Sands is a U.S. national park in New Mexico, bordered by the White Sands Missile Range on its entire eastern boundary. All of the Tularosa Basin's 145,762 acres (227.8 square miles, 589.9 square kilometers) of white dunes, which are constructed of crystals made of the mineral gypsum, are included in the park.

In all, the largest gypsum dune field in the world is 30 feet (9.1 meters) deep, has dunes up to 60 feet (18 meters) high, and contains around 4.5 billion short tonnes (4.1 billion metric tonnes) of the mineral. Tularosa Basin terrain was home to Ice Age mammals and vast lakes, streams, and grasslands 12,000 years ago.

Rain and snowfall from the neighboring mountains dissolved gypsum and brought it into the basin as the environment warmed. Selenite crystals formed due to further warming and drying of the lakes. The crystals, broken up by strong winds, were then carried eastward by the wind.

21-Devils Tower National Monument (U.S)

The first U.S. national monument was designated in 1906 in north-easterly Wyoming near the Belle Fourche River and was known as Grizzly Bear Lodge. An eroded volcanic intrusion has uncovered a natural rock tower, which is currently 2.1 square miles (5.4 square kilometers) in area. The tower's flat top and fluted sides cover 0.6 hectares of land.

With an elevation of 5,112 feet above sea level, it stands 867 feet (264 meters) above the ground and 1,267 feet (386 meters) over the river valley. The tower was most likely created when molten rock was pushed upward and forced to spread out by a hard rock layer. Light grey and buff are the primary colors of this item.

The top of the tower is covered in lichens, sage, moss, and grass. The tower's peak is home to chipmunks, birds, and a pine forest. A large prairie dog settlement may be found at the tower's base. 

22-Valley of Fire - Nevada State Parks

Park visitors can marvel at the Valley of Fire State Park's 40, 000 acres of vivid red Aztec sandstone outcrops hidden among grey and brown tan limestone. Exhibits on the park's geology, ecology, prehistory, and history can be found in the visitor center. Participants compete with reproductions of ancient spears in an annual Atlatl Competition held at the park.

In addition to multiple campsites with shaded tables, grills, and water, the park offers a variety of hiking routes that are sure to entice visitors. Creosote bush, burro bush, and brittlebush dominate the local plant community. These include beaver tail and cholla varieties, among others. Along park roads, desert marigolds, indigo bush, and desert mallow bloom in the spring, making for a magnificent sight.

23-Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park attracts more than two million tourists annually, most visiting between March and early October. Most people plan to stay for at least a full day when they come to visit. No matter how long you stay, developing a game plan in advance will help you make the most of your time here.

Natural amphitheaters or bowls formed into the side of a high plateau make up Bryce Canyon. The Bryce Amphitheater is the most well-known, with its hoodoos, or unevenly eroded rock spires. Bryce Point, Inspiration Point, and Sunrise Point are all located within a few miles of each other in the park's initial few miles of exploration.

A shuttle service that runs from April to October alleviates congestion in this area. Other sights may be discovered on the 18-mile main route, which runs from its northernmost entrance along the plateau rim to its southernmost, highest altitudes (over 9,003 feet/2,743 meters). Hiking routes traverse the plateau's woodlands, connect overlooks along the Bryce Amphitheater's rim, and meander among the hoodoos below.

24-Zion National Park (U.S)

Zion National Park is a U.S. national park in the state of Utah, close to the city of Springdale. One of the park's most notable features is Zion Canyon, a 15-mile (24-kilometer) long and up to 2,640-foot (800-meter) deep canyon.

The North Fork of the Virgin River has eroded reddish and tan-colored Navajo Sandstone off the canyon walls. Coalpits Wash is the park's lowest point at 3,666 feet (1,117 m), while Horse Ranch Mountain is the highest at 8,726 feet (2,660 m). The park's unique location at the nexus of the Colorado Plateau, Great Basin, and the Mojave Desert, as well as its diverse range of life zones, allow for a surprising range of plant and animal life.

The park's four life zones (desert, riparian, woodland, and coniferous forest) are home to 289 species of birds, 75 animals (including 19 bats), and 32 reptiles. Mountain ranges, canyons, mesas, monolithic sandstone cliff faces, rivers and gorges, and natural arches abound in Zion National Park.

25-Niagara Falls State Park

It is located in Niagara Falls, New York, United States, in Niagara Falls. American Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, and a portion of Horseshoe Falls are all part of this park, the nation's oldest state park (also known as the Canadian Falls). A flight restriction in the Niagara Falls State Park region amounts to a no-fly zone by FAA rule 14 CFR 93 Sub E. Niagara Falls State Park does not allow unmanned aerial systems (UAS) since all flights below 3,500 feet are forbidden. There will be no permit issued.

26-Carlsbad Caverns

Carlsbad Caverns National Park is located in the Guadalupe Mountains of New Mexico. This park's centerpiece is the Carlsbad Caverns exhibit cave. The natural entrance to the cave is accessible only by foot, although an elevator is also available at the cave visitor center for those who prefer that option. About 18 miles (29 kilometers) southwest of Carlsbad, New Mexico is the park's main entrance on US Highway 62/180. This national park participates in the Junior Ranger Program; the Rattlesnake Springs Historic District and the Caverns Historic District are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

The park has been divided into approximately two-thirds of wilderness areas to ensure that no future changes are made to the habitat. The Big Room in Carlsbad Cavern is a massive limestone chamber with a circumference of 625 feet (191 meters), a width of 625 feet (191 meters), and a height of 255 feet (78 meters) at its highest point. The Big Room is the third-biggest chamber in the world and the largest in North America. 

27-Luray Caverns

Since its discovery in 1878, it has been a popular tourist attraction in Virginia, United States. There are numerous speleothems in the cavern system, including stalactites, stalagmites, flowstone, columns, mudflows, and mirrored pools.

With its lithophone created from solenoid-fired strikers that tap various-sized stalagmites to produce tones akin to those of xylophones, tuning forks, or bellows, the cavern is arguably most known for its Great Stalacpipe Organ. An 1880 investigation by the Smithsonian Institution found, " It is safe to declare that there has been possibly neither any cave in the world more entirely and richly ornamented with stalagmite and stalagmite adornment than Luray. "

28-Glacier National Park (U.S)

Glacier National Park is in northeastern Montana and borders Alberta and British Columbia. Over 130 named lakes, over 1,000 distinct species of vegetation, and hundreds of different species of animals can be found inside the park's 4,000 square kilometers (1 million acres). The " Crown of the Continent Environment " which encompasses 16,000 square miles of protected territory, is the centerpiece of this immense pristine ecosystem (41,000 km2). Native Americans were the first to settle in the area that would become Glacier National Park. The Blackfeet ruled it in the east and the Flathead in the west when European explorers arrived.

In 1895, the Blackfeet were forced to give up the mountainous portions of their treaty territory to the federal government, which were ultimately included in the park. Several hotels and chalets were built by the Great Northern Railway soon after the park opened on May 11, 1910. 350 historic hotels and chalets, including these National Historic Landmarks, are on the National Register of Historic Places. Going-to-the-Sun Road, later declared a National Historic Civil Engineering Landmark, was constructed in 1932, allowing for broader access to the park's interior by automobile for the first time.

29-Badlands National Park (U.S)

Badlands National Park is a national park in South Dakota in the United States. The park protects highly eroded buttes and pinnacles covering 242,756 acres (379,3 sq mi, 982,4 km2) and the country's largest intact mixed-grass prairie. The South Unit of the park is co-managed by the Oglala Lakota tribe and the National Park Service. 64,144 acres (100.2 sq mi, 259.6 km2) of the Badlands Wilderness are designated wilderness areas, and one of the most endangered creatures on Earth was reintroduced at this location.

Located in the Stronghold District, the park's South Unit is home to the historic Ghost Dances site, a former US Air Force bomb and gunnery range, and the 3,340-foot-high Red Shirt Table (1,020 m). It was not until 25 January 1939 that the Badlands National Monument was officially formed, despite being authorized as such on March 4, 1929.

On November 10th, 1978, Badlands became a national park. During the construction of the Ben Reifel Visitor Center in 1957–58, the Mission 66 plan was implemented for the monument. As a bonus, the Minuteman Missile National Historic Site is under the auspices of the park. Badlands National Park was used as a location for the films Dances with Wolves and Thunderheart.

30-John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park

On Florida's Key Largo, there's a Florida State Park named Fort Jefferson. Around 70 nautical square miles of nearby Atlantic Ocean seas comprise this area. At a distance of 3 miles from land, the park is around 25 miles long, it was the country's first and only underwater theme park. As of April 14, 1972, the National Park Service officially recognized the park as a historic landmark.

The park's coral reefs such as "The Molasses Reef" and the marine life are the principal draw of the area. The park attracted over a million visitors in the Fiscal Year 2004, making it the most popular state park in Florida. In the continental United States, there are just two live coral reefs: in the Gulf of Mexico off the coast of Texas and in the Florida Keys.

31-The Great Smoky Mountains

The Great Smoky Mountains, the most popular national park in the United States, is a beautiful vacation spot. Explore one of the oldest mountain ranges in the United States while hiking and camping. On the North Carolina-Tennessee border, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is built of ridges upon ridges of dense woodland.

Due to the constant morning fog, this mountain range has been dubbed the " Smoky Mountains " and is known for its richness of plant and animal life, the majesty of its ancient mountains, and the history of southern Appalachian mountain culture. Great Smoky Mountains National Park has many attractions, including more than 80 historic buildings, stunning wildflower displays, and abundant wildlife.

The Tennessee-North Carolina line divides the Great Smoky Mountains National Park region in half. Over the state line, separated by many miles of deciduous woodland, two visitor centers stand to mirror images of one another, Sugarlands and Oconaluftee. More than 200,000 people visit Grotto Falls in Yosemite National Park each year because it is one of the park's most popular attractions.

Lie in the Southeast United States, straddling the Tennessee-North Carolina state line, is the highest point in that region. The Blue Ridge Physiographic Province encompasses the Appalachian Mountains and their tributaries. The Smoky Mountains and the Smokies are common names for the mountain range. In addition to being home to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the Great Smoky Mountains are also noted for their rugged beauty. Over 11 million people visit it each year, making it the most visited national park in the country. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a designated International Biosphere Reserve.

The range is home to an estimated 187,000 acres of old-growth forest, making it the most prominent stand east of the Mississippi River. Among North America's most biodiverse ecosystems are the range's lower-elevation cove hardwood forests, while its higher-elevation Southern Appalachian spruce-fir forest is the largest in the United States. The Great Smoky Mountains are also home to the Eastern United States' densest black bear population and the world's most diversified salamander outside the tropics, found nowhere else. 

32-Waterfalls - Yosemite National Park (U.S)

A total of 2,425 feet (739 meters) falls from the upper to the lower fall in Yosemite National Park's Yosemite Valley. When the water flow is at its highest in late spring, it is a significant draw for visitors to the Sierra Nevada National Park in California. Thousands of waterfalls may be found in Yosemite National Park, ranging from massive waterfalls with a half-mile cascading water to little streams of white water that fall only a few feet.

The ideal time to see Yosemite's waterfalls is in the spring when the tremendous snowfall of the previous winter has melted and flowed into the Pacific. The best time to visit waterfalls is in May and June when they peak. Many are down to a trickle or dry up entirely by the end of summer.

33-Waimea Canyon State Park

The " Grand Canyon of the Pacific " is Waimea Canyon near Waimea, Hawaii. After American explorer John Wesley Powell visited the island of Kauai in 1869, the name erroneously credited to literalist Mark Twain became well-known.

A river carving its way through the lava and basalt structures of the area created Waimea Canyon. Ten million years ago, a central volcano on the canyon's surface collapsed, significantly impacting the canyon's formation. The Waimea Canyon is one of the world's most beautiful natural wonders, thanks to Mother Nature. The Waimea Canyon is a naturalist's dream: its lush vegetation, towering cliffs, pink and green hues, tumbling waterfalls, and stunning rainbows.

34-Saguaro US

Embodies the spirit of the American West. As a representation of the American Southwest, we are often exposed to images of the cholla cactus. Visiting the Sonoran desert isn't complete without seeing one of these florae. Most people have been awestruck by these enormous green columnar cacti. The saguaro cactus is much more significant to the indigenous Tohono O'odham people living there.

To the Tohono O'odham, these massive cacti aren't just plants; they represent an entirely new species of human being, and as such, they are highly revered members of the tribe. Succulent saguaro cacti can grow up to 40 feet tall in the United States and are the tallest cacti found in the country. 78 feet was the record for the tallest saguaro cactus.

The saguaro cactus's growth occurs at the tip, or very top, of the cactus' column. A saguaro cactus can take up to ten years to grow one inch tall. A saguaro cactus can reach a height of six and a half feet when it is 70 years old, and it will begin to bloom at that point. With maturity, a Saguaro Cactus can grow as tall as 15-16 feet and develop its first limb. During its 200th year, the saguaro cactus reaches its maximum height of 45 feet. 

35-Mount Rainier

Mount Rainier (14,410 ft [4,392 m]) is the highest mountain in the Cascade Range in Washington. It is located within Mount Rainier National Park, about 40 miles (64 kilometers) southeast of Tacoma. The mountain is only a million years old, having been sculpted by a series of lava flows that began about that time. Approximately 150 years ago, a dormant volcano erupted.

Rainier is encircled by the most extensive single-mountain glacier system in the United States outside Alaska, spanning 100 square miles (260 square kilometers). In addition to the more than two dozen named glaciers, the broad summit is also home to numerous smaller patches of permanent ice and snow. One such patch is the Nisqually Glacier, which has retreated and advanced over the last 150 years, providing scientists with valuable information about global climate change patterns and trends.

Liberty Cap, Point Success, and Columbia Crest are the three most prominent summits on the mountain ( the latter is the summit on the caldera's rim ). With dense groves of evergreen forests on its lower slopes, stunning subalpine, and altitude meadows, waterfalls, and lakes, Rainier is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. The Cascade Range's Mount Rainier is a vast, active stratovolcano located about 59 miles (95 kilometers) south-southeast of Seattle. The Cascade Volcanic Arc's tallest peak is Mount Rainier at 14,411 feet (4,392 m), making it the highest mountain in the contiguous United States and the highest in the Cascade Range.

Mt. Rainier is among the most destructive volcanoes in the world, and it is included in the Decade Volcano list because of the high chance of an eruption in the near future. Because of Mount Rainier's huge glacial ice cap, significant lahars are possible, posing a hazard to the Puyallup River Valley. According to the US Geological Survey, around 80,000 people and their homelands are at risk in Mount Rainier's lahar-hazard zones.

36-The Grand Teton - National Park

Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming is a magnificent national park just ten miles from Yellowstone National Park. It was designated as a national park in 1929 to prevent the land around the Grand Teton mountain range and its lakes from being exploited commercially. In 1950, the protected area's boundaries were expanded towards the valley below. With its 310,000 acres of topography ranging from summery wildflower meadows to roaring whitewater streams, this genuinely unique federal park is one of a kind. The oldest rocks in the National Park Service can be found in these ancient mountains, which date back over 2.7 billion years.

There are also several tranquil lakes with deep blue pools, mimicking the calm and hue of the glaciers that formed them. As the Snake River slithers through the park, lush woods coat the mountainsides, providing habitat for various fauna and vegetation, some of which date back to the prehistoric age. In northwestern Wyoming, there is a United States national park. The park's 1,300 km2 (110,000 acres) comprises the Teton Range's critical peaks and most of the northern Jackson Hole Valley.

The John D. Rockefeller Jr. Memorial Parkway connects Grand Teton National Park to Yellowstone National Park, which is only 10 miles (16 kilometers) away. The Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem is one of the world's most extensive intact mid-latitude temperate ecosystems, including almost 18 million acres (73,000 square kilometers). Grand Teton National Park visitors enjoy mountaineering, hiking, fishing, and other outdoor activities.

Backcountry camping locations can be reached by more than 1,000 drive-in campsites and more than 200 miles (320 km) of hiking paths. One of the few spots in the world to capture Snake River fine-spotted cutthroat trout can be found in the park. Privately owned motels, lodges, petrol stations, and marinas can all be found in Grand Teton National Park, managed by the National Park Service. 

37-Death Valley

In eastern California's Mojave Desert, on the Great Basin Desert's eastern boundary. Few places on Earth are hotter than this desert during the summer months. The Badwater Basin in Death Valley has a depth of 282 feet (86 meters) below sea level, making it the lowest in North America. Mount Whitney, the highest peak in the contiguous United States at 14,505 feet, is 84.6 miles (136.2 kilometers) east-southeast of this location (4,421 m).

Death Valley's Furnace Creek recorded a peak temperature of 134 degrees Fahrenheit (56.7 degrees Celsius) on July 10, 1913, making it the planet's record-holder for the warmest air temperature ever measured at its surface. Some modern scholars, however, question this reading and others made during that period, more than a century ago.

38-Mount Washington

At 6,288.2 ft (1,916.6 m), it is the highest point in the northeastern United States and the most visible mountain east of the Mississippi River. The mountain's unpredictable weather has earned it a bad reputation. The Mount Washington Observatory recorded a wind speed of 231 miles per hour (372 kilometers per hour) at the summit on the afternoon of April 12, 1934, the world record from 1934 to 1996. Mount Washington holds the record for the highest observed wind speed in the absence of a tornado or tropical cyclone. The peak can be found in Coös County, New Hampshire, as part of the Presidential Range of the White Mountains.

The mountain's peak is in the township of Sargent's Purchase, part of many unincorporated townships. Mount Washington State Park occupies an area of 60.3 acres (24.4 hectares) surrounding and includes the summit, while practically the entire mountain is under the White Mountain National Forest. It is possible to get to the peak of Mount Washington through the Mount Washington Cog Railway and the Mount Washington Auto Road. Hikers flock to the peak, which the Appalachian Trail crosses. Annual cycling and running races like the Auto Road Bicycle Hillclimb & Road Race are popular hobbies.

39-Hocking Hills State Park

It is located in the Hocking Hills region of the United States state of Ohio. Hocking State Forest borders parts of the park. Over 25 miles (40 kilometers) of hiking trails, rock formations, waterfalls, and underground caverns may be found within the parks.

Attractions include Ash Cave, Cantwell Cliff, Cedar Falls, the Conkle Hollow Nature Preserve, Rock House, the Hemlock Bridge Trail to Whispering Cave, and Cantwell Cliff. Most of the park's 200 campsites are powered, making it easy for campers to be comfortable. In addition to the nearby hiking trails, the campground includes flush toilets and hot water showers, vending machines, a camp store, and a swimming pool. Many cottages and hotels may also be found in this area.

40-Sequoia & Kings Canyon

Southern Sierra Nevada east of Visalia, California, is an American national park. On September 25, 1890, the park was created to save 404,064 acres (631 square miles; 163,519 hectares; 1,635 square kilometers) of forested mountain terrain. Mount Whitney, at 14,505 feet (4,421 meters) above sea level, is the highest point in the contiguous United States, with a vertical relief of approximately 13,000 feet (4,000 meters).

The area has two national parks, Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, which the National Park Service administers as one entity. In 1976, the Sequoia-Kings Canyon Biosphere Reserve was established by UNESCO.

Sequoias, including the most giant tree on Earth by volume, may be found throughout this park. Big trees abound in this area, including five of the world's top ten tallest, where the General Sherman tree thrives.

Located in Kings Canyon National Park's General Grant Grove, the Gigantic Forest is accessible via the General's Highway, which connects it to the General Grant Grove and other giant sequoias. Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks share 202,430 acres (316 sq miles; 81,921 hectares; 819 km2) of old-growth woods. There is a resemblance to the pre-European occupation of the southern Sierra Nevada terrain in the parks.

41-Black Hills & Badlands

Black Hills destinations include Mount Rushmore, Custer State Park, and Wind Cave, as well as the otherworldly Badlands, Devil's Tower, and otherworldly Badlands in the east and west, respectively. But that's just the tip of the iceberg. The Black Hills, an oasis in a sea of grassland, are home to nearly five million acres of forest and mountain terrain, a rich Western heritage, stunning natural beauty, and significant adventure.

On Dec. 20, 1939, the Black Hills & Badlands Tourism Association (BH&B) set out on a quest to make the Black Hills and Badlands region a must-visit destination.

42-Upper Falls - Powerful Waterfall on the Yellowstone River

The Upper Falls, 200 feet wide and 50 feet high, is Michigan's tallest and widest waterfall. Take a stroll along the paved quarter-mile path to the observation locations. Take the 93 steps to the brink viewing platform to get a close-up glimpse and feel the spray on your skin. If you've got the stamina, take the paved walk to the river's edge and descend the 112 stairs there.

43-Tahquamenon Falls State Park's Lower Falls

Tahquamenon Falls State Park's Lower Falls is a beautiful natural wonder in Michigan. The park is known for its stunning waterfalls and scenic beauty. The Lower Falls is one of the main attractions within the park. It consists of cascades and rapids along the Tahquamenon River, creating a picturesque and mesmerizing sight. The water of the falls is notable for its amber color, caused by tannins leached from the cedar swamps the river drains. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, and scenic overlooks, and even take boat tours to explore and appreciate the natural beauty of Tahquamenon Falls State Park's Lower Falls.

44-Monument Rocks, the Chalk Pyramids – Kansas

A collection of rock outcroppings along US-83 in western Kansas goes by the names of these two places. Signs are posted at the 6-mile gravel road turn-off from both directions. If you gaze in the right direction from US-83, you can see Monument Rocks off in the distance.

When a seabed was eroded during the Cretaceous Period, the 70-foot-tall sedimentary formations of Niobrara Chalk formed. A vast seabed covered much of what is now North America about 80 million years ago. From year to year, the margins of the rock formations in this limestone alter. Keep an eye out for rocks that may be damaged.

Monument Rocks, like the Castle Rock Badlands, are located on privately owned rangeland but are open to the public during daylight hours as a courtesy to the owners. It is strictly forbidden to enter the Chalk Pyramids after dark. Drones are also banned from flying over chalk formations. Please take care of your rubbish and dispose of any you discover.

National Natural Landmark status for Monument Rocks was granted by the US Ministry of the Interior in 1968. Since then, Big Basin Preserve, Baker University Wetlands, Baldwin Woods, and Rock City have all been declared National Landmarks in Kansas.

45-Hells Canyon National Recreation Area USA

It is a national recreation area in the United States of America located on the Oregon-Idaho border. The recreation area, which the US Forest Service manages as part of the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest, was established by Congress and signed into law by President Gerald Ford in late 1975 to protect the Hells Canyon area and the Snake River corridor between Hells Canyon Dam and the Oregon–Washington border.

The Hells Canyon Wilderness covers approximately 215,000 acres (335 square miles; 870 square kilometers) of the recreation area. The recreation area contains roughly 900 miles (1,400 kilometers) of hiking trails. The area is primarily located in eastern Wallowa County, Oregon. There are smaller sections in southern Idaho County, Idaho, northern Adams County, Idaho, and northeastern Baker County, Oregon.

