eco tourism means

What Is Ecotourism?

Conservation, offering market-linked long-term solutions, ecotourism provides effective economic incentives for conserving and enhancing bio-cultural diversity and helps protect the natural and cultural heritage of our beautiful planet., communities, by increasing local capacity building and employment opportunities, ecotourism is an effective vehicle for empowering local communities around the world to fight against poverty and to achieve sustainable development., interpretation, with an emphasis on enriching personal experiences and environmental awareness through interpretation, ecotourism promotes greater understanding and appreciation for nature, local society, and culture., the definition., ecotourism is now defined as “responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment, sustains the well-being of the local people, and involves interpretation and education” (ties, 2015). education is meant to be inclusive of both staff and guests., principles of ecotourism, ecotourism is about uniting conservation, communities, and sustainable travel. this means that those who implement, participate in and market ecotourism activities should adopt the following ecotourism principles:.

• Minimize physical, social, behavioral, and psychological impacts.
• Build environmental and cultural awareness and respect.
• Provide positive experiences for both visitors and hosts.
• Provide direct financial benefits for conservation.
• Generate financial benefits for both local people and private industry.
• Deliver memorable interpretative experiences to visitors that help raise sensitivity to host countries’ political, environmental, and social climates.
• Design, construct and operate low-impact facilities.
• Recognize the rights and spiritual beliefs of the Indigenous People in your community and work in partnership with them to create empowerment.

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What Is Ecotourism? Definition, Examples, and Pros and Cons

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Ecotourism Definition and Principles

Pros and cons.

• Examples of Ecotourism
• Frequently Asked Questions

Ecotourism is about more than simply visiting natural attractions or natural places; it’s about doing so in a responsible and sustainable manner. The term itself refers to traveling to natural areas with a focus on environmental conservation. The goal is to educate tourists about conservation efforts while offering them the chance to explore nature.

Ecotourism has benefited destinations like Madagascar, Ecuador, Kenya, and Costa Rica, and has helped provide economic growth in some of the world’s most impoverished communities. The global ecotourism market produced $92.2 billion in 2019 and is forecasted to generate $103.8 billion by 2027.

A conservationist by the name of Hector Ceballos-Lascurain is often credited with the first definition of ecotourism in 1987, that is, “tourism that consists in travelling to relatively undisturbed or uncontaminated natural areas with the specific object of studying, admiring and enjoying the scenery and its wild plants and animals, as well as any existing cultural manifestations (both past and present) found in these areas.”

The International Ecotourism Society (TIES), a non-profit organization dedicated to the development of ecotourism since 1990, defines ecotourism as “responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment, sustains the well-being of the local people, and involves interpretation and education [both in its staff and its guests].”

The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) looks at ecotourism as a significant tool for conservation, though it shouldn’t be seen as a fix-all when it comes to conservation challenges:

“There may be some areas that are just not appropriate for ecotourism development and some businesses that just won’t work in the larger tourism market. That is why it is so important to understand the basics of developing and running a successful business, to ensure that your business idea is viable and will be profitable, allowing it to most effectively benefit the surrounding environment and communities.”

Marketing an ecosystem, species, or landscape towards ecotourists helps create value, and that value can help raise funds to protect and conserve those natural resources.

Sustainable ecotourism should be guided by three core principles: conservation, communities, and education.

Conservation

Conservation is arguably the most important component of ecotourism because it should offer long-term, sustainable solutions to enhancing and protecting biodiversity and nature. This is typically achieved through economic incentives paid by tourists seeking a nature-based experience, but can also come from the tourism organizations themselves, research, or direct environmental conservation efforts.

Communities

Ecotourism should increase employment opportunities and empower local communities, helping in the fight against global social issues like poverty and achieving sustainable development.

Interpretation

One of the most overlooked aspects of ecotourism is the education component. Yes, we all want to see these beautiful, natural places, but it also pays to learn about them. Increasing awareness about environmental issues and promoting a greater understanding and appreciation for nature is arguably just as important as conservation.

As one of the fastest growing sectors of the tourism industry, there are bound to be some downsides to ecotourism. Whenever humans interact with animals or even with the environment, it risks the chance of human-wildlife conflict or other negative effects; if done so with respect and responsibility in mind, however, ecotourism can reap enormous benefits to protected areas.

As an industry that relies heavily on the presentation of eco-friendly components to attract customers, ecotourism has the inevitable potential as a vessel for greenwashing. Part of planning a trip rooted in ecotourism is doing research to ensure that an organization is truly providing substantial benefits to the environment rather than exploiting it.

Ecotourism Can Provide Sustainable Income for Local Communities

Sustainably managed ecotourism can support poverty alleviation by providing employment for local communities, which can offer them alternative means of livelihood outside of unsustainable ones (such as poaching).

Research published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences found that communities in regions surrounding conservation areas in Costa Rica had poverty rates that were 16% lower than in areas that weren’t near protected parks. These protected areas didn’t just benefit from conservation funds due to ecotourism, but also helped to reduce poverty as well.

It Protects Natural Ecosystems

Ecotourism offers unique travel experiences focusing on nature and education, with an emphasis on sustainability and highlighting threatened or endangered species. It combines conservation with local communities and sustainable travel , highlighting principles (and operations) that minimize negative impacts and expose visitors to unique ecosystems and natural areas. When managed correctly, ecotourism can benefit both the traveler and the environment, since the money that goes into ecotourism often goes directly towards protecting the natural areas they visit.

Each year, researchers release findings on how tourist presence affects wildlife, sometimes with varying results. A study measuring levels of the stress hormone cortisol in wild habituated Malaysian orangutans found that the animals were not chronically stressed by the presence of ecotourists. The orangutans lived in the Lower Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary, where a local community-managed organization operates while maintaining strict guidelines to protect them.

Ecotourism May Also Hurt Those Same Natural Ecosystems

Somewhat ironically, sometimes ecotourism can hurt ecosystems just as much as it can help. Another study in the journal Trends in Ecology and Evolution found that ecotourism can alter animal behaviors in ways that put them at risk. If the presence of humans changes the way animals behave, those changes may make them more vulnerable by influencing their reaction to predators or poachers.

It's not just the animals who are at risk. As ecotourism activities become too popular, it can lead to the construction of new infrastructure to accommodate more visitors. Similarly, more crowds mean more pressure on local resources, increased pollution, and a higher chance of damaging the soil and plant quality through erosion. On the social side, these activities may displace Indigenous groups or local communities from their native lands, preventing them from benefiting from the economic opportunities of tourism.

Ecotourism Offers the Opportunity to Experience Nature

Renown conservationist Jane Goodall has a famous quote: “Only if we understand, will we care. Only if we care, will we help. Only if we help, shall all be saved.” It can be difficult to understand something that we haven’t seen with our own eyes, and ecotourism gives travelers the opportunity to gain new experiences in natural areas while learning about the issues they face. 

Ecotourism also educates children about nature, potentially creating new generations of nature lovers that could someday become conservationists themselves. Even adult visitors may learn new ways to improve their ecological footprints .

