Ecotourism Market Size (2024 – 2030)

The Global Ecotourism Market is valued at USD 22.48 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach a market size of USD 59.80 billion by the end of 2030. Over the forecast period of 2024-2030, the market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 15%. 

Ecotourism promotes sustainable growth for the surrounding communities while permitting the preservation of the natural environment. A Booking.com survey found that 72% of travelers think that in order to preserve the environment for future generations, people must choose sustainable ways to travel. Demand for sustainable tourism is being driven by consumers' growing interest in ways to lessen the damage they have on the environment when travelling. This covers carbon offset plans, eco-friendly lodging, and sustainable tourist methods that put the ecology and neighbourhood first. The role of technology in encouraging and supporting environmentally friendly travel is growing. For instance, eco-friendly filters are being added to internet booking sites like Booking.com to help travellers discover sustainable lodging, and the airline sector is increasingly implementing carbon offsetting initiatives. Other tech-enabled projects include smart tourism systems that help locations manage their environmental effect and eco-tourism applications that offer information on sustainable tourist activities and places. Travellers can learn about environmental issues and assist conservation efforts by participating in ecotourism, which is becoming more and more popular. Conservation and education are given top priority in many ecotourism activities, including animal safaris, bird watching, and marine conservation initiatives. In addition to helping conservation efforts, tourists who take part in these events learn more about environmentalism and the difficulties it faces.

Key Market Insights:

The market for ecotourism is anticipated to grow at a 15% annual pace between 2024 and 2030. Globally, the growth of travel and tourism to distinctive locations has demonstrated remarkable resilience. Globally, the most popular destinations for ecotourism are Iceland, Kenya, Palau, and Nepal. In 2018, Nepal saw a staggering 24% rise in travellers, with 1,173,072 travellers by year's end. Comparably, Kenya saw a rise in visitor arrivals in 2018 of more than 37%, surpassing two million. In addition, nations like Panama, Costa Rica, and the Galapagos Islands are currently in demand for ecotourism. In recent years, Ethiopia has demonstrated competence in tourism by concentrating on specialised markets rather than utilising its historical, natural, and cultural attractions. Travellers from all over the world have been drawn to third-world countries by attractions like wildlife tourism, birdwatching, coral reefs, and pristine, unspoiled natural places like Amazon rainforest. Booking.com released research findings indicating that more than half (55%) of world travellers have made the decision to travel sustainably and are choosing to travel sustainably in 2019. The research demonstrates how consumer perceptions of the negative effects of mass tourism have evolved, with climate change now being taken into account when making vacation arrangements.

Government agencies like the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) and the World Tourism Organisation (WTO) are pushing the tourism sector to draw travellers from all over the world. Nations such as the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have initiated several sustainability programmes and initiatives to save the environment and position themselves as worldwide leaders in environmentally conscious travel destinations.

Global Ecotourism Market Drivers:

Eco-Longing Tourism Has an Impact on the Ecotourism Market's Growth

Eco excursions are available to tourists in a variety of ways. There are numerous methods to increase the trip's sustainability. As an example, eco-lodging tourism is growing in market share. Eco-adventurers select lodgings that are designed with environmental sustainability and friendliness in mind. When travelling for eco-lodging, one can stay in a variety of places, such as eco-resorts, natural settings, or hotels or hostels constructed of sustainable materials. They also get a great chance to partake in different ecotourism activities like hiking, kayaking, and bird watching for visitors. The demand for eco-longing tourism is anticipated to increase in the upcoming years, which will foster the growth of the ecotourism industry.

Demand for sustainability and rising environmental consciousness could propel the industry

The growing environmental concern of tourists is driving the worldwide ecotourism market. Individuals are actively looking for more sustainable and responsible travel options as their concerns about how traditional tourism affects ecosystems grow. Demand for ecotourism, which emphasizes low-impact activities, conservation initiatives, and the support of local communities, has increased as a result of this increased awareness. Destinations that put an emphasis on environmental conservation entice tourists, who make sure their travels reflect their values and leave as little of an ecological imprint as possible. This movement emphasizes the value of carbon-neutral travel, eco-friendly lodging, and eco-aware activities in promoting the peaceful coexistence of tourism and the environment. Growing public awareness of the negative effects of tourism on the environment, including soil erosion, water pollution, and habitat loss, has encouraged environmentally conscious travellers to support ecotourism and help the sector expand.

Enhancement of Local Infrastructure Fuels the Ecotourism Market Sector

A lot of nations, like the UK, UAE, USA, Qatar, France, Oman, and others, are investing in airport modernization in order to be ready for the arrival and departure of a sizable number of tourists in the future. In addition, these nations have been focusing on infrastructural and heritage site restoration. New displays and works have also been the focus of art galleries in the UAE and Qatar. These kinds of projects are meant to draw tourists and are anticipated to contribute to the expansion of the ecotourism industry. Among the most well-liked destinations for eco-tourists are historical landmarks. A few of the historical caverns in the area are as old as thirty million years, according to the Saudi Geological Survey. Saudi Arabia has discovered 250 caves, which is boosting eco-friendly travel there.