Conclusion:

The United States of America is a vast continent with a wide variety of natural attractions to explore, and we hope that our article covers all that you need. If you have any notes regarding our website content, kindly don't hesitate to contact us and send all your notes with feedback to [email protected] as we always care about our readers to make them reach what they are searching for.

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19 Top Natural Attractions in the United States

Framed by two oceans, bisected by the great Mississippi River and the Rocky Mountains, and home to such breathtaking sites as the Grand Canyon and Niagara Falls, the United States has natural attractions in abundance. You can find gorgeous natural attractions to visit in all 50 states and U.S. territories, thanks to State and  National Parks  systems. But of course, some natural wonders in the USA are really worth traveling for and should be on your bucket list.

These are some of the most lauded natural attractions in the United States. Don't see your favorite? Indeed, there are too many of these sights to list. You may also want to check out  USA UNESCO sites , which includes more than a dozen National Parks and/or natural wonders that have been hailed by UNESCO as worthy of preservation.

Admire the Grand Canyon

TripSavvy / Alisha McDarris

Located north of Phoenix , Arizona, the Grand Canyon is one of the USA's most impressive landscapes. According to the Grand Canyon National Park Service , this great chasm measures one mile deep, 18 miles wide, and stretches for approximately 277 river miles. In all, the Grand Canyon National Park covers 1,218,375 acres.

There are many ways to see the Grand Canyon , including from an overlook in your car or RV to the Skywalk , an extended see-through walkway built and maintained by the Hualapai Nation, a native people living in this region. Grand Canyon West and the Skywalk are not a part of the Grand Canyon National Park, but nevertheless, provide a stunning view of the area.

The Grand Canyon has two official National Park areas: Grand Canyon South Rim and Grand Canyon North Rim, which is less visited and closed in the winter.

If you are a true nature buff, the best way to see the Grand Canyon is via a hike down to the Colorado River or, if you are up to it, from Rim to Rim, as hikers call it.

More than five million people visit the Grand Canyon annually, which presents a difficult challenge for the park service to maintain a pristine environment. In fact, the National Park Service banned the sale of bottled water at the Grand Canyon, so as to prevent the site from being littered with millions of plastic water bottles.

Enjoy Niagara Falls

The cascades of Niagara Falls occur where the waters of Lake Erie drain into Lake Ontario. Located in northern New York along the United States' border with Canada, the Niagara Falls attraction is shared between the two countries. On the U.S. side, you'll find Niagara Falls State Park, the oldest state park in the United States. It was established by Frederick Law Olmstead, who was also responsible for the design of New York City's Central Park. The National Park Service also maintains the Niagara Falls National Heritage Area, which is dedicated to preserving the history and culture of the Niagara Falls area.

Three main falls make up Niagara Falls: Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls. The best way to get a glimpse of the falls is to take a Maid of the Mist boat tour or visit the Cave of the Winds , which takes you close to Bridal Veil Falls, the smallest and therefore most easily accessible part of the Falls. Bring waterproof gear and prepare to get sprayed!

A favorite spot for honeymooners and daredevils over the years, Niagara Falls has become a massive tourist attraction. More than 20 million visitors on both the U.S. and Canadian side come to Niagara Falls each year, a fact that has unfortunately attracted tacky stores and chain restaurants. Yet, if you can see past these blights, you will no doubt be impressed by the sheer power and majesty of Niagara Falls.

Watch Old Faithful Erupt

If you could visit only one national park in the United States, Yellowstone National Park , located in Wyoming and parts of Montana and Idaho , would be a fine choice. As the first established national park in the world, Yellowstone contains spectacular mountains and canyons, the Yellowstone and Snake Rivers, living and petrified forests, and is teeming with wildlife.

Yellowstone is also the home of the world's largest collection of geysers—basically erupting hot springs—of which Old Faithful  is the most famous. Erupting every 60 to 110 minutes for a duration of 1.5 to 5 minutes, Old Faithful was named by the explorers of the 1870 Washburn Expedition into Yellowstone who were impressed with the geyser's eruption consistency. Though Old Faithful is not the largest geyser in the park—that would be the Steamboat Geyser—it does erupt at the most regular intervals, making it a favorite for tourists who want to witness this hydrothermal wonder.

See Denali's High Peak

Standing at a height of 20,320 feet (6,194 meters), Denali is the highest peak in the United States and the highest peak in North America. It's also one of the "Seven Summits," the highest peaks on each of the seven continents including Mount Everest (in Asia, the highest peak in the world) and Mount Aconcagua (in South America). Denali is the central feature of Denali National Park , which is comprised of six million acres of Alaskan wilderness.

Although it is remote and is known for its extremely cold weather , Denali is a huge draw for climbers and adrenaline seekers. Approximately 1,200 climbers attempt to reach Denali's summit each year. Meanwhile, about 400,000 people visit Denali National Park each year to see Denali and to enjoy the nature of one of America's most remote and pristine parks.

As for the name of the peak and park, the state of Alaska officially named it Denali in 1975 after its name in the language of the indigenous peoples of this area. A gold prospector seeking political favors named the mountain Mount McKinley after the Ohio-born politician William McKinley, who would become the 25th President of the United States. In 2015, ​the  Obama administration officially renamed the mountain Denali at the Federal level.

Visit Monument Valley

TripSavvy / Lauren Breedlove

One of the most evocative landscapes in the American Southwest is Monument Valley , consisting of sandstone buttes, mesas, and spire rock structures in the Colorado Plateau. The area stretches between the states of Utah, Colorado, Arizona, and New Mexico and includes the Four Corners area where these four states meet.

While Monument Valley is situated where the states of Utah and Arizona converge, the area is actually managed by the Navajo Nation as it is on Navajo land. The Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park includes hiking trails, camping areas, and a 17-mile scenic route for driving around the park. There is an admission fee and National Park passes are not accepted here.

Some of the best-known rock formations in Monument Valley include the East and West Mittens, which indeed look like mittens; the Three Sisters, which appear to be a nun facing two pupils; Elephant Butte; Camel Butte; the Totem Pole; and John Ford Point. The best time to visit Monument Valley is during monsoon season which lasts from July to September because the ever-changing clouds are exciting to watch and make for amazing photographs.

Hike Devils Tower

Designated as the first National Monument in the United States by President Theodore Roosevelt on September 24, 1906, Devils Tower is a 1,267-foot rock formation that juts dramatically out of the Wyoming prairie. The rock is sacred to many Native American tribes in the area, including the Lakota Sioux, Crow, Cheyenne, Kiowa, and Shoshone, who typically hold religious ceremonies in celebration of the monument in June.

Climbers also revere the challenging monolith, and thousands attempt to scale the monument via 150 routes. The federally designated park that surrounds Devils Tower covers 1,347 acres. For the less adventurous, it's fun to walk the trail around the base of the tower.

Savor the Deep Blue at Crater Lake

Oregon's Crater Lake National Park has water such a deep blue it often looks as dark as ink. The cliffs of the crater tower over 2,000 feet and most visitors walk the rim and look down into the quiet lake. 

The lake was formed when the volcano, Mount Mazama, erupted in about 5700 B.C. leaving the crater to fill gradually with water. The lake, the deepest in the United States, measures 1,900 deep.

Crater Lake National Park is closed in the winter due to snow but when it melts, you can enjoy the scenery, hiking trails, and the historic lodge and restaurant on the crater's edge. 

See Half Dome at Yosemite

Yosemite National Park, in central California, is one of those amazing places that attracts so many visitors it can affect the plant and animal life adversely. When the National Park Service was formed in 1916, Yosemite became one of the first national parks.

It is internationally recognized for its granite cliffs, biological diversity, ancient trees, and enormous waterfalls. Half Dome, often photographed by Ansel Adams, is a sheer granite cliff that has become a hallmark of Yosemite. 

The highest waterfall in North America—Yosemite Falls, at 2,425 feet—is also a visitor favorite. You can stay at accommodations in Yosemite or camp in this very popular park. 

Climb High on the Oregon Coast

TripSavvy / Jamie Ditaranto

Cape Perpetua, a large forested headland on the central Oregon Coast, towers 800 feet over the protected Marine Garden shoreline. While many are used to sandy beaches and flatlands on the coast, Cape Perpetua represents the most rugged of coastlines.

The Cape Perpetua Headland, where you can see the steep forested, rocky cliff cascade into the rough water below, is the highest viewpoint accessible by car on the Oregon Coast.

Hike Waterfalls in the Columbia River Gorge

The Columbia River Gorge area most visited is located at the point where the river cuts through the Cascade Mountain Range forming part of the border between Oregon and Washington State.

The Gorge, as it's known, is easily accessible as a day trip from Portland, Oregon. It is known for its fern and wildflower-laden hillsides flowing with waterfalls, many of them named and widely known.

Driving the Old Columbia River Highway to Multnomah Falls a favorite thing to do. The most famous of the Columbia River Gorge waterfalls, Multnomah Falls , is grand two-tiered falls cascading 611 feet down to eventually flow into the Columbia River. You can walk up to a bridge overlooking the falls or even to the top where the falls start.

Walk Out to Point Lobos in Carmel

A stunning natural area near quaint and historic Carmel, California, is the Point Lobos Natural Reserve. 

At Point Lobos, you can walk the perimeter and see craggy rock formations plunge into Monterey Bay with ocean waves crashing against the rocks. The often turquoise-colored waters are stunning.

There's a rare stand of the photographed original-growth Monterey cypress trees at the point, one of only two such groves left in the world. It's a fantastic place to get away from the weekend crowds on the streets of Carmel. 

Drive to the Snow Line at Mt. Rainier

TripSavvy / Chris VR

Washington's Mt. Rainier National Park, established in 1899, is another popular park designed to make access for those traveling by car easy. You can drive right up to the snow line, the altitude where there's still snow in summer, at Paradise.

Mt. Rainier, visible from all over the Seattle Puget Sound area, is one of the world’s largest volcanoes and stands almost three miles high.

Visitors to the park can stroll through fields of wildflowers in spring and see fall foliage later in the year. There are trees over a thousand years old. But the most beautiful part of Mt. Rainier is its snowy cap.

Sail the San Juan Islands

You don't need a sailboat to sail through the San Juan Islands of northern Washington, because the ferry that takes you to the islands from Anacortes provides you with scenic vistas and, sometimes, whale watching. The Straits of Juan de Fuca and Georgia provide visitors with sights of islands, near and far, and rugged coastlines filled with driftwood and wildlife like deer and bear. Pods of Orca call these waters home.

San Juan Island is the largest of the 172 islands that are part of the state of Washington and has a lovely city, Friday Harbor. You can relax in a comfortable inn, dine on seafood, and take a driving tour to view historical sites and a large lavender farm.

Tour the Florida Everglades

Everglades National park, an International Biosphere Reserve, is a place to see wildlife unique to the swampy habitat of southern Florida. An iconic thing to do is to tour by airboat where you'll get a sense of this dense swamp and encounter rare species such manatees, American crocodiles, a variety of birds, Florida panthers, and alligators. 

You can also paddle the swamps yourself in certain areas or take a 2-hour guided tram tour along a paved loop trail that runs 15 miles through the Everglades from the Shark Valley Visitors Center.

Photograph Wildflowers in Death Valley

In spring, especially after a wet winter, the wildflowers in Death Valley, California, are stunning. The park's famous super blooms may only happen every five to 10 years when the weather has been just right.

When that happens, the stark desert landscape just pops with color. 

The perfect combination of conditions aligns to bring the flowers out usually between mid-February and mid-April.

Death Valley National Park is worth a visit even in a non-super bloom season. The landscape is stark, full of geological oddities and towering sand dunes and you can find out about the valley's quirky former inhabitants.

Stare at Massive Saguaro Cacti

In Arizona's Saguaro National Park , you'll walk among the iconic Saguaro cacti, a symbol of the American Southwest. This park is one of the few National Parks dedicated to protecting one plant. The multi-armed Saguaros can grow up to 50 feet high and it takes about 100 years for them to reach 25 feet. Their maximum life span is about 200 years. A special time to visit is in May when they bloom with waxy yellow and white flowers.

Crane Your Neck at the Redwoods

TripSavvy / Alisha McDarris 

In Northern California,  Redwood National and State Parks , made up of four parks, are the ideal place to find the world's tallest species of tree. California has 31 redwood state and national parks but these parks are popular for visitors. The coastal environment is refreshing with shady fern-lined trails and water from the mist often dripping from the tips of the redwood branches. You can walk the Lady Bird Johnson Grove Trail, which meanders through old-growth redwood groves on a casual 2.4-kilometer hike. This is where Lady Bird Johnson, a noted nature-lover, dedicated Redwood National Park in 1968. 

Go Underground at Mammoth Cave

Mammoth Cave, Kentucky, is an amazing system of limestone caverns that tourists can see in  Mammoth Cave National Park .

There are more than 365 miles of a five-layered  cave  system mapped and more are being discovered. As the world’s longest cave system, this park has much to offer its visitors.

Tours take you down inside the earth, where you can see stunning limestone formations located 200 to 300 feet below the surface. There are large rooms filled with formations and winding tunnels. 

Experience Glacier Bay

Seeing a majestic blue-tinged glacier in person and even hearing the cracking sound as a piece breaks off is a once in a lifetime experience.

There are a number of ways to experience  Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve . Some visit Glacier Bay as part of an Alaska cruise and some take a cruise from a local harbor. Adventurers can even kayak in the bay. While touring the area you'll often see harbor seals, humpback whales, birds, and orca. 

The area around the town of Gustavus, accessible by air and boat, is where the park headquarters, visitor center, and accommodations are located.

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What is nature tourism and why is it so popular?

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Nature tourism is a fantastic type of tourism and it is on the rise! But what is it and why is it so popular? Read on to learn more…

What is nature tourism?

Why is nature tourism important, what is the difference between nature tourism and ecotourism, types of nature tourism, bird watching, scuba diving, scenic driving, bush walking, visiting parks, fishing , cycling , nature tours, nature tourism- further reading.

Nature tourism is all about visiting natural areas and is closed aligned with the concept of rural tourism . Places that nature tourists might visit include might include beaches, forests or national parks. Activities focus on the natural environment rather than visiting man-mad features; think stargazing and hiking, for example. There are locations right across the globe which are perfect for nature tourism.

The CBI (Centre for the Promotion of Imports from Developing Countries) in the Netherlands define nature tourism as follows:

Nature tourism, also called nature-based tourism, is tourism based on the natural attractions of an area. It consists of responsible travel to experience natural areas and their landscape, flora and fauna, protecting the environment and improving the quality of life of locals.

Nature tourism is important as it allows people to see and appreciate the beauty of our natural environment. Through this kind of tourism, we are able to escape the pollution and pressures of city life – it is good for our physical and mental wellbeing to be out in nature, breathing in fresh air and seeing lush greenery or sparkly blue seas. Nature tourism also encourages visitors to take an interest in the natural environment, which may then translate to them making a more conscious effort where environmental issues are concerned. With climate change being an ever-present and ongoing issue, this is definitely a good thing.

Following on from this, nature tourism gives land owners, local communities and local governments more reason to preserve and take care of natural areas. If they know people will come to visit, it is in their best interest to look after these places and is a great incentive for developing their sustainable tourism provision. Visiting tourists can do wonders for local community pride this way.

As with all tourism, nature tourism brings in money . This economic boost trickles down through a whole community; people need places to stay, and food to eat, and they want to buy souvenirs. Hikers may need to buy replacement walking boots, and weary explorers will always need somewhere to rest their heads at night. Jobs are created and economies are boosted through natural tourism, in the surrounding areas of the specific locations too.

Is nature tourism different from ecotourism? Put simply, yes. They are very similar, but ecotourism is perhaps a more specialised branch of nature tourism if we were looking to clearly define the difference in some way. Nature tourism is about visiting an area – responsibly, yes – rather than actively aiming to learn about the environment and participating in its protection. A nature tourist might visit a beach and admire its beauty, while an ecotourist might join in with a beach clean-up. The lines are blurred, of course, as they so often are when we try to differentiate between types of tourism .

There are different types of nature tourism. This is where we will see similarities with another kind of tourism: adventure tourism. You can read all about adventure tourism here if you’re interested! However, the similarity is that both can be split into two ‘types’: hard and soft.

Soft nature tourism might involve bird watching, visiting a beach to sunbathe, gentle walks through country parks and so on. Hard nature tourism is a bit more tough going: mountain climbing, bush walking and scuba diving, for example. Below I’ll go into some of these specific examples, so you can see how diverse nature tourism is!

Nature tourism examples

There are many examples of nature tourism to be found. Keep reading to see what they are, and whether they fall into the hard or soft category.

Bird watching is an example of soft nature tourism. People of all ages and abilities can do this, with or without a guide. You just need some background knowledge of bird species (or a book explaining them) and perhaps some binoculars. the Gambia is a hotspot for bird watching!

This is more of an example of hard nature tourism. It’s much more adventurous, and requires specialist equipment and a guide or a lot of training/experience. Head under the water to see what kind of nature is on display down there: coral, fish, shells and so much more. It’s subjective, but Barracuda Point in Malaysia is apparently the most beautiful place in the world to scuba dive… and I am a big fan of diving in Dahab , Egypt too!

This is another ‘soft’ activity in that it is low-risk and doesn’t require physical exertion. The North Coast 500 in Scotland is an example of a famous scenic drive – this is a great way to experience nature. From rolling hills to winding rivers, there is so much to see out of the window from the comfort of your car. Another fantastic example is the Kings Highway in Jordan , where you will see endless desert, canyons and incredible rock formations.

Camping is, again, an example of soft nature tourism. While it’s a little more ‘involved’ than scenic driving, for example, it is still relatively low risk and most of us are able to participate. Mount Cook National Park in New Zealand is said to be one of the most beautiful places in the world to camp, with its green landscapes and snowy mountain scenery. Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro gives you some fantastic camping opportunities too- just make sure you buy the best wild camping tent !

While controversial, hunting tourism is an example of nature tourism as it takes place in natural spaces. It is definitely one for the hard category, as you need special equipment to do so and it can obviously be quite dangerous if you don’t know what you’re doing. It is also often a discussion point for ethical tourism .

For the most part, this is a very safe activity and therefore falls into the soft category again. Guided tours are available in all of the very best stargazing locations, such as El Teide National Park in Tenerife, and it has even spawned its own branch of tourism. This is known as dark sky tourism, and there are many examples of activities that fall within this. They include stargazing, of course, alongside seeing the Northern Lights, watching an eclipse, astronomy tours and staying in accommodations that offer a clear view of the night sky such as glass domes.

This can be dangerous in that it is all about going off the beaten track, and walking through bushes/on rough ground. Therefore we can categorise this as hard nature tourism; it is something you would do when hiking, and gives you a bit of an adrenaline kick!

One of the easiest and most common forms of nature tourism is simply visiting a park. Whether this is a UK national park or your local green space at home, visiting a park is a definite example of this type of tourism. You’ll see birds, insects, flowers, trees, grass and more. Have a leisurely stroll, cycle through or sit and eat a picnic surrounded by nature.

Fishing falls in the middle of the soft and hard categories. You do need specialist equipment, but with most types of fishing there is little to no risk to life involved. But you need to be in nature – by or even on a lake or river – to do it, so it definitely counts as a form of nature tourism. People have obviously been fishing for years as a source of food gathering, but it is also a recreational hobby enjoyed by many.

This is another middle of the road activity. Kayaking can be dangerous, although it usually isn’t – you’ll often have a guide with you, and of course specialist equipment (the kayak) is required. It’s a really fun activity that many people enjoy!

You can visit a beach and simply do… nothing! This is still an example of nature tourism, as beaches are natural environments. Bali has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, and tourists flock there to relax and soak up the sunshine. Beaches are also usually near to bars and restaurants, and you might find people doing beach yoga or watching the sunrise/sunset. Thailand even has all-night moonlight beach parties. They are versatile and beautiful locations!

Again, another activity that could be considered hard or soft. It depends where you go, really. A gentle bike ride along a specific cycle lane through a park is nothing like mountain biking in harsh terrains. It’s all about the level of ability you have and what risks you’re willing to take. But cycling is definitely a great way to get out and about in nature. It is also a low-cost and eco-friendly activity, which makes it a winner from many angles.

These tend to be a longer duration than many activities mentioned above, which you may do regularly but for a few hours at a time. Nature tours are days or even weeks-long trips, out into the wilderness with nature and wildlife experts. You might travel by air or train, or go on a cruise, and your guide will be on hand to point out every aspect of nature there is to see. These nature tours will take visitors to some of the most beautiful destinations on earth, such as trekking in Chiang Mai , Croatia, seeing the glaciers in Iceland and Alaska, and gazing at the best waterfalls in Finger Lakes . They’ll set you back a fair bit, but the memories you’ll make seeing bears and waterfalls and glorious sunsets will more than make up for it!

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What Is Ecotourism? Definition, Examples, and Pros and Cons

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Ecotourism Definition and Principles

Pros and cons.

• Examples of Ecotourism
• Frequently Asked Questions

Ecotourism is about more than simply visiting natural attractions or natural places; it’s about doing so in a responsible and sustainable manner. The term itself refers to traveling to natural areas with a focus on environmental conservation. The goal is to educate tourists about conservation efforts while offering them the chance to explore nature.

Ecotourism has benefited destinations like Madagascar, Ecuador, Kenya, and Costa Rica, and has helped provide economic growth in some of the world’s most impoverished communities. The global ecotourism market produced $92.2 billion in 2019 and is forecasted to generate $103.8 billion by 2027.

A conservationist by the name of Hector Ceballos-Lascurain is often credited with the first definition of ecotourism in 1987, that is, “tourism that consists in travelling to relatively undisturbed or uncontaminated natural areas with the specific object of studying, admiring and enjoying the scenery and its wild plants and animals, as well as any existing cultural manifestations (both past and present) found in these areas.”

The International Ecotourism Society (TIES), a non-profit organization dedicated to the development of ecotourism since 1990, defines ecotourism as “responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment, sustains the well-being of the local people, and involves interpretation and education [both in its staff and its guests].”

The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) looks at ecotourism as a significant tool for conservation, though it shouldn’t be seen as a fix-all when it comes to conservation challenges:

“There may be some areas that are just not appropriate for ecotourism development and some businesses that just won’t work in the larger tourism market. That is why it is so important to understand the basics of developing and running a successful business, to ensure that your business idea is viable and will be profitable, allowing it to most effectively benefit the surrounding environment and communities.”

Marketing an ecosystem, species, or landscape towards ecotourists helps create value, and that value can help raise funds to protect and conserve those natural resources.

Sustainable ecotourism should be guided by three core principles: conservation, communities, and education.

Conservation

Conservation is arguably the most important component of ecotourism because it should offer long-term, sustainable solutions to enhancing and protecting biodiversity and nature. This is typically achieved through economic incentives paid by tourists seeking a nature-based experience, but can also come from the tourism organizations themselves, research, or direct environmental conservation efforts.

Communities

Ecotourism should increase employment opportunities and empower local communities, helping in the fight against global social issues like poverty and achieving sustainable development.