EXAMPLES OF ECOTOURISM

The East African country has some competitive advantages over its neighbors thanks to its rich natural resources, paired with the fact that it has allocated over 25% of its total area to wildlife national parks and protected areas. Because of this, an estimated 90% of tourists visit to Tanzania seeking out ecotourism activities. Ecotourism, in turn, supports 400,000 jobs and accounts for 17.2% of the national GDP, earning about $1 billion each year as its leading economic sector.

Some of Tanzania’s biggest highlights include the Serengeti, Mount Kilimanjaro , and Zanzibar, though the country still often goes overlooked by American tourists. Visitors can take a walking safari tour in the famous Ngorongoro Conservation area, for example, with fees going to support the local Maasai community.

The country is also known for its chimpanzees , and there are several ecotourism opportunities in Gombe National Park that go directly towards protecting chimpanzee habitats.

Galapagos Islands

It comes as no surprise that the place first made famous by legendary naturalist Charles Darwin would go on to become one of the most sought-after ecotourism destinations on Earth, the Galapagos Islands .

The Directorate of the Galapagos National Park and the Ecuadorian Ministry of Tourism require tour providers to conserve water and energy, recycle waste, source locally produced goods, hire local employees with a fair wage, and offer employees additional training. A total of 97% of the land area on the Galapagos is part of the official national park, and all of its 330 islands have been divided into zones that are either completely free of human impact, protected restoration areas, or reduced impact zones adjacent to tourist-friendly areas.

Local authorities still have to be on their toes, however, since UNESCO lists increased tourism as one of the main threats facing the Galapagos today. The bulk of funding for the conservation and management of the archipelago comes from a combination of governmental institutions and entry fees paid by tourists.

Costa Rica is well-known throughout the world for its emphasis on nature-based tourism, from its numerous animal sanctuaries to its plethora of national parks and reserves. Programs like its “Ecological Blue Flag” program help inform tourists of beaches that have maintained a strict set of eco-friendly criteria.

The country’s forest cover went from 26% in 1983 to over 52% in 2021 thanks to the government’s decision to create more protected areas and promote ecotourism in the country . Now, over a quarter of its total land area is zoned as protected territory.

Costa Rica welcomes 1.7 million travelers per year, and most of them come to experience the country’s vibrant wildlife and diverse ecosystems. Its numerous biological reserves and protected parks hold some of the most extraordinary biodiversity on Earth, so the country takes special care to keep environmental conservation high on its list of priorities. 

New Zealand

In 2019, tourism generated $16.2 billion, or 5.8% of the GDP, in New Zealand. That same year, 8.4% of its citizens were employed in the tourism industry, and tourists generated $3.8 billion in tax revenue.

The country offers a vast number of ecotourism experiences, from animal sanctuaries to natural wildlife on land, sea, and even natural caves. New Zealand’s South Pacific environment, full of sights like glaciers and volcanic landscapes, is actually quite fragile, so the government puts a lot of effort into keeping it safe.

Tongariro National Park, for example, is the oldest national park in the country, and has been named by UNESCO as one of only 28 mixed cultural and natural World Heritage Sites. Its diverse volcanic landscapes and the cultural heritage of the indigenous Maori tribes within the create the perfect combination of community, education, and conservation.

How to Be a Responsible Ecotourist

• Ensure that the organizations you hire provide financial contributions to benefit conservation and find out where your money is going.
• Ask about specific steps the organization takes to protect the environment where they operate, such as recycling or promoting sustainable policies.
• Find out if they include the local community in their activities, such as hiring local guides, giving back, or through initiatives to empower the community.
• Make sure there are educational elements to the program. Does the organization take steps to respect the destination’s culture as well as its biodiversity?
• See if your organization is connected to a non-profit or charity like the International Ecotourism Society .
• Understand that wildlife interactions should be non-invasive and avoid negative impacts on the animals.

Ecotourism activities typically involve visiting and enjoying a natural place without disturbing the landscape or its inhabitants. This might involve going for a hike on a forest trail, mountain biking, surfing, bird watching, camping, or forest bathing . 

Traveling in a way that minimizes carbon emissions, like taking a train or bike instead of flying, may also be part of an ecotourism trip. Because these modes of travel tend to be slower, they may be appreciated as enjoyable and relaxing ecotourism activities.

The Wolf Conservation Center ’s programing in New York State is an example of ecotourism. This non-profit organization is dedicated to the preservation of endangered wolf species. It hosts educational sessions that allow visitors to observe wolves from a safe distance. These programs help to fund the nonprofit organization’s conservation and wildlife rehabilitation efforts.

Stonehouse, Bernard. " Ecotourism ." Environmental Geology: Encyclopedia of Earth Science , 1999, doi:10.1007/1-4020-4494-1_101

" What is Ecotourism? " The International Ecotourism Society .

" Tourism ." International Union for Conservation of Nature .

https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.1307712111

https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0033357

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tree.2015.09.010

https://doi.org/10.5897/JHMT2016.0207

" Galapagos Islands ." UNESCO .

" About Costa Rica ." Embassy of Costa Rica in Washington DC .

https://www.stats.govt.nz/information-releases/tourism-satellite-account-2019

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Explainer: What Is Ecotourism?

The world has slowly become more connected over time. People take an interest in other cultures and want to experience them themselves. Traveling is an exciting part of life because it broadens your horizons and provides excellent educational opportunities, but how can you do so sustainably? To celebrate World Tourism Day 2023 under the theme “Tourism and green investment”, we dive deep into the world of ecotourism and explore new and innovative solutions to promote the movement of people around the world. 

What Is Ecotourism?

Ecotourism involves traveling sustainably. When you vacation, domestically or abroad, you stay conscious of the environment as much as possible. Ecotourists try to limit their carbon footprint and support local ecosystems by contributing positively. For example, they could eat at a local restaurant or refrain from using plastic on their trip. Ecotourism has become critical as people try to expand their worldview while staying environmentally conscious. 

Why Should You Practice Ecotourism?

Tourism is vital for many communities worldwide. Vacationers spend their money to help small businesses thrive and to stimulate local economies. However, tourism can negatively impact the environment. A 2022 study found that tourism is responsible for nearly 8% of the world’s carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions, most of which came from food and waste management. 

The pandemic hit the tourism industry with a steep 74% decline in international travel. Many countries had lockdowns in place to prevent COVID-19 transmission from foreign places. While this contributed to a significant drop in carbon emissions in 2020, tourist-dependent nations suffered huge economic losses.

Three years after the first case was detected in Wuhan, China, the pandemic is finally winding down and international travel is resuming, with air traffic set to reach 2019 levels soon. Last year saw a 153% increase in air travel compared to 2021 and about 62% pre-pandemic levels. In 2023, air traffic is expected to continue rising as most countries lift restrictions.

The bounce-back of tourism means the same will happen in terms of emissions. In 2022, GHG emissions increased by 7% in the first quarter compared to 2020. 

