Five Top Sustainable and Eco-friendly Luxury Resorts

In addition to being environmentally conscious and sustainable, eco-resorts are now more stylish and luxurious than ever before, which means you can embrace the remote wilderness and authentic local culture, without having to compromise on glamour, comfort and unadulterated indulgence.

The Cliffs Preserve, Chile

Ancient forest covering 8,000 acres that stretches along the South Pacific coast of Northern Patagonia is the setting for this luxurious eco lodge, and also home to wildlife such as puma, deer, the mountain monkey and outstanding birdlife, as well as whales, penguins and sea lions. The resort endeavours to have the lowest impact possible with solar energy and organic gardens, as well as creating community and educational programs. The cosy villas and suites feature fireplaces and ocean views, while the resort incorporates a marina, stables and hiking trails, and dining that makes the most of the fresh local seafood and organic produce.

Lapa Rios, Costa Rica

Named after the stream of Scarlet Macaws that fly overhead, this sustainable eco-lodge is situated in 930 acres of protected rainforest reserve, lying alongside the Pacific coast and Osa Peninsula’s Corcovado National Park, which is renowned for its biodiversity and extraordinary abundance of wildlife. Wake up at dawn to the call of howler monkeys before setting out to explore the rainforest with one of the resident naturalists or for a spot of dolphin and whale watching. The lodge itself offers luxe living – with a salt-based swimming pool, massage and yoga – as well as striving to help the region socially, economically and environmentally.

Campi Ya Kanzi, Kenya

Experience Maasai culture, while helping to preserve their environment and culture at this lodge which is owned in partnership with the local Maasai community. The boutique eco-lodge sits among the Chyulu Hills with a view of Mount Kilimanjaro, cloud forest, and river and lava flows that run through the landscape, where roaming wildlife can be seen on game drives and walks. The classic safari-style tented cottages and suites are designed with state-of-the-art tech to minimise environmental impact, without compromising on style and comfort.

Sanctuary Baines’ Camp, Botswana

This exclusive resort only has five ultra-luxe suites, set on raised platforms above the Boro River on the border of Moremi Game Reserve. The wooden structures incorporate recycled cans and overlook the Boro River where hippos can be seen, while from the lodge’s swimming pool and wooden deck guests can spot wildlife such as lions and elephants. In addition to the unique opportunity to walk with elephants, the resort hosts experiential dining, such as a bush brunch with the resident elephants and private dining under the stars.

Song Saa Private Island, Cambodia

In the Gulf of Thailand, this luxury private island resort is hidden away on neighbouring Koh Ouen and Koh Bong of the untouched Koh Rong Archipelago, blending harmoniously with the environment and combining sustainability and community development with exceptional design and service, for absolute indulgence in an intimate setting. The rainforest-covered islands, fringed with white sand beach, are connected by footbridge across Cambodia’s first marine reserve. Choose between the over-water, jungle and ocean-view villas, relax at the infinity pool, and gain a greater appreciation of the wildlife with their ecological program.