Interpretation

One of the most overlooked aspects of ecotourism is the education component. Yes, we all want to see these beautiful, natural places, but it also pays to learn about them. Increasing awareness about environmental issues and promoting a greater understanding and appreciation for nature is arguably just as important as conservation.

As one of the fastest growing sectors of the tourism industry, there are bound to be some downsides to ecotourism. Whenever humans interact with animals or even with the environment, it risks the chance of human-wildlife conflict or other negative effects; if done so with respect and responsibility in mind, however, ecotourism can reap enormous benefits to protected areas.

As an industry that relies heavily on the presentation of eco-friendly components to attract customers, ecotourism has the inevitable potential as a vessel for greenwashing. Part of planning a trip rooted in ecotourism is doing research to ensure that an organization is truly providing substantial benefits to the environment rather than exploiting it.

Ecotourism Can Provide Sustainable Income for Local Communities

Sustainably managed ecotourism can support poverty alleviation by providing employment for local communities, which can offer them alternative means of livelihood outside of unsustainable ones (such as poaching).

Research published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences found that communities in regions surrounding conservation areas in Costa Rica had poverty rates that were 16% lower than in areas that weren’t near protected parks. These protected areas didn’t just benefit from conservation funds due to ecotourism, but also helped to reduce poverty as well.

It Protects Natural Ecosystems

Ecotourism offers unique travel experiences focusing on nature and education, with an emphasis on sustainability and highlighting threatened or endangered species. It combines conservation with local communities and sustainable travel , highlighting principles (and operations) that minimize negative impacts and expose visitors to unique ecosystems and natural areas. When managed correctly, ecotourism can benefit both the traveler and the environment, since the money that goes into ecotourism often goes directly towards protecting the natural areas they visit.

Each year, researchers release findings on how tourist presence affects wildlife, sometimes with varying results. A study measuring levels of the stress hormone cortisol in wild habituated Malaysian orangutans found that the animals were not chronically stressed by the presence of ecotourists. The orangutans lived in the Lower Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary, where a local community-managed organization operates while maintaining strict guidelines to protect them.

Ecotourism May Also Hurt Those Same Natural Ecosystems

Somewhat ironically, sometimes ecotourism can hurt ecosystems just as much as it can help. Another study in the journal Trends in Ecology and Evolution found that ecotourism can alter animal behaviors in ways that put them at risk. If the presence of humans changes the way animals behave, those changes may make them more vulnerable by influencing their reaction to predators or poachers.

It's not just the animals who are at risk. As ecotourism activities become too popular, it can lead to the construction of new infrastructure to accommodate more visitors. Similarly, more crowds mean more pressure on local resources, increased pollution, and a higher chance of damaging the soil and plant quality through erosion. On the social side, these activities may displace Indigenous groups or local communities from their native lands, preventing them from benefiting from the economic opportunities of tourism.

Ecotourism Offers the Opportunity to Experience Nature

Renown conservationist Jane Goodall has a famous quote: “Only if we understand, will we care. Only if we care, will we help. Only if we help, shall all be saved.” It can be difficult to understand something that we haven’t seen with our own eyes, and ecotourism gives travelers the opportunity to gain new experiences in natural areas while learning about the issues they face. 

Ecotourism also educates children about nature, potentially creating new generations of nature lovers that could someday become conservationists themselves. Even adult visitors may learn new ways to improve their ecological footprints .

EXAMPLES OF ECOTOURISM

The East African country has some competitive advantages over its neighbors thanks to its rich natural resources, paired with the fact that it has allocated over 25% of its total area to wildlife national parks and protected areas. Because of this, an estimated 90% of tourists visit to Tanzania seeking out ecotourism activities. Ecotourism, in turn, supports 400,000 jobs and accounts for 17.2% of the national GDP, earning about $1 billion each year as its leading economic sector.

Some of Tanzania’s biggest highlights include the Serengeti, Mount Kilimanjaro , and Zanzibar, though the country still often goes overlooked by American tourists. Visitors can take a walking safari tour in the famous Ngorongoro Conservation area, for example, with fees going to support the local Maasai community.

The country is also known for its chimpanzees , and there are several ecotourism opportunities in Gombe National Park that go directly towards protecting chimpanzee habitats.

Galapagos Islands

It comes as no surprise that the place first made famous by legendary naturalist Charles Darwin would go on to become one of the most sought-after ecotourism destinations on Earth, the Galapagos Islands .

The Directorate of the Galapagos National Park and the Ecuadorian Ministry of Tourism require tour providers to conserve water and energy, recycle waste, source locally produced goods, hire local employees with a fair wage, and offer employees additional training. A total of 97% of the land area on the Galapagos is part of the official national park, and all of its 330 islands have been divided into zones that are either completely free of human impact, protected restoration areas, or reduced impact zones adjacent to tourist-friendly areas.

Local authorities still have to be on their toes, however, since UNESCO lists increased tourism as one of the main threats facing the Galapagos today. The bulk of funding for the conservation and management of the archipelago comes from a combination of governmental institutions and entry fees paid by tourists.

Costa Rica is well-known throughout the world for its emphasis on nature-based tourism, from its numerous animal sanctuaries to its plethora of national parks and reserves. Programs like its “Ecological Blue Flag” program help inform tourists of beaches that have maintained a strict set of eco-friendly criteria.

The country’s forest cover went from 26% in 1983 to over 52% in 2021 thanks to the government’s decision to create more protected areas and promote ecotourism in the country . Now, over a quarter of its total land area is zoned as protected territory.

Costa Rica welcomes 1.7 million travelers per year, and most of them come to experience the country’s vibrant wildlife and diverse ecosystems. Its numerous biological reserves and protected parks hold some of the most extraordinary biodiversity on Earth, so the country takes special care to keep environmental conservation high on its list of priorities. 

New Zealand

In 2019, tourism generated $16.2 billion, or 5.8% of the GDP, in New Zealand. That same year, 8.4% of its citizens were employed in the tourism industry, and tourists generated $3.8 billion in tax revenue.

The country offers a vast number of ecotourism experiences, from animal sanctuaries to natural wildlife on land, sea, and even natural caves. New Zealand’s South Pacific environment, full of sights like glaciers and volcanic landscapes, is actually quite fragile, so the government puts a lot of effort into keeping it safe.

Tongariro National Park, for example, is the oldest national park in the country, and has been named by UNESCO as one of only 28 mixed cultural and natural World Heritage Sites. Its diverse volcanic landscapes and the cultural heritage of the indigenous Maori tribes within the create the perfect combination of community, education, and conservation.

How to Be a Responsible Ecotourist

• Ensure that the organizations you hire provide financial contributions to benefit conservation and find out where your money is going.
• Ask about specific steps the organization takes to protect the environment where they operate, such as recycling or promoting sustainable policies.
• Find out if they include the local community in their activities, such as hiring local guides, giving back, or through initiatives to empower the community.
• Make sure there are educational elements to the program. Does the organization take steps to respect the destination’s culture as well as its biodiversity?
• See if your organization is connected to a non-profit or charity like the International Ecotourism Society .
• Understand that wildlife interactions should be non-invasive and avoid negative impacts on the animals.

Ecotourism activities typically involve visiting and enjoying a natural place without disturbing the landscape or its inhabitants. This might involve going for a hike on a forest trail, mountain biking, surfing, bird watching, camping, or forest bathing . 

Traveling in a way that minimizes carbon emissions, like taking a train or bike instead of flying, may also be part of an ecotourism trip. Because these modes of travel tend to be slower, they may be appreciated as enjoyable and relaxing ecotourism activities.

The Wolf Conservation Center ’s programing in New York State is an example of ecotourism. This non-profit organization is dedicated to the preservation of endangered wolf species. It hosts educational sessions that allow visitors to observe wolves from a safe distance. These programs help to fund the nonprofit organization’s conservation and wildlife rehabilitation efforts.

Stonehouse, Bernard. " Ecotourism ." Environmental Geology: Encyclopedia of Earth Science , 1999, doi:10.1007/1-4020-4494-1_101

" What is Ecotourism? " The International Ecotourism Society .

" Tourism ." International Union for Conservation of Nature .

https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.1307712111

https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0033357

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https://doi.org/10.5897/JHMT2016.0207

" Galapagos Islands ." UNESCO .

" About Costa Rica ." Embassy of Costa Rica in Washington DC .

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16 sustainable tourist destinations you must visit

Travel Travel Inspiration Sustainable Travel Sustainable Tourist Destinations

We can all agree that Sustainable travel is the need of the hour. To impelement that, we need to collectively implement sustainable practices. When implemented globally, sustainable practices have the potential to stem the deterioration of global resources. Primary transit to the general site, local transit, lodging, entertainment, recreation, food, and shopping are all examples of activities that could potentially accommodate sustainable tourism practices.

There is now widespread agreement that tourist development should be long-term. As one of the world's most significant and fastest-growing sectors, tourism will continue to put a strain on existing biologically diverse environments and indigenous traditions, which are frequently exploited to sustain mass tourism. As such, sustainable tourist attractions like Vena Cava, Byron Bay Solar Train, Dive Azores, Jewel Changi, Table Mountain Cableway, and Climate Museum are the way to go. Read on to find out more about some of the foremost sustainable tourist attractions around the world.

16 Sustainable Tourist Experiences & Destinations Around The World

1. table mountain cableway, south africa, best time to visit : march to may and september to november.

The sustainable Table Mountain Cableway is the way to go if you want to reach the 1086m-high pinnacle of Table Mountain without breaking a sweat. The views from both the revolving vehicle and the summit are spectacular. The cable cars run every 10 to 20 minutes. The entire operation has adopted numerous initiatives to stay true to its sustainable and responsible path. Table Mountain Cableway Company takes part in biodiversity conservation drives. It uses compostable crockeries, practices recycling, and is water-wise ints operation. Table Mountain Cableway has been carbon neutral since 2016. It aims to dramatically cut down its waste generation year on year despite its increasing popularity.

2. Copenhill, Denmark

Best time to visit : may to august.

Copenhagen's finest innovation in sustainability, architecture and tourism is the newly inaugurated CopenHill. CopenHill, which is partly a green power plant and partly a ski slope, draws over 300,000 tourists per year mainly owing to its landscape and the general novelty of the idea. The hybrid plant beneath CopenHill heats 60,000 homes and supplies energy to over 30,000 others. The incineration is practically pollution-free thanks to cutting-edge catalytic filtration. CopenHill, according to architect Bjarke Ingels, is not just the world's cleanest waste-to-energy power plant. It serves as a model for other communities, demonstrating that a sustainable city is not only better for the environment but also better for its residents' lives.

3. Eden Project, UK

Best time to visit : march to june and september to november.

The Eden Project's massive hemispherical greenhouses, which resemble a cross between a lunar landing station and a James Bond villain's lair, have become a symbol of Cornwall's renaissance. Eden's glass-domed "biomes" created in an abandoned clay pit near St Austell, reproduce major world climate systems in microcosm, from the Amazon rainforest's lush rainforests with stinking rafflesia flowers and banana trees to the Mediterranean's olive trees, lemon orchards, and colorful flowers. Cornish plants, local wildflowers, and flora from South Africa and South Korea are among the plants in the exterior gardens. The Eden Project, which opened at the turn of the 21st century and is now considered one of Britain's modern architectural wonders, strives to examine environmental and conservation challenges and indicate the way to a cleaner, greener future for us all.

4. Jewel Changi, Singapore

Best time to visit : february to april read more: things to at jewel changi.

Singapore's urban garden game was stepped up in 2019 with an airport terminal that you would never want to leave. Jewel at Changi is a green oasis with a hedge labyrinth, a canopy bridge, and the world's highest indoor waterfall, thanks to cutting-edge sustainable technology. At Jewel Changi, energy and emissions management includes maintaining the highest levels of air quality at the airport and providing appropriate climate protection. Jewel at Changi is in line with Singapore's water security objectives, which include a change to more weather-resistant national taps. Changi Airport is a crucial infrastructure component that influences Singapore's economic development. Through worker volunteerism, corporate philanthropy, and stakeholder relationships, Jewel at Changi gives back to the communities in a variety of ways, thus rounding off its efforts towards sustainable tourism.

Recommended Jewel Changi Tickets

5. tij observatory, netherlands.

Image Courtesy: ArchDaily

Tij Observatory, modeled after a tern's egg, is a spectacular public birdwatching observatory in the Scheelhoek Nature Reserve in Stellendam, the Netherlands, meant to be as gentle on the environment as possible. The observatory, which is made of sustainable wood and coated in thatched reeds, is approached through a tunnel made of recycled bulkheads to minimize bird disturbance. In the Netherlands, Tij Observatory protects around 100,000 hectares of land. They are dedicated to the Netherlands' remaining natural resources as well as the new natural resources that will emerge in the future. Tij Observatory loves to take things a step further, therefore it works not just in the places it manages, but also in ways that are appropriate for today's Netherlands. Tij Observatory calls on all Dutch people to work together to produce, care for, and conserve new nature.

6. Climate Museum, USA

Best time to visit : all around the year.

Since 2017, the Climate Museum in New York has amassed a devoted following thanks to its unique public exhibitions and events held throughout the city. Climate Signals was one of the organization's achievements. When it became possible to visit the Climate Museum from the comfort of one's own home, it marked a watershed moment. You can now explore prior programming on their YouTube channel, read the latest from staff members on their blog, volunteer online, and take action through Climate Art for Congress and Climate Ambassador Cards. The Climate Museum is fostering a climate-action culture by bringing people from all walks of life into the discussion and fostering a sense of belonging around just solutions. The Climate Museum builds on museums' appeal and trust by bringing people together to learn about solutions and join the fight for a better future, while also giving different channels into community involvement.

7. Ocean Atlas, Bahamas

Best time to visit : november to february image courtesy: andré musgrove jason decaires taylor, a british sculptor and environmental campaigner, is known for his bizarre underwater sculptures that function as artificial reefs. ocean atlas, a 60-plus-ton sculpture in nassau that depicts a little girl supporting the water's ceiling, much like the fabled greek titan who bore the load of the skies, is meant to reflect the environmental weight we are asking future generations to bear. ocean atlas, built with ph-neutral materials, offers an artificial reef for marine life to colonize and inhabit while diverting tourists away from over-exploited natural reef areas. it has attracted international media attention, which has drawn attention to a long-running oil leak from a power station refinery a few miles up the coast that has been damaging the marine environment for years., 8. the sauna in frihamnen, sweden, best time to visit : june to august.

Image Courtesy: Dezeen

The Sauna in Frihamnen was built entirely from recycled materials as part of the continuous regeneration of the Gothenburg port area into an ultra-sustainable leisure destination. The sauna was designed by the German architectural company Raumlabor Berlin and is made up largely of recycled materials. The rusted steel outside of the sauna is entirely made of recycled materials, while the changing room walls are made of 12,000 recycled glass bottles. It represents how the lvstranden development company intends to develop the Gothenburg RiverCity in the future: sustainably, making the river accessible to all, and gradually allowing new places to emerge in participation and dialogue with Gothenburg residents, all while maintaining high standards of quality. The Kasper Salin Prize for greatest Swedish construction has been proposed for the free public sauna in Frihamnen, Gothenburg's harbor.

9. Byron Bay Solar Train, Australia

Best time to visit : february, march, september, and october.

The world's first solar-powered train made its inaugural ride over a picturesque 3km section of disused rail line in 2017, connecting the heart of surf resort Byron Bay to a thriving arts estate. On the wonderfully rebuilt historical train, fares are collected by a conductor instead of ticket machines. To provide a legacy rail service linking two significant Byron Bay centers, the Byron Bay Railroad Company has restored a derelict heritage train, rebuilt three kilometers of the railway line, a bridge, and conserved a stretch of an out-of-service rail route. The train is entirely powered by solar energy. The train is powered by 23% of the energy generated by solar panels on the railway shed roof feeding the onboard batteries, while the rest 77 percent is supplied into the grid via green energy provider Enova to power the local neighborhood. The train also has regenerative braking, which uses the train's braking force to charge the batteries as it slows down.

10. Azurmendi, Spain

Image Courtesy: Flickr | Dale Cruse

Azurmendi, a three-Michelin-star restaurant near Bilbao, has twice won the World's 50 Best Restaurants' sustainable restaurant accolade, proving that sustainability is fashionable. Visitors can see the on-site greenhouses and vegetable fields that supply the innovative cuisine, which is powered by solar and geothermal energy. Azurmendi is a remarkable bioclimatic building located in Larrabetzu and built into the side of a hill planted with native grapes. It is also a location that is linked to the natural environment around it, where sustainable development is coupled with cuisine as a legacy and a right of future generations. The restaurant's attempts to integrate sustainable development principles into its operations have paid off. The ratio was 84 percent in 2014, and it reached 92.33 percent in 2018.

11. Wunderland Kalkar, Germany

Following the Chernobyl accident in 1986, German authorities opted not to start up a new multibillion-euro nuclear plant near the Dutch border. It wasn't, however, a total loss. The site was turned into Wunderland Kalkar, an entertainment park with a swing ride inside the reactor's cooling tower, in the 1990s. Wunderland Kalkar arose from the decommissioned "Schneller Brüter" nuclear power station. Hennie van der Most, a Dutchman, purchased the nuclear power station in 1995 and converted it into a hotel, meeting center, and leisure facility. Wunderland Kalkar is located just across the border between Arnhem and Nijmegen, amidst wonderfully planted gardens and ponds. The repurposing of a nuclear power plant into something that has a positive impact on the environment is a testament to the current generation’s commitment to sustainability.

12. Vena Cava, Mexico

Best time to visit : november to february.

Image Courtesy: Flickr | T.Tseng

Vena Cava bills itself as Mexico's trendiest vineyard, and it is hard to disagree when you see this all-organic Baja winery, which was built from recovered fishing boats and other repurposed materials. Even better, tastings are available every day of the week at its basement door. Phil and Eileen Gregory's appreciation for nature, the reuse of materials, and sustainability in their activities at La Villa del Valle are a personal vision and lifestyle that they enjoy sharing with their guests. The winery is situated in the center of the Guadalupe Valley, amongst a dramatic mountainous backdrop. The soil is rich in minerals, and there is a wonderful microclimate in this area, with warm days predominating and mild mornings and afternoons that receive the sea air and protect the vineyard from the cold, creating an ideal setting for grape growth and development.

13. Galapagos National Park, Ecuador

Best time to visit : december to may.

The Galapagos Conservancy advises travelers to the Galapagos Islands to travel with accredited, licensed tour operators who are dedicated to Galapagos conservation. The travel partners have corporate ideologies or are members of organizations that ensure that their operations adhere to high environmental and social standards. The Galapagos Islands were classified as the world's first UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979, an honor given to our planet's most beautiful sites. Galapagos Islands National Park was established to conserve the islands' unique indigenous wildlife and the ocean waters surrounding them. The protected region also invests in Charles Darwin's historical scientific observations, which have helped us better understand animal life. The national park protects the world's most famous endemic species, which appear nowhere else on the planet. It is critical that the international community does everything necessary to maintain and maintain these island environments and their spectacular natural displays.

14. Wild Taiga, Finland

Best time to visit : may to september.

The tourism firms in Wild Taiga place high importance on responsibility. Tourism and the provision of recreational experiences are based on the natural environment, local culture, or a mixture of the two. The majority of Wild Taiga operators are small, family-owned companies dedicated to preserving the region's beautiful natural environment and rich cultural legacy. It is their hope that visitors to the region will adhere to the principles of sustainable tourism and seek out responsible experiences. Wild Taiga tourism promotes activities that do not require the use of motorized equipment as part of an environmentally sustainable tourism strategy. They provide husky safaris, horseback riding, and reindeer sled rides, among other activities, in addition to self-guided tours. Supporting local values is also part of social responsibility. Many enterprises in the Wild Taiga network operate in close collaboration with local and regional operators, and these businesses prefer to use local products. Restaurants and cafés in the region serve a wide range of locally produced cuisine made with organically farmed products.

15. Dive Azores, Portugal

Best time to visit : april to june.

This sustainable tourist attraction is located just a four-hour flight away from the UK in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. As activities like hiking, mountain biking, whale watching, scuba diving, and exploring volcanic landscapes are so important to the Azorean economy, the islands take conservation, both on land and at sea, very seriously, making this a wonderful spot to visit for nature enthusiasts. Renewable energy is also being actively invested in - the islands have been producing hydroelectric electricity for well over a century, there have been wind farms here since 1988, and So Miguel is currently harnessing geothermal energy. Quality Coast, a global sustainability certification initiative, examined the sustainability credentials of 1000 island and coastal vacation sites in 2013 and gave the top honor to Dive Azores.

16. Thermana Laško, Slovenia

Image Courtesy: Thermana Laško Facebook

Thermana Laško Spa resort is the ideal place to be if you want to explore the sustainable riches of Laško, Slovenia. The resort spa maintains a unified contact with the region’s natural activities by powering its facilities with renewable energy. There are numerous activities that can be accessed from Thermana Laško. Laško's brewing legacy dates back to 1825, when Franz Geyer, a mead producer, and gingerbread baker, made the first Laško beer. The passion for brewing beer was soon matched by knowledge and the byproduct will be made available for you to appreciate. At the neighborhood beekeeper, you can learn about the health and happiness benefits of bee products. In addition, the beekeepers give beekeeping presentations. Honey products are available for tasting and purchase. The ancient Romans, who were the first to discover and introduce the tradition of thermal springs to Slovenia, understood that happiness enhances our health. Thermana Laško continues the history of its thermal springs, which is backed by a wealth of experience.

What are sustainable tourist destinations?

Sustainable tourism destination is an tourist attraction or experience that ensures sustainable and green efforts for its functioning. It can be something anything from energy conservation to using recyclable raw materials to wildlife preservation. 

How can I choose a sustainable tourist destination for my vacation?

While planning your itinerary, make sure to look for sustainable tourist destinations and attractions. As is the case, they may be slightly costlier, but the long-run goodness of it offsets the price. 

Are all diving activities sustainable? 

Diving done wrong can be unsustainable, however, if done cautiously, it is a sustainable activity. Read more about sustainable diving here .

How can I be a responsible and sustainable traveler?

Here are 15 ways you can be a green and responsible traveler

Lakshmi Menon

Born to parents bit by the wander bug, Lakshmi calls her love for travel "hereditary and habitual". Perpetually ensconced with a book in her hand and a mug of coffee in the other, she has been to over 15 countries in her 23 years of existence and is currently saving miles and money for her solo trip to Iceland. Always hustling towards the least trodden path, she has encountered some wonderful people during her escapades and if you ever meet her, she won't stop gushing about them.

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Top natural attractions in florida, the shores of south walton. caves. coral reefs. wild rapids. these are just a few of the incredible geologic landmarks and great natural attractions in florida. these unique and grand natural destinations are easily accessible via a short walk or boat ride. have your camera handy – these locations will bring out your inner ansel adams. , 1. northwest florida's coastal dune lakes.

