Best Family-Friendly Eco-Retreats In Asia

MALDIVES: Protect Coral

COMO Maalifushi in the Maldives is not only a dream destination, but it also boasts a big eco-friendly heart. Here, the resort is big on protecting the region’s underwater world and hosts a great coral propagation programme involving the planting of new coral frames on the seafloor to encourage new reefs to flourish. Families can go on guided dives and sponsor these coral frames, tracking progress via photographic updates. On land, the villas are over-water stunners, with sprawling decks and infinity pools. The excellent kids' club means that when your little ones are not learning about the local flora and fauna, you can relax in peace with a cocktail.

THAILAND: Learn About Elephants

Unsurprisingly, it’s all about the elephants at Anantara’s Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort in Chiang Rai Offering families the chance to interact with these magnificent creatures. There are various packages available in surroundings that resemble a traditional mahout village just behind the resort. Watch as the elephants play and feed, bathe them under the watchful eyes of expert guides, learn techniques to communicate with them, and garner fascinating facts about biology, behavior and conservation. Kids and adults alike will be captivated! The accommodation is just as enthralling with relaxing décor, elegant furnishings, and local art. When you’re not hanging out with the animals, relax by the tranquil pool, head to the spa, trek through rice fields or go on a tour down the Mekong River.

CAMBODIA: Join Community Projects

The private island of Song Saa in Koh Rong, Cambodia is not only a stunning eco resort for families, but it’s also dedicated to creating a better planet. As a bid to educate children about the environment, it offers unique ecological projects for guests to get stuck into, such as recycling programmes and workshops with the local community. Snorkel coral reefs in search of seahorses, kayak through mangroves with marine biologists, or embark on a rainforest expedition. After a hard day of contributing to a greener world, enjoy a movie in your private villa, relax with a massage at the spa, or dive into some Cambodian street food while poolside.

OMAN: See Dolphins And Baby Turtles

Combine sustainability with a desert safari on the shores of Oman where the Ras al–Jinz Scientific Turtle Reserve offers accommodation and an ecotourism experience in one. Stay in a luxurious eco-tent and head out with an ecologist to observe endangered green turtles nesting and swimming while your guide answers questions. After a few days at the reserve, head to Muscat’s rugged coast to watch wild dolphins and to learn about their natural habitat. Finish your holiday with a desert safari experience in the Wahiba Sands where you can go quad biking and sandboarding in nature. Find out more here.

Brazil: Be An Eco-Cowboy

Brazil boasts lots of options for eco-friendly family activities, and some of the best take place at Caiman Ecological Refuge in the Pantanal. This cattle ranch hosts wildlife and environmental excursions for children (8+) and parents amidst the enormous grasslands and forest. Search for Giant Otters and Anteaters, join their ongoing recycling project, monitor Hyacinth Macaws, and look for jaguars while learning about their habitat. Try mountain biking, canoeing, an astronomy workshop, or make like a cowboy for the day. Combine your trip with a visit to Iguassu Falls and beachy Rio on an itinerary. Click here for more information.