It is critical to practice ecotourism as global warming becomes more apparent. You’ll benefit from learning and becoming a better friend to the environment. Implementing ecotourism comes with many benefits:

• Educate yourself: The most significant benefit of ecotourism is educating yourself on environmental issues. If you find ways to be environmentally conscious on your trip, you are more likely to repeat those behaviors at home. Reading literature and research from scientists puts into perspective how the planet needs your help to survive.
• Protect resources: Sustainable travel means using natural and renewable resources to improve the planet’s health. You’re protecting the environment around you from the negative impacts of travel. If you believe in leaving something better than when you found it, ecotourism is the way to go.
• Help economies: Practicing ecotourism means other vacationers behind you also get to enjoy a clean environment . One way is by spending your money at local businesses. These shops are the heart of communities and give the location its remarkable personality. Patronising these companies helps them grow and continue their services for future visitors.

How Can You Be Mindful on Vacation?

It’s challenging to be perfect regarding your carbon footprint when traveling, but there are ways to limit your environmental impact abroad and contribute positively to the area. These five ways show how you can be a mindful ecotourist on your next trip. 

1. Research Ecotourism Locations

Ecotourism starts before you travel. Research as thoroughly as possible to see what destinations are the most conducive to ecotourism and find ways to be an ecotourist at the location. For example, you could look for hotels with biophilic designs. These spaces combine buildings with nature to maintain a connection with the environment. You may see natural materials like hardwood , stones, and trees inside the facility.  

Ecotourism means accounting for your environmental impact, but you should also examine how the area cares about green practices. When planning a trip, search for cities that implement eco-friendly policies to promote ecotourism. For example, Seattle, Washington, uses hydroelectric power for nearly 100% of its energy consumption.

2. Beware of Greenwashing

Talking about environmentally friendly practices is one thing, but implementing them and supporting the planet are the next steps that some businesses do not take. You may know this strategy as greenwashing . Due diligence can tell you which organisations stay true to their word and which only use eco-friendliness as a marketing term. 

It is essential to be able to spot greenwashing when you travel. Research hotels and businesses in the area and review their practices. How do they align with environmentally positive initiatives that they claim? For example, in 2018, Hilton said it would reduce CO2 emissions. However, critics accused the company of greenwashing because it cut down palm and mangrove trees to build its resort in the Maldives. Tearing down palm trees significantly affects carbon levels in the atmosphere. 

One way to research a company like Hilton for greenwashing is to examine its environmental, social and governance (ESG) scores. These metrics track companies’ operations and give an objective measurement to gauge practices. Organisations like Bloomberg developed databases that show exhaustive lists of ESG scores. They monitor thousands of businesses worldwide, so it is easier to see which are telling the truth beyond their ‘green’ campaigns.  

3. Visit a Wildlife Refuge

Part of ecotourism is finding ways to limit your environmental impact, but you can make positive contributions while still having fun. Visit a wildlife refuge when on vacation. These sanctuaries are some of the best places to support wildlife conservation and educate yourself. 

Photo by  Joshua J. Cotten  on  Unsplash

Wildlife refuges provide large, safe, and green spaces for animals to thrive. Many of them risk extinction and can thrive in a sanctuary. The money you spend at the refuges goes toward keeping the facilities standing and funding research to examine these animals. There are wildlife sanctuaries in all 50 states and five territories in the U.S. Internationally, there are numerous opportunities on every continent to support conservation. 

Seeing wildlife is a terrific experience, but remember to be mindful when visiting. For example, do not disturb animals by calling or touching them, and refrain from feeding them, even if they approach you. These creatures have special diets and oftentimes, human food is not suitable for them. If you bring food, clean up your waste afterward. Curious wildlife may get their heads stuck in plastic containers or eat things they are not supposed to.

4. Use Green Transportation Methods

Another way to practice ecotourism is to use green transportation methods. This strategy is something you can do abroad and practice at home. Eco-friendly transit reduces your carbon footprint significantly because it reduces greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and negative environmental impacts.

Photo by  freestocks  on  Unsplash

Depending on your destination, you should search for ways to take public transportation. These options may include buses, trains and metro lines. Public transit is more efficient than passenger vehicles because it emits 45% fewer CO2 emissions than cars on the road. Use bicycles and other low-emissions options if it’s not available. 

5. Learn Local Customs

Ecotourism goes hand-in-hand with mindful traveling. When you vacation, try to be one with the culture and immerse yourself. That’s how you get the most out of your travels. Learn local customs and find out what the residents do. They say when in Rome, do as the Romans do — and that’s a solid start for being an ecotourist.

Eating local food is an excellent way to immerse yourself and be an ecotourist. Ask a guide or resident where the best places to eat are. Small businesses and restaurants are likelier to have a lower carbon footprint than tourist traps. Find establishments that source their food locally. The shortened supply chain delivers delicious items at a lower price than you may see in chains.

Being an Ecotourist Worldwide

Calls for sustainability are growing as humans begin recognising their negative environmental impact. You can find ways to lower your carbon footprint at home, and you should keep the same mindful attitude when traveling abroad. Focus on being an ecotourist and helping the environment wherever you go.

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Definition of ecotourism

Examples of ecotourism in a sentence.

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'ecotourism.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

1980, in the meaning defined above

Dictionary Entries Near ecotourism

ecotoxicology

Cite this Entry

“Ecotourism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary , Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ecotourism. Accessed 27 Jun. 2024.

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Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about ecotourism

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Green Global Travel

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What Is Ecotourism? (The History & Principles of Responsible Travel)

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. All hosted affiliate links follow our editorial policies .

What is ecotourism? How does it work? Why does it matter? And how can we, as travelers, put the core principles of ecotourism into practice?

In recent years, the growth of interest in responsible travel has outpaced that of traditional sun/sand tourism by an increasingly wide margin.

With some experts estimating that ecotourism now represents 11.4% of all consumer spending, these sorts of questions have become more and more common. 

And, as we continue to see more negative impacts of mass tourism on beloved destinations around the world, the answers to these questions will become increasingly vital.

Part of the confusion surrounding sustainable travel  is the plethora of names being used for it within the industry.

E cotourism, a movement that began to take shape back in the 1980s, is the oldest and most commonly used word for it.

More recent industry buzzwords include sustainable tourism, green tourism, nature tourism, responsible tourism, ethical tourism, mindful travel, conscious travel, pro-poor tourism, and many others. 

Regardless of what you call it, the central concepts that these philosophies share in common are that the travel industry as a whole should adopt more environmentally friendly practices, protect the natural and cultural heritage of a destination, and support local communities.

With the United Nations designating 2017 as the  International Year of Sustainable Tourism for Development , this seems like a great time to deepen the conversation about what ecotourism is and why it’s important for the future of travel.

Here we’ll explain the definition of ecotourism, examine its history and evolution, explore its core principles and benefits, and look at 10 ways that each of us as responsible travelers can ensure our adventures ultimately make a positive impact.

READ MORE:  How Mass Tourism is Destroying Destinations

• The Definition of Ecotourism
• A Brief History of Ecotourism
• Ecotourism in the ’90s & Beyond
• The Principles of Ecotourism
• Ecotourism Principles in Action

The Benefits of Ecotourism

• Other Articles on Ecotourism

THE DEFINITION OF ECOTOURISM

According to The Oxford English Dictionary , the word “ecotour” was first recorded in 1973, followed by “ecotourism” in 1982.

