Inspiring Climate Destinations with Adventure More

Founded by Amanda Jamieson, Adventure More is a travel agency specializing in crafting experiences that combine a mix of nature, culture and activity. The company designs custom itineraries and is always finding new and creative ways to educate their guests and keep their travelers inspired. In this article learn from inspiring climate stories and initiatives happening in some of Adventure More’s most popular destinations. 

Uganda 

Welcome to Uganda! Named by Winston Churchil in 1908 as the pearl of Africa, Uganda is known for its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife and vibrant cultures. Amanda Jamieson, founder of Adventure More, traveled to Uganda 20 years ago and discovered the beauty of the country first hand. A highlight from the trip was when observing some wildlife a teenage gorilla nudged her in the shin! You can read the full story in her blog. 

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It’s these sorts of close encounters with wildlife, new cultures and ecosystems that inspire us to care about our environment. Uganda is affected by erratic weather patterns like prolonged drought and intense rains. Farmers face unpredictable growing seasons and rural communities must adapt to water shortages. Despite these challenges, Uganda is a beacon of resilience. The Ugandan Smart Agricultural Transformation Project encourages farmers to use drought-resistant crops and efficient irrigation systems. Renewable energy projects, like solar farms are sprouting up, villages are implementing rainwater harvesting systems and reforesting areas to combat soil erosion and create carbon sinks (UNFCC). 

Slovenia

A hidden gem in Central Europe, where diverse climates create a paradise for every type of traveler, Slovenia is nestled between the Alps and the Adriatic Sea, and boasts an array of microclimates, each offering unique experiences throughout the year and are also key to its renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, biodiversity and conservation success.

In the alpine regions abundant water resources from rivers and lakes are harnessed for hydroelectric power, and the sunny coast and karst areas are ideal for solar energy projects. In 2022, 25 percent of Slovenia’s energy grid was powered by renewables. The varied climates also support diverse and sustainable agricultural practices. In the fertile plains organic farming thrives, and in the cooler alpine regions traditional livestock farming practices are maintained promoting biodiversity and soil health. Slovenia’s Green Scheme of Tourism initiative manages sustainable tourism development and has received international recognition for its success and in 2022 Conde Nast Traveler magazine named Slovenia one of the 12 most sustainable destinations. Check out Adventure More’s Destination Unveiled podcast for their latest episode on Slovenia.

New Zealand

A place known for its natural wonder, New Zealand is also a global leader in climate action, implementing inspiring initiatives to combat climate change and protect its unique environment.

New Zealand is a powerhouse for renewable energy. Over 80 percent of its electricity comes from renewable resources, taking advantage of its abundant natural resources: 

• Geothermal energy comes from the Taupo Volcanic Zone, a wide strip of the central North Island that includes two large collapsed volcanoes, dome volcanoes and zones of molten rocks. 
• Hydroelectric power is possible thanks to the country’s many rivers, and accounts for 60 percent of the country’s energy supply. Notably the Waikato River has nine hydro plants that produce around 10% of the country’s electricity. 
• Wind blows through its coastal and mountainous regions. In 2022 wind farms produced 5-10 percent of the country’s electricity.  

This is just a preview of some of the ways New Zealand is supporting our climate; if you’d like to discover more about this incredible country check out Adventure Mores latest New Zealand blog.

Ecuador

On our last stop of inspiring destinations tour with Adventure More Travel settle in to Ecuador, home of the Galapagos Islands. It’s also the place where the Andes Mountains meet the Amazon rainforest and where the rainforest meets the Pacific Ocean.

It’s also the place where the Andes Mountains meet the Amazon rainforest and where the rainforest meets the Pacific Ocean. To protect Ecuador’s natural resources and the birthplace of Darwin’s theory of evolution by natural selection, Ecuador has implemented several conservation initiatives designed to support ecotourism. A few of these initiatives include: 

• ProBosque Foundation: A non-profit organization dedicated to reforestation and forest conservation in Ecuador. They engage tree planting initiatives and work with local communities to protect and restore forest ecosystems.  
• Galapagos National Park Conservation Fund: This fund supports conservation projects in the Galapagos Islands including habitat restoration, invasive species control, and environmental education. 
• Sacha Warmi: An organization focusing on empowering indigenous women in the Amazon region through sustainable ecotourism ventures. Their initiatives promote cultural preservation and environmental conservation while providing economic opportunities for women. 

Discover more about the magic of Ecuador in Adventure More’s two part Destination Unveiled podcast about Ecuador's mainland and famous archipelago. Learn insider tips about mainland Ecuador, about the Galápagos Islands in Ecuador and why they should be on your travel list!

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