The shores of South Walton are incredibly beautiful, but another amazing treasure here lies just on the other side of the powder-white dunes. Coastal freshwater lakes – some of the world’s rarest – are right here for you to discover. These lakes are part of an extremely short list of places that lay claim to such wonders – New Zealand, Australia and Madagascar are the only other locations where coastal freshwater lakes can be found. Explore the lakes at Grayton Beach, Topsail Hill, Camp Helen and Deer Lake State Parks.

2. Florida Caverns State Park

Another unusual natural wonder can be found at  Florida Caverns State Park , where visitors can experience other-worldly underground cavern formations that are tens of thousands of years old. This is the only place in Florida that offers cave tours to the public, so it is a must-see and an incredible photo opportunity. Florida Caverns State Park is one of those “do it all” outdoor destinations where you can add a hike, a weekend campout or a paddling trip down the Chipola River to your cave tour.

3. Devil’s Millhopper State Park

Explore this fascinating 120-foot sinkhole that is designated as a National Natural Landmark and has been attracting people for more than a century. Take the staircase and walk down through the ages, past clusters of lush ferns and streams that trickle from craggy limestone walls. During the summer months, you can feel a significant temperature drop as you descend farther and farther into  Devil’s Millhopper .

4. Big Shoals State Park

Listen as you hike the  Big Shoals  Trail along the Suwannee River. You’ll most likely hear the rapids before you see them. When the river is between 59 and 61 feet above mean sea level, Big Shoals becomes a torrent of whitewater that reaches a Class III level. It’s a sight to behold and is the largest set of rapids in Florida.

5. Blowing Rocks Preserve

Seeming out of place in Florida, 73-acre Blowing Rocks Preserve is home to the largest exposed section of Anastasia limestone on the East Coast. This rocky area of coastline on Jupiter Island is best visited during the winter months after a storm or when seas are rough and the tides are high. At these times, the waves crash upon the exposed rock with tremendous pressure, shooting water up to 50 feet in the air.

6. John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park

During the summer months, take a trip to Key Largo, which is considered the diving capital of the world. The only living coral reef in North America lies just a few miles off the coast in the  Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary , and can be easily accessed by glass-bottom boat tours or diving and snorkeling excursions from John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park.

When you go...

For the most part, these natural attractions in Florida are considered “soft” adventures, and you shouldn’t need much in the way of special skills or equipment. For diving trips, you’ll need to be certified. John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park offers a full range of certification courses. Snorkeling trips are also available. As for the other locations, wear comfortable clothing and bring along a basic kit for a day outdoors – water, sunscreen, basic first aid, cell phone and camera.

Places to remember

Grayton Beach

Gainesville

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Sustainable Tourism Management for National Parks

Written by Kristina Algas on July 19, 2023 . Posted in Blog .

We humans have always had a special relationship with wildlife. Just as we’ve relied on nature for shelter, protection, and comfort in all parts of the world, these delicate ecosystems rely on us to help support and maintain them. Today, global concern for the degradation of forest ecosystems is at an all-time high, along with a growing public interest in nature and natural landscapes. The best opportunity to address both concerns is to invest in sustainable management for natural parks with especially vulnerable ecosystems.

According to the World Commission on Protected Areas, the management of protected areas is central to legal, political, institutional, and practical conservation efforts worldwide. As such, maintaining these protected areas for future generations should be our top priority by ensuring they are managed with sustainability in mind. This is especially important for natural parks, which are prized ecological hotspots and some of the world’s most valuable tourism destinations.

What is Sustainable Destination Management?

Sustainable destination management is the planning, coordinating, and implementing tourism solution strategies to ensure long-term destination sustainability. These strategies help travelers and locals get the most out of a destination while minimizing damage to its natural resources.

The tourism sector has grown significantly over the past 50 years, with international arrivals increasing from 200 million to nearly 1.6 billion. With this growth comes many economic and societal benefits; however, protecting destinations and their resources from depletion makes it all the more important. To do this, strategic planning solutions must be developed for travel destinations at risk of ecological depletion. When implemented successfully, these plans can help the tourism industry flourish while benefiting local communities and protecting natural resources.

At Solimar, we develop tourism master plans that identify destinations’ assets, opportunities, and challenges. Our strategies are coordinated by in-depth research and engagement with local communities. This helps to ensure that locals and tourists get the most out of what a destination offers. Solimar’s most recent efforts involve applying these tourism master plans to national parks. These attractions have an inherent connection to nature that defines its value and greatest vulnerabilities, hence the importance of sustainable management for national parks.

Key Elements Of Sustainable Tourism and Management

When it comes to national parks, sustainable management plans should strike a balance between conservation and public access while addressing the needs of local communities. To practice sustainable management in national parks, conservation efforts have many moving parts that help consider all of these needs.

1. Visitor Management 

National parks attract a significant number of visitors every day. The constant foot traffic and the threat of human interference put them at an especially high risk of ecological degradation. Sustainable management plans for national parks address this problem by managing the impacts of tourism on the environment. These efforts are highly visitor-centric, including implementing measures such as visitor education programs, infrastructure in environmentally sensitive locations, and technology for managing the number of visitors entering the park daily.

Another way visitor management can enhance the traveler’s experience is by providing information through visitor centers. Solimar has developed several visitor centers in destinations around the world. These visitor centers provide travel and accommodation information while supporting local businesses and communities.

2. Collaboration with Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities

Indigenous peoples and local communities play a unique role in the sustainable management of national parks. Their deep understanding of the local ecosystems, wildlife, and natural heritage, as they have inhabited these lands for generations, is fundamental for understanding and managing biodiversity and developing relevant conservation strategies. Their traditional sustainable knowledge, love, and respect for their lands make them invaluable partners in the sustainable management of national parks.

Approximately 476 million indigenous peoples live across 90 countries around the planet. According to the United Nations , indigenous people are ‘inheritors and practitioners of unique cultures and ways of relating to people and the environment.’ Indeed, nowadays, these communities manage 17% of forest carbon  around the world, significantly contributing to climate change mitigation.

Hence, involving these communities in the planning and decision-making process is vital for building trust, inclusion, and meaningful conservation efforts.  The Conservation Wor Activity  is an example of an inclusive and multi-sectoral project that highlights the importance of engaging local communities in the management and preservation of protected areas and enhancing their economic growth in the long term.

3. Conservation Of Biodiversity in Protected Areas

Despite international efforts, biodiversity across the globe continues to decline. The Living Planet Report 2022 reported a 69% average loss in mammal, bird, reptile, fish, and amphibian species since 1970. The designation of national parks as protected areas can help mitigate the loss of local plant and animal species, especially those that are endangered or on the brink of extinction.

Currently, Solimar is collaborating with USAID Conservation Works Activities (CWA) . This project, centered in Liberia, is about developing a sustainable management plan that engages communities in conserving protected areas. Liberia, home to the Upper Guinean Forest and a renowned biodiversity hotspot continues to face threats such as deforestation and habitat destruction. It is essential to involve local communities in creating innovative protected areas through sustainable tourism management.

4. Resource Management

Resource management is key to sustainable tourism for natural parks. A thriving yet unregulated tourism industry creates a large demand for resources such as water and wood. Consequently, destinations that face this demand may find themselves especially vulnerable to ecological depletion . This threat can be mitigated by sustainable tourism infrastructure that consumes minimal resources while contributing to the visitor experience.

Solimar is proud to provide its own example of sustainable tourism infrastructure with the Sapo Eco-Lodge in Sapo National Park, Liberia. The entire complex, complete with solar-powered energy, is built with sustainability in mind. It showcases Liberian natural heritage while providing visitors with accommodations in the heart of Sapo Natural Park, creating an unforgettable visitor experience. 

Sapo Eco-Lodge, Liberia

5. destination management organizations.

Destination Management Organizations (DMOs) are groups that play a large role in sustainable management. UNWTO defines a DMO as “the leading organizational entity which may encompass the various authorities, stakeholders, and professionals and facilitates partnerships towards a collective destination vision.” Solimar often works with DMOs to coordinate essential destination tourism management elements, including marketing, amenities, and public access to attractions. Most importantly, DMOs are often key players in implementing sustainable management strategies.

6. Measuring Impact for Sustainable Tourism

Measuring the impact of tourism in national parks is crucial for protecting its natural resources. Solimar proposes three main reasons behind its importance for sustainable tourism:

• Conservation: Assessing the ecological footprint of the local tourism industry allows for developing strategies that minimize habitat degradation, pollution, and disturbance to wildlife.
• Investment: Knowing the impact of tourism can provide important information on a destination’s overall economic value. If presented effectively, this information can attract potential investors and contribute to the destination’s socioeconomic well-being.
• Education: Understanding how visitors behave and impact a destination can foster educational initiatives to raise awareness about environmental issues, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable tourism practices.

How Can I Make a Difference?

Travelers are the heart of a tourism destination. The choices we make as travelers are crucial for preserving and protecting natural resources around the world. These are just some of the many ways travelers can support sustainable tourism in national parks:

• Educate Yourself: Before visiting national parks or other natural tourist attractions, research the unique ecology and the wildlife that calls it home. Knowledge of the local environment can only enhance your experience as a traveler, giving you insight into and appreciation of your destination.
• Leave No Trace: Practice the “Leave No Trace” principles to minimize the environmental impact of your visit. Remember to properly dispose of your trash, including food waste and other biodegradable items. Respect wildlife by observing from a distance, avoid damaging plants or natural formations, and minimize the usage of campfires.
• Choose Sustainable Transportation: Consider using eco-friendly transportation to reach your destination: for instance, public transit, carpooling, or cycling. If you’re driving, opt for fuel-efficient vehicles to decrease your carbon footprint.
• Support Local Communities: Opt for local, eco-friendly accommodations. Buy traditional gifts from local artisans around national parks. Not only will you contribute to the local economy, but you will also have a unique opportunity to engage with local culture and traditions.
• Volunteer and Support Conservation Efforts: Many national parks have volunteer programs and organized conservation projects. Consider participating in these initiatives, such as trail maintenance, habitat restoration, wildlife monitoring, and educational programs. You can also donate to park foundations and organizations that preserve and protect national parks.

Visit our website t o learn more about sustainable destination management and what you can do for national parks.

Photo by Zoe Schaeffer on Unsplash 

Blog by: kristina algas and marika matarazzo.

Tags: conservation , eco-lodge , liberia , national parks , natural resources , protected areas , resource management , sustainable destination management

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Sustainable Tourism and Nature Conservation

• Published on May 26, 2019

Tourism is the main industry to leave carbon footprints and cause of nature destruction. Natural tourist attractions are attracting the highest number of tourists around the globe.The significant effort of every travel operators to encourage tourists to practice Eco-friendly behavior is important.The natural existence of those tourist destinations relies in the hand of locals who lives there. So participation of local people in nature conservation and profit of tourism can help conserve nature. 

Travel industry can play major role in protecting nature as well as creating awareness for the sake of responsible lifestyle. The diversified tourism market and the capacity of socially influential travelers is an asset to create a chain of moment towards nature conservation and sustainable practices. Use of modern technology, accessibility and knowledge will help gain the Sustainable Development Goals with ease once people are aware of climate change impacts. A research also suggests that the social networking sites positively influence the post-consumption experience stage of the travel cycle by providing adequate tools and services to smart tourists to evaluate their experience and share it with their peers and friends, mainly posting reviews, photos and recommendations on social networking sites, with the aim of advocating for sustainable practices and influencing other tourists to behave in a similar responsible manner.

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Check out videos on hundreds of California adventures

California’s 35 Must See Natural Wonders

As the third largest state by land area in the country, California is sure to have a vast collection of beautiful natural things to see. When I started traveling, I was blown away by how much there truly was to explore. I could create a list of 100 things for you to see with no problem, but I tried to at least break it down into the 35 best natural wonders in the state )that I have personally explored). These things have to be natural, so you won’t see the Golden Gate Bridge or anything like that on this list. Also, I have tried to pick specific things instead of areas like Yosemite, Sequoia, etc. If you haven’t seen those areas then, of course, you should. Let me know what I left off in the comments and click the images to learn more.

Southern California

Amboy Crater

Amboy Crater is the remainder of an old volcano out on historic Route 66 . You can even hike to the top of it.

Artists Palette

Oxidation of different metals in the soil causes this unique landscape of colors on a hill in Death Valley.

The lowest point in North America, Badwater is famous for its salt flats that stretch as far as you can see.

A 70-square-mile dome that rises out of the northeast side of the Mojave Desert, formed over millions of years.

Inspiration Point – Channel Islands

This viewpoint on the closest Channel Island (Anacapa) stretches over the other islands and is one of the most fantastic views in all of California.

Joshua Trees

It’s hard to pick a particular spot in Joshua Tree National Park, so I just chose the trees themselves. If you are not from California, seeing these trees will remind you of some sparse Martian landscape.

Lava Tube in the Mojave Desert

The famous lava tube in Mojave National Preserve has a fantastic light beam that shines through it during certain parts of the day; it is a paradise for photographers.

The rocks that move on their own in Death Valley are accessed   by a 28 mile, four-wheel-drive dirt road and are worth all the effort.

Slot Canyon

As one of the best desert slot canyons in Southern California, this short hike in Anza Borrego will take you into a canyon so narrow; you have to turn sideways to get through at some points.

Vasquez Rocks

These rocks that have been part of many Hollywood movie backdrops are just as unique to see in real life.

Central California

Bear Gulch Cave

In California’s newest national park, Bear Gulch Cave is a perfect place to get a feel for the unique landscape there. This cave is also a spot where you can often see bats during certain times of the year, if you are into that.

Big Sur Coastline

I would be remiss if I didn’t include the entire Big Sur Coast on this list. I broke out a few of my favorite Big Sur spots below, but you need to drive the whole coastline to get a good feel for it.

Bishop Creek

Bishop Creek is stunning. I couldn’t pick just one view in this area, I would recommend camping and taking a few days to just explore, especially during fall.

Crystal Cave

Sequoia National Park’s famous cave, Crystal Cave is one of the best caves you can easily explore in California. The tour takes you through a few massive rooms with all sorts of unique formations.

Devils Postpile

This hard to describe spot near Mammoth is a great place to explore and just gawk at. It looks like the pillars of rocks were pushed up from underneath the ground, not something you have seen before, I am sure.

Fossil Falls

Right off Highway 395, this stark landscape of smooth black rocks is one of those spots that you have to see with your own eyes. It used to be a waterfall thousands of years ago, but even without water, it is still unique.

General Grant

The Nations Christmas Tree and the second largest tree in the world, you can’t leave California without seeing this one and General Sherman.

General Sherman

General Sherman is the largest tree in the entire world; I probably don’t need to say anything else to make it worth visiting.

McWay Falls

McWay Falls is the waterfall that falls directly onto the beach. I am sure you have seen it in all your friend’s Instagram photos, but McWay Waterfall is more impressive in real life.

Mobius Arch

This arch is in the Alabama Hills near Lone Pine, but what makes it so cool is that it perfectly frames Mt Whitney, which is the tallest mountain in the contiguous United States.

Morro Rock is located along Pacific Coast Highway, and it is one of the craziest natural wonders you can see on the entire coastal drive. This rock stands alone out near the beach, and it is enormous.

Pfieffer Beach

My favorite beach along the Big Sur coast, Pfieffer Beach has purple sand after it rains and also an iconic rock with a small arch out in the water.

Northern California

Bumpass Hell

In Lassen National Park sits California’s Yellowstone, known as Bumpass Hell. This geothermal area is an excellent yet stinky spot. The way the colors come out of the rocks is crazy, and the steam that escapes has a strong methane smell.

McArthur-Burney Falls

I think this is the best waterfall in all of California and I highly recommend you see it. Burney Falls is one of those places you would see in a dream of heaven.

Emerald Bay Lake Tahoe

Emerald Bay is my favorite spot in Lake Tahoe. The way the bay has green-blue water and the unique island that sits out in the middle of it keeps me coming back again and again to see it.

Fern Canyon

Located in Redwoods National Park on the California coast, Fern Canyon was the backdrop for a few scenes in Jurassic Park: The Lost World. It looks like something from a fairy tale, and it is a fantastic spot you must visit.

Founders Grove

My favorite grove along the Avenue of the Giants, Founders Grove is an excellent way to get introduced to these magical trees.

Glass Beach

While this one technically has human interaction, it is still amazing what nature did. This beach is where the glass was thrown into the ocean, and decades later, the beach is now composed of smooth little glass pieces you walk on. It is actually quite beautiful.

There is probably no natural wonder more famous in California than Half Dome. This iconic rock in Yosemite National Park is something you could see a thousand times, and it never is less awe-inspiring.

At the end of the Tioga Pass Road, Mono Lake and its tuffas are a crazy natural wonder that you need to see at sunset.

While not the tallest mountain in California, it is undoubtedly one of the most prominent. It is often covered in clouds, but if you go when it is clear, you will be shocked by how impressive this mountain is.

Petrified Forest

Trees that have been turned into rock over millions of years, who wouldn’t want to see that? The Petrified Forest in Calistoga is something you cannot see anywhere else in the state, so it is a natural addition to this list. I have to admit that they are often anticlimactic for some, but you can’t deny them as a natural wonder.

Subway Cave

One of the longest subway caves in all of California, this spot is relatively easy to access yet still an incredibly cool experience.

Whiskeytown Falls

One of my favorite waterfalls in Northern California, and one that was unknown until only 15 years ago. A 3-mile trail accesses Whiskeytown Falls, but the payoff is awe-inspiring.

Yosemite Falls

I couldn’t finish this list without a waterfall in Yosemite. Naturally, all of Yosemite should be on this list, but this is my favorite waterfall in the park since it is just so massive and powerful.

How many have you seen, and what did I leave off this list? Let me know in the comments!

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From geysers to guillemots: the 10 best natural wonders in Iceland

Sep 17, 2021 • 4 min read

Jökulsárlón lagoon is just one of the many amazing natural wonders to behold in Iceland © Matt Munro / Lonely Planet

Iceland 's natural beauty is renowned. At times it seems as if everywhere you look there's yet another breath-taking mountain vista, wind-whipped beach or thundering waterfall – the cascading water perfectly framed by rugged cliffs and falling neatly into a turquoise pool below.

Choosing the country's top outdoor highlights then, was no easy feat. But we believe we have managed it. Ranging from seeing guillemots in full flight to gawping at geysers mid-spurt (plus catching a glimpse of a rather famous cosmic lightshow!), here's our pick of the best natural wonders in Iceland.

This 62m-high waterfall topples over a rocky cliff at the western edge of Skógar in dramatic style. Climb the steep staircase alongside for giddy views, or walk to the foot of the falls, shrouded in sheets of mist and rainbows. Legend has it that a settler named Þrasi hid a chest of gold behind Skógafoss.

Reynisfjara

The black-sand beach Reynisfjara near Vík is backed by an incredible stack of basalt columns that look like a magical church organ, and there are outstanding views west to Dyrhólaey. Surrounding cliffs are pocked with caves formed from twisted basalt, and puffins belly-flop into the crashing sea during summer. Immediately offshore are the towering Reynisdrangur sea stacks. However, with beauty comes danger; people are regularly swept away on this beach, so be extra cautious.

Named after the Norse god Thor (Þór), this protected reserve is a hiker's paradise, with scenes seemingly plucked from an enchanting fantasy. The verdant realm is clasped by snowcapped mountain ridges, wild-flower-filled valleys, curling gorges, icy rivers and three looming glaciers (Tindfjallajökull, Eyjafjallajökull and Mýrdalsjökull), protecting this quiet spot from some of the region's harsher weather.

One of Iceland’s most famous tourist attractions, Geysir (gay-zeer; literally ‘gusher’) is the original hot-water spout after which all other geysers are named and lies in the much-visited Golden Circle . Earthquakes can stimulate activity, though eruptions are rare. Luckily for visitors, the very reliable geyser, Strokkur , sits alongside it. You rarely have to wait more than five to 10 minutes for the hot spring to shoot an impressive 15m to 40m plume.

Hornstrandir Nature Reserve

Craggy mountains, precarious sea cliffs and plunging waterfalls make up Hornstrandir, one of Europe’s last true wilderness areas, covering some of the most extreme parts of Iceland. It’s a fantastic destination for hiking, with challenging terrain and excellent opportunities for spotting Arctic foxes, seals, whales and teeming bird life. The area has some of the strictest preservation rules in Iceland, thanks to its incredibly rich, but fragile, vegetation.

Northern Lights

Everyone longs to glimpse the Northern Lights , the celestial kaleidoscope known for transforming long winter nights into natural lava lamps. The lights, also known as Aurora Borealis, form when solar flares are drawn by the earth’s magnetic field towards the North Pole. What results are ethereal veils of green, white, violet or red light, shimmering and dancing in a display not unlike silent fireworks.

Látrabjarg Bird Cliffs

These renowned, dramatic cliffs are mobbed by nesting seabirds in early summer . Unbelievable numbers of puffins, razorbills, guillemots, cormorants, fulmars, gulls and kittiwakes nest here from June to mid-August. It's best to visit in the evening, when the birds return to their nests. On calm days, seals are often seen basking on the skerries around the lighthouse.

The utterly remote and inspiring volcanic hollow is the main destination for all tours in this northeastern part of the highlands. This immense 50-sq-km caldera shouldn’t be missed and your first glimpse of the sapphire-blue lake Öskjuvatn, at the heart of the crater, is guaranteed to be a memorable one. The lake stands in contrast to the milky waters inside the small, steep crater known as Víti, which you can have a dip in if safety permits.

Jökulsárlón lagoon

A ghostly procession of luminous-blue icebergs drifts serenely through the 25-sq-km Jökulsárlón lagoon before floating out to sea, a surreal scene. The ice calves come from Breiðamerkurjökull glacier, an offshoot of the mighty Vatnajökull ice cap. Boat trips and kayaking among the bergs are popular, or you can simply wander the lakeshore, scout for seals and exhaust your camera’s memory card.

Snæfellsjökull

Snæfellsjökull National Park wraps around the rugged slopes of this glacier. When the fog lifts, you'll see the mammoth ice cap, made famous when Jules Verne used it as the setting for Journey to the Centre of the Earth . The peak was torn apart when the volcano beneath it exploded and then collapsed back into its own magma chamber, forming a huge caldera.

You might also like: Driving Iceland's magic circle   8 Iceland activities for adventure seekers   Rescuing baby puffins in the Westman Islands

This article was first published on 23 July, 2020.

This article was first published July 2020 and updated September 2021

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Performance of Environmental Resources of a Tourist Destination

Tanja mihalič.

1 Faculty of Economics, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia

Despite the apparent importance of destinations’ environmental resources, there appears to be little theoretical and applied research explicitly focusing on destination environmental supply. This research attempts to address this gap in the literature. First, it reviews and evaluates the body of research in tourism environmental resources and proposes a conceptual model to test their performance. The model combines tourism supply–demand view with importance–performance gaps and was used to survey tourism in Slovenia. The results show that the studied destination uses its environmental resources too extensively and that Slovenian environmental tourism experience does not meet visitors’ expectations. This finding challenges Slovenian policy makers, who position Slovenia as a green destination. The proposed model can form the basis for further conceptual and empirical research into the tourism contributions of environmental resources. In its present form, it can be used to examine environmental performance and to suggest policy implications for any destination.