There, the word is defined as, “Tourism to areas of ecological interest (typically exotic and often threatened natural environments), especially to support conservation efforts and observe wildlife; spec. access to an endangered environment controlled so as to have the least possible adverse effect.”

Ecotourism was perhaps best defined in 1990 by Megan Epler Wood, the co-founder of The International Ecotourism Society (TIES) and author of six influential books on the subject.

Her latest, Sustainable Tourism on a Finite Planet: Environmental, Business and Policy Solutions ,  was released in 2017.

Now the director of the  International Sustainable Tourism Initiative at Harvard, Epler Wood’s original definition was more simple and to the point. She described ecotourism as, “Responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment and improves the well-being of local people.”

In simple words, the meaning of ecotourism is travel that makes a positive impact on both the ECO logy and ECO nomy of a given destination.

One mistake many people make is assuming that ecotourism is all about conserving nature and wildlife by any means necessary. But if a destination or business’ tourism development strategy does not actively provide concrete financial benefits for the indigenous people, it’s not truly ecotourism.

Other NGOs, such as The Center for Responsible Travel  (CREST, whose co-founder Dr. Martha Honey also served as the Executive Director of TIES for four years), have since expanded on Epler Wood’s concept to provide more in-depth definitions of ecotourism.

CREST currently defines ecotourism as, “Responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment, socially and economically sustains the well-being of local people, and creates knowledge and understanding through interpretation and education of all involved (including staff, travelers, and community residents).”

Other responsible travel organizations may have their own take on what ecotourism is, but these three are the most significant definitions.

READ MORE: Megan Epler Wood on the Evolution of Ecotourism

A BRIEF HISTORY OF ECOTOURISM

Ecotourism’s earliest origins arguably began with the Sierra Club’s Outing program. Launched in 1901, these annual expeditions took hikers into the Sierra Nevada’s backcountry in order to show members natural wonders, “so that those persons could become active workers for the preservation of the forests.”

The modern movement began to take root in the environmental activism of the 1970s. Some sources suggest that the term ecotourism was originally coined by Mexican architect-turned-environmentalist  Héctor Ceballos-Lascuráin . He used the word to describe traveling to undisturbed areas in order to enjoy their natural beauty and culture.

In 1981 Ceballos-Lascuráin became the founding president of the Mexican Association for the Conservation of Nature, the most influential Mexican NGO in the conservation arena. In 1984 he founded the first Mexican ecotourism agency, ECOTOURS.

His 315-page book on Tourism, Ecotourism, and Protected Areas  was published in 1996 by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN). He served for many years as an Ecotourism Advisor to both the IUCN and United Nations World Tourism Organization.

Megan Epler Wood was another one of the ecotourism movement’s earliest adopters. She was a young wildlife biologist hired by World Wildlife Fund founder (and former EPA director) Russell Train right out of grad school in the early ’80s.

Their all-star team at the time also included Russell Mittermeier  (now President of Conservation International) and  Thomas Lovejoy , who’s known as the “godfather of biodiversity.”

“In the 1980s the idea of sustainable development was new,” Epler Wood recalls. “There was a big conversation about finding ways to benefit local people who wanted to conserve natural areas. A few years later my husband and I lived in Colombia on a joint Fulbright scholarship. [We realized that] people visiting the rainforest were bringing a majority of the benefits those locals were seeing.

READ MORE: Top Ecotourism Destinations According to Experts

ECOTOURISM IN THE ’90s & BEYOND

After she returned home in 1988, Epler Wood went on to produce The Environmental Tourist  for PBS. She started pitching conservation NGOs a documentary on ecotourism that would be “the very first global investigation of how tourism could contribute to conservation of natural resources and local well-being.”

When that project lost its funding, she tapped into her contacts and started The International Ecotourism Society. The organization’s goal was to contribute to the development of ecotourism as a viable tool for conservation, protection of bio-cultural diversity, and sustainable community development.

Epler Wood left TIES in 2002 to start her own consulting firm. She was replaced by Dr. Martha Honey, the veteran journalist/historian who wrote the seminal book, Ecotourism and Sustainable Development: Who Owns Paradise?   in 1999. She was Executive Director of the organization from 2003 to 2006, and eventually founded the Center for Responsible Travel in Washington, DC.

I had the pleasure of interviewing Dr. Honey during a keynote presentation at the TBEX Travel Blogging Conference in Cancun, Mexico in 2014. When I asked about the changes she’s seen in the ecotourism industry over the past 20 years, Dr. Honey insisted that they were positive for the most part.

“It hasn’t lost or changed its core values, which are essentially that tourism should be done in a way that’s beneficial to environmental conservation and local communities and respectful of local cultures…The Slow Food movement, organic agriculture, travel philanthropy, concern about human trafficking and child sexual abuse, fair trade , carbon offsets, and animal welfare are all branches on the original tree.

There have been countless other ecotourism icons over the past 30 years, from Jonathan Tourtellot (NatGeo’s Destination Stewardship Center) and Jeff Greenwald (founder of Ethical Traveler) to eco-design authority Hitesh Meta.

Now ecotourism is considered one of the fastest-growing sectors in the travel industry (about 5% annually), accounting for around 6% of the world’s gross domestic product. Even as the market for traditional tourism grew stagnant, the UNWTO’s global forecast projected rapid growth in the ecotourism industry over the next decade.

READ MORE: Q&A With Dr. Martha Honey on Ecotourism

THE PRINCIPLES OF ECOTOURISM

Ecotourism is essentially all about bringing nature/wildlife conservationists, local communities, and the responsible travel industry together to ensure development focused on long-term sustainability rather than short-term profits.

The goal is to develop tourist accommodations, activities, and attractions that benefit everyone involved– the local flora/fauna, the local people, travel industry stakeholders, and travelers alike.

With this mission in mind, the ecotourism industry has collectively developed a number of core guiding principles over the past few decades. Although international regulation and accreditation have remained elusive, these guidelines provide a general blueprint for responsible tourism development.

Many of these principles align with those of the Global Sustainable Tourism Council , which developed an extensive list of criteria for sustainable destinations, hotels, and tour operators.

1. Build Environmental & Cultural Awareness

Education is a key aspect of ecotourism initiatives, for locals and visitors alike. Most of these efforts are focused on improving awareness, sensitizing people to environmental issues, and encouraging them to be conscious of their impact on the places they visit.

Some tour operators create conservation education programs for local schools. Many offer interpretative guides, naturalists, and guest lecturers to help deepen travelers’ understanding of their experiences.

Immersive interactions with local cultures are also becoming increasingly common. These experiences often emphasize interaction rather than a typical performer-audience relationship with visitors.

2. Design & Operate Low-Impact Eco Tours/Facilities

Remember the old environmental adage, “Take only pictures, leave only footprints”? Today’s ecotourism industry strives to take it one step further.

The focus is all about sustainability, minimizing the negative carbon footprint travel often leaves on the environment. But these days the big picture goal is to create positive, rather than merely neutral impact.

From using alternative energy sources and ensuring all building materials are locally sourced to limiting eco tour group sizes, conscious consideration should be made to ensure low impact at every stage, from development to implementation.

