Ewan MacLeod

Ewan MacLeod is a Certified Eco-Tourism Consultant specialising in low-impact UK and global travel itineraries. Holding a Master's degree in Sustainable Tourism Management from the University of Edinburgh, he brings over 14 years of field experience to his current role as Lead Advisor for ethical travel operators. He is dedicated to helping independent travellers navigate cultural heritage sites, secure off-grid accommodations, and support genuine biodiversity conservation.

Ewan MacLeod began his career guiding remote expeditions across the Scottish Highlands and South America, developing a profound understanding of rural ecosystems. He holds an MSc in Sustainable Tourism from the University of Edinburgh, alongside GSTC (Global Sustainable Tourism Council) certification. Over his 14-year career, Ewan has collaborated with major heritage NGOs and private conservation reserves to design low-impact, culturally respectful travel frameworks. He spent six years consulting for leading UK adventure agencies, advising them on ATOL compliance, carbon footprint reduction, and authentic community engagement. Currently, he works independently to dismantle the greenwashing prevalent in the modern hospitality industry. His proprietary auditing methodologies help verify renewable energy claims and ethical wildlife practices before travellers book their stays. Ewan writes to empower gap-year backpackers and sabbatical planners with the practical tools needed to build immersive, budget-conscious itineraries. By sharing his extensive knowledge of local transit, visa sequencing, and eco-labels like Green Key, he aims to transform standard holidays into meaningful global interactions. Ultimately, his mission is to champion regional circular economies while protecting vulnerable destinations from the devastating impacts of mass tourism.