Introduction

The tourism sustainability debate has drawn increased attention to the environmental factors of destinations. However, the role and importance of environmental resources had been embedded in tourism research long before this environmental debate began ( Mariotti 1938 ; Planina 1966 ). Many tourism researchers have studied environmental resources’ tourism potential and how they trigger tourism demand and bring value to a destination. Initially, the researchers’ interests in the issue was merely academic; however, given the increasing environmental awareness in society and the fact that tourism may cause the deterioration of environmental resources and force mass tourism destinations into economic decline, researchers have become interested in this issue for policy relevance reasons. For destinations, environmental issues are now more important than ever before and are now an integral part of their sustainable development strategies. The “new tourists,” defined by Poon (1989) more than a decade ago, are ecologically aware; they demand more environmental resource–based experiences and are becoming sensitive to the actual environmental quality of destinations, which increasingly influences their price–quality ratio judgments. For example, research on the Balearic Islands ( Aguiló, Alegre, and Sard 2005 ) has shown that tourists have become increasingly demanding in regard to the natural surroundings and their quality. Indeed, in the late twentieth century, it became evident that environmental tourist attractions must be maintained and offered to visitors in the quantity and quality that they demand together with the price they are willing to pay.

Environmental resources have become an integral part of modern destination development and competitiveness models. In one destination competitiveness study, Crouch (2011) suggests that experts judge the destination’s physiography and climate, both of which are naturally endowed, as the most important competitiveness determinant. In another tourism competitiveness meta-study, Tsai, Song, and Wong (2009) listed 16 models that have substantially contributed to the tourism destination competitiveness debate. Of the 16, six considered environment as one of the major determinants of tourism destination competitiveness ( Gooroochurn and Sugiyarto 2005 ; Heath 2003 ; Kozak and Rimmington 1999 ; Ritchie and Crouch 1993 , 2000 ; Enright and Newton 2005 ; Dwyer and Kim 2003 ).

However, in these models, environmental resources represent only one factor, subfactor, or group of factors. There is a need for knowledge of how and to what degree environmental resources as a group contribute to destination competitiveness and performance. According to some tourism competitiveness researchers, there is a need to intensify research on the competitiveness potential of a single group of resources, and the “environmental dimension of destination, performance, and competitiveness is slowly but surely growing in importance” ( Ritchie and Crouch 2003 , p. 6).

Therefore, this article focuses on environmental resources and their role in a destination from the aspect of their performance. In addition, this article also focuses on tourism-created resources, such as accommodations and other tourism infrastructures, as environmental resources require them in order to enter the tourism process and market. However, our research and discussion orientation is on the role of environmental resources alone.

The article explains how destination environmental resources are seen in tourism literature. Because of the interdependency of environmental and tourism-created resources, the latter are also presented. A conceptual model for studying the tourism economic potential of environmental resources and importance–performance gaps between the expected and received environmental resource–based tourism experience is being proposed. Derived from the proposed model, three sets of research questions were approached: (1) Do tourists distinguish between environmental and tourism-created resources? (2) If they do, does a destination’s environmental resource–based experience meet the visitors’ demand? (3) Do environmental and tourism-created resources have different impacts on destination performance? These research questions have been explored for the case of Slovenia, a small tourism destination in Europe.

Destination and Environmental Resources

Tourism destination supply encompasses a multidimensional concept that includes not only tourism economic goods, such as overnight stays and entertainment, but also environmental attractors that serve as a resource base for tourism development and, in many cases, are a primary attraction for potential tourism demand. These primary destination environmental supply features include climate, nature, culture, and traditional architecture. When researching the role of environmental resources, Tisdell observed the following:

A good deal of tourism relies upon resources or assets that cannot be reproduced or cannot be easily reproduced. . . . This is true of much tourism dependent on the natural environment as well as tourism dependent on historical-cultural objects. ( Tisdell 1991 , p. 181)

Termed man-made or tourism-created elements, secondary destination supply features comprise developments specifically introduced for tourists, for example, accommodation, food, transport, and entertainment. Indeed, the two main elements (environmental and tourism-created) of tourism supply “make an extensive contribution to the attractiveness of destinations” ( Bahar and Kozak 2007 , p. 61). Recognizing the existence of the two main elements, as well as their possible connections, this paper focuses on the role of environmental resources in tourism destination.

Environmental Resources in Tourism Literature

Long before the world become aware of environmental resources and their exploitation and use, and before the general environmental debate became a debate about sustainability, Mariotti (1938) detailed the importance of natural resources for tourism demand and supply. He divided tourism supply into spontaneous attractors, that is, natural resources that attract tourist visitation, and derived attractors that a destination develops to enable visitation and economic tourism activity. Later, other tourism researchers attempted to understand tourism environmental resources in order to provide a well-rounded model of tourism supply–demand economic interactions and to study the supply and competitiveness potential of tourism destinations ( Tisdell 1991 ; Planina 1966 ; Kaspar 1991 ; De Keyser and Vanhove 1994 ; Ritchie and Crouch 2000 ; Dwyer and Kim 2003 ). Different theoretical foundations have been used—from simple tourism economic supply–demand market models to complex destination competitiveness models. A great deal of the tourism environmental debate has been conducted in a framework of sustainable development. However, different tourism researchers have used different nominations and theories to explain the elements, kinds, and concepts of environmental resources. The evolution of these different nominations and classifications is presented in Table 1 .

Tourism Environmental Resources and Their Nominations in Tourism Literature and Research.

Note: Please note that the references point to the last publications by the referred authors and do not necessarily correspond to the time period when the debate/concept started to evolve.

Sources: Mariotti 1938 ; Planina 1966 ; Kaspar 1991 ; Vanhove 2005 ; Stabler, Papatheodorou, and Sinclair 2010 ; De Keyser and Vanhove 1994 ; Ritchie and Crouch 2000 , 1993 ; Omerzel Gomezelj and Mihalič 2008 ; Enright and Newton 2004 ; Kozak and Rimmington 1999 ; Ritchie and Crouch 2003 ; UNWTO 2004 ; Enright and Newton 2005 ; Mihalič, Milutinovič, and Prašnikar 2011 ; Kaspar 1973 ; Dwyer and Kim 2003 ; Dwyer, Livaic, and Mellor 2003 ; Armenski et al. 2012 .

Planina (1966) studied the effect of environmental resources on tourism and observed them as primary tourism supply. He expanded Mariotti’s understanding of natural tourism attractors by adding cultural attractions ( Figure 1 ). According to him, primary tourism attractions consist of natural goods (not man-made) and cultural goods from the past (man-made, yet nonreproducible).

Primary and secondary tourism supply: criteria and elements.

Thus, the debate started with only the role of natural attractions ( Marriotti 1938 ), and soon cultural goods were added to describe the attractiveness of destinations ( Planina 1966 ). At the time, authors conceptualized “primary tourism supply” that we now understand as environmental resources (e.g., natural and cultural) ( Planina 1966 ; Kaspar 1991 ; Tisdell 1991 ). Kaspar (1991) extended the concept of primary tourism supply of a destination to include its general infrastructure. It is a fair argument that (existing) general infrastructure can be a potential factor in tourism development and, thus, a potential tourism supply. However, there are many destinations that lack general infrastructure and must develop it to enable tourism development and competitiveness ( Khadaroo and Seetanah 2008 ; Prideaux 2000 ). There are several such cases: from the Albanian coastline, with the most beautiful beaches in the area but little tourism and poor general infrastructure ( Pavesi 2011 ), to new destinations in remote locations of Ethiopia’s Omo tribe ( Hambisa 2012 ). The question of who should pay for general infrastructure (e.g., roads, airports, electricity) to support tourism remains one of the most problematic issues in tourism development ( Sakai 2006 ).

Another variation of primary tourism supply refers to man-made attractions. Some authors include purpose-built attractions, such as theme parks, events, or spas, in the category of primary attractions that play the same role as environmental resources in attracting tourists ( Vanhove 2005 ). In this case, purpose-built attractions partly fail to meet the criteria of nonreproducibility. The problem in operationalizing such an understanding is that we cannot draw a line between purposely created enablers of tourism supply (e.g., accommodation) and purposely created tourist attractions. For example, a spa hotel or a hotel in Disney World may count as an attractor and an enabler of tourism demand. This argument can be further extended to real cases where some tourism-built resources (of strong architectural quality) become attractors of tourism demand themselves, such as Hundertwasser’s spa resort Rogner Bad Blumau in Austria or the impressive Wright’s “Tower of the Arabs” Hotel (Burj Al Arab) in Dubai.

The Calgary model ( Ritchie and Crouch 2003 ) considers cultural, historical, and certain social resources (i.e., hospitality) as factors that can attract tourism demand if properly managed. Although the model recognizes the role of environmental resources, such as physiography and climate, culture and history, and hospitality, these do not constitute a homogenous and independent group. The majority of environmental resources are grouped under the “core resources” pillar, along with market ties and super-structure. Notably, hospitality belongs to another pillar. This type of grouping has been criticized by Dwyer and Kim (2003) , who proposed a model that contains many of the determinants of the Calgary model but with different groupings. Dwyer and Kim’s Integrated Destination Competitiveness Model distinguishes between inherited/endowed and created resources and links them to the destination’s supply side. The understanding of inherited and created resources is similar to the original understanding of primary and secondary tourism supply.

Table 1 (see column 3) also presents some understandings of environmental resources in tourism applied research. For example, Enright and Newton (2004) found that environmental resources ranked relatively low in the case of urban tourist destinations. In contrast, two studies in a more rural destination Serbia showed that destination’s position is strong in inherited resources ( Mihalič, Milutinović, and Prašnikar 2011 ; Armenski et al. 2012 ). Such contrasting findings in different destinations raise the question of differing levels of importance of environmental resources in different types of destinations.

In addition, the extracted importance of environmental resources might be sensitive to the type of data collected. This can be supported by Kozak and Rimmington’s research ( 1999 ) on the importance of environmental resources as perceived by a destination’s stakeholders and visitors, which found significant differences in the opinions of the two groups regarding the importance of environmental resources. Such differences are similarly observed in the cross-comparison of different tourism studies in Slovenia, as presented in one of the subsequent sections.

In summary, destination environmental resources remain an evolving concept, and a full understanding of their various types and their meaning has not been reached yet:

• Some researchers only identify environmental resources with natural resources, which was particularly true in the early tourism environmental debate during which environmental resources were often limited to natural environments or occasionally to natural and built physical (man-made) environments ( Mariotti 1938 ; Kaspar 1973 ).
• Later, as this concept became too narrow, social and cultural attractions entered the tourism environmental debate. Thus, in many works, the term “environmental resources” refers to natural and cultural or sociocultural resources ( UNWTO 2004 ; Planina 1997 ; Kaspar 1991 ; Mihalič and Kaspar 1996 ; Tisdell 1991 ; Ritchie and Crouch 2000 ).
• However, the term “environmental” is still occasionally used as a synonym for natural ( Ritchie and Crouch 2000 ). In this context, one of the three UNWTO pillars of sustainability is known as environmental (meaning natural only) and is separate from the sociocultural and economic pillar ( UNWTO 2004 ).
• Further, the term “environmental” is occasionally replaced by the term “ecological” ( Ritchie and Crouch 2003 ; Mihalič and Kaspar 1996 ) or “tourism ecology” ( Kaspar 1973 ). Again, the terms “tourism ecology” or “ecological resources” can be used in their narrower or broader meanings, referring only to natural, or to natural and sociocultural aspects of tourism ( Mihalič and Kaspar 1996 ).
• Further, the term “environment” can be even more broadly used, as other environments, apart from natural and sociocultural, may be relevant. For example, the economic, political, or technological environment may also help shape the development and competitiveness of tourism destinations ( Ritchie and Crouch 2000 ).
• In addition to the aforementioned variations in the understanding of environmental resources, different authors have used different terms in an attempt to capture their existence and tourism relevance. For example, they have used terms such as “primary tourism supply and attractions” ( Mihalič and Kaspar 1996 ; Planina 1966 ), “original or pristine tourism supply” ( Kaspar 1991 ; Tschurtschenthaler 1986 ), “Ricardian-type attractions” ( Tisdell 1991 ), “inherited or endowed resources” ( Dwyer and Kim 2003 ; Ritchie and Crouch 2003 ), “inherited assets, core resources, and attractors” ( Ritchie and Crouch 2000 ; Dwyer and Kim 2003 ), “given resources” ( Dwyer and Kim 2003 ), and “comparative advantage resources” ( Heath 2003 ). Unfortunately, different authors use the above terms differently. For example, primary resources may refer to only natural resources ( Mariotti 1938 ), to natural and cultural environmental resources ( Planina 1966 ), or to all kinds of primary attractions that also include purposely built tourist attractions ( Vanhove 2005 ). For some authors, inherited resources may only refer to a given natural and inherited cultural resource ( Dwyer and Kim 2003 ). Others may also see general infrastructure as an inherited or given element on which the destination builds its tourism supply ( Kaspar 1991 ).

For pragmatic reasons, and because of the problematic use of the terms “environment” and “environmental,” unless otherwise specified, this paper uses the term “tourism environmental resources” to mean natural and sociocultural tourism attractions ( Table 2 , Figure 1 ). This is because terms like “environmental tourism competitiveness” or “environmental quality” have already been established in tourism literature ( Ritchie and Crouch 2003 ; Mihalič 2000 ) and because such a meaning is in line with the concept of tourism sustainability, which also distinguishes between natural and sociocultural resources ( UNWTO 2004 ).

Destination Environmental and Tourism-Created Resources.

Sources: Mihalič and Kaspar 1996 ; Ritchie and Crouch 2000 , 2003 ; UNWTO 2004 ; Inskeep 1991 ; Dwyer and Kim 2003 .

Although our primary focus in this paper is on environmental resources, tourism-created resources also need closer attention, as they are seen as enablers of tourism valorization of environmental resources ( Planina 1997 ; Ritchie and Crouch 2000 ). Some authors expand the understanding of this relationship and speak about the complementarity of environmental and created resources ( Krippendorf 1971 ; Mihalič and Kaspar 1996 ; Fisher 1985 ), which implies that one group of resources does not exist without the other and that they are interdependent. More specifically, “destinations cannot rely on their natural beauty alone” ( Croes 2011 ).

The secondary or tourism-created resources encompass reproducible man-made goods, relying on labor and capital for their provision, and consist of tourism infrastructure and super-structure (see Figure 1 ). Transformation of tourism attractions into primary tourism supply is only possible through tourism processes that involve secondary tourism supply (e.g., accommodation, tourism services).

Again, tourism literature offers a wide range of terms to describe these resources, such as “secondary supply,” “derived attractions or resources,” “created, built, and economic resources,” and “tourism infrastructure and super-structure” ( Mariotti 1938 ; Ritchie and Crouch 2003 ; Bahar and Kozak 2007 ; Planina 1997 ; Dwyer and Kim 2003 ). As in the case of environmental resources, the exact meaning of the terms listed above is not agreed upon in the academic tourism community. For example, the category of built resources may also refer to resources built in the past, which also fall under the category of cultural environmental resources (see Figure 1 ). By inherited resources, some authors refer to only inherited cultural and natural resources (thus, environmental), while others refer to inherited general infrastructure. For these reasons, we grouped different elements that constitute tourism destination supply and are not seen as environmental tourism attractors under “tourism-created resources.” The elements of this group are divided into two subgroups. The first is tourism infrastructure, which encompasses the different tourism buildings and structures that enable the production of tourism services, such as hotels, casinos, marinas, sport facilities, and national parks. The second is tourism super-structure, which encompasses tourism services, such as half board, casino entertainment, marina mooring, golfing, and visiting national parks, all of which are enabled by the tourism infrastructure ( Planina and Mihalič 2002 ). These different groups of resources are presented in Table 2 .

In addition, it should be noted that components of general infrastructure, such as roads, airports, electricity generation and transmission systems, and plumbing, have been studied by many authors as important elements of a destination’s supply and competitiveness ( Ritchie and Crouch 2003 ). However, in our model, the corresponding services are not considered to be direct tourism supply, as they have not been purposely built for tourism use alone and, thus, are not tourism-built resources ( Planina 1997 ).

Environmental Resources in Tourism Supply–Demand Model

The extent to which environmental resources can be effective attractors depends on tourism-created resources, which enable visits to and stays in a destination. Thus, environmental tourism resources do not exist without tourism-created resources; there exist only potential tourist attractions that may or may not become real tourist resources.

The contribution of environmental resources to tourism performance is growing in importance; however, thus far, research on the degree to which they alone contribute to tourism economic value is almost nonexistent. It is not simple to capture their contribution because of their dependency on tourism-created resources and their indirect involvement in economic processes; Figure 2 illustrates a supply–demand tourism model that attempts to capture these connections. In Figure 2 , environmental resources trigger tourism demand (see direction a , Figure 2 ), while created resources play a dual role, as they enable environmental resources for visitation (see direction b , Figure 2 ) and also attract and enable tourism demand (see direction c , Figure 2 ). Direct tourism market exchange occurs along direction c when overnight stays, transportation, and events are sold and paid for by tourists. However, added value or producer surplus on account of tourism environmental resources is enabled and created along directions b and a , which are also the lines of indirect market valuation of environmental resources.

Tourism environmental resources in tourism supply–demand model.

The Hypothesized Model

Different concepts have been used to capture the difference between the ideal and real tourism supply of environmental and tourism-created resources that simultaneously incorporates visitors’ expectations and real experiences. On the one hand, for an ideal tourist destination, the importance placed by visitors on environmental destination elements is of relevance. On the other hand, for a real destination, performance is important and is related to the quality of the delivered/received elements as perceived by the real visitors. The model studies both environmental and tourism-created resources and shows gaps between the ideal and real performance of resources ( Figure 3 ).

The Hypothesized model.

The understanding of created and environmental resources in the proposed model ( Figure 3 ) follows the meaning and the suggested theoretical structure of tourism-created and environmental resources as already presented in Table 2 . In this regard, the term environmental resources is used in its broader meaning and encompasses natural and sociocultural attractions. Tourism-created resources correspond to the group of tourism-relevant infrastructure (tourism buildings and structures) and super-structure (tourism services). The presented a, b , and c relationships are derived from the analysis of tourism supply as presented in Figure 2 , and demonstrate the dependency of environmental resources that can only enter the tourism market with the help of tourism-created resources. The arrows in Figure 2 point from independent to dependent variables. Environmental resources are thus both a dependent and an independent variable; their access to the market depends on the quality and quantity of tourism-created resources; on the other hand, they also act as an independent variable in the environmental resources–tourism demand relationship as tourism demand depends on the quality and quantity of a destination’s environmental resources.

Ideal Destination: Importance of Environmental Resources

The model is based on the assumption that potential tourism demand distinguishes between environmental and tourism-created resources and their subgroups ( Table 2 ), and that this division is meaningful and important for a potential destination’s visitors and consequently for suppliers. Therefore, we hypothesize the following:

• Hypothesis 1a : Tourism demand (visitors) classifies environmental and tourism-created resources into two separate groups.
• Hypothesis 1b : Tourism demand (visitors) classifies environmental resources into two subgroups: natural and sociocultural resources.
• Hypothesis 1c : Tourism demand (visitors) classifies tourism-created resources into two subgroups: infrastructure and super structure.

Real Destination: Performance of Environmental Resources

Customer satisfaction in our proposed model ( Figure 3 ) is directly linked to tourism demand and is a key indicator of a destination’s real performance and competitiveness. Compared to tangible financial performance indicators, the intangible indicators of customer satisfaction are becoming a popular tourism performance measure, perhaps, because they are more in line with the intangible character of the service-oriented tourism sector ( Sigala et al. 2004 ; Huang, Chu, and Wang 2007 ; Kozak 2001a ). In this regard, customer satisfaction reflects the destination’s performance, and improvement in customer satisfaction leads to higher competitiveness ( Huang and Sarigöllü 2008 ; Oh and Parks 1997 ; Alegre and Garau 2011 ).

Our model suggests that environmental and tourism-created resources are two different groups of resources that play a role in customer satisfaction. The model connections ( Figure 3 ) labeled a, b, and c, which have been theoretically grounded in this paper, have been tested with the hypothesis. In addition, a hypothesis on the relative higher impact of environmental resources, based on theoretical assumptions of their primary role and necessary condition, as well as on the orientation of the “new tourist” toward the environment, has also been proposed. Therefore, we posit the following:

• Hypothesis 2a : Tourism environmental resources are positively related to visitors’ satisfaction (destination’s performance).
• Hypothesis 2b : Tourism environmental resources are positively related to tourism-created resources.
• Hypothesis 2c : Tourism-created resources are positively related to visitors’ satisfaction (destination’s performance).
• Hypothesis 2d : The positive relationship between tourism environmental resources and visitor satisfaction is stronger than that between tourism-created resources and visitor satisfaction.

Importance–performance Gaps in Environmental Resources

Previous empirical research has demonstrated that customer satisfaction is a function of both expectations related to certain resources and judgments of performance of those resources’ ( Tribe and Snaith 1998 ; Martilla and James 1977 ). The corresponding gap is often measured by an importance–performance analysis (IPA), a widely used analysis tool in tourism research ( Enright and Newton 2004 ; Tribe and Snaith 1998 ; Scott, Schewl, and Frederick 1978 ; Tourism Canada 1988 ; Ryan and Huimin 2007 ; Crompton and Love 1995 ; Coghlan 2012 ; Deng 2007 ). A standard IPA is based on a two-dimensional matrix with importance on the x -axis and performance on the y -axis. The mean of performance and importance divides the matrix into four quadrants that represent different improvement opportunities (i.e., “possible overkill,” “keep up the good work,” “low priority,” “concentrate here”). Such a mean value matrix is applied often but many tourism studies have also applied a modified IPA ( Deng 2007 ; Coghlan 2012 ; Mikulić and Prebežac 2012 ). This article is interested only in exploring the importance category for understanding the ideal destination supply of environmental resources and exploring the performance category for understanding the real performance of destination. It is also interested in calculating importance and performance gaps in environmental resources.

Here, we again refer to our previous discussion on the growing importance of environmental resources and argue that for many potential visitors, environmental resources are more important than their enablers, that is, tourism-created resources. However, a real tourism destination may not fulfill visitors’ perception of the importance of the resources in question. Thus, a significant gap may exist between the expected and real performance of a destination’s environmental resources. Therefore, we test the following:

• Hypothesis 3a : The importance of environmental resources is statistically different from the importance of created resources.
• Hypothesis 3b : The importance of environmental resources is statistically different from the performance of environmental resources.