3. Provide Financial Benefits for Conservation

The idea of using the revenue generated by ecotourism to help fund the conservation of nature and wildlife is not a new idea. In fact, it dates back more than 100 years, to the creation of the US National Parks Service .

Referred to by documentarian Ken Burns as “America’s Best Idea,” this concept has since been applied to more than 6,000 national parks in nearly 100 different countries around the world.

When managed properly, ecotourism can help provide a revenue-generating alternative to urbanization, deforestation, unsustainable agriculture, and poaching. And though critics claim ecotourism often fails to deliver on its promise, recent scientific studies continue to illustrate its conservation benefits.

4. Provide Financial Benefits for Local People

Critics have similarly pointed out that some ecotourism initiatives have created more problems for local people than they solve. Poorly managed programs can lead to conflicts over land and resources, unfair profit distribution, and cultural exploitation.

This is what happens when the phenomenon known as greenwashing – the disinformation disseminated by an organization so as to present an environmentally responsible public image– rears its ugly head.

True ecotourism MUST provide financial benefits to local people, whether through direct (tours, admission fees, and donations) or indirect means (such as taxes on travel or accommodation). It generally works best when there is smaller scale, slower growth, and greater involvement by local communities in all steps of the tourism development process.

5. Support Human Rights

Ecotourism initiatives should always strive to support human rights, economic empowerment, and democratic movements in a given destination.

In addition to increasing awareness about sociopolitical and environmental issues facing a given destination, ecotourism initiatives should support local businesses and the rights of indigenous inhabitants to control their land and assets.

This principle is arguably the most problematic and contentious. Should tour companies or travelers boycott a given destination due to human rights abuses or unfair treatment of its indigenous population? In many cases, such boycotts don’t punish the powers-that-be nearly as harshly as the locals who rely heavily on tourism revenue to survive.

READ MORE: Why Responsible Travel Matters

ECOTOURISM PRINCIPLES IN ACTION

Becoming a more responsible traveler is the best way to ensure your adventures are positive for the local people and the planet. 

Whe n the core principles of ecotourism are applied, it can stimulate financial growth in developing nations, strengthening the global economy.

Individually, one person taking these baby steps to going green might not seem to make much of an impact. But if we all take simple strides towards being more conscious of our choices, collectively we can m ake a world of difference. Here’s how!

Lightening up your load saves money on baggage fees and increases plane fuel-efficiency.

Pack items that can be washed in the sink and are quick drying so they can be worn multiple times during your trip.

We recommend (but do not receive compensation from) the ExOfficio brand, and wear it everywhere we travel.

Take shorter showers, turn off the faucet while shaving and brushing your teeth, and re-use towels for multiple days.

And NEVER use the hotel laundry, as they typically wash each guest’s clothes separately, even if there are only a few items.

READ MORE:   The Best Travel Clothing For 7 Travel Styles (An Epic Guide)

SAVE ENERGY

When you leave your hotel room, turn off the lights, heat/AC and TV.

Consider leaving the “Do Not Disturb” sign on the door so that the housekeeping staff won’t clean your room every day.

This will save on harsh chemical cleaning supplies and the electricity of vacuuming and washing bed linens.

REDUCE/REUSE/RECYCLE

Take a BPA-free water bottle you can refill, use just one bar of soap for both sink and shower.

Return brochures and maps once you’re finished using them, and hold on to your trash until you find a place to recycle it.

Seek out indigenous artisans and learn about their craft.

When we were in the Riviera Maya near Coba, we saw tons of assembly line art.

But instead we wound up buying from a man who taught local children and tourists the ancient craft of Mayan pottery and distributed profits equally among families in his village.

READ MORE:   What Is An Eco Lodge? A Guide to Eco-Friendly Accommodations

LEAVE ONLY FOOTPRINTS

Stick to marked trails to avoid harming native flora, and consider taking a bag to pick up trash along your journey.

Not only is it a great way to help keep the outdoors beautiful, but it also protects wildlife that might eat or get tangled in the garbage.

BE A TRAVELER, NOT A TOURIST

Take time to immerse yourself in the local music, art and cuisine. Embrace the cultural differences that make it unique.

Get to know the locals and how they view life. You might be surprised at the things you learn when you open your mind to new ideas!

HONOR LOCAL TRADITIONS

Some cultures have very different traditions from yours.

Women are forbidden to show skin in some Muslim countries. For some, being photographed in like having your soul stolen.

Understand and respect these traditions, or risk offending the people whose culture you’re there to experience.

READ MORE: Embracing the Culture of the Maasai People of Tanzania

Developing nations are badly in need of basic necessities most people take for granted.

Traveling gives you a unique experience that stays with you for the rest of your life.

In return, consider giving something back, such as bringing school supplies on tours in which you know you’ll interact with locals.

SHOP SMARTER

Read labels, and ask questions like “What is this item made from?”

All over the planet people sell items made from non-sustainable hardwoods, endangered species, and ancient artifacts.

It may be alright in their country to sell them, but you can still vote with your wallet by refusing to buy them.

READ MORE: The Problem with Animal Selfies

THE BENEFITS OF ECOTOURISM

To quote CREST founder Dr. Martha Honey during our Keynote session at TBEX Cancun in 2014, we earnestly believe that ecotourism is “ simply a better way to travel . ” Here’s a look at how this transformational approach to travel benefits conservation, increases cross-cultural understanding, and ultimately turns travelers into environmental advocates:

Benefits to Wildlife

To see how ecotourism benefits nature and wildlife, let’s look at endangered species such as African Elephants . Ivory from Elephant tusks is worth $1500 a pound on the black market, which has led to a dramatic increase in poaching.

But  Elephants are worth 76 times more alive than dead . When you consider the revenue from wildlife photography tours , luxury safari camps, and other ecotourism offerings, a single Elephant is worth $1.3 million over the course of its lifetime!

Other heavily poached species, such as Lions and Rhinos , have shown to be similarly valuable alive. Ecotourism offers a long-term alternative to exploitation, generating sustainable revenue and ensuring better overall health of the ecosystem.

Benefits to the Environment

Nature reserves and national parks help prevent deforestation and pollution, while also protecting the habitat of endemic species.

The revenue that ecotourism provides can help replace profits from exploitative practices such as mining or slash ‘n’ burn agriculture. It can also help ensure the long-term financial viability of the area.

Naturalist guides also help travelers understand the value of a pristine ecosystem, and teach them about the importance of conservation. This ultimately help to create a more mindful and conscious legion of travelers.

Benefits to Local People

When managed properly, ecotourism can offer locals alternative revenue streams. In wildlife-rich countries such as Rwanda , former poachers are often employed as guides or trackers, capitalizing on their knowledge of the animals and their habitat.

In Costa Rica , unemployment has fallen to less than 10% since the country started building its ecotourism infrastructure in the 1970s. The country now enjoys the highest standard of living in Central America .

Involving local communities in tourism management empowers them by ensuring that more revenue is reinvested locally. Ecotourism also offers indigenous peoples an opportunity to remain on ancestral land, conserve it, and preserve traditional culture.

Benefits to Travelers

In the words of United Nations Secretary General Talib Rifai, the Year of Sustainable Tourism provided “a unique opportunity to advance the contribution of the tourism sector to the three pillars of sustainability– economic, social and environmental– while raising awareness of the true dimensions of a sector which is often undervalued.”

