The world’s most ethical destinations

Every year, Ethical Traveler reviews the policies and practices of hundreds of nations in the developing world. It then selects ten that are doing the most impressive job of promoting human rights, preserving environment, and upholding civil society while creating a sustainable, community-based tourism industry. By visiting these countries, Ethical Traveler asserts, we can use our economic power to support best practices.

Each country selected as a Best Ethical Destination offers the opportunity to experience unspoiled natural beauty, and to interact with local people and cultures in a meaningful, mutually enriching way. The countries on this list are actively improving the state of their people, government and environment. They are the destinations most worth your money and your leisure time.

Ethical Traveler is an all-volunteer, non-profit organization, and a project of the Earth Island Institute. No money or donations of any kind are solicited or accepted from any nations, governments, travel bureaus or individuals in the creation of its annual list.

And which countries made the 2013 list? Take a guess – and prepare to be pleasantly surprised!

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13. Namibia

Namibia is cited by Ethical Traveler as one of Africa’s most environmentally progressive nations. However, its annual cull of cape fur seals has cost it a place on the list. Yet, Namibia’s tourism has picked up in the last five years, with nearly a million visitors annually, most of whom visit the wildlife reserves and national parks (the famed Etosha National Park is in the country’s northwest). Organized tours of the dreamlike ... more
13. Namibia

Namibia is cited by Ethical Traveler as one of Africa’s most environmentally progressive nations. However, its annual cull of cape fur seals has cost it a place on the list. Yet, Namibia’s tourism has picked up in the last five years, with nearly a million visitors annually, most of whom visit the wildlife reserves and national parks (the famed Etosha National Park is in the country’s northwest). Organized tours of the dreamlike Skeleton Coast, with its perennial fog, and the Namib Desert offer unparalleled wildlife viewing experiences while hikes to Fish River Canyon are a rage among the adventuresome. Sandboarding in the desert is another pastime that is fast catching on among tourists. Windhoek and Swakopmund are the most popular cities.

Namibia has a High Commission in New Delhi (Address: 86, Paschimi Marg, Vasant Vihar, New Delhi 110057. Phone: Tel: 91-11-2614-0389)

Official tourism website less

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