Destination: Slovenia

This article uses the traditional economic- geography-based destination approach, which allows us to define a destination as a geographical area of one country ( Saraniemi and Kylanen 2011 ). Being a relatively new country in Central Europe, Slovenia was established in 1991 with its proclamation of independence from the former socialist Yugoslavia. This member state of the European Union shares a border with Italy, Austria, Hungary, Croatia, and the Adriatic coast ( Figure 4 ). Slovenia spans Alpine, continental, and Mediterranean climate zones, and its tourism includes mountain, sea, city, spa, gambling, and farm destinations. According to SURS (2010) data, the majority of tourism nights is spent in Slovenian spa destinations (34%), followed by mountain (23%) and seaside destinations (22%). The share of Slovenian’s capital city Ljubljana is 8%.

Location map of Slovenia.

Source . ETC, 2012 .

Slovenian tourism has a long history. The Rogaška spa and Postojna cave are approximately 200 years old. Tourism on the Adriatic coast in Portorož has existed for more than 100 years, and the first gambling license was granted to the Portorož Casino in 1913 by the Austrian crown.

In previous decades, Slovenia was a transit country for European tourists moving to and from the Adriatic coast. Presently, the country includes approximately 118,000 tourist beds, 40,000 of which are in the hotel sector ( SURS 2010 ). In 2010, tourists (62% of whom are foreign) stayed for a total of 8.9 million nights ( SURS 2010 ). Inbound visitor numbers totaled three million in 2010 ( SURS 2010 ). Foreign tourism earnings were 1.9 billion euros, representing 42% of the total export of services ( BS 2012 ). Despite its small size in absolute terms, tourism is an important economic activity for this country of 2 million that is half the size of Switzerland. It is estimated that in 2010, Slovenian tourism contributed approximately 12% to the Slovenian GDP and approximately 13% to total employment ( WTTC 2011 ).

Notably, the country is marked by its forests. Approximately 60% of its land mass is covered by wooded areas, and the country is marketed as a green area of Europe through such slogans as “Slovenia is green,” “Slovenia goes green,” and “Slovenia promotes green” ( ITEF 2011 ). Indeed, inherited natural and sociocultural bases are observed as important competitive advantages for Slovenian tourism, and the country is currently focusing on sustainable development issues ( Dwyer et al. 2012 ).

In 1999, Sirše and Mihalič (1999) and Vanhove (1999) conducted a competitiveness study using the De Keyser-Vanhove model. The research was supply-side based and concluded that Slovenian tourism was stronger in its environmental attractiveness than in its tourism-created infrastructure and super-structure and management’s capability to add value.

Then, in 2004, researchers applied the methodology from the Integrated Competitiveness Destination Model to Slovenia ( Omerzel Gomezelj and Mihalič 2008 ). The results were similar to the results of the above-mentioned study based on the De Keyser-Vanhove model. Tourism managers once again graded the competitiveness potential of natural and cultural attractions higher than created resources and management.

Thus far, no studies have captured Slovenian environmental tourism performance and competitiveness from the perspective of visitors. The next section discussesthe approach we took in addressing this limitation in the literature.

Data Collection

Data were collected from 1,054 tourists in Slovenia by means of personal interviews in four Slovenian destinations. Data were collected by a professional market research agency during the period May to July. The agency’s interviewers have conducted a computer-assisted personal interviewing of a destination’s visitors on the basis of a structured questionnaire. Only those visitors who had been at the destination for more than one day were included in the survey in order to ensure more relevant and reliable data on perceptions of that destination ( Kozak 2001b ).

The first draft of the questionnaire was tested with personal interviews of 25 randomly selected visitors. With minor changes based on the results of the pretest, the final version of the questionnaire was developed and used in four Slovenian tourism destinations: a city, a seaside resort, a recreational resort and a spa resort. The questionnaire was designed in the Slovenian language and then translated into the English, German, and Italian languages.

There were 52% female and 58% male interviewees. In terms of age, the sample distribution is as follows: 15-29 years (25%), 30-39 years (24%), 40-50 years (31%), and 60 years and up (20%). The sample framework follows a representative visitation structure by country of origin. The sample representation is shown in Table 3 .

Sample Structure.

Correspondents evaluated tourism supply elements on two different aspects. First, they evaluated the importance of a given item for a destination (How important is this element? 1 = completely unimportant to 5 = very important ). Second, they evaluated the destination’s performance for a given element (At this destination, this element is exceptional. 1 = completely disagree to 5 = completely agree ). A list of these statements is included in the appendix ( Table A1 ).

Further, data on visitor’s satisfaction was also gathered by asking the respondents on whether they agree with the statement “I am pleased that I decided to visit this tourist destination” (1 = completely disagree to 5 = completely agree ).

Research Findings: Slovenian Destinations

Grouping tourism environmental resources as a part of ideal destination supply.

To study the first set of hypothesis—if potential tourists distinguish between environmental and tourism-created resources and their elements—a factor analysis using the principal component method with Varimax rotation was implemented. Based on the data on the importance of a single destination’s resources to the potential visitor, the factor analysis reveals four important factors, representing 67.68% of the total variance ( Table 4 , columns 2-5). The first factor, tourism infrastructure, includes tourism-created supplies directly linked to accommodation, including spa and wellness facilities. The second factor, tourism super-structure, includes a variety of vacation entertainment, including sports and shopping activities. The third factor, natural resources, includes two variables: unspoiled nature and overall cleanliness of the destination. The fourth factor, sociocultural attractions, includes the diversity of cultural and historical attractions and the friendliness of the local population.

Rotated Component Matrix for a Factor Model of Destination Resources (Ideal Destination).

Note: TCRE = tourism-created resources; TENV = tourism environmental resources; Infrastr = tourism infrastructure; Superstr = tourism super-structure; Nature = natural resources; SocCult = social and cultural resources.

The first two factors in columns 2 and 3 represent tourism-created resources, and the second two in columns 4 and 5 represent tourism environmental resources. A grouped two-factor model has also been tested and explains 47% of the total variance ( Table 2 , columns 6 and 7). The coefficient of reliability is higher for created resources (0.74) and is poor (0.59), yet acceptable, for environmental resources. Thus, our first set of hypotheses—that visitors (tourism demand) distinguish between environmental and tourism-created resources, between tourism infrastructures and super-structures, and between the nature and sociocultural resources—is supported, suggesting that it is meaningful to group destination resources into these groups to perform the analysis.

Testing Real Destination Performance of Environmental Resources

For the second set of hypotheses on customer satisfaction (destination’s performance) and environmental resources, the data are analyzed using a structural equation model (SEM). The model shows a good fit of the data: the measure of fit, root mean square error of approximation (RMSEA), is less than 0.05, and the comparative fit index (CFI) is close to 1 (0.988). The percentage of explanatory variance for environmental resources’ impact on satisfaction is 26%. The sample size, other descriptive statistics, and covariance matrix are presented in the appendix ( Tables A2 and ​ andA3 A3 ).

The first three hypotheses (2a, 2b, and 2c) on connections as predicted by our conceptual model and hypothesis can be supported by our SEM. As presented in Figure 5 , the arrows also correspond to theoretically predicted connection directions: tourism-created resources have a positive impact on visitor satisfaction (0.33) and environmental resources (0.37), and environmental resources have a positive impact on visitor satisfaction (0.29). Environmental resources are determined by the quality and quantity of tourism-created resources and influence satisfaction in a scope determined by tourism-created resources.

Tourism structural equation model for Slovenia (standardized effects).

Then, in regard to our next hypothesis (2d), we expected a higher potential for environmental resources, but the model shows quite the contrary. Tourism-created resources have a stronger impact on satisfaction than environmental resources (standardized coefficient beta 0.33 for tourism-created and 0.29 for environmental). Thus, hypothesis 3d cannot be supported.

Another interesting finding of the model, according to the subfactor-level loadings, is that sociocultural subfactors (loadings = 0.85) are represented more in the model structure than are natural subfactors (loadings = 0.57). This finding is not in line with the expectation that Slovenia has a competitive advantage in its green and unspoiled nature. In reality, sociocultural attractiveness potential is better utilized and, thus, has a stronger impact on competitiveness than natural attractiveness. Yet, this result could be due to the lack of use or poor access to the natural environment, with or without the support of created tourism supply, or the strong focus of the tourism sector on offering tourism infrastructure instead of more nature-based tourism services.

Testing the Importance–Performance Gaps in Environmental Resources

In line with hypothesis 3a that potential visitors rate the importance of environmental resources higher than that of created resources, our analysis shows the gap in the importance of the two categories (0.69, calculated from the importance mean values in Table 5 ). As this importance gap is statistically significant (see Table A4 in the appendix ), our hypothesis is supported.

Importance–Performance Gaps for Slovenia (Differences between Ideal and Real Destinations).

Note: TCRE = tourism-created resources; TENV = tourism environmental resources; Infrastr = tourism infrastructure; Superstr = tourism super-structure; Nature = natural resources; SocCult = social and cultural resources; IPA GAP = importance–performance gap (gap between customer perception of importance and performance in resources).

The results based on the visitors’ opinion also show that Slovenia as a real destination is performing well in terms of tourism-created resources and underperforming in terms of environmental resources. This finding is demonstrated by the negative importance–performance gaps for environmental resources and its subgroups ( Table 5 , and Table A4 in the appendix ), suggesting that visitors do not experience nature and sociocultural environments in the quality and, likely, quantity that they expected. Therefore, hypothesis 3b on the gap between the importance and performance of environmental resources is supported.

In regard to our model ( Figure 3 ), this result may be due to the high urbanization of space or low (lower) quality of environmental resources, which did not satisfy visitors. Further, it may be due to improperly designed tourism-created resources that do not utilize the full potential of the environmental attractiveness. The latter may occur because of the inaccessibility of these resources or the lack of tourism services that allow visitors to access and enjoy them.

Discussions and Implications

This article focuses on the effect of environmental resources on destination performance, the support they receive from tourism-created resources, and the expectations and experiences of the destinations’ visitors. Based on the review of environmental resources in the tourism economic literature, a conceptual model has been proposed. The importance–performance instrument has been used to construct the model. On the basis of the importance of environmental resources, factor grouping into environmental and tourism-created has been proposed. Furthermore, based on the performance view, the mutual connections between environmental and created resources and their connections to tourism demand, for example, to the satisfaction of visitors, have been conceptualized.

On the basis of our results, we argue that destinations can measure their capacity to enable access to environmental resources to visitors. Furthermore, recognizing that environmental resources require tourism-created resources to become a part of tourist supply, destinations can measure how efficiently their created resources support value creation on the account of environmental visitor experience. It is important for a destination to understand if created resources enable tourism products to sufficiently employ environmental resources, such as natural or sociocultural resources. Many destinations today claim to build their competitiveness on the potential of their natural or cultural endowments and may believe that they are successfully doing so. However, our data show that although Slovenia works to create an image of itself as a green destination, the destination itself does not utilize nature much and as well as its visitors expect. Moreover, we found that the sociocultural element is strongly represented in the studied impact on customer satisfaction. Improvements in tourism product could be made, thereby helping the country meet visitors’ “greener” expectations. Proper investment in more supporting tourism-created resources, such as nature-based accommodation and tourism products, would help “sell” more natural resources to potential customers, increasing their overall satisfaction and destination performance.

Although one may argue that our model only represents a two-factor view that neglects many important factors, we claim that the selected model has a strong theoretical basis in tourism economics literature and, thus, is worthy of being tested empirically. This article represents an attempt to empirically test this type of model. Dividing tourism supply into the categories of environmental and tourism-created resources helps to understand the relationship between the two factor groups of tourism supply and their impact on tourism demand and on value creation. Furthermore, the model enables researchers to study the role of environmental resources and their impact on destination performance.

Furthermore, it can be argued that our model does not consider the efficiency of tourism management, which is an important element in transforming inherited environmental resources into tourism products. Yet, we argue that the model sufficiently analyzes the position of environmental resources in a destination’s supply and thus is an efficient diagnostic tool that can be used to inform and adapt managerial activities and tourism policies. The results have shown that all other things being equal in tourism management efficiency, there is a negative gap between the importance and performance of Slovenian environmental resources. The gap is larger for natural resources and somewhat smaller for cultural resources. Obviously, immediate private and public managerial efforts to improve the destination’s performance and to synchronize it with the country’s green tourism vision and mission are needed. Tourism policy and more specifically tourism product development needs to incorporate more environmental resource–based experience and the visitor’s access and actual enjoyment of environmental attractions, and more specifically natural attractions, needs to be improved.

These demand-side opinion-based results contradict previous research findings on Slovenian tourism, which are based on the opinion of supply-side tourism stakeholders, who believe that Slovenia is performing better in its environmental resources than in its created resources. This paper, then, shows a serious discrepancy that requires immediate attention and has strong policy implications. Such a view, as held by tourism stakeholders, demand more investment in tourism infrastructure only and is likely to increase the gap in expected and experienced environmental performance of the destination. Consequently, the decreased satisfaction in environmental resources will lead to a decreased environmental competitiveness of the destination.

The presented demand-side view on performance of environmental resources in Slovenia is also a wider contribution of this research. Thus far, many applied economics–based studies measured competitiveness as perceived by tourism stakeholders on the supply side ( Bahar and Kozak 2007 ; De Keyser and Vanhove 1994 ; Dwyer and Kim 2003 ; Omerzel Gomezelj and Mihalič 2008 ). However, the question of whether the evaluation of environmental attractions by supply-side stakeholders would be consistent with an evaluation gathered from visitors themselves can be raised ( Bahar and Kozak 2007 ; Enright and Newton 2004 ). The advantage of the supply-side approach lies in lower costs and its ability to measure a wide range of competitiveness factors, such as supporting factors, destination management, or policy. It is assumed that demand-side respondents are more experienced and knowledgeable to evaluate the range of different factors. Further, it is also assumed that experts are “able to speak for the tourists” ( Enright and Newton 2004 , p. 781) and that their opinions represent a large group of tourists and are even more accurate, as there may be a gap between tourists’ expressed opinions and actual behavior. In terms of our debate on tourism environmental resources, this phenomenon can be illustrated by assigning a high declarative value to the environmental quality of the destination (environmental resources), while actually being more interested in the quality of accommodations and related services (tourism-created resources). One single study that was conducted on both sides suggested that both tourism practitioners and tourists felt that natural and cultural resources were the most promising attributes for destination competitiveness, yet suppliers viewed this aspect as significantly more important than did visitors ( Bahar and Kozak 2007 ). Again, we refer to already mentioned two earlier supply-based studies on the competitiveness potential of Slovenian environmental resources that noted that Slovenia has an advantage in environmental tourism attractors ( Mihalič and Sirše 1999 ; Omerzel Gomezelj and Mihalič 2008 ). However, the supply-based research is not directly connected to consumers and might bring conclusions that contradict the opinions of visitors. Our model has successfully tested and confirmed that from the standpoint of a potential visitor, dividing resources into environmental and created resources is meaningful and that in the case of Slovenia, visitors clearly wanted more environmental resource–based experiences. This research offers an informed argument for Slovene tourism policy makers and practitioners to improve the accessibility and delivery of environmental resource–based tourism products and experience for the visitors.

Based on the fact that environmental resources may not have the same attractiveness potential for all types of destinations, the view of different destination types needs attention. For example, Enright and Newton (2004) studied the competitiveness of the urban tourism destination of Hong Kong as perceived by Hong Kong tourism practitioners and found that some environmental attributes received low rankings. For example, climate ranked only 12th, probably because climates of city destinations may be considered less important than in resort destinations. This study implies that environmental resources may have varying importance in different types of destinations. Some destinations, such as cities or theme parks, may focus more on created tourism supply resources, while others, such as mountain or sea resorts, might build their customer experience more on environmental attributes. Specifically, many see that destinations, facing the stage of decline, as already illustrated in this paper, must improve its performance with regard to natural resources. In the past, these destinations have developed tourism infrastructures and super-structures to capitalize on the natural resources they possess; however, these created resources have failed to meet the visitors’ satisfaction in regard to insufficient or poor experience in environmental resources, environmental quality included. It is true that destination development has strongly focused on the development of accommodation and other tourism infrastructure and has somewhat neglected the environmental dimension of destinations’ tourism supply ( Aguiló, Alegre, and Sard 2005 ). This observation can be illustrated by a strong investment in the quantity and quality of hotel rooms, restaurants and convention facilities, casinos and hotel indoor swimming pools, and larger indoor water-based parks, hotel spa centers, hotel coffee shops and souvenir shops or shopping centers, and so on, on the account of development of products that would take visitors outside hotel premises, offering them a more environmental experience in the destination. Furthermore, some investment in the beach facilities and urbanization have been done, yet the money and thus effective policy support for investing into the environmental quality of the destination has been scarce. The development plans have not built on the proper created-environmental resources relationship, as emphasized in the proposed model in this article.

Limitations and Further Research

The model developed in this article combines the supply–demand tourism view with the concept of importance–performance analysis and attempts to contribute to a better understanding of the ideal and actual role of environmental resources in destination performance. A test of the model has been conducted only in the case of the destination, Slovenia, and the results are thus limited to this test and this country only. However, given the general nature of our conceptualized model, we expect that the model can be used in different settings. To test its generalizability, it should be applied and tested in other destinations.

Furthermore, the importance statements that we used to create the groups of environmental and created resources might vary significantly among different types of destinations. In other words, not all potential destinations possess the same elements of environmental resources. Specifically, some may build their tourism development model on flora and fauna, while others on water or climate. In this regard, we argue that the conceptual model has a general nature, yet the measurement instrument needs to be further developed and expanded.

For a market-based study of tourism performance, the use of visitors as key informants is justifiable. At the same time, for measuring the importance of environmental resources, the researcher should ask potential visitors, not actual visitors in the destination. It is potential tourism supply that is a market category and that should be measured ( Planina 1997 ). From the standpoint of destination focus on different market segments, the possible (potential) segments, not the existing ones, are relevant. If a destination focuses on offering green tourism products, green tourism market segments would be of relevance. However, the costs of such a potential demand research often prevent data to be collected from potential visitors, and such a method would also prevent the collection of data on both the importance and the performance of environmental resources from the same person at the same time. Nevertheless, with the help of web-based customer research, we assume that this theoretically correct approach toward potential demand might more often find its way in future tourism research. So far, measuring potential demand by asking the real visitors remains a research limitation (including our research). However, in our case, it has eliminated the need to differentiate the question on the importance of resources according to different destination types. We assume this for the importance data corresponding to the kind of visited destination, as well as for the performance data.

The results on the valorization of environmental resources through tourism might also vary on the account of a destination’s development stage, expressed as the level of development of tourism infrastructure and super-structure. Yet, we expect that the model can prove a useful instrument even in such settings, emphasizing the lower than ideal customer experience based on the tourism-created, instead of the environmental resources. In this context, further research might analyze the rate at which environmental resources are valorized by created resources according to a different tourism destination development stage.

Furthermore, the purpose of this paper has been to develop a theoretically supported model to study the role of environmental resources in destination supply and demand and to offer a useful instrument to inform policy makers and tourism destination managers on the possible shortcomings in integrating the environmental resource–based experience into destination services. A strong focus only on measuring the performance in environmental resources has culminated in a two-factor model, as it became evident that environmental resources need tourism-created resources to enable them to participate in the tourism market. Future research can expand the model to include other factors. For example, the role of general infrastructure that some authors see as “inherited” resource might be added to the model. The same can be argued for the (given) accessibility of the destination, for example.

Next, our conceptual model also suggests a relationship between the environmental and created resources, as has been seen by many tourism researchers. In this view, environmental resources are enabled by and depend on created resources. In our opinion, such a model enables the measurement of the full contribution of environmental resources, which was the only primary focus of our research. Thus, the arrows in our model point from created resources (seen as enablers) toward environmental resources (seen as attractors), and from environmental and created resources toward visitor satisfaction. In addition, some researchers have also discussed the complementarities between the two groups of resources ( Krippendorf 1971 ; Kaspar 1991 ), which suggests a different type of complementary connection. In other words, such a theoretical ground would demand two-sided arrows between created and environmental resources in our model. It might be worth testing this kind of a model and analyzing its implications.

Another relevant issue for future consideration is environmental quality. The proposed model has combined environmental resources into two subgroups, nature being one of them. A well-structured importance–performance instrument that would include statements in relation to the environmental quality of the destination might help expand the model with a single subfactor, environmental quality. We assume that some destinations might face a low impact of environmental resources on customer satisfaction on the account of given conditions (e.g., environmental degradation, pollution levels, water and air quality) and not on the account of poor tourism policy and management that fails to integrate more nature-based experiences into the tourism service.

In conclusion, the model presented in this paper can be developed further but, in its current form, may help understand the importance of tourism environmental resources and their natural and sociocultural subgroups for destination performance. As our model also includes created resources, seen as tourism enablers of environmental resources, the model also has the potential to study the role of created resources for destination performance. Nevertheless, from the aspect of environmental resources, it is relevant for many modern destinations that claim to have advantages in natural or cultural resources. For these destinations, the model offers an instrument that may help their tourism policy makers test the connection between environmental and tourism-created resources and the environmental experiences they actually deliver to their visitors in order to make informed decisions on their investments and policies.

Acknowledgments

The author also gratefully acknowledges the methodological support from Hana Vodeb.

Author Biography

Tanja Mihalič , PhD, is a professor of tourism at the Faculty of Economics, University of Ljubljana, Slovenia. Her research interests include tourism economics, environmental economics, policy and sustainable tourism development. She is a member of the Tourism Sustainability Group of the European Commission.

Importance and Performance Measurement Instrument.

Descriptive Statistics for the Measurement Model.

Note: The SATISF Kurtosis is rather high, yet acceptable. The variable was selected (from a list of possible variables) for the model as it enabled a good fit of the model (high root mean square error of approximation). Infrastr = tourism infrastructure; Superstr = tourism super-structure; Nature = natural resources: SocCult = social and cultural resources; SATISF = visitor satisfaction.

Covariance Matrix for the Measurement Model.

Note: Infrastr = tourism infrastructure; Superstr = tourism super-structure; Nature = natural resources: SocCult = social and cultural resources; SATISF = visitor satisfaction.

Paired Sample Tests for Tourism-Created and Environmental Resources for the Destination, Slovenia.

Note: TCRE = tourism-created resources: TENV = tourism environmental resources; Infrastr = tourism infrastructure; Superstr = tourism super-structure; Nature = natural resources; SocCult = social and cultural resources.

Declaration of Conflicting Interests: The author declared no potential conflicts of interest with respect to the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article.

Funding: The author(s) disclosed receipt of the following financial support for the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article: The author gratefully acknowledges the financial support of the Slovenian Research Agency and the Ministry of the Economy of the Republic of Slovenia for the project “Methodology for Measuring Visitor Satisfaction,” which provided data used in the present paper.

Environment Go!

The Environment | Nature | Humans

10 Natural Tourist Attractions in the Philippines

A natural attraction is an attraction that has been created by nature. These areas have been given a status to protect their environment and provide facilities so that people who visit can enjoy the sites. Natural attractions are also known as Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).

Located in Southeast Asia with more than 7,600 islands is the country Philippines, blessed with a refreshing atmosphere and pristine beaches which are resided by many indigenous tribes and hospitable locals.

The geographical features of the Philippines ensure that there are natural attractions wherever you go within the region.