Sure, being a responsible traveler takes a greater level of commitment to being conscious and mindful of the impact we have on the destinations we visit. But ecotourism also offers us incredible, transformative experiences, allowing us to develop closer personal relationships to the nature, wildlife, and local people we encounter during our adventures.

Learning about ecotourism during my life-changing experience in South Africa   in 2000 permanently changed my understanding of mankind’s role in our planetary ecosystem. And I firmly believe that, once you’ve had that sort of travel experience, you’ll never want to travel the traditional way again.   –Bret Love; photos by Bret Love & Mary Gabbett unless otherwise noted

OTHER ARTICLES ON ECOTOURISM

How Mass Tourism is Destroying Destinations Travelers Love

Why Responsible Tourism is Better

7 Harmful Practices Tourists Should Never Support

Why Slow Travel is Better

Why Community Based Tourism is Vital to Responsible Travel

What Is An Eco Lodge? A Guide to Eco-Friendly Accommodations

What Is Glamping? An Intro to Luxury Camping

10 Steps to Becoming a More Responsible Traveler

Green Travel Tips: The Ultimate Guide to Sustainable Travel

How to Choose a Green Hotel

How to Choose a Responsible Scuba Diving Tour Operator

How to Eat Ethically When You Travel

Top 10 Latin American Ecotourism Adventures

Top 10 Off the Beaten Path Ecotourism Destinations

Ecotourism in Costa Rica

Ecotourism in Jordan

Ecotourism in Antarctica

Ecotourism in Australia

Ecotourism in Cancun

Ecotourism in Egypt

Ecotourism in Ireland

Ecotourism in Jamaica

Ecotourism in New Zealand

Ecotourism in Northern Italy

Ecotourism in Sabah, Borneo

Ecotourism in Spain

Ecotourism in Taipei

Ecotourism in Tonga

About the Author

Green Global Travel is the world's #1 independently owned ecotourism website encouraging others to embrace sustainable travel, wildlife conservation, cultural preservation, and going green tips for more sustainable living.

We've been spotlighted in major media outlets such as the BBC, Chicago Tribune, Forbes, The Guardian, Lonely Planet, National Geographic, Travel Channel, Washington Post and others.

Owned by Bret Love (a veteran journalist/photographer) and Mary Gabbett (business manager/videographer), USA Today named us one of the world's Top 5 Travel Blogging Couples. We were also featured in the 2017 National Geographic book, Ultimate Journeys for Two, for which we contributed a chapter on our adventures in Rwanda. Other awards we've won include Best Feature from both the Caribbean Tourism Organization and the Magazine Association of the Southeast.

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Ecotourism: Definition, Meaning And Examples

• Publié le 28 April 2020
• Mis à jour le 25 March 2024

What is the definition and meaning of ecotourism? In what ways can ecotourism hurt the environment? Why has ecotourism been growing and how is it different from mass tourism and staycation? Let’s take a closer look at these questions.

Ecotourism Official Definition

According to The International Ecotourism Society (TIES) , ecotourism can be defined as “responsible travel to natural areas that conserve the environment, sustains the well-being of the local people, and involves interpretation and education”. Such traveling can be created thanks to an international network of individuals, institutions, and the tourism industry where tourists and tourism professionals are educated on ecological issues.

At the same time, the Australian National Ecotourism defines ecotourism as “ecologically sustainable tourism with a primary focus on experiencing natural areas that fosters environmental and cultural understanding, appreciation and conservation.”

• Related: Traveling Today And Tomorrow: Cities And Countries With More Travelers

Ecotourism: The Principles Behind It

TIES highlights some principles associated with what ecotourism stands for: more than minimizing physical, social, behavioral, and psychological impacts, ecotourism is also about building a culture of environmental respect and protection while providing positive experiences to visitors and hosts. On the host’s side, an ecotourism mindset is one generating value for local people and the industry, and they should help deliver remarkable experiences to visitors while raising their sensitivity to local environmental, political or social issues.

The Benefits and Reasons Why Ecotourism Has Been Growing

Among the reasons that help understand why ecotourism has been growing are:

• It is easier to access remote ecotourism destination nowadays thanks to cheap flights and accessible infrastructures;
• Many people are not happy or feel fulfilled with traditional tourism destinations and activities – so there’s a greater interest in challenging and more educative tourism;
• There is a greater awareness about the need to protect the environment and desire to contribute towards this cause;
• Travelers wish to be perceived as different and eco-friendly;
• Ecotourism may help protect sensitive environment locations and raise awareness on local environmental and social delicate issues;
• It may also generate income opportunities for local people

Why Join the Ecotourism Movement

Joining the ecotourism cause is a way of guaranteeing the tourism industry will continue prospering and providing social and economic benefits to destinations and communities throughout the globe. Ecotourism provides the opportunity for immersion into the natural world in an enjoyable and effective manner, resulting in greater compassion and better stewardship of the world’s remaining natural wonders.

The Environmental Dimension of Ecotourism: It Can Also Harm The Environment

Despite the goal of protecting the environment, ecotourism can, even if unintentionally, create environmental harm because :

• Ecotourists often go to (already very) environmentally fragile areas that risk collapse or getting eroded;
• Disturbance of wildlife, the removal of vegetation (for plant collection, for instance) and garbage generation increases due to visitors are also likely consequences of ecotourism;
• Some visits are done in sensitive periods like during breeding or hatching periods;
• There are hidden impacts such as the consumption of fuel for air or road travel;
• There’s the risk of ecotourism turning into mass tourism with a huge impact at different levels besides environmental.
• Off-site impacts such as clearing lands to build infrastructures (roads, hotels) are also relevant;

Ecotourism vs. Conventional (Mass) Tourism: What’s the Difference?

• There is a greater chance of eco-tourists traveling to nature-surrounded sites compared to mass tourists looking for plenty of distractions, cultural sites, and the busy life of large cities;
• Ecotourism usually means travelers make their own travel arrangements, while mass tourism relies on a greater number of travel agents and tour operators;
• With mass tourism, the expectations are that there are many different services involved, while in ecotourism site there are only a few if any, services involved;
• Ecotourism activities are usually nature-related (such as hiking and exploring trails, birdwatching or reef diving) and, therefore, tend to be more physically demanding whereas typical tourism is more comfortable and less physical;
• Small groups and long-term stays are also common in ecotourism travelers, while mass tourism often relies on large groups staying for short time periods;

Ecotourism and Staycation

Just like ecotourism, “ staycation ” is also a term representing an idea with a reduced ecological impact. Staycation, i.e., vacations spent at home or near home rather than traveling to distant places, have the potential to cause less environmental harm as less fuel (or no fuel at all if we consider electric vehicles) is spent. It also means more money spent at a local or national level and this consumption helps strengthen the economy, supports existing or new jobs and increases local resilience .

