Wander with Care with These Top 5 Planet-Loving Travel Tips for 2026
Did you know…travelers in 2026 are seeking meaningful, responsible ways to explore the world. According to the Global Sustainable Tourism Council, choosing low-impact activities, supporting conservation programs and engaging with local communities are among the most effective ways travelers can reduce their environmental footprint. With that in mind, here are the top five tips for traveling more sustainably in the year ahead, along with opportunities to participate during a stay at Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort, the Caribbean’s first and only certified carbon-neutral hotel.
Choose Nature-Friendly Experiences
Opt for activities that preserve natural habitats rather than damage them. A guided hike through Arikok National Park, for example, offers a quiet, educational way to explore Aruba’s landscapes and learn about its vital flora and fauna without the harmful effects of off-roading, which erodes terrain and displaces wildlife.
Give Back to the Places You Visit
Bucuti & Tara guests can join the resort’s Monthly Beach Cleanup to help protect Eagle Beach, one of the world’s most celebrated coastlines. These cleanups prevent debris from harming marine life and keep Aruba’s shores pristine for future generations. Plus, enjoy the camaraderie of working together with other guests and our big-hearted Bucuti Associates. Every year, this combined effort leads to more than 1,000 lbs of debris being removed so our island home and your Aruba home-away-from-home stays pristine and allows flora and fauna to thrive.
Support Reforestation and Biodiversity
The Bucuti Tara-GMC Nature Preserve continues to thrive, with more than 1,200 native trees already planted toward a goal of 12,000 to 15,000. At full reforestation, approximately 375 tons of CO2 greenhouse gas emissions will be drawn down from the atmosphere. The area now functions as a budding carbon sink and safe haven for wildlife including Aruba’s endangered Shoco owls and Prikichis. Guests, staff and community volunteers help maintain trails and support ecosystem recovery. Beginning in 2026, visitors may participate in the resort’s new “Plant a Tree of Love” event held every fourth Friday.
Choose Healthier, Lower-Impact Dining and Beverage Options
Guests can enjoy the Caribbean’s first Healthy Hour during the Sustainable Mocktail Masterclass, learning how to craft flavorful beverages with eco-friendly ingredients that reduce waste and support mindful consumption.
Help Reduce Stray Animal Populations Humanely
Stimami Sterilisami, founded by Bucuti & Tara, has now facilitated 45,573 sterilizations since 2016 including 5,636 in 2025 alone–a record-setting 11% increase in less than one year. Spay and neuter initiatives protect animals, improve community well-being and support Aruba’s sustainability goals. Veterinarian guests may assist with procedures, while others can provide comfort to animals pre- and post-operation.
Together, these choices allow every traveler to make a positive, lasting impact on Aruba while enjoying a meaningful and restorative island experience. Guests can sign up for these and other planet-friendly experiences and voluntourism through their personal concierge.