Global Ecotourism Market Restraints and Challenges:

The Growth of the Ecotourism Market is Affected by Public Transportation and Security Challenges

When compared to wealthy nations, the public transit networks in several developing nations are subpar. Nonetheless, a number of nations, like Oman, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and others, are making significant efforts to try and resolve this problem. However, security issues continue to be these nations' top priorities. Nonetheless, as this issue has a direct impact on the number of tourists that visit the country, administrations from many other countries have begun to address it.

The market for ecotourism may face challenges due to inadequate support infrastructure.

One of the main obstacles to the growth of ecotourism is the lack of proper support infrastructure at ecotourism locations, such as poor air, train, or road access to different ecotourism destinations in emerging and underdeveloped nations. The development of ecotourism may also be hampered by inadequate infrastructure, a lack of funding and resources, some tour operators who engage in practices that damage the environment and local communities or falsely claim to be environmentally conscious, a lack of agreed-upon definitions and certifications for the industry (which can lead to confusion among visitors and prevent the emergence of legitimate ecotourism practices), and regulatory issues in some locations. Additionally, the rise of ecotourism visitor arrivals is hampered by the scarcity of lodging options along with the scarcity of reputable and hygienic food outlets, motels, and restaurants at locations, especially in developing nations. Furthermore, the risk of tourists being exploited is increased by the monopoly of a few tour operators and the dearth of qualified and experienced tour guides.

Global Ecotourism Market Opportunities:

Travellers are starting to prioritise sustainability, which creates an appealing potential for the worldwide ecotourism market. The industry is expanding because of growing consumer awareness of environmental issues and a demand for genuine, eco-friendly experiences. Destinations that prioritise biodiversity, conservation activities, and ethical tourism practices are likely to see success. Taking advantage of this trend, companies and governments are funding sustainable projects and making infrastructural investments. This growing industry helps not just well-liked eco-friendly travel destinations but also local communities and animal sanctuaries by promoting economic growth. Technology integration improves accessibility even further, offering a bright future for those involved in striking a balance between tourism and environmental conservation.

ECOTOURISM MARKET REPORT COVERAGE:

Ecotourism Market Segmentation: By Activity Type

• Land

• Marine

In 2023, land ecotourism constituted around 70% of the revenue share. The primary driver of the expansion is the increasing demand from consumers for sustainable land-based tourist activities like wildlife viewing, safaris, and trips to national parks. When compared to other activities, land-based activities are more affordable and easier to complete. As a result, the predisposition of consumers towards these activities has increased enormously in recent years, demonstrating significant consumer resilience. Land-based tourism activities grew at a promising rate of 16.7% annually between 2009 and 2018, according to CNH Tours. However, from 2024 to 2030, marine activities are predicted to expand at a noteworthy CAGR of 14.6%. Some of the main reasons propelling the expansion of the market are shifting consumer preferences, rising consumer attitudes toward adventurous activities, and leisure and vacation activities or trips on coastal waterways.

Ecotourism Market Segmentation: By Traveler Type

• Solo 

• Group

The solo and group traveller segments of the global ecotourism market are based on the type of traveller. In terms of market share, the group traveller category is in the lead. In 2023, this category accounted for more than 80% of the revenue share. The rise in popularity of group travel, the creation of different travel groups on social media platforms, and the increase in the number of young eco-tourists are the key factors driving the expansion. Nonetheless, throughout the course of the projected period, the sector of solo travellers is expected to rise at a greater CAGR. From 2024 to 2030, solo travel is anticipated to increase at a CAGR of 16.9%. The number of people choosing to travel alone has significantly increased, which has prompted travel agencies and organisations to offer services to both solo travellers and group travellers. Over the past ten years, the number of people wanting to travel alone has increased dramatically as more people seek to embrace their independence and have immersive travel experiences. In a Booking.com poll, American women led the way in the frequency of their solo travels, with 72% of them going it alone.

Ecotourism Market Segmentation: By Age Group

• Generation X

• Generation Y 

• Generation Z

The global ecotourism market is divided into three age groups: Generation X, Generation Y, and Generation Z. The global market is dominated by the Generation Y segment, however throughout the forecast period, the Generation Z sector is expected to rise at the fastest rate. In 2023, the segment belonging to Generation Y held the highest revenue share, surpassing 60.0%. The values of millennials and their outlook on life and travel have been shaped by the emergence of social media and technology. Condor Ferries Ltd. released research showing that US Millennials spend USD 200 billion on travel in 2021, with 55% of them wishing to increase the number of trips they took. Over the course of the projected period, the Generation Z sector is anticipated to increase at a CAGR of 15.0%. Books and genuine experiences are the main factors that Generation Z travellers emphasise, and technology and social media are playing a significant role in this regard. The highly networked Generation Z was raised during a time when people were becoming more conscious of technology, human behaviour, personal health, and the environment.

