10 rules of responsible adventure travel
Adventure travel invites us to go beyond sightseeing. It immerses us in wild landscapes, challenges our limits, and often puts us in direct contact with local cultures and delicate ecosystems. But with that freedom comes responsibility — to tread lightly, act mindfully, and ensure our impact is positive. That’s why we follow the 10 Rules of Responsible Adventure Travel: clear, practical guidelines to help every traveler protect nature, respect people, and leave a place better than they found it.
Whether you’re joining a guided canyoning tour, hiking through ancient forests, or discovering hidden coastal villages, these 10 rules are your compass for traveling with purpose.
1️⃣ Leave No Trace — Ever
Nature gives us her best; in return, we must be invisible guests. Avoid leaving litter, even organic waste like fruit peels, which disrupt local wildlife. Stick to the principle of “pack it in, pack it out” — and yes, that includes wrappers, tissues, and microplastics from wet wipes or sunscreen bottles.
👉 Tip: Carry a small trash bag in your backpack. It’s a simple habit that makes a big difference.
2️⃣ Respect Local Cultures and Traditions
You’re not just entering a natural space — you’re stepping into someone’s home. Learn a few words of the local language. Dress appropriately when visiting rural areas or sacred sites. Always ask before photographing people, and be mindful of behaviors that may be seen as disrespectful.
👉 Real Connection: A simple “Hola, buenos días” in the Canary Islands opens doors — and hearts.
3️⃣ Support the Local Economy
Where you spend your money matters.
Choose tours led by local guides. Eat in locally-owned restaurants. Stay in family-run accommodations. The tourism industry can be a lifeline for many communities — but only if travelers choose consciously.
👉 Climbo way: All our experiences aim to involve and benefit the local economy directly — from fruit tasting on a finca to artisan products in mountain villages.
4️⃣ Pack Light, Pack Right
Everything you carry should have a purpose — and minimize waste. Choose reusable over disposable: water bottles, containers, eco-friendly toiletries. Leave behind unnecessary packaging. Opt for gear that’s durable and environmentally conscious.
👉 Pro tip: Reef-safe sunscreen and biodegradable soap aren’t just trendy — they help protect rivers, oceans, and fragile ecosystems.
5️⃣ Follow Your Guide’s Instructions
Guides aren’t just pathfinders — they’re guardians of your safety and of the environment. They know the terrain, the weather patterns, and the cultural sensitivities. Respecting their guidance helps avoid accidents and ensures the group’s cohesion.
👉 Why it matters: One off-trail step can damage protected species or cause erosion in delicate areas. Trust your guide — they’re trained for a reason.
6️⃣ Minimize Your Carbon Footprint
Adventure doesn’t have to leave a trail of emissions. Share transportation when possible, favor non-motorized activities, and choose tour operators that apply sustainability practices. When flying is necessary, consider offsetting your carbon footprint.
👉 Small steps: Bring your own cup, say no to single-use plastics, and reduce unnecessary energy use — it all adds up.
7️⃣ Stay on the Trail
That perfect Instagram shot isn’t worth harming a natural habitat. Going off-trail can trample vegetation, disturb nesting areas, and accelerate soil erosion. It also increases the risk of getting lost or injured.
👉 Did you know? Some endemic plant species in the Canary Islands only grow in a few square meters of terrain — one misstep can destroy years of growth.
8️⃣ Be Curious and Learn
Adventure is richer when you understand what surrounds you. Take time to learn about the geology, biodiversity, and cultural background of the places you visit. Ask questions. Read the signs. Listen to your guide.
👉 The Climbo spirit: Our tours include interpretation — because we believe every rock, plant, or story adds depth to the experience.
9️⃣ Unplug (at least a little)
It’s okay to take pictures. But don’t let your screen become a filter between you and the real world.
Breathe. Touch. Observe. Let the sound of water or birdsong replace your notifications — even if just for a while.
👉 Challenge: Go “offline” for one segment of your tour and focus on your senses. The moment becomes stronger when you live it fully.
🔟 Inspire Others to Travel Responsibly
You don’t have to be an influencer to make a difference. Share your responsible travel choices with friends or on social media. Show others that sustainable travel is not only possible — it’s more rewarding.
👉 Your voice matters: A photo of you with a reusable bottle or a caption about your local guide might just plant a seed in someone else’s mind.
At Climbo Tours, we believe travel should give more than it takes. We design every experience — from rainforest hikes to volcanic treks — with deep respect for nature and a commitment to the communities we visit. These 10 rules aren’t just tips; they’re a mindset. A way to ensure that our adventures don’t just inspire you, but also protect the places and people who make them possible.So next time you pack your boots and sense of adventure… bring your awareness, too.
Together, we can make every journey a force for good.