• Related: What Is Staycation, The Latest Trend In Sustainable Tourism

[Photo by Marieke Weller on Unsplash ]

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Ecotourism, What is it and what are its 10 benefits

• Published: February 7, 2023
• Last Updated: December 26, 2023

Welcome to our exploration of ecotourism, an incredible form of travel that combines adventure, exploration, and environmental responsibility. Ecotourism, also known as nature-based or conservation-focused travel, is all about enjoying our natural surroundings while ensuring we leave a minimal footprint. It involves visiting amazing locations to support, conserve, and observe flora and fauna in their natural habitats. It has often been defined as “responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment and improves the well-being of local people” ( source ).

Many of the conservation ideals of ecotourism are similar to the Leave No Trace philosophy that we have already covered. This method of mixing tourism and conservation isn’t perfect but it is proven to be very effective at allowing people to experience nature while giving back at the same time.

The Ethical Traveler: 100 Ways to Roam the World (Without Ruining It!) Travel can be a blast, but there are hidden costs to your trips that go deeper than your pockets. From potential impacts on the environment or the communities we visit to respecting others’ cultures, taking a moment to consider our choices can make a real impact on the planet and other people.

Key Takeaways

• Ecotourism focuses on minimizing harm to the natural environment.
• It involves visiting exotic and extreme locations to support, conserve, and observe flora and fauna.
• Ecotourism offers sustainable development, boosts local economies, and preserves native cultures and vulnerable species.
• Conservation, community involvement, and education are the core principles of ecotourism.
• Choosing sustainable destinations is crucial for responsible and eco-friendly travel.

7 Principles of Ecotourism

The seven principles of ecotourism were given by Martha Honey in the 1999 book Ecotourism and Sustainable Development .

• Ecotourism should involve travel to natural destinations
• It should minimize impacts on the environment
• Ecotourism should be built on environmental awareness
• Ecotourism should provide direct financial benefits for conservation efforts
• Ecotourism should respect local culture
• It should provide support for human rights and democratic movements
• It should provide direct financial benefits for the local people

The 10 Benefits of Ecotourism

When it comes to ecotourism, the benefits are far-reaching and impactful. By choosing to engage in this form of travel, we can contribute to the preservation of biodiversity, empower local communities, foster cultural exchange, promote environmental education, support conservation efforts, mitigate negative impacts, and experience personal enrichment along the way.

• Promotes Conservation - Ecotourism provides an economic incentive for the preservation of natural resources. By generating income from tourists visiting protected areas, local communities are more likely to value and protect these areas. In turn, this helps to conserve the environment and protect wildlife.
• Supports Local Economies - Ecotourism can provide significant benefits to local economies by generating income through tourism. This income can be used to improve infrastructure and provide employment opportunities, which can lead to a better quality of life for local communities.
• Offers Unique Experiences - Ecotourism provides the opportunity for tourists to experience nature and wildlife in a way that is not possible through traditional forms of tourism. From trekking through tropical forests to observing wildlife in their natural habitats, ecotourism offers a truly unique and unforgettable experience.
• Raises Awareness - Ecotourism helps to raise awareness about environmental issues and the importance of conservation. By visiting protected areas and learning about the environment, tourists become more informed and invested in the conservation of these areas.
• Promotes Sustainable Development - Ecotourism can promote sustainable development by generating income that is reinvested into the local community. This can help to create a self-sustaining cycle of economic growth and conservation, which benefits both the environment and local communities.
• Offers Alternative Livelihoods - In areas where traditional industries, such as logging or mining, are damaging to the environment, ecotourism can provide alternative livelihoods for local communities. By generating income from ecotourism, these communities can shift away from damaging industries and towards more sustainable forms of economic development.
• Improves Livelihoods - Ecotourism can improve the livelihoods of local communities by generating income and providing employment opportunities. This can help to reduce poverty and improve the standard of living for people living in these areas.
• Enhances Cultural Understanding - Ecotourism can enhance cultural understanding by providing opportunities for tourists to interact with local communities and learn about their culture and traditions. This can help to promote cross-cultural understanding and respect, which can have a positive impact on local communities and the environment.
• Minimizes Environmental Impact - Ecotourism is designed to minimize the environmental impact of tourism. By promoting sustainable practices, such as responsible waste management and low-impact transportation, ecotourism helps to protect the environment and conserve natural resources.
• Generates Income for Conservation - Ecotourism generates income that can be used to support conservation efforts. This income can be used to fund research, protect wildlife, and maintain protected areas, which helps to ensure that these areas remain intact for future generations to enjoy.

Ten Commandments of Ecotourism

According to the American Society of Travel Agents (ASTA) there are 10 commandments of ecotourism. These commandments echo the philosophy and dedication to sustainable and respectful travel as the 7 Principles of Ecotourism. We felt it’s important to include both because there are subtle differences. You can learn more at The Sustainable Tourism Gateway .

• Respect the frailty of the earth. Realize that unless all are willing to help in its preservation, unique and beautiful destinations may not be here for future generations to enjoy.
• Leave only footprints. Take only photographs. No graffiti! No litter! Do not take away souvenirs from historical sites and natural areas.
• To make your travels more meaningful, educate yourself about the geography, customs, manners and cultures of the region you visit. Take time to listen to the people. Encourage local conservation efforts.
• Respect the privacy and dignity of others. Inquire before photographing people.
• Do not buy products made from endangered plants or animals, such as ivory, tortoise shell, animal skins, and feathers.
• Always follow designated trails. Do not disturb animals, plants or their natural habitats.
• Learn about and support conservation-oriented programs and organizations working to preserve the environment.
• Whenever possible, walk or use environmentally-sound methods of transportation. Encourage drivers of public vehicles to stop engines when parked.
• Patronize those (hotels, airlines, resorts, cruise lines, tour operators and suppliers) who advance energy and environmental conservation; water and air quality; recycling; safe management of waste and toxic materials; noise abatement, community involvement; and which provide experienced, well-trained staff dedicated to strong principles of conservation.
• Encourage organizations to subscribe to environmental guidelines. ASTA urges organizations to adopt their own environmental codes to cover special sties and ecosystems.

The Essence of EcoTourism

When it comes to ecotourism, there are three key principles that define its essence: conservation, community involvement, and education. At the heart of ecotourism is a deep commitment to preserving the natural environment, ensuring that the places we visit remain untouched by human presence. This means treading lightly, minimizing our impact, and leaving no trace behind.

But ecotourism goes beyond conservation. It also recognizes the importance of community involvement. By engaging with local communities, we can support their livelihoods and empower them to take an active role in preserving their environment. This can be through community-based tourism initiatives, where locals become partners in sustainable development, or by supporting local businesses and artisans.

Education is another essential aspect of ecotourism. By promoting understanding and appreciation of unique ecosystems, we can cultivate a sense of responsibility towards the environment. Ecotourism offers opportunities for travelers to learn about the flora, fauna, and cultural heritage of a destination, fostering a deeper connection with the natural world and the people who call it home.

“The greatest threat to our planet is the belief that someone else will save it.” - Robert Swan

Conservation

Conservation is at the core of ecotourism. It involves protecting and preserving fragile ecosystems, endangered species, and the overall biodiversity of a region. By practicing responsible travel behaviors, such as sticking to designated trails and respecting wildlife and their habitats, we can ensure that these natural wonders remain intact for future generations to enjoy.