Ecotourism Market Segmentation: By Booking Mode

• Travel Agents

• Direct

• Marketplace Booking

The worldwide ecotourism market is researched using Booking Mode to analyse both direct and travel agency sales. With the largest market share in the worldwide travel industry, travel agents are expected to increase at the fastest rate of growth over the next several years. But in 2023, Direct Booking had the biggest revenue share—more than 60%. Due to the increasing number of elderly consumers who still prefer to plan their trips, flights, and hotels directly, direct tour package booking has seen significant development in recent years. To obtain specialised experiences, an increasing number of eco-tourists are making their travel tour and package reservations through direct channels. To reach more customers, major corporations and tour operators are providing a range of customised services and savings when reservations are made directly with them. This has helped the market to expand even more.

Ecotourism Market Segmentation: Regional Analysis

• North America

• Asia-Pacific

• Europe

• South America

• Middle East and Africa

In 2023, Europe accounted for the greatest revenue share, mostly due to an increase in desire for nature-based experiences, mass tourist dissatisfaction, and growing environmental concerns. To attract tourists while preserving their natural surroundings, several places are launching eco-friendlier destination packages in response to the growing demand for environmentally conscious travel and activities. The CBI (Ministry of Foreign Affairs) reports that 15% of German tourists cite the presence of nature as their top attraction. Governments and tourists in Europe have begun to focus more on sustainability issues such as plastic pollution, climate change, air and water pollution, land and water usage, and the detrimental effects of over-tourism on host communities. Asia Pacific, on the other hand, is anticipated to grow at the quickest rate of 16.0% CAGR throughout the projected period. An increasing number of travellers in Asia are reconsidering their travel plans in an effort to make their travels more morally sound in order to decrease the negative economic and social consequences that they have on the residents and the environment in the places they visit. In an effort to reduce their carbon footprint within the travel ecosystem, hotels, airlines, and transportation providers are attempting to meet the growing demand for sustainable tourism.

COVID-19 Impact Analysis on the Global Ecotourism Market:

One of the sectors most severely damaged by the pandemic is the tourism sector. The global travel restrictions imposed in an effort to stop the COVID-19 pandemic's spread have had a substantial effect on the ecotourism industry. The World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) released data showing that the COVID-19 pandemic's spread caused a 72% drop in foreign visitor visits in 2020 and the subsequent shutdown of tourist attractions. The epidemic had a significant effect on wildlife protection and ecotourism. Numerous threats to biodiversity and protected places have gotten worse as a result of the country's subsequent lockdown and the collapse of ecotourism. Forest logging, wildlife trafficking, and poaching have all resumed. Due to this, fewer people are visiting ecotourism locations, which is disrupting worldwide business as a whole. After 2023, nevertheless, the tourist sector worldwide is probably going to stabilise. Globally, nations are striving to develop a tourism industry that is more robust in the wake of COVID-19. To boost the tourism industry, governments are making travel-friendly policies along with providing financial stimulation.

Latest Trends/ Developments:

Wetravel, Inc. and Tourism Cares collaborated to introduce the Introduction to Sustainable Tourism academy course in June 2022 with the goal of assisting travel agencies in becoming more environmentally friendly. Travel agencies may stay educated, involved, and able to advocate for change with our recently introduced basic course.

To highlight its strong focus on sustainability, MSC Cruises, an Italian worldwide cruise line, started summer trips with a sustainability theme in May 2022, with almost 1,400 itineraries. The purpose of the new tour is to promote "nature-positive" activities and reduce the negative effects of tourism on the environment.

As part of their "We Care About There" campaign, Rabbie's, a well-known tour company with headquarters in the United Kingdom, has announced two tours in Scotland that are environmentally and morally conscientious, starting in July 2022. These recently published trips promise to give an amazing and moral journey together with sustainable and responsible travel experiences. Rabbie's is renowned for its dedication to encouraging eco-friendly travel habits and for producing memorable experiences that put the needs of the surrounding community and the environment first. Rabbie's is committed to providing tourists with an ethical and sustainable means of exploring Scotland through their "We Care About There" campaign, which is consistent with their goal of promoting responsible and thoughtful travel.

Key Players:

1. Adventure Alternative Ltd

2. Aracari Travel

3. BCD Travel

4. Expedia Group Inc.

5. FROSCH International Travel Inc.

6. G Adventures

7. Intrepid Group Limited

8. Rickshaw Travel Group

9. Small World Journeys Pty Ltd

10. Steppes Travel