Ecotourism Trips
Ecotourism is more than just sustainable travel—it's about engaging thoughtfully with the environment, supporting local communities, and minimizing your impact while exploring the world. From a sustainability perspective, ecotourism offers students a chance to connect personal values with global experiences, whether through studying abroad, participating in field research, or planning low-impact adventures.
The Office of Sustainability encourages students to think critically about the intersections between travel, climate justice, conservation, and cultural respect. We invite you to connect with our team to explore what ecotourism looks like in practice, how you can apply its principles to your own travels, and how to be a responsible visitor wherever you go.
Occasionally, our office also hosts ecotourism-focused trips that allow students to engage with sustainability in new environments, both locally and beyond. Keep an eye out for these opportunities—or stop by to chat with us about how your next journey can be more intentional and sustainable.
Past Trips
Peru: Summer 2026
Ecotourism Trekking To Machu Picchu
In 2026, the Office of Sustainability took 11 students on an immersive expedition through Cusco and along the iconic Inca Trail leading to Machu Picchu. Moving beyond the physical challenge of the trek, the group investigated themes of the "scale paradox" of ecotourism, examining how the industry can transition from an extractive model to one that is regenerative. Through a focus on conscious consumption, deep engagement with Andean history, and the application of Leave No Trace principles, the trip challenged students to rethink their role as tourists and consider how we can travel in ways that respect cultural heritage and actively sustain the ecosystems visited.
Trip Dates: June 16-22, 2026
Trip Starting and Ending Location: Cusco, Peru
Iceland: Summer 2022
Ecotourism Trekking Across Iceland
In 2022, the Office of Sustainability led a group of 10 students on an ecotourism experience across Iceland. From exploring geothermal energy systems and glacial landscapes impacted by climate change to visiting local towns and riding Icelandic ponies, students engaged firsthand with sustainability challenges and solutions in one of the world’s most unique environments. The trip emphasized responsible travel, local impact, environmental education, and cultural exchange—core values at the heart of our eco-tourism programming.
Trip Dates: June 16-26, 2022
Trip Starting and Ending Location: Reykjavik, Iceland