If you’re looking for a sustainable but cozy getaway in nature, then eco-lodges might be the answer to your problems. With eco-friendly power sources, a focus on sustainable practices, and often community-driven, these eco-lodges offer a unique way to stay in some of the most beautiful places on the planet.
So, where can you find the best eco-lodges in the world? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Here are our 16 favorite eco-lodges to get you feeling inspired.
The 16 Best Eco Lodges In The World
1. Keemala, Phuket, Thailand
Boutique bungalows set atop rolling hills with seafront views
If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Phuket, this eco-lodge in the lush green hills is for you. Keemala is a stunning eco-lodge located just 0.8 of a mile from the beautiful Kamala Beach that gives the place its name.
With individual units that are tastefully designed with sleek modern touches, all attention is drawn to the amazing views of the Andaman Sea. Spend your days lounging around either the main outdoor swimming pool area or in your private plunge or infinity pool, or wander through the greenery and soak up the nature-filled vibes!
2. ION Adventure Hotel, Nesjavellir, Iceland
Secluded Northern Lights hotspot that’s all about the natural views
Located in the absolutely awe-inspiring UNESCO-listed Thingvellir National Park, the ION Adventure Hotel is undoubtedly one of the best eco-lodges in the world. Actually situated on top of a mountain, the rooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows with panoramic views out across the national park and beyond.
There’s one key reason why this secluded eco-lodge is so very popular. That’s because due to its high location, away from any major towns, cities, or light pollution, it’s one of the best places in Iceland to see the Northern Lights. Grab a cozy drink and watch from your room, sit in the outdoor swimming pool, and enjoy the show.
3. Olas Tulum, Mexico
Beachfront privacy and luxury right on Tulum’s impressive seafront
Now, there are plenty of amazing places to stay in Tulum, Mexico, but if you’re looking for sustainability and low-key relaxing vibes, then you should consider booking a stay at Olas Tulum. Boasting its own private beach area for uninterrupted sunbathing and Caribbean sea paddling, it feels like paradise.
With expansive views of the white sandy beaches, an onsite yoga deck with regular sessions, and a light and airy design for ultimate relaxation, this is the ideal place to kick back and put your feet up. Don’t forget to check out the rooftop deck for amazing sunset views across the jungle!
4. Lapa Rios Lodge by Böëna, Puerto Jimenez, Costa Rica
Stunning eco-lodge surrounded by a private nature reserve
Honestly, eco-lodges don’t come much better than Lapa Rios Lodge by Böëna in Puerto Jimenez, Costa Rica. Situated on an incredible 1,000 acres of private nature reserve, this place has sustainability down to its core. With private bungalows built out of sustainable materials nestled in the trees, you can become one with your natural surroundings.
Inside, each bungalow is perfectly placed to highlight the panoramic Pacific views. If you stay here, you’re going to see some of the most insane sunsets of your life. Add in private plunge pools, amazing sun decks, and access to the wild beaches of the Osa Peninsula, and this is an eco-lodge experience unlike any other.
5. Secret Bay, Portsmouth, Dominica
Gorgeous wooden villas and bungalows make up this island oasis
Imagine you’re in a beautiful wooden villa, surrounded by green treetops, and below is a stunning beach cove with next to no one there to have to share it with. Sounds like paradise, right? Well at Secret Bay in Portsmouth on Dominica, you can find just that.
Located around a two-minute drive from the incredible Tibay Bay Beach and surrounded by mountains, it’s a great place to reconnect with nature. Portsmouth town is just a five-minute drive away and it’s where you’ll find the local farmer’s market, which is where the majority of the eco-lodge’s restaurant produce comes from! With beautifully designed wooden villas and panoramic views out across the Caribbean, you’ll never want to leave.
6. Tri by Amaya, Ahangama, Sri Lanka
Luxurious lakeside accommodation on the edge of bustling Ahangama
If you’re looking for some quieter vibes while you’re staying near one of Sri Lanka’s most beloved surf towns, check out Tri by Amaya. Located on the edge of Koggala Lake, you can enjoy a tranquil atmosphere, surrounded by eco-friendly luxury from the infinity pools to the spacious rooms to the garden areas.
