Eco-hotels in Mexico to plan your next holiday responsibly
This article will share some of the most stunning eco-hotels in Mexico that I am dying to visit.
As travel restrictions start to ease and anxious travelers start to plan the next adventure, we have an opportunity to rethink the way we travel. It is more important than ever before to consider the impact of the travel industry, as well as the ways we can contribute to more responsible travel.
Most international holidays will accumulate to a significant environmental footprint, including; air travel, transportation, accommodation, etc. However, there are always more responsible choices we can make. All-inclusive hotels and large resorts consume an enormous amount of resources, and produce staggering amounts of waste and GHG emissions. One of the best ways to reduce our environmental impact, is by supporting small, local, and conscious businesses. Many eco-tourism projects and eco-hotels in Mexico are actively involved in conservation initiatives, and offer visitors a chance to contribute and take part in protecting the natural habitat.
Here are some beautiful, socially and environmentally conscious hotels in Mexico for you to plan your next holiday, responsibly.
Hotel Ecologico Temazcal is located in the magical town of Creel, in the Sierra Tarahumara in the State of Chihuahua. It is located just a few minutes from the town center and very close to all the most important tourist attractions in the region, such as Copper Canyon. The hotel runs on solar energy, and uses high efficiency LED lamps to reduce energy consumption. Harvesting rainwater is another way they save water for laundry and bathroom purposes. This recycled water is also used for underfloor heating which heats the space in an efficient way even on cold desert nights. The hotel separates all their garbage and composts organic waste.
El Patio 77 is situated in a renovated 1890 mansion, in the heart of Mexico City. This hotel is well known for its unique architecture and eco-design. It runs on solar energy and has a water recycling system that maximizes water efficiency. They also have a water filter system for drinking water that helps reduce plastic bottles and a restaurant that sources 100% organic produce.
Hotel Xic Xanac is located very near the city center of Puebla. It was built on a 19th century hacienda using only natural resources from the surrounding environment. The hotel has a capacity for 40 guests, and focuses on ecotourism activities. It has a rainwater harvesting system, solar heaters, as well as a farm and organic garden completely free of pesticides or chemicals. The property has a natural swimming pool for guests to enjoy!
Located in the jungle region of Los Tuxtlas, on the shore of Lake Catemaco, Nanciyaga is a refuge for protected species. Nanciyaga contributes to the protection of the environment and species, with numerous conservation programs such as the reintroduction of rehabilitated Red Macaws into the jungle. The hotel has 12 cabins that run on solar energy.
Hotel Racho Encantado is located on the banks of the spectacular “Laguna de siete colores” (lagoon of the seven colours). It comprises twelve beautiful cabins decorated with Mexican details. The ceilings are made of palm and the furniture is handmade. In addition, each house has its living room, a terrace that opens onto the gardens and the lagoon, and a hot water service. Surrounded by tropical gardens, you will be able to appreciate more than 150 species of birds as well as orchards full of fruit trees.
This sustainable complex safeguards its surrounding environment, and the culture and traditions of local communities. Most employees are from the communities of the Sierra de Tacotalpa. To contribute to the economic development of the region, 70% of all the resources and supplies are procured locally. The Kolem Jaá compound is located between two rivers and the only way to access it is by boat. There are many activities one can do, such as hiking and swimming in the river.
Las Guacamayas is an ecotourism cooperative focused on protecting the rainforest. The hotel uses a biodigester to process waste, uses biodegradable soaps and shampoos, and works hard to avoid all plastic products from their facilities. This is a wonderful place to really discover the Selva Lacandona, and to partake in eco-adventure activities. They are well known for their conservation projects that work to rehabilitate and protect the Scarlet Macaw.
Camp Rí Lacanjá is my favourite eco-hotels in Mexico that I have ever visited. It offers you the opportunity to enjoy nature like never before. It is surrounded by tall trees, various species of ferns, orchids and bromeliads. Its rustic cabins are on the banks of the Lacanjá River. Each cabin has its own kitchen and dining room.
Hiking is one of its main attractions. The hotel has a local craft store and a swimming area. It is recommended you bring a towel, a hand lamp, mosquito repellent and a raincoat.
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