Southeast Asia is a region where culture and nature are deeply intertwined, responsible tourism offers a chance to engage with both. When done purposefully, your travel itinerary can support communities who are also caretakers of the environment, making your holiday a meaningful part of a much larger story. Here, we spotlight lesser travelled yet culturally rich destinations where responsible travel uplifts communities, safeguards nature, and keeps traditional ways of life alive.

Southeast Asia might just be one of the world’s best-kept secrets for nature lovers. With elusive tigers roaming ancient rainforests and whale sharks gliding through coral-rich seas, this region is teeming with biodiversity, but it’s often overlooked as a wildlife destination. In this guide, we’ll highlight some of Southeast Asia’s most unforgettable wildlife encounters and how your trip can support the protection of the places, people, and species that make this region so unique.

Whether you're a seasoned trekker or a novice nature enthusiast, follow this checklist to ensure your hiking trip leaves a positive impact on the environment!