Situated around 1.3 miles away from Kathaluwa West Beach, you can easily walk or hire bikes from the eco-lodge for a day by the ocean, or to check out the nearby town of Ahangama. If it’s rest and relaxation you’re looking for from this leg of your Sri Lanka trip this amazing lakefront eco-lodge is going to be ideal for you!
7. Copal Tree Lodge a Muy’Ono Resort, Toledo Settlement, Belize
Remote, luxury eco-lodge surrounded by jungle habitats
If you’re looking to get off the beaten path but don’t want to sacrifice luxury then it’s time to add the Copal Tree Lodge a Muy’Ono Resort to your sustainable travel bucket list. Surrounded by the gorgeous, verdant Belize jungle, it’s like you’re on a private island in the middle of nowhere.
With beautiful canopies, balconies, and sun decks, you can take in the sweeping views of the local area. Relax and stretch out in the dedicated yoga room, take a dip in the outdoor pool, or treat yourself to a massage. The best part? This eco-lodge has its own on-site distillery. It’s a game-changer!
8. Bambu Indah, Ubud, Indonesia
Stunning bamboo architecture makes this a must-visit eco-lodge
There are so many great eco-hotels and resorts in Ubud, but Bambu Indah takes it to a whole new level. With sweeping architectural lines and bungalows built from bamboo, it immediately makes at one with the greenery all around you.
Made up of a series of amazing bungalows, villas, and treehouses, the Bambu Indah offers beautiful luxury experiences, from the picturesque balconies and sun decks to the social bar area to the gorgeous garden which provides the produce for the restaurant. Add in an eco-friendly pool that uses lava stones to oxygenate and cleanse the water and a series of high-quality water filtration systems, this is definitely one of the best eco-lodges in the world.
9. Bushmans Kloof Wilderness Reserve and Wellness Retreat, Clanwilliam, South Africa
Relaxing outdoorsy paradise in the foothills of the Cederberg Mountains
If you’re heading to South Africa and want to have a mix of outdoor adventure and quiet relaxation, check out the Bushmans Kloof Wilderness Reserve and Wellness Retreat. As the name suggests, there are plenty of opportunities to canoe, hike, and cycle throughout nature and spot amazing wildlife, with the retreat also running specific guided excursions.
After a long day of exploring, settle in for a massage or spa treatment back at base, or head over to the beautiful Wine Cellar which is full of amazing local bottles that pair perfectly with the dishes created from the produce in the retreat’s organic garden!
10. Naturhotel Leitlhof, San Candido, Italy
Eco-friendly wellness lodge in the picturesque Dolomite mountain range
Located in the stunning Italian Dolomites near the Austrian border, the Naturhotel Leitlhof in San Candido is a mountainous paradise. This particular eco-lodge actually doubles as a wellness getaway and a ski destination, making it a great place to check out no matter the season!
If you’re visiting in winter, the lodge is just 800 meters away from the iconic Haunold ski slopes. Visiting in the summer? You can hire bikes from the hotel to explore the local area. Once you’ve had your fill of adventure, head back for a Turkish bath, a spin in the sauna, or a dip in the hot tub for those sore muscles!
11. Aquila Eco Lodges, Dunkeld, Australia
Award-winning treehouse accommodations in the Australian mountains
If you love interest architecture, are a fan of treehouses, and want to explore the mountains around the Southern Grampians National Park, then the Aquila Eco Lodges are going to be right up your street.
Each beautifully designed treehouse is spacious and airy with floor-to-ceiling windows that allow you to connect with nature. With so many amazing hikes and adventures right on your doorstep, this is the perfect eco-lodge if you love spending time in the great outdoors as a family or as with friends. Return back to the treehouse, get the log burner going, and settle in for a cozy night in nature.
12. Chobe Safari Lodges, Kasane, Botswana
Luxury safari experience with an eco-friendly twist
If you’re looking for a luxury safari experience that has a sustainable edge to it, check out the Chobe Safari Lodges in Botswana. Located just 6.6 kilometers from the Sedudu Gate Chobe National Park, you’re in a prime position to see some of the best wildlife in Africa.
Around the resort, you can enjoy a dip in the beautiful outdoor swimming pool or relax on the sun deck overlooking the Chobe River. In fact, the river is actually the border between Botswana and Namibia, so you can easily check out two beautiful southern African nations off your travel bucket list in one go on a safari here!
