7 Wonders of the Modern World with an Ecotourism Standpoint

Visiting the 7 wonders of the modern world is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for many travelers.   However, as these locations are also among some of the most popular places in the world, they often face challenges of overtourism. This can harm the environment and local communities in the area.

The good news? With thoughtful planning and support for local sustainable initiatives, it’s still possible to explore these iconic landmarks in a more eco-conscious way.

Below is a list of the 7 wonders and the ongoing sustainability efforts that help protect them. You’ll also find tips on how to travel more responsibly

Eco Tourism Standpoint at the 7 Wonders of the Modern World

Chichen Itza, Mexico: This ancient Mayan city is renowned for its architecture and engineering. To help preserve the site, efforts include limiting construction density and using recycled materials. As a visitor you can contribute by staying in eco-friendly accommodations and supporting local artisans. Choose tour companies that are ecotourism-certified or follow sustainable practices.

Christ the Redeemer, Brazil: Overlooking Rio de Janeiro, this world-famous statue is surrounded by Brazil’s ongoing environmental challenges, such as deforestation. In response, the country is investing in electric transport and implementing efforts to slow deforestation- key sustainable initiatives. Travelers can help by using low-emission transport and supporting local conservation programs. 

The Colosseum, Italy: This massive amphitheater is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular tourist attraction. To manage the crowds and protect the site, a timed ticketing system is in place. In Rome, eco-conscious travelers can also take advantage of green mobility options like electric bike rentals to reduce their carbon footprint.

The Great Wall of China: This winding wall stretches across the Chinese countryside and is also one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The Chinese government is taking steps to preserve it by restoring damaged sections and limiting access to certain areas. Respect these boundaries and stick to designated trails during your visit. 

Machu Picchu, Peru: Perched high in the Andes, this Inca site is known for its breathtaking views and archaeological significance.  To avoid damage from excess foot traffic, the Peruvian government has limited the number of visitors to 2,500 per day and implemented a permit system. For better safety of the site, the Inca Trail is limited to 500 people per day. Be sure to secure a permit in advance and consider guided tours that follow leave no trace principles.

The Taj Mahal, India: This white marble mausoleum complex is one of the most popular tourist destinations in India, as well as one of the most popular places in the world. The Indian government has developed a comprehensive action plan to address environmental concerns like vehicle emissions, road dust suspension, air pollution, demolition activities as part of their sustainable initiative. Visitors can support this by using low-emission transport and avoiding plastic waste near the site.

Petra, Jordan: Petra’s rose-red ruins are a wonder to behold, attracting 1.2 million of overall visitors in 2023. In an effort to protect its cultural and natural heritage, Jordan has joined the GSTC (Global Sustainable Tourism Council) to promote advanced sustainable initiatives. . This plan includes reducing   waste, conserving water, and protecting the archaeological site. Visitors are encouraged to follow responsible tourism guidelines during their stay.

What Can We Do to Avoid Overtourism?

We all hold the same responsibility of helping preserve the places we visit so they can still exist for many more generations ahead. So, what should we do? Here, we have a few tips for traveling more sustainably.

• Avoiding peak time visits. If the time is perfect for you, it often is for everyone else as well. This is how overtourism happens. Though it may be difficult to find time, it is always a good idea to plan a visit out of peak holiday season. 
  
  
• Being mindful of your waste. Waste is one of the most common problems in many popular places.  It is important not to take any waste disposal systems that sites have in place and keep your waste to a minimum. This way, not only will you help the locals to preserve the area, but also to be an example for other visitors.
  
  
• Learning the culture before the visit. There is nothing wrong with learning more about the culture of the place you are visiting. This way, you will gain a bit more respect towards the locals as well as the current beliefs they are holding in society.
  
  
• Supporting sustainable businesses. There are a lot of hotels, tour companies and restaurants that are putting their effort into sustainable practices. This might not be the most cost-effective choice, but supporting their business means that you acknowledge the importance of sustainable tourism.
  
  

Visiting the 7 wonders of the modern world will be an amazing experience that you will always remember. With a little effort, you are helping to keep these iconic sites maintained for the next generations to enjoy.  Conscious actions like staying in eco-friendly accommodation, buying products from local communities, and choosing tour companies with eco-tourism policies are the examples of supporting sustainable visit.

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