To travel responsibly in Myanmar is to embrace a deeper understanding of your impact—ecologically, socially, and culturally—on the communities and landscapes you visit. As a country still preserving its unique heritage and fragile ecosystems, every thoughtful action by travelers makes a difference. For those considering a responsible trip to Myanmar, begin by exploring the principles of responsible travel in Myanmar with Shanti Travel, where our seasoned experts support sustainable, conscious exploration.
Myanmar’s environmental challenges are significant: 80 million plastic bags are used every day and nearly 1,790 tons of waste are generated daily in the Yangon area, 10% of which is made of plastic. This makes it essential for visitors to adopt responsible behaviors—especially in ecologically sensitive areas. In Myanmar, sustainable travel is also about respecting local customs and supporting communities in ways that preserve their cultural and natural heritage.
Core Principles of Responsible Travel in Myanmar
Eco-Friendly Habits
- Choose eco-conscious accommodation such as eco-lodges or guesthouses that reduce energy and water use, minimize waste, and contribute to conservation projects. For example, places like the Inle Heritage Stilt Houses blend traditional style with sustainability.
- Plan efficient itineraries to reduce carbon emissions, and favor walking, biking, or public transportation over taxis and private vehicles where possible.
- Say no to products from endangered flora or fauna, as well as rainforest wood or uncertified stones, to avoid fueling illegal trade.
- Conserve resources by using environmentally friendly personal care products and limiting water usage during showers and laundry.
- Support community-based tourism (CBT) initiatives, which allow you to stay in local villages, participate in craft workshops, or enjoy homestays where your visit brings direct benefits to communities and encourages the preservation of traditions.
- Purchase local products from artisans and regional producers, especially in rural areas beyond the main cities, to help distribute tourism income more equitably.
- Choose local guides and businesses such as hotels, restaurants, and markets for authentic experiences that positively impact Myanmar’s people.
Respectful Cultural Conduct
- Dress modestly and appropriately, especially when visiting religious sites, and always ask permission before photographing people or sacred places.
- Respect visitor guidelines at temples, pagodas, and heritage sites—do not touch, climb, or remove any artifacts.
- Learn some local customs and simple phrases to show respect and humility, which will be deeply appreciated by Myanmar’s residents.
Practical Tips for Your Responsible Trip to Burma
- Do not take plastic wrappings or other articles that you will throw away in the destination.
- Use a bamboo or metal straw and systematically refuse plastic straws.
- For your purchases, use a cloth bag and refuse the plastic bags.
- Bring your own refillable water bottle rather than using disposable water bottles (89 billion bottles of plastic water are sold each year around the world—a plastic bottle takes 450 years to disappear from the earth's surface).
- Respect the local customs—including dress codes, table manners, and temple etiquette.
- Follow the advice of your Burma Travel Expert and participate in activities related to the preservation of traditions.
Insider’s Tip: By choosing responsible travel in Myanmar, each decision you make—whether using a refillable bottle or selecting a community-run guesthouse—contributes to safeguarding the country’s vibrant culture and unspoiled nature for future generations.
At Shanti Travel, we provide guidance and curated itineraries that prioritize both your experience and responsible tourism, ensuring your journey leaves a positive footprint in Myanmar.