13. Mashpi Lodge, Pacto, Ecuador
A wildlife lover’s wonderland inside of one of Ecuador’s amazing nature reserves
Okay, so if you love all things to do with wildlife, conservation efforts, and the natural world, the Mashpi Lodge needs to be on your radar. This unique eco-lodge in Pacto, Ecuador is actually inside the Mashpi Nature Reserve and is operated on an entirely all-inclusive basis, including amazing activities and excursions.
Some of these amazing activities include talks from the resident biologist, night hikes to see the nocturnal residents of the reserve, and adventures on the treetop sky bikes. This really is the ultimate eco-lodge if you love learning about natural biology and conservation efforts!
14. Wildlife Retreat at Taronga, Sydney, Australia
Unique luxury eco-lodge located inside the amazing Taronga Zoo
Have you ever wondered what it’s like to stay in a zoo? Well at the Wildlife Retreat at Taronga in Sydney, Australia, that dream can become a reality. Of course, all stays have complimentary access to this amazing zoo, and you’ll be treated to world-class views across Sydney Harbor from your eco-lodge.
One of the best things about the Wildlife Retreat at Taronga is that it’s entirety not-for-profit. That means 100% of the profit from your stay goes back into the conservation efforts and programs that are run by the zoo.
15. Ocean Green Eco Lodge, Puerto Princesa City, Philippines
Endless crystal clear sea views surrounded by lush greenery
If you love being surrounded by mountains and green valleys as well as having mindblowing sea views, you can enjoy the best of both worlds at the Ocean Green Eco Lodge in Puerto Princesa City in the Philippines.
Made up of beautiful lodges, filled with natural materials, every single one has views of the sea stretching out before them. Add the dreamy infinity pools into the mix and you know you’re in for amazing sunsets, relaxing vibes, and an eco-lodge that still feels like a luxury hotel!
16. Mahali Mzuri, Aitong, Kenya
Luxury safari tent-style eco-lodge with breathtaking views
If you’re looking for a camping safari experience in Kenya, but still want to live in the lap of luxury, check out Mahali Mzuri in Aitong. Although they’re described as luxury safari tents, these suites have the decor feel of a high-end resort with sweeping, sturdy structures that feel more like a bungalow than a tent.
Each suite has access to a gorgeous fire pit, infinity pool, and barbeque areas, for the perfect end to your safari-filled days in Kenya. Of course, there’s also a delicious onsite restaurant as well as one of the most well-stocked bars that I’ve ever seen on a “campsite”!
FAQs About the Best Eco Lodges In The World
So, now that we’ve seen some of the best eco-lodges in the world, let’s round out this guide with a couple of quick frequently asked questions!
What is the difference between an eco-lodge and an eco-resort?
So, the main difference between eco-lodges and eco-resorts comes down to size. An eco-resort is normally a sprawling complex with tons of amenities, rooms, and services. Eco-lodges, on the other hand, are an altogether more boutique and cozy experience.
Like their less-sustainable counterparts, eco-lodges are designed for an individual experience and often have bigger rooms or suites, but less communal spaces to hang out and enjoy. It’s all about getting away from it all in nature and relaxing!
What is the greenest resort in the world?
Rumored to be the greenest luxury eco-resort in the world, the Coulibri in Dominica brings the best of both worlds when it comes to sustainability and luxury. Located in the heart of the Caribbean, Coulibri took 15 years to build and create, and everything is geared towards being as eco-conscious as possible.
What are eco-friendly lodges?
Eco-friendly lodges are small boutique accommodations that are predominantly concerned with sustainability. Whether that’s fueling their power using renewable energy sources, preserving water or light, or making a conscious effort when it comes to waste and recycling, it all comes together to form amazing eco-lodges!
What is the most eco-friendly country in Europe?
According to popular reports, the most eco-friendly country in Europe is actually Sweden. From sustainable recycling schemes to renewable energy policies to a focus on public transport and safe cycling in the cities, Sweden is coming out on top in the vast majority of eco-friendly tourism categories.
When it comes to natural spaces, Sweden has plenty to offer. Whether you want to relax in the treetops of the dense forests, hang out by the coast, or jump on a boat and travel between the different islands all around the country, the choice is yours!
