Tourism can significantly contribute to environmental protection, conservation and restoration of biological diversity and sustainable use of natural resources. Because of their attractiveness, natural areas are identified as valuable, and the need to keep the attraction alive can lead to creation of national parks and wildlife parks.

In the Galápagos, new laws and regulations have been enacted to protect native species. The coral reefs around the islands and the marine life that depend on them for survival are also protected. The Galápagos now has become an international center for research on ecological systems, and the promotion and preservation of the islands' tourism industry was the main motivation for these actions.

Tourism has had a positive effect on wildlife preservation and protection efforts in South America. Numerous animal and plant species have already become extinct or may become extinct soon. Many countries have therefore established wildlife reserves and enacted strict laws protecting the animals that draw nature-loving tourists. As a result of these measures, several endangered species have begun to thrive again.