Recognized by UNESCO are some gigantic mountains and rice terraces which are also found in the Philippines. The Philippines pack many exciting natural phenomena which attract so many tourists all over the world in this article we will be seeing some interesting natural sites found in this part of the world.

Table of Contents

The natural sites include:

• Chocolate Hills
• The Banaue Rice Terraces
• Mayon Volcano
• Boracay Island
• Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park
• Puerto Princesa Underground River
• Taal Volcano and Taal Lake
• Tinuy-an Falls
• Sumaguing Cave

1.  Chocolate Hills

The Chocolate Hills is one of the top tourist attractions in the Philippines which is located in Bohol. They are conical and symmetrical Karst Hills that have been used for corals millions of years back.

According to research, it has been known as the country’s third national geological monument which attracts many tourists around the world. Statistically, more than 1,200 hills spread out across a 50-kilometer square, with each standing at a height between 30 meters and 50 meters (98 to 164 feet).

The name, chocolate hills are a result of the changing color of the plantation with change in season, during the wet season, the hills are covered with green plantations while during the dry season the plantation turns brown.

2. The Banaue Rice Terraces

The Banaue rice terraces are located In the middle of the mountainous region of Nueva Vizcaya  Ifugao  Province made by many tribes hospitable and accommodating, this stair-liked rice fields were carved from mountain ranges by Ifugao tribes without modern tools have been around over 2,000 years ago.

No tourist mission to the Philippines could be complete without having a spectacular sight of Banaue Rice Terraces. This terrace appears to inform of giant steps approaching the sky.

Today, the locals or indigenous communities continue to maintain the traditional farming practices that their ancestors started; however, more young people are migrating to the urban areas of the Philippines, leaving fewer people to work in the fields.

3. Mayon Volcano

This is the most active volcano in the country located in Tabaco City, Albay, Philippines. By occurrence, the volcano has erupted more than 50 times in the past 400 years (four centuries).

Constantly rising to a height of more than 2,400 meters above sea level,  this Volcano is significant for its perfectly symmetrical cone shape, which makes the  Volcano a significant phenomenon.

Near the volcano, the government built an interesting natural park that serves as a big tourist attraction where visitors can enjoy several activities such as sightseeing, hiking, climbing, camping,  photography, etc.  On February 1, 1814, the most destructive eruption of Mayon occurred leaving the nearby towns with volcanic rocks and typhoons.

4. Boracay Island

Boracay Island is a small island found in Malay, Aklan, Philippines. It has a total land mass of 25.32 square kilometers with a population of about 37,802(2020) with the Ati people as the indigenous inhabitants of the region.

This lively and primitive island is made up of a stretching white sand coast with beaches and so many land activities. It is significant for its use as a water sports playground. Where so many beehives of sporting activities such as kite surfing, parasailing,  cliff diving, windsurfing, motor biking, scuba diving, and horse riding take place.

5. Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park

Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park is a must-visit natural tourist destination in the country. The Tubbataha Reef is found in the Sulu Sea, which is located in Cagayancillo, Philippines. And is been guided by a marine sanctuary protecting it as the Tubbataha Reef Natural Marine Park.

The reef is made up of two islands, the North Island and the South Island, separated by a deep channel of approximately 5 miles (8 km) wide.

People usually come here to dive as the site has plenty of diving spots with diverse, rich, and stunning marine life under the water.  Also found in the reef is the sharks’ resting spot known as the Shark Airport.

6. Puerto Princesa Underground River

This is a nature lover’s paradise which is Located on the northern coast of the island of Sabang, Palawa. This underground river known as the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River has been said to be one of the most world’s unique natural phenomena.

The subterranean cave system, which is 8.2 kilometers long, flows directly into the South China Sea which can only be explored with a boat and is filled with unspoiled landscapes that are rich in wildlife.

This natural wonder is known as the world’s longest navigable underground river, created millions of years ago and stretches 24 kilometers beneath the mountains. Guided paddle boat tours show intriguing rock formations and fluttering bats.

Inside the cave, you will see waterfalls seeping through the cave walls, 20-million-years-old fossils, and a tiny passage leading to a room full of crystal

7. Taal Volcano and Taal Lake

Taal Volcano is known as the smallest volcano in the world, located in Talisay, Philippines. It was formed as a result of a large eruption between five to one century back.  In as much as it is named the world’s smallest volcano, it is also on the list of one of the world’s most dangerous ones and destructive volcanoes.

It has about 40 craters and 40 maars. On the other hand, Taal lake which was formerly known as Bombon Lake is a freshwater caldera lake found in Batangas on the island of Luzon, Philippines.

Inside the Taal volcano is found the Taal lake which is also known as the Vulcan Point. The interesting sight of Taal Lake makes it one of the country’s most popular tourist destinations which is thirty miles from Manila.

8. Lake Sebu

Lake sebu is a natural lake, known as home to the T’boli tribe in the Philippines who believe in food as a Basket given by God, having a population of about 81,221 people. It is located in South Cobato.

This lake serves as one of the most important watersheds in the country, supplying water to the provinces of South Cotabato and Sultan Kudarat.

The lake is surrounded by rolling hills and mountains covered with thick rain forest having an area of about 354 hectares with a height of approximately 1000 meters (3,300 feet).

On the South-Eastern watershed of the lake, a bamboo plantation was established by the Philippines government as a means of protecting the landscape.

The lake offers ravishing and abundant landscapes that are lovely to behold, a place worthy to be taken into consideration for a visit during the holiday, this is because of its virgin forests, abundant biodiversity , lush, rich diversities of the culture of the native tribes as well as the kindness and the hospitality of the people.

9. Tinuy-an Falls

This fall is located in Bislig, Surigao del Sur, southern island of Mindanao  Philippines, With a height of 55 meters (180 feet) and breadth of 95 meters (312 feet), and has been discovered to be the widest waterfall in the Philippines.

It is a multi-tiered waterfall because it flows in three distinct levels with the fourth tier insignificant out of sight. Which no wonder makes it spectacular, thereby earning the name “Niagara Falls of the Philippines”.

10. Sumaguing Cave

Sumaguing Cave is located at South Road, Sagada, Philippines. It is also known as the Big Cave because of its massive chambers, which make it the largest among all of Sagada’s caves.

It is a popular site for trekking, spelunking, and recreational cave exploration and the most popular tourist attraction in Sagada town.

In the cave, there is a man-made staircase from the roadside that leads to the entrance of the cave. Which makes it more manageable to go down, as the more one look ahead and looks down the easier it is. The Sumaguing cave is about 1 hour and 16 minutes from the town of Sagada.

As a result of the enormous islands and natural phenomenon, the Philippines offer a huge opportunity for vacation ideas and tourism for travelers. Though the encompassing Islands make the country prone to earthquakes and typhoons.

These natural attractions leave the country with enormous natural resources and biodiversity, which helps in the building of the country’s economy due to the presence of visitors around the world.

As statistics show that the country host about eight million tourists annually and has been listed among the top visited countries in the Asian continent alongside China, Thailand, and India.

For most visitors, Philippines holidays include kite surfing, spelunking, volcano hiking, mountaineering, sightseeing, etc.

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Ahamefula Ascension

Ahamefula Ascension is a Real Estate Consultant, Data Analyst, and Content writer. He is the founder of Hope Ablaze Foundation and a Graduate of Environmental Management in one of the prestigious colleges in the country. He is obsessed with Reading, Research and Writing.

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Top 10 Tourist Attractions in Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe is a country endowed with so much natural beauty, profound history, vast and remarkable landscapes, and an incredible diversity of wildlife, birdlife, national parks, and reserves to explore. Zimbabwe boasts a range of diverse habitats, from the forested valleys of Matobo Hills National Park, and the watery wilderness of Lake Kariba, to the floodplains of Mana Pools National Park, and the mopane woodlands and savannas of Hwange National Park.

Beyond its astounding landscapes and habitats, Zimbabwe is home to an astounding 500 species of birds, 199 mammal species, 130 species of fish and several rare and endemic species such as the sable antelope.

What sets Zimbabwe apart from its fellow southern African neighbors is the fact that it offers tourists and travelers alike the chance to experience superb game viewing and unforgettable safari adventures without the large crowds – Undoubtedly making it one of the best safari destinations to visit in Africa.

Offering an endless variety of things to see and experience, here are the best things to do and top 10 tourist attractions in Zimbabwe, all of which should be on your Zimbabwean bucket-list.

#1 Hwange National Park

Hwange National Park is one of Africa’s top national parks. Covering a vast expanse of around 5,655 square miles/14,650 square kilometers, it is both the largest and oldest of Zimbabwe’s game reserves.

Hwange National Park is undoubtedly one of the top tourist attractions for wildlife enthusiasts as the park has the biggest diversity of mammals out of the world’s national parks. Home to over 100 species of mammals, including the renowned African Big 5, lion, elephant, leopard, rhino, and buffalo, Hwange National Park’s game viewing and sightings are unparalleled. In addition to its exceptional diversity of wildlife, this world-renowned national park is famous for its profound population of elephants, boasting over 50 000 elephants. The Hwange elephant population is thought to be one of the largest in the world.

The park is also known for regular sightings of some of Africa’s rarest safari animals, such as the brown hyena, the critically endangered black rhino, roan, sable, and the endangered wild dog – Hwange National Park is said to be home to one of Africa’s largest populations of the endangered wild dog. Visiting Hwange during the dry winter months of July to October guarantees spectacular wildlife sightings, as animals gather around the man-made waterholes in the park to drink. Birdlife is also abundant at Hwange National Park, with over 500 species recorded within the park.

What makes Hwange so special is the fact that it is easily accessible as well as its lack of crowds. For all of its biodiversity, huge herds of elephants and ease of sightings in the winter months, the park never gets crowded, which means you have the space and the quiet to soak up the magic of the bush.

#2 Lake Kariba

Situated in the north of Zimbabwe, northeast of Victoria Falls and sharing a border with Zambia, Lake Kariba is landlocked Zimbabwe’s answer to the seaside: a massive manmade lake that provides a wonderful combination of water and wildlife. Stretching for over 140 miles/220 kilometers in length, and measures 25 miles/40 kilometers across at its widest point, it is the world’s largest man-made lake in terms of volume. The traditional and by far the best way to explore the wonders of Lake Kariba is on a houseboat. Kariba is renowned as one of the best places in the world to catch tiger fish, a ferocious freshwater species, as well as for its remarkable sightings of hippos, crocodiles, elephants and vast birdlife.

The lake’s islands also offer ample opportunities for game viewing. Perhaps the most rewarding wildlife area is Matusadona National Park, located on Kariba’s southern shore.

#3 Mana Pools National Park

Photo credit: flickr

Regarded as being both Zimbabwe’s best park and one of the finest wilderness areas in Africa, Mana Pools National Park is a superb safari destination. Situated at the northern most point of Zimbabwe straddling the Zambian border, Mana Pools is renowned for its untamed natural beauty: a riverine wilderness on the Zambezi River of pools, floodplains, baobab trees and forests that feels totally remote and never gets crowded.

Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its incredible and diverse concentration of wildlife, Mana Pools National Park is undoubtedly one of the top tourist attractions in Zimbabwe for wildlife lovers from around the world. The park is famous for its huge elephant herds, as well as exceptional sightings of cheetahs and the entire African Big 5. It is also known as one of the top places in Africa to spot the endangered African wild dog.

Mana Pools is a haven for water-based wildlife, with large populations of hippo and Nile crocodile. They live in the four pools that give the park its name, each one created by the Zambezi River before it altered its course to flow northward. The largest pool is approximately 3.7 miles/6 kilometers long, and acts as a valuable water source, especially in the height of the dry season. The abundance of water present in this area makes it a prime spot for birders.

The appeal of the park is not just its wildlife – it’s how you get to experience the bush in immersive ways: staying in unfenced campsites in the midst of the wilderness and going on walking and canoeing safaris to see its profound and diverse wildlife and birdlife is where the true magic and adventure lies. Mana Pools National Park is also one of the only parks in Africa where you can walk and explore without a guide. It is however advised that you have a lot of bush knowledge and experience before going off on your own.

#4 Victoria Falls

Tumbling down 100-metre-high cliffs surrounded by lush forests, Victoria Falls is the biggest sheet of falling water on the planet. Regarded as one of Africa’s most astounding sights as well as one of the Seven Wonders of the Natural World, Victoria Falls reigns supreme as one of Zimbabwe’s top tourist attractions.

During peak flood season (February – March), the spray thrown up by the plunging Victoria Falls water can be seen from approximately 50 kilometers away. This spectacular natural spectacle which has people travelling from around the world to witness and experience first-hand, gives the falls its indigenous name —  Mosi-oa-Tunya , or “The Smoke That Thunders”.

Stretching 1.7 kilometers wide, the falls span across both Zimbabwe and Zambia. There are pathways on each side of the border that lead you to the edge of cliffs. On the Zimbabwean side, the path winds its way along the edge of the gorge with viewpoints offering breathtaking panoramas of the plummeting water and the renowned rainbows that hang suspended above the chasm. While the sound is known to be somewhat overwhelming, and you’re bound to get soaking wet from the famous falls’ spray (a bucket-list worthy experience in itself), the magnificent spectacle you get to witness is one you’ll never forget.

As the town of Victoria Falls sits right by the falls themselves on the Zimbabwean side, it is famous for its vast variety of thrilling adrenaline sports and incredible safari activities. Some of these experiences include bungee jumping, abseiling, white-water rafting, and wildlife spotting from horseback.

#5 Matobo National Park

Regarded as the spiritual home of Zimbabwe, Matobo National Park boasts some of the world’s most impressive granite scenery. The fascinating granite rock formations and lunar landscape of balancing rocks, known as kopjes – giant boulders stacked on top of each other, as if they’re about to topple over – is not only a remarkable sight and one of the top tourist attractions in Zimbabwe, but a stunning natural spectacle and work of art. This site has an intriguing history, tracing back some 2000 million years ago when molten rock erupted across the landscape.

Several of the rocks are marked with ancient rock art created by the San bushmen about 2000 years ago. In fact, the recreational section of Matobo National Park has Southern Africa’s highest concentration of ancient rock art with 3500 sites dating back 13,000 years. To this day the Matobo Hills are considered incredibly important to the local community as they are used as sacred sanctuaries and shrines.

Matobo National Park is an exceptional wildlife and safari destination. The game park section of Matobo National Park is not only home to Zimbabwe’s highest concentration of white and black rhinos, it has one of the largest leopard populations in Southern Africa and is a great place to spot Verreaux’s eagles, in addition to other wildlife and birdlife species.

**Interesting Fact:   Cecil Rhodes, a controversial 19th-century imperialist, businessman, and politician, was buried here. His remains are marked by a brass plaque perched atop World’s View, the park’s most iconic viewpoint.

#6 Chimanimani National Park

Located on the eastern border with Mozambique, the mountainous Chimanimani National Park is known for its unapologetic natural beauty. Famous for its plunging gorges, lush valleys, mountain landscapes, and soaring peaks, with the highest summits reaching over 7,990 feet/2,400 meters, Chimanimani National Park has become a top destination among adventure seekers, keen hikers, campers, and those looking to immerse themselves in nature.

If you’re a wildlife enthusiast, you certainly won’t be disappointed when visiting this top Zimbabwe tourist attraction and natural oasis. As the lower reaches of the park are covered by dense virgin forest, it is known to attract and provide shelter to several obscure wildlife species including eland, sable, and the blue duiker antelope. It is also one of the best parks in Zimbabwe to spot the elusive leopard as they roam free in the Chimanimani mountains, as well as enjoy incredible sightings of Southern Africa’s smaller cat species such as Serval, the African Wildcat, Caracal, the mysterious Sand Cat, Jungle Cat, Black-Footed Cat, and the African Golden Cat. If you’re an avid birder, you can look forward to some spectacular birdlife sightings when visiting Chimanimani National Park and the Chimanimani mountains.

Amenities in the park include unpaved hiking trails, communal huts and a campsite with basic cooking and ablution facilities. Wild camping is also allowed throughout the park.

#7 Nyanga National Park

Regarded as the home of the Highveld, Nyanga National Park is a wild and wonderful place to visit on any trip to Zimbabwe. Located more than 1,800 meters above sea level, it is said to be perched on the very roof of Zimbabwe, formed by hulking hills of dolomite rock and suspended boulders – Making it quite a unique sight to behold.

Besides being the home of the Zimbabwean Highveld, Nyanga National Park boasts a fascinating and incredible landscape which is dressed in groves of msasa trees and cypresses which are considerably rare to these regions. Due to the vastly unique landscapes of the park, the unique habitats that exist within Nyanga National Park can host a truly otherworldly array of creatures and a remarkable diversity of wildlife species.

Several of the species in the park are entirely endemic to the region, such as the Old World Samango monkeys with their white-brushed throats that can only be found in these parts of the world. The Nyanga National Park is also home to a number of leopards, lions, and other wildlife species, ensuring you get to enjoy the full authentic African safari and wildlife experience.

#8 Chinhoyi Caves

Located in north central Zimbabwe, the mysterious Chinhoyi Caves is not only one of the top tourist attractions in Zimbabwe, but a place of geological interest too. Made up of a subterranean system of limestone and dolomite caverns and tunnels, the caves are protected as part of the Chinhoyi Caves National Park. The caves have a mystical appeal about them as local elders believe they are sacred. Due to several artifacts found and uncovered in the caves (such as pottery, drawings, and human remains), it is suggested that the caves have been inhabited since at least the 1st century. Most famously, the Chinhoyi Caves provided a refuge from raiding tribes for Mashona chief Chinhoyi and his people.

Undoubtedly the main attraction of the Chinhoyi Caves is the ‘Wonder Hole’. This deep blue natural pool is a collapsed cavern with sheer walls that drops straight down into what is known as the crystalline Sleeping Pool. Besides a bucket-list worthy experience, the glacial blue color of the lake’s water provides the perfect backdrop for the most incredible photographs. It is also the site where visitors can enter the illuminated Dark Cave.

A visit to Chinhoyi Caves is a great opportunity to hear and learn about the historical significance of the caves as well as the folklore that surrounds this mysterious place. Chinhoyi is a popular destination for technical scuba divers.

#9 The Great Zimbabwe National Monument & Masvingo

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Great Zimbabwe National Monument is located approximately a four-hour drive south of Harare or east of Bulawayo (two of Zimbabwe’s largest towns). Regarded as one of Zimbabwe’s top tourist attractions, the Great Zimbabwe National Monument protects the remains of Great Zimbabwe, the capital of the historic Kingdom of Zimbabwe and the most important stone ruins south of the Sahara. Built between the 11th and 15th centuries, these 700-year-old ruins crumble and crack under the sun, revealing tales of grave history and the nation’s old Shona-speaking folk.

The ruins cover a vast area, including a hilltop acropolis which once housed kings and chiefs. Making it quite an enthralling historical landmark to visit and explore on your trip to Zimbabwe. The valley surrounding the Great Zimbabwe National Monument is scattered with the ruins of more humble dwellings, all of which were built using perfectly cut granite blocks. As various artifacts such as porcelain from China and Arab coins from the East African coast have been discovered at this very site, it suggests that Great Zimbabwe was once a powerful and wealthy center of trade.

Some 20 kilometers away from the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Great Zimbabwe is where you’ll find Masvingo. Situated neatly on the edge of the Mutirikwi National Park, Masvingo is the ultimate destination for keen adventure travelers and thrill seekers looking to explore and discover as it has plenty in the way of outdoor exploration up its sleeve. It is also regarded as one of the prime drop off points, welcoming VIP tourists and travelers to the deeper reaches of Zimbabwe, as they make their way through to the southern edge of the country.

#10 Matusadona National Park

A relic of the former state of Rhodesia, Matusadona National Park clings to the southern banks of Lake Kariba, on the Zimbabwean side of the great water body. After becoming subsumed by Zimbabwe following the various upheavals, the area retained its protected status and established itself as one of the top tourist attractions in Zimbabwe.

One of Matusadona National Park’s main allures is that the whole region is beautifully untouched and untrodden. This makes it the perfect African wilderness escape for those seeking an off-the-beaten-track safari adventure. In addition to its vast diversity of wildlife, the majestic Cape buffalo and African elephant are by far the two most popular wildlife species you can look forward to seeing when visiting Matusadona National Park.

The nearby water of Kariba provides ample grazing lands which has only flourished since the creation of the Kariba Dam. This allows ungulates such as giraffes, hippos, rhinos, zebras, wildebeest, aardvark, and an incredible array of antelope (to mention merely a few), and predators alike to thrive along its fringes.

Kariba is also known as one of the best places in the world to catch tiger fish, as well as for its remarkable sightings of hippos, crocodiles, and vast birdlife. The lake’s islands offer ample opportunities for game viewing with the most rewarding wildlife area being none other than Matusadona National Park.

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Natural Attractions

Northern lights, midnight sun, glaciers & national parks.

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Alaska’s natural attractions and resources are undoubtedly one of the top draws of visitors to this unique destination. Once you have experienced the aurora borealis (northern lights) , stayed up all night without even meaning to under Alaska’s midnight sun , or listened to a glacier crash into the ocean…you’ll completely understand what sets Alaska apart. From hot springs to the tundra-based life of the Arctic Circle , the lifestyles of Alaskans are integrally linked to nature in many fascinating ways.

Find out how on one of our Alaska nature tours which showcase mountains, glaciers, and wildlife in what is still America’s “last frontier.”

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Things to Do in Elektrostal, Russia - Elektrostal Attractions

Things to do in elektrostal.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Good for Kids
• Good for Big Groups
• Adventurous
• Budget-friendly
• Hidden Gems
• Good for Couples
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Electrostal History and Art Museum

2. Statue of Lenin

3. Park of Culture and Leisure

4. museum and exhibition center.

5. Museum of Labor Glory

7. Galereya Kino

8. viki cinema, 9. smokygrove.

10. Gandikap

11. papa lounge bar, 12. karaoke bar.

• Statue of Lenin
• Electrostal History and Art Museum
• Park of Culture and Leisure
• Museum and Exhibition Center
• Museum of Labor Glory

40 Facts About Elektrostal

Written by Lanette Mayes

Modified & Updated: 02 Mar 2024

Reviewed by Jessica Corbett

Elektrostal is a vibrant city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia. With a rich history, stunning architecture, and a thriving community, Elektrostal is a city that has much to offer. Whether you are a history buff, nature enthusiast, or simply curious about different cultures, Elektrostal is sure to captivate you.

This article will provide you with 40 fascinating facts about Elektrostal, giving you a better understanding of why this city is worth exploring. From its origins as an industrial hub to its modern-day charm, we will delve into the various aspects that make Elektrostal a unique and must-visit destination.

So, join us as we uncover the hidden treasures of Elektrostal and discover what makes this city a true gem in the heart of Russia.

Key Takeaways:

• Elektrostal, known as the “Motor City of Russia,” is a vibrant and growing city with a rich industrial history, offering diverse cultural experiences and a strong commitment to environmental sustainability.
• With its convenient location near Moscow, Elektrostal provides a picturesque landscape, vibrant nightlife, and a range of recreational activities, making it an ideal destination for residents and visitors alike.