Community Involvement

Empowering local communities is crucial in the realm of ecotourism. By supporting local businesses and initiatives, we contribute to the sustainable development of the communities we visit. This involvement not only helps to preserve cultural traditions but also ensures that the economic benefits of tourism reach those who need it the most.

Ecotourism provides a platform for environmental education. It offers opportunities to learn about the significance of conservation, the interconnectedness of ecosystems, and the importance of sustainable practices. Through these educational experiences, we can cultivate a sense of responsibility and inspire others to protect and cherish our natural world.

What makes ecotourism unique?

Ecotourism is unique in several key ways. Firstly, it’s all about education and awareness. Ecotourists are typically more conscious and knowledgeable about the environment and wildlife they are visiting, and they seek out opportunities to learn more about these things. They want to understand the intricacies of the ecosystems they’re visiting, and how they can help to protect them.

Secondly, ecotourism is focused on sustainability. This means that the experiences offered to visitors are designed to be environmentally friendly and sustainable, with minimal impact on the environment. For example, an ecotourism operator may use renewable energy sources, like wind and solar power, to power their facilities, and may also recycle and compost waste to reduce the amount of waste that ends up in landfills.

Finally, ecotourism is about supporting local communities. This means that ecotourism operators work with local communities to create sustainable jobs and conserve the environment. They may provide training and education programs for local residents, and may also purchase goods and services from local suppliers. This helps to build a strong, resilient, and sustainable local economy.

Why is ecotourism important?

Ecotourism helps to protect the planet’s ecosystems and wildlife, by minimizing the impact of tourism on the environment. It also supports local communities, by providing sustainable jobs and supporting local economies. This helps to create a more resilient and sustainable future for both the planet and its inhabitants.

Secondly, ecotourism provides an opportunity for travelers to connect with the natural world in a meaningful and enriching way. It allows them to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse themselves in the beauty and wonder of the planet’s ecosystems and wildlife. This connection with nature can be truly transformative, helping travelers to gain a deeper appreciation for the planet and its inhabitants, and to feel inspired to take action to protect it.

Finally, ecotourism provides a way for travelers to support sustainable and responsible tourism practices. By choosing to participate in ecotourism, travelers can help to ensure that future generations will have the opportunity to experience the planet’s ecosystems and wildlife, just as they have.

Ecotourism Documentry

We only recently watched Green Paradise and we really enjoyed it. They go into a lot of detail about some of the most amazing places on earth, and the people who live there. I can’t recommend it enough, in fact I might write a review on the series soon. I recommend checking it out, if you have Amazon Prime you can stream it for free.

Green Paradise Documentry. 10 Episodes. Explore the Earth and the most beautiful natural paradises in the world. These stunning locales are preserved thanks to the dedication of local populations. Meet the inhabitants of these lands who have developed small businesses to welcome visitors in their environment, and helped create a new form of travel: sustainable tourism.

History of Ecotourism

Ecotourism can be traced back to a group of passionate environmentalists and travel enthusiasts who dreamt of a world where the act of traveling could coexist with the preservation of natural habitats and the welfare of local communities. They believed that travel could be a powerful tool for conservation and sustainable development and that by educating travelers about the fragility of the earth’s ecosystems, they could inspire them to become more conscious and responsible tourists.

As the demand for more sustainable travel options grew, so did the popularity of ecotourism. In the late 1980s and early 1990s, several organizations and governments, including the International Ecotourism Society (TIES) , established ecotourism as a recognized travel category, and defined it as “responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment and improves the well-being of local people.”

Today, ecotourism is a thriving industry, encompassing everything from camping in the wilderness to staying in eco-lodges, from trekking through pristine rainforests to observing wildlife in their natural habitats. It’s a complex and dynamic industry, but at its core, ecotourism remains true to its original mission of promoting sustainable travel and conservation.

The Future of Ecotourism

We are no experts but as the world becomes more conscious of the need for sustainable travel, the future of ecotourism looks promising. With a growing focus on responsible practices and advancements in technology, tourism and travel are evolving to meet the demands of environmentally conscious travelers.

Sustainable Travel Trends

One of the key trends in ecotourism is the emphasis on sustainable travel. Travelers are increasingly seeking destinations that prioritize conservation, biodiversity preservation, and community engagement. They are looking for experiences that not only allow them to connect with nature but also contribute positively to the environment and local communities. From eco-lodges powered by renewable energy to wildlife conservation projects, sustainable travel practices are becoming the norm.

Technological Advancements

Technology is playing a crucial role in the future of ecotourism. Innovations such as smart tourism solutions, sustainable transportation options, and renewable energy sources are being implemented to reduce the industry’s carbon footprint. Additionally, advancements in communication technology are making it easier for travelers to access information about sustainable practices and make informed choices when planning their trips.

The Road Ahead

We think that with dedicated efforts from travelers, destinations, and industry stakeholders, the future of ecotourism holds great promise. By continuing to prioritize sustainability, engage local communities, and embrace technological advancements, together we can ensure that future generations have the opportunity to explore and appreciate the wonders of our planet. The journey towards sustainable travel is an ongoing one, and we all have a role to play in shaping the future of ecotourism. As fellow travelers we hope that you embrace this cause with us and help to encourage sustainable ecotourism as you explore the world.

Q: What is ecotourism?

A: Ecotourism is a form of travel that focuses on minimizing harm to the natural environment. It involves visiting areas with exotic and extreme conditions to support, conserve, and observe flora and fauna.

Q: What are the principles of ecotourism?

A: The principles of ecotourism are conservation, community involvement, and education. Ecotourism aims to ensure the places visited remain untouched by human presence, support local communities, and promote understanding and appreciation of unique ecosystems.

Q: What are some benefits of ecotourism?

A: Ecotourism offers numerous benefits, including sustainable development, boosting the local economy, and preserving native cultures and vulnerable species.

Q: How can I choose sustainable destinations for ecotourism?

A: Factors to consider when choosing sustainable destinations include the preservation of biodiversity, community engagement, eco-friendly practices, certifications and accreditations, community benefits, and the empowerment of local economies.

Q: Can you provide examples of eco-friendly destinations?

A: Some examples of eco-friendly destinations include Costa Rica, Norway, Bhutan, New Zealand, and Switzerland.

Q: What are some responsible travel practices for eco-tourism?

A: Responsible travel practices include packing light and smart, respecting wildlife and their habitats, sticking to designated trails, reducing energy consumption, and supporting local economies by purchasing goods and services from local businesses and artisans.

Q: Are there impactful projects and conservation initiatives related to ecotourism?

A: Yes, many eco-tourism destinations have impactful projects and conservation initiatives aimed at preserving the environment and promoting sustainable tourism.

Q: What is the future of eco-tourism?

A: The future of eco-tourism looks promising, with a growing focus on sustainable travel practices and advancements in technology.

Q: Where can I find additional resources on ecotourism?

A: For further information and resources on ecotourism, travelers can explore additional guides and sustainable travel tips that provide insights and recommendations on how to make the most of their eco-friendly journeys.

Q: How can I practice respect for the Earth during ecotourism?

A: It is important to practice responsible behavior during ecotourism, including leaving no trace, learning about local customs