Responsible Travel
Last updated: August 2026
Bhutan's approach to tourism is deliberately careful and sustainable. We share that commitment and ask our travellers to travel with the same respect.
Our approach
AUNZ to Bhutan works with a trusted Bhutanese local partner to deliver journeys that honour Bhutan's culture, environment and communities. We believe travel should give back more than it takes, and we design every journey with that in mind.
A tree planted for every traveller
Through our local partner's Living Springs Project, a native tree is planted for every AUNZ to Bhutan traveller as a standard part of every journey — at no additional cost. The project helps restore Bhutan's forests, recharge mountain spring-water sources, protect wildlife habitats, and support the rural communities who care for these landscapes. It is one concrete way your visit contributes to the long-term wellbeing of the kingdom you came to experience.
How we travel responsibly
Respecting Bhutanese culture
We encourage travellers to approach Bhutan's living traditions with curiosity and respect — dressing modestly at religious sites, observing local customs, and learning from, rather than disrupting, daily life.
Supporting local guides and businesses
Our journeys are delivered by Bhutanese guides and local operators, supporting local employment and ensuring your travel spend stays within the Bhutanese economy.
Environmental responsibility
We minimise waste, avoid single-use plastics where possible, and follow Bhutan's own commitment to remaining carbon-negative.
Respect for monasteries and religious sites
We follow guidance from our local partner and monasteries on appropriate behaviour, photography and access at sacred sites.
Responsible trekking
On trek, we follow leave-no-trace principles, respect local communities along the route, and care for pack animals and the environment.
Respectful photography
We ask travellers to always seek permission before photographing people and to respect restrictions at religious sites.
Supporting local communities
Where possible, we support locally owned accommodation, eateries and artisans, helping spread the benefits of travel more widely.
Your role
Responsible travel is a shared effort. We ask every traveller to travel with respect, follow the guidance of local guides, and leave each place as they found it. Small choices — choosing local, reducing waste, and being considerate — help preserve Bhutan for the people who call it home and for future visitors.