Known as the “Motor City of Russia.”

Elektrostal, a city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia, earned the nickname “Motor City” due to its significant involvement in the automotive industry.

Home to the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant.

Elektrostal is renowned for its metallurgical plant, which has been producing high-quality steel and alloys since its establishment in 1916.

Boasts a rich industrial heritage.

Elektrostal has a long history of industrial development, contributing to the growth and progress of the region.

Founded in 1916.

The city of Elektrostal was founded in 1916 as a result of the construction of the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant.

Located approximately 50 kilometers east of Moscow.

Elektrostal is situated in close proximity to the Russian capital, making it easily accessible for both residents and visitors.

Known for its vibrant cultural scene.

Elektrostal is home to several cultural institutions, including museums, theaters, and art galleries that showcase the city’s rich artistic heritage.

A popular destination for nature lovers.

Surrounded by picturesque landscapes and forests, Elektrostal offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and birdwatching.

Hosts the annual Elektrostal City Day celebrations.

Every year, Elektrostal organizes festive events and activities to celebrate its founding, bringing together residents and visitors in a spirit of unity and joy.

Has a population of approximately 160,000 people.

Elektrostal is home to a diverse and vibrant community of around 160,000 residents, contributing to its dynamic atmosphere.

Boasts excellent education facilities.

The city is known for its well-established educational institutions, providing quality education to students of all ages.

A center for scientific research and innovation.

Elektrostal serves as an important hub for scientific research, particularly in the fields of metallurgy, materials science, and engineering.

Surrounded by picturesque lakes.

The city is blessed with numerous beautiful lakes, offering scenic views and recreational opportunities for locals and visitors alike.

Well-connected transportation system.

Elektrostal benefits from an efficient transportation network, including highways, railways, and public transportation options, ensuring convenient travel within and beyond the city.

Famous for its traditional Russian cuisine.

Food enthusiasts can indulge in authentic Russian dishes at numerous restaurants and cafes scattered throughout Elektrostal.

Home to notable architectural landmarks.

Elektrostal boasts impressive architecture, including the Church of the Transfiguration of the Lord and the Elektrostal Palace of Culture.

Offers a wide range of recreational facilities.

Residents and visitors can enjoy various recreational activities, such as sports complexes, swimming pools, and fitness centers, enhancing the overall quality of life.

Provides a high standard of healthcare.

Elektrostal is equipped with modern medical facilities, ensuring residents have access to quality healthcare services.

Home to the Elektrostal History Museum.

The Elektrostal History Museum showcases the city’s fascinating past through exhibitions and displays.

A hub for sports enthusiasts.

Elektrostal is passionate about sports, with numerous stadiums, arenas, and sports clubs offering opportunities for athletes and spectators.

Celebrates diverse cultural festivals.

Throughout the year, Elektrostal hosts a variety of cultural festivals, celebrating different ethnicities, traditions, and art forms.

Electric power played a significant role in its early development.

Elektrostal owes its name and initial growth to the establishment of electric power stations and the utilization of electricity in the industrial sector.

Boasts a thriving economy.

The city’s strong industrial base, coupled with its strategic location near Moscow, has contributed to Elektrostal’s prosperous economic status.

Houses the Elektrostal Drama Theater.

The Elektrostal Drama Theater is a cultural centerpiece, attracting theater enthusiasts from far and wide.

Popular destination for winter sports.

Elektrostal’s proximity to ski resorts and winter sport facilities makes it a favorite destination for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities.

Promotes environmental sustainability.

Elektrostal prioritizes environmental protection and sustainability, implementing initiatives to reduce pollution and preserve natural resources.

Home to renowned educational institutions.

Elektrostal is known for its prestigious schools and universities, offering a wide range of academic programs to students.

Committed to cultural preservation.

The city values its cultural heritage and takes active steps to preserve and promote traditional customs, crafts, and arts.

Hosts an annual International Film Festival.

The Elektrostal International Film Festival attracts filmmakers and cinema enthusiasts from around the world, showcasing a diverse range of films.

Encourages entrepreneurship and innovation.

Elektrostal supports aspiring entrepreneurs and fosters a culture of innovation, providing opportunities for startups and business development.

Offers a range of housing options.

Elektrostal provides diverse housing options, including apartments, houses, and residential complexes, catering to different lifestyles and budgets.

Home to notable sports teams.

Elektrostal is proud of its sports legacy, with several successful sports teams competing at regional and national levels.

Boasts a vibrant nightlife scene.

Residents and visitors can enjoy a lively nightlife in Elektrostal, with numerous bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.

Promotes cultural exchange and international relations.

Elektrostal actively engages in international partnerships, cultural exchanges, and diplomatic collaborations to foster global connections.

Surrounded by beautiful nature reserves.

Nearby nature reserves, such as the Barybino Forest and Luchinskoye Lake, offer opportunities for nature enthusiasts to explore and appreciate the region’s biodiversity.

Commemorates historical events.

The city pays tribute to significant historical events through memorials, monuments, and exhibitions, ensuring the preservation of collective memory.

Promotes sports and youth development.

Elektrostal invests in sports infrastructure and programs to encourage youth participation, health, and physical fitness.

Hosts annual cultural and artistic festivals.

Throughout the year, Elektrostal celebrates its cultural diversity through festivals dedicated to music, dance, art, and theater.

Provides a picturesque landscape for photography enthusiasts.

The city’s scenic beauty, architectural landmarks, and natural surroundings make it a paradise for photographers.

Connects to Moscow via a direct train line.

The convenient train connection between Elektrostal and Moscow makes commuting between the two cities effortless.

A city with a bright future.

Elektrostal continues to grow and develop, aiming to become a model city in terms of infrastructure, sustainability, and quality of life for its residents.

In conclusion, Elektrostal is a fascinating city with a rich history and a vibrant present. From its origins as a center of steel production to its modern-day status as a hub for education and industry, Elektrostal has plenty to offer both residents and visitors. With its beautiful parks, cultural attractions, and proximity to Moscow, there is no shortage of things to see and do in this dynamic city. Whether you’re interested in exploring its historical landmarks, enjoying outdoor activities, or immersing yourself in the local culture, Elektrostal has something for everyone. So, next time you find yourself in the Moscow region, don’t miss the opportunity to discover the hidden gems of Elektrostal.

Q: What is the population of Elektrostal?

A: As of the latest data, the population of Elektrostal is approximately XXXX.

Q: How far is Elektrostal from Moscow?

A: Elektrostal is located approximately XX kilometers away from Moscow.

Q: Are there any famous landmarks in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal is home to several notable landmarks, including XXXX and XXXX.

Q: What industries are prominent in Elektrostal?

A: Elektrostal is known for its steel production industry and is also a center for engineering and manufacturing.

Q: Are there any universities or educational institutions in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal is home to XXXX University and several other educational institutions.

Q: What are some popular outdoor activities in Elektrostal?

A: Elektrostal offers several outdoor activities, such as hiking, cycling, and picnicking in its beautiful parks.

Q: Is Elektrostal well-connected in terms of transportation?

A: Yes, Elektrostal has good transportation links, including trains and buses, making it easily accessible from nearby cities.

Q: Are there any annual events or festivals in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, including XXXX and XXXX.

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unwto tourism highlights 2022

Un tourism | bringing the world closer.

Unwto 2021: a year in review, 2021: tourism united, resilient and determined.

2021 has been a year of learning and adapting for tourism. It has proven that only by working together can the sector overcome challenges and embrace opportunities.

Gathering the global tourism community and developing concrete actions, UNWTO has led tourism’s response with the vision of not only restarting, but doing so in a more inclusive, innovative and sustainable way.

January - March

As global tourism faced up to a second year of unprecedented crisis , UNWTO began 2021 by counting the cost so far . At the same time, however, the emergence of vaccines brought hope . The Global Tourism Crisis Committee met to explore what this meant for safe travel and the restart of tourism, while the announcement of the winners of the UNWTO Global Start-up Competition recognized the role culture and creativity will play in tourism’s restart and recovery .  

April - June

Collaboration and innovation were the focusat the start of the second quarter. UNWTO partnered with IATA on a new Destination Tracker to give both tourists and destinations clear, impartial and trusted advice. And a new Start-up Competition was launched to find the best ideas for accelerating rural development through tourism. In May, the launch of the Best Tourism Villages by UNWTO generated significant interest from Members in every global region. 

July - September

As destinations in Europe welcomed tourists back for the peak summer season, UNWTO highlighted the role of  digital solutions for the safe restart of the sector. But UNWTO also looked ahead, to a more sustainable future , working with key partners to  reduce plastic waste and consumption across every part of the sector. Together, we celebrated World Tourism Day around the theme of Tourism for Inclusive Growth, a message of solidarity and determination that was echoed on a global scale.

October - December

The final quarter of 2021 began with cautious optimism as UNWTO’s Barometer showed signs of improvement in tourist arrival numbers during the summer season in the northern hemisphere. A new partnership with Netflix will bring the message of tourism as a driver of opportunity to a massive global audience, while in November, UNWTO was tourism’s voice at COP26 and signatories to the landmark Glasgow Declaration keep growing. Finally, against the backdrop of the UNWTO General Assembly , the programme of work for the coming biennium was approved and 77% of Members voted to secure a second mandate for the Secretary-General from 2022-2025.

Growing and Moving Forward

UNWTO brings together political leaders from across the globe to deliver a strong, coordinated response. Governments, destinations, fellow UN agencies and international organizations met at key international events joining efforts to rethink tourism. Institutional coordination has proven crucial to find the solutions that build a smarter, greener and safer tourism.

Leaving Nobody Behind

The pledge to ‘ leave nobody behind ’ means nobody should miss out : Not now as we support the sector in the face of crisis, and not in the future as tourism starts again. Tourism is a proven driver of equality and opportunity. And that’s why we turn words into actions, delivering guidelines and action plans , to ensure everyone can enjoy the opportunities tourism brings.

A Shared Vision

Advancing the transformation of the tourism sector , partnerships are the only way forward. In 2021, UNWTO signed agreements with international organizations and the private sector to step our vision for the future of tourism: innovation , education , sustainability , green investment , rural development.

From business as usual to Covid-19

Looking to the future

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World Tourism Barometer: September 2022

UNWTO updates World Tourism Barometer and reports international tourism back to 60% of pre-pandemic levels from January to July 2022

Below are excerpts from the September 2022 release of the UNWTO Tourism Barometer :

• The steady recovery reflects strong pent-up demand for international travel, especially in the months of June and July which are part of the Northern Hemisphere summer season. The easing or lifting of travel restrictions in an increasing number of countries also contributed to boost results.
• International tourist arrivals almost tripled (+172%) in January-July 2022 compared to the same period of 2021. Numbers climbed from -64% in January 2022 (versus 2019) to -28% in July, the strongest month since the start of the pandemic.
• Asia and the Pacific (+165%) saw arrivals more than double in the first seven months of 2022, though they remained 86% below 2019 levels.
• The ongoing recovery can also be seen in outbound tourism spending from major source markets. Expenditure from France was at -12% in January-July 2022 compared to 2019 while spending from Germany stood at -14%. International tourism spending remained at -10% in Belgium, -23% in Italy and -26% in the United States.
• The uncertain economic environment seems to have reversed prospects for a return to pre-pandemic levels in the near term. 61% of UNWTO Panel of Experts now see a potential return of international arrivals to 2019 levels in 2024 or later while those indicating a return to pre-pandemic levels in 2023 has diminished (27%) compared to the May survey (48%).

Know more about the global tourism sector performance from January to July 2022 by checking the UNWTO World Tourism Barometer Volume 20, Issue 5 .

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TOURISM TRENDS 2022

11 Aug TOURISM TRENDS 2022

The situation for tourism remains rather unusual as a result of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

The crisis has marked a significant change for everyone, and above all for tourism, one of sectors hit hardest by the virus. 2020 was the year in which international tourism came to a near-complete standstill, and the only alternatives were domestic and local tourism.

2021 has seen some improvements, but only in a very subtle way as restrictions are still in place and many countries keep their borders fully or partially closed.

It is difficult to make an estimate for 2022 as it is not known how the pandemic will evolve. However, it is possible to talk about the new tourism trends that are likely to emerge over the coming year: – International travel with restrictions still maintained by both destinations and airlines in order to offer 100% security to the consumer.

– Reinforcement of COVID-19 testing; two years after the pandemic, COVID testing will still be in place as a preventive measure. – Conscious travel will be advocated. Travel to more distant destinations, but with prolonged durations of stay, as consumers look to enjoy as much of each place they visit as possible. – Green travel. Climate change is a problem that is present and growing. Consumers now are much more responsible and aware of the reality they live in on daily basis.

– A new trend is the “ed-ventures”. It is about combining education and holidays for the youngest members of the family. While adults may need to telework or attend meetings, their children can be doing workshops and learning in a playful way.

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Metallurgicheskii Zavod Electrostal AO (Russia)

In 1993 "Elektrostal" was transformed into an open joint stock company. The factory occupies a leading position among the manufacturers of high quality steel. The plant is a producer of high-temperature nickel alloys in a wide variety. It has a unique set of metallurgical equipment: open induction and arc furnaces, furnace steel processing unit, vacuum induction, vacuum- arc furnaces and others. The factory has implemented and certified quality management system ISO 9000, received international certificates for all products. Elektrostal today is a major supplier in Russia starting blanks for the production of blades, discs and rolls for gas turbine engines. Among them are companies in the aerospace industry, defense plants, and energy complex, automotive, mechanical engineering and instrument-making plants.

Headquarters Ulitsa Zheleznodorozhnaya, 1 Elektrostal; Moscow Oblast; Postal Code: 144002

Contact Details: Purchase the Metallurgicheskii Zavod Electrostal AO report to view the information.

Website: http://elsteel.ru

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40 facts about elektrostal.

Written by Lanette Mayes

Modified & Updated: 02 Mar 2024

Reviewed by Jessica Corbett

Elektrostal is a vibrant city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia. With a rich history, stunning architecture, and a thriving community, Elektrostal is a city that has much to offer. Whether you are a history buff, nature enthusiast, or simply curious about different cultures, Elektrostal is sure to captivate you.

This article will provide you with 40 fascinating facts about Elektrostal, giving you a better understanding of why this city is worth exploring. From its origins as an industrial hub to its modern-day charm, we will delve into the various aspects that make Elektrostal a unique and must-visit destination.

So, join us as we uncover the hidden treasures of Elektrostal and discover what makes this city a true gem in the heart of Russia.

Key Takeaways:

• Elektrostal, known as the “Motor City of Russia,” is a vibrant and growing city with a rich industrial history, offering diverse cultural experiences and a strong commitment to environmental sustainability.
• With its convenient location near Moscow, Elektrostal provides a picturesque landscape, vibrant nightlife, and a range of recreational activities, making it an ideal destination for residents and visitors alike.

Known as the “Motor City of Russia.”

Elektrostal, a city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia, earned the nickname “Motor City” due to its significant involvement in the automotive industry.

Home to the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant.

Elektrostal is renowned for its metallurgical plant, which has been producing high-quality steel and alloys since its establishment in 1916.

Boasts a rich industrial heritage.

Elektrostal has a long history of industrial development, contributing to the growth and progress of the region.

Founded in 1916.

The city of Elektrostal was founded in 1916 as a result of the construction of the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant.

Located approximately 50 kilometers east of Moscow.

Elektrostal is situated in close proximity to the Russian capital, making it easily accessible for both residents and visitors.

Known for its vibrant cultural scene.

Elektrostal is home to several cultural institutions, including museums, theaters, and art galleries that showcase the city’s rich artistic heritage.

A popular destination for nature lovers.

Surrounded by picturesque landscapes and forests, Elektrostal offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and birdwatching.

Hosts the annual Elektrostal City Day celebrations.

Every year, Elektrostal organizes festive events and activities to celebrate its founding, bringing together residents and visitors in a spirit of unity and joy.

Has a population of approximately 160,000 people.

Elektrostal is home to a diverse and vibrant community of around 160,000 residents, contributing to its dynamic atmosphere.

Boasts excellent education facilities.

The city is known for its well-established educational institutions, providing quality education to students of all ages.

A center for scientific research and innovation.

Elektrostal serves as an important hub for scientific research, particularly in the fields of metallurgy, materials science, and engineering.

Surrounded by picturesque lakes.

The city is blessed with numerous beautiful lakes, offering scenic views and recreational opportunities for locals and visitors alike.

Well-connected transportation system.

Elektrostal benefits from an efficient transportation network, including highways, railways, and public transportation options, ensuring convenient travel within and beyond the city.

Famous for its traditional Russian cuisine.

Food enthusiasts can indulge in authentic Russian dishes at numerous restaurants and cafes scattered throughout Elektrostal.

Home to notable architectural landmarks.

Elektrostal boasts impressive architecture, including the Church of the Transfiguration of the Lord and the Elektrostal Palace of Culture.

Offers a wide range of recreational facilities.

Residents and visitors can enjoy various recreational activities, such as sports complexes, swimming pools, and fitness centers, enhancing the overall quality of life.

Provides a high standard of healthcare.

Elektrostal is equipped with modern medical facilities, ensuring residents have access to quality healthcare services.

Home to the Elektrostal History Museum.

The Elektrostal History Museum showcases the city’s fascinating past through exhibitions and displays.

A hub for sports enthusiasts.

Elektrostal is passionate about sports, with numerous stadiums, arenas, and sports clubs offering opportunities for athletes and spectators.

Celebrates diverse cultural festivals.

Throughout the year, Elektrostal hosts a variety of cultural festivals, celebrating different ethnicities, traditions, and art forms.

Electric power played a significant role in its early development.

Elektrostal owes its name and initial growth to the establishment of electric power stations and the utilization of electricity in the industrial sector.

Boasts a thriving economy.

The city’s strong industrial base, coupled with its strategic location near Moscow, has contributed to Elektrostal’s prosperous economic status.

Houses the Elektrostal Drama Theater.

The Elektrostal Drama Theater is a cultural centerpiece, attracting theater enthusiasts from far and wide.

Popular destination for winter sports.

Elektrostal’s proximity to ski resorts and winter sport facilities makes it a favorite destination for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities.

Promotes environmental sustainability.

Elektrostal prioritizes environmental protection and sustainability, implementing initiatives to reduce pollution and preserve natural resources.

Home to renowned educational institutions.

Elektrostal is known for its prestigious schools and universities, offering a wide range of academic programs to students.

Committed to cultural preservation.

The city values its cultural heritage and takes active steps to preserve and promote traditional customs, crafts, and arts.

Hosts an annual International Film Festival.

The Elektrostal International Film Festival attracts filmmakers and cinema enthusiasts from around the world, showcasing a diverse range of films.

Encourages entrepreneurship and innovation.

Elektrostal supports aspiring entrepreneurs and fosters a culture of innovation, providing opportunities for startups and business development.

Offers a range of housing options.

Elektrostal provides diverse housing options, including apartments, houses, and residential complexes, catering to different lifestyles and budgets.

Home to notable sports teams.

Elektrostal is proud of its sports legacy, with several successful sports teams competing at regional and national levels.

Boasts a vibrant nightlife scene.

Residents and visitors can enjoy a lively nightlife in Elektrostal, with numerous bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.

Promotes cultural exchange and international relations.

Elektrostal actively engages in international partnerships, cultural exchanges, and diplomatic collaborations to foster global connections.

Surrounded by beautiful nature reserves.

Nearby nature reserves, such as the Barybino Forest and Luchinskoye Lake, offer opportunities for nature enthusiasts to explore and appreciate the region’s biodiversity.

Commemorates historical events.

The city pays tribute to significant historical events through memorials, monuments, and exhibitions, ensuring the preservation of collective memory.

Promotes sports and youth development.

Elektrostal invests in sports infrastructure and programs to encourage youth participation, health, and physical fitness.

Hosts annual cultural and artistic festivals.

Throughout the year, Elektrostal celebrates its cultural diversity through festivals dedicated to music, dance, art, and theater.

Provides a picturesque landscape for photography enthusiasts.

The city’s scenic beauty, architectural landmarks, and natural surroundings make it a paradise for photographers.

Connects to Moscow via a direct train line.

The convenient train connection between Elektrostal and Moscow makes commuting between the two cities effortless.

A city with a bright future.

Elektrostal continues to grow and develop, aiming to become a model city in terms of infrastructure, sustainability, and quality of life for its residents.

In conclusion, Elektrostal is a fascinating city with a rich history and a vibrant present. From its origins as a center of steel production to its modern-day status as a hub for education and industry, Elektrostal has plenty to offer both residents and visitors. With its beautiful parks, cultural attractions, and proximity to Moscow, there is no shortage of things to see and do in this dynamic city. Whether you’re interested in exploring its historical landmarks, enjoying outdoor activities, or immersing yourself in the local culture, Elektrostal has something for everyone. So, next time you find yourself in the Moscow region, don’t miss the opportunity to discover the hidden gems of Elektrostal.

Q: What is the population of Elektrostal?

A: As of the latest data, the population of Elektrostal is approximately XXXX.

Q: How far is Elektrostal from Moscow?

A: Elektrostal is located approximately XX kilometers away from Moscow.

Q: Are there any famous landmarks in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal is home to several notable landmarks, including XXXX and XXXX.

Q: What industries are prominent in Elektrostal?

A: Elektrostal is known for its steel production industry and is also a center for engineering and manufacturing.

Q: Are there any universities or educational institutions in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal is home to XXXX University and several other educational institutions.

Q: What are some popular outdoor activities in Elektrostal?

A: Elektrostal offers several outdoor activities, such as hiking, cycling, and picnicking in its beautiful parks.

Q: Is Elektrostal well-connected in terms of transportation?

A: Yes, Elektrostal has good transportation links, including trains and buses, making it easily accessible from nearby cities.

Q: Are there any annual events or festivals in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, including XXXX and XXXX.

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• Victor Mukhin

Victor M. Mukhin was born in 1946 in the town of Orsk, Russia. In 1970 he graduated the Technological Institute in Leningrad. Victor M. Mukhin was directed to work to the scientific-industrial organization "Neorganika" (Elektrostal, Moscow region) where he is working during 47 years, at present as the head of the laboratory of carbon sorbents.     Victor M. Mukhin defended a Ph. D. thesis and a doctoral thesis at the Mendeleev University of Chemical Technology of Russia (in 1979 and 1997 accordingly). Professor of Mendeleev University of Chemical Technology of Russia. Scientific interests: production, investigation and application of active carbons, technological and ecological carbon-adsorptive processes, environmental protection, production of ecologically clean food.   

Title : Active carbons as nanoporous materials for solving of environmental problems

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Main Activities: Iron and Steel Mills and Ferroalloy Manufacturing | Nonferrous Metal (except Copper and Aluminum) Rolling, Drawing, and Extruding. Full name: Metallurgicheskii Zavod Electrostal AO Profile Updated: February 22, 2024. Buy our report for this company USD 29.95 Most recent financial data: 2022 Available in: English & Russian ...

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