Over the course of more than two decades, the government of Thailand and the Tourism Authority of Thailand have been working to promote ecotourism. Their goal is to ensure that tourism has the smallest possible negative impact on the environment and the people who live there. They do this by encouraging tourists to learn about the environmental impact of their activities while in Thailand, as well as by favoring sustainable practices in all facets of the country’s economy, including the production of food. As a direct consequence of this, ecotourism already accounts for 25% of all vacations. In this new essay, which consists of two sections, we make recommendations for activities that take into account the need to reduce their impact on the environment.
New Heaven Reef Conservation Program on Ko Tao
The New Heaven Reef Conservation Program was established on Ko Tao with the purpose of preserving, protecting, and restoring coral reef ecosystems. Degradation of the natural environment poses a threat to the delicate coral reef ecosystems found all over the world; the goal of this initiative is to protect these ecosystems so that future generations can enjoy them.
Those who are interested in the protection of the ecology of coral reefs can participate in this program to take advantage of its many educational offerings, including internships and opportunities to dive professionally. You will have the opportunity to acquire knowledge regarding marine conservation while working alongside a group of marine experts who are enthusiastic and committed to their work.
Umphang Wildlife Sanctuary in Tak
The Umphang Wildlife Sanctuary is recognized as a World Heritage Site by Unesco, ensuring its preservation as a haven for rare and unusual species of birds, plants, animals, and reptiles. Several river systems, including the Mae Klong and Mae Klong Yai rivers, may be found included inside the park. You can go on an exciting rafting journey while taking in the scenery of the towering limestone cliffs that flank the river.
The Thi Lor Su waterfall in Tak province is located within the park and is the largest waterfall in all of Thailand. The rapid descent of water puts on a breathtaking natural show from a height of three hundred meters down the limestone cliffs. You can get a better view of the waterfalls from a distance, or you can swim in the pools that they create.
Bamboo rafting on the Mae Wang River in Chiang Mai
These rafts are constructed from trunks of bamboo that have been lashed together and are designed for adventure. The Mae Wang River in Chiang Mai is considered to be one of the most favorable rivers for paddling these unusual canoes on. While you unwind on the bamboo raft and take in the sights of the natural world around you as you float down the river, the river winds its way through the jungle. Paddling along a river with a knowledgeable tour leader who can point out interesting sights along the way is the most effective method to engage in this type of environmentally responsible boating.
Into the Wild Elephant Camp in Chiang Mai
The Into the Wild Elephant Camp in Chiang Mai was established with the intention of providing a secure and pleasant home for the cherished elephants of Thailand. The camp is home to a large number of elephants that are at risk of extinction and provides a secure environment for the animals. Visitors are encouraged to engage in ethical activities with the elephants, such as learning about the elephants’ history and behavior through discussions about how they are cared for. These encounters can take place at the Elephant Conservation Center.
You will have the chance to spend some time with the elephants, during which you will be able to give the elephants bananas and really get to know these magnificent animals. Because there are risks involved in releasing domesticated animals back into their natural environment, elephants have become a part of tourism in a humane and ethical way. This helps the elephants stay active and receive proper treatment. Many of the elephant sanctuaries provide a safe and secure habitat for elephants and fascinating opportunities for tourists to interact with elephants and other animals.
Hiking and biking in Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park
Freshwater marshes, mangrove forests, limestone hills, and a wide variety of animal life can all be found inside the boundaries of this protected maritime national park. The limestone hills, which are great for hiking and bicycling, gave rise to the mountain’s name, which means “mountain of 300 peaks.”
There are innumerable options for exploration, including empty coastal roads, cliffs that are hundreds of feet high, and alluring stops along the way, such as a cave and a vantage point. Two enormous sinkholes with partially collapsed roofs can be found inside the Tham Phraya Nakhon Cave. These openings allow sunlight to filter down into the cave below. You should go to the Khao Daeng viewpoint if you want to enjoy a fantastic look out over the entirety of the park. If you are staying in Hua Hin, a visit to the Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park, which is located in the province of Prachuap Khiri Khan, is a fantastic idea for a day excursion.
Phuket Gibbon Rehabilitation Project
Gibbons are small arboreal apes that live in the tropical and subtropical woods of Southeast Asia. There is a population of gibbons in these areas. Gibbons is in danger of extinction due to the deforestation of their natural environment, which is why they are protected in most nations. The Phuket Gibbon Rehabilitation Project’s mission is to assist gibbons that have been held in captivity in violation of the law in regaining their freedom.
The Gibbon Rehabilitation Project has been researching and experimenting with numerous approaches to gibbon reintroduction for the past 27 years. The goal of the project is to safely rehabilitate gibbons and then release them back into the forest. Visitors will have the opportunity (depending on availability), thanks to this project, to watch gibbons in their natural environment while having minimal interaction with them.
Khao Yai National Park in Nakhon Ratchasima
A fantastic opportunity for ecotourism may be found in Khao Yai National Park, which is known for its uncommon monsoon rain forest as well as its wild elephants, tigers, and gibbons. It became Thailand’s first national park the same year it was established, in 1962. This expansive park is covered in evergreen woods and lush meadows, and visitors who go on excursions will have the opportunity to witness a diverse array of wildlife.
There are over 445 different kinds of birds that can be found in Khao Yai National Park. The park is also home to the country’s greatest population of hornbills. It is quite unlikely that you will see a Rufous-tailed Robin unless you are extremely fortunate. In addition, the park is home to a large number of different reptiles. A multi-day hike with a ranger, during which you explore the park’s longer paths, is one of the most rewarding experiences one can have.
Diving in the Similan Islands
This archipelago in the Andaman Sea, known for its crystal-clear waters, is home to 11 islands preserved because of a law in Thailand that protects the environment. Tourists can discover the islets and the aquatic fauna that lives there. Clear waters surround rocky shorelines and sandy beaches, providing the opportunity for complete relaxation as well as room for exploration.
The Similan Islands are a scuba diver’s dream destination due to the abundance of world-class dive spots found there. Deeper currents that lead to canyons, tunnels, arches, and caves can be found around the west shore of the islands. Dives on the East Coast typically have milder currents and clearer visibility, allowing divers to observe up to five hundred different types of hard and soft coral. Under the ocean’s surface, a rich diversity of marine life can be found, including whale sharks, rays, turtles, and many other species.
Railay Beach Climbing
You’ve got a good look at the towering limestone cliffs of Krabi from a distance, but have you ever considered climbing them? Those who are interested in rock climbing will find that Railay Beach offers a lot of different alternatives. As you make your way up through the karst, you’ll have the chance to take in some breathtaking vistas of the emerald waters and the beaches of white sand. The nearby institutions offer courses that will teach you how to scale these enormous cliffs securely and responsibly. There are paths that people of varying levels of experience can take, so there is something for everyone. The views of Railay Beach that can be seen from the top of the cliffs are unparalleled.
Bangkok Treehouse
In addition to the hundreds of hotels and other types of lodgings that can be found in and around Bangkok, this eco-resort provides guests with an entirely unique adventure because it is enveloped in verdant vegetation. The Bangkok Tree House is an eco-friendly hotel that is located in the middle of fruit plantations and the Phra Pradaeng swamps. It collects rainwater, uses recycled and reclaimed building materials, and uses renewable energy sources. Additionally, the hotel promises to remove one kilo of trash for every booking that is made.
The resort has a total of twelve bungalows, all of which have rooftop access. Guests can stay in rooms that look out over the river or rooms that have more of an open-air atmosphere, complete with see-through awnings that allow them to fall asleep while gazing up at the stars. The restaurant at the resort offers organic food options.
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