If ecotourism in Santorini sounds like a paradox, read on to learn how to enjoy Santorini in a way that is meaningful and immersive for tourists, but also benefits locals .
Santorini is one of Europe’s most saturated destinations and is suffering from overtourism. However, not going to Santorini at all is neither a solution nor should it be an option, as Santorini is well worth a visit for its rich history, natural beauty, and stunning architecture.
The answer to Santorini’s overtourism problem lies in a new, more sustainable way to travel to Santorini. This is where Santorini Ecotourism can help.
Related reading: Guide to Island Hopping in Greece
An overview is as follows:
What is ecotourism?
But before we understand in detail what ecotourism in Santorini is and how it works, it is important to understand what ecotourism is all about by giving its definition and understanding its main principles.
according to International Ecotourism Associationecotourism is defined as “responsible travel to natural areas that protects the environment, sustains the well-being of local people, and involves interpretation and education.”
The main principle of ecotourism is the protection of the natural environment, which can be achieved through tourism Minimal or no impact on the landscape and natural resources of any given destination.
Although ecotourism focuses on the environmental aspects of sustainable tourism, it is also about the well-being of local communities and economies, cultural preservation, and respect for wildlife.
Is ecotourism possible in Santorini?
Not just Santorini, but all of Santorini. Greece needs to adopt a more sustainable approach to tourism. Tourism, as one of the country’s pillar industries, Greece We cannot remain immune to the disastrous events of mass tourism. This is even more evident in the most popular Greek destinations like Santorini.
With huge resorts built on its fragile cliffs and countless cruise ships polluting its waters, Santorini suffers from the negative effects of overtourism. Not to mention the host of other ethical issues that arise from this, such as animal cruelty and disrespect for the well-being of locals and permanent residents.
It all sounds too serious to be undone, and one has to wonder: is ecotourism possible in Santorini? The short answer is, yes, ecotourism and sustainable travel can be achieved in Santorini. In fact, it is this approach that could ultimately save Santorini from environmental destruction and centuries-old traditions being forgotten.
How to travel responsibly to Santorini: 7 simple tips
There is a lot we can do as travelers to help Santorini survive the disastrous consequences of mass tourism.
By keeping these simple things in mind instead of following the crowd and doing what everyone else seems to be doing during their vacation in Santorini without any extra effort, you will do your part to protect Santorini’s natural environment and improve the environment. Make a contribution. The daily lives of local residents and the welfare of the island’s animals.
Here’s our Santorini ecotourism guide, which lists 7 simple ways to ensure your holiday in Santorini has minimal impact on the island’s environment and the welfare of locals.
1. Don’t take a cruise to Santorini
Large cruise ships have the most negative impact on Santorini’s natural environment. Studies have shown on more than one occasion that cruise ships pollute Santorini’s waters and air, posing a serious health risk to locals and tourists.
The more cruise ships approach Santorini, the worse it gets. However, there is no limit to the number of cruise ships that can call at Santorini each day. At least not yet.
In addition to environmental damage, cruise ships harm the well-being of local communities.
When a cruise ship arrives in Santorini, the island’s narrow streets are suddenly filled with thousands of people scrambling to get the perfect photo for Instagram, forgetting that this is not a playground or a wonderland. But a real, living place where people need space to get on with their daily lives.
In Santorini, people have to go to work and children have to run to school, just like everywhere else in the world. However, even these mundane events turn into nightmares for locals, who often find it difficult to even leave their doorsteps due to the sheer number of cruise ship passengers ashore at the same time.
Therefore, one of the easiest ways to achieve ecotourism in Santorini is to avoid visiting the island on a cruise ship. Thanks to the large number of international flights to Santorini, you can reach the island quickly and comfortably by air.
if you are already athens Or another Greek island, you can also take a ferry to Santorini, which is by far the most environmentally friendly way to reach the island.
2. Avoid all-inclusive resorts and international hotel chains
Over the past few decades, several large resorts have been built along Santorini’s caldera-facing cliffs, offering guests stunning views of the Aegean Sea and the famous Santorini sunset. However, these huge structures pose huge risks to the island’s natural environment.
First, these large structures severely impact Santorini’s volcanic soil, which is extremely fragile by nature. Furthermore, building such large hotel units increases the number of tourists who can sleep on the island at one time, putting pressure on Santorini’s already limited resources, such as running water supplies.
also, All-inclusive resorts hurt island small businesses because guests won’t spend money dining out or drinking. The same is true for international hotel chains that rarely employ locals.
Therefore, one of the best ways to support ecotourism in Santorini is to Stay at a small boutique hotelrun by locals or expats who call Santorini home. Typically, these hotels are housed in traditional buildings, which means you’ll get a unique experience that you won’t find in any of the larger, ultra-modern hotels.
3. Go to Santorini in the off-season
High season in Santorini runs from approximately May to the end of September. During these months, Santorini is crowded with people. For a more valuable experience, choose the off-season.
Visit Santorini during the low season (April or October) and you’ll get the best of both worlds: The climate is pleasant and there are fewer crowds, ideal conditions to make the most of your time in this beautiful environment.
Additionally, if you choose to visit Santorini outside of high season, you can contribute to preserving the island’s natural resources and support the local economy when it needs it most.
4. Don’t ride a donkey in Santorini
Photos of abused donkeys in Santorini have been circulating on the internet for decades, yet nothing has been done to protect these poor animals from abuse in the name of profit.
But let’s look at it from the top down. Back then, due to the island’s special landforms, donkeys were the only means of transportation for people or goods. Fast forward to today, and that need no longer exists. However, donkey riding remains a traditional activity in Santorini and is an experience not to be missed that adds to your authentic experience.
Nothing could be further from the truth. The donkeys of Santorini are one of the worst examples of animal cruelty. The donkeys were forced to carry heavy loads up and down countless steps in the scorching sun.
Don’t ride the Santorini donkeys when in Santorini. If no one wants to ride a donkey, their owners will eventually understand that the practice is no longer acceptable and hopefully the abuse will stop. This change won’t happen overnight, however, we as travelers can ignite a spark.
5. Respect the personal space of local people
No doubt you’ve seen thousands of perfect photos of people posing against dazzling all-white backgrounds, occasionally interrupted by the iconic blue church domes. Sadly, for most of these photos, the model or photographer (or both) is trespassing on private property. To be fair, sometimes unconsciously.
While wandering around the picturesque towns of Santorini, such as Oia, Fira or Imerovigli, you will stumble upon several picturesque spots. However, most of the time, What you think is a cute little public patio is actually someone’s private patio, maybe even the roof of a chapel or private home.
So when you think you’ve found the perfect photo spot, double-check that you haven’t stepped on someone’s property. You can always take beautiful photos on the street or in other public places such as squares or viewpoints.
6. Choose local businesses
Due to the large influx of tourists from all over the world, many international travel agencies have branches in Santorini. But if you want to support Santorini and its local economy, you should always Choose locally owned tour companies and providers. A quick internet search can help you identify businesses owned by locals.
Likewise, when dining out, choose family-run restaurants and cafes to boost the local economy, but also sample the most delicious dishes, made from ancient recipes passed down from generation to generation.
7. Buy locally made souvenirs
Last but not least, when buying souvenirs for loved ones back home, avoid the tasteless refrigerator magnets, lighters, and beach towels produced miles away in Santorini (or Greece) and buy quality ones instead Locally made product items are substituted.
Even better, You can take some Santorini flavors home with you, such as wine, capers or canned tomatoes-The best of Greece. This way, you’ll not only recreate Santorini’s unique taste, but you’ll also help local producers continue to do what they know best.
We hope this Santorini ecotourism guide helps you adopt a sustainable travel mindset to saturated destinations like Santorini. This way you not only enjoy a more immersive and authentic experience on one of the most beautiful islands in the world, but you also help the island’s environment, wildlife and economy in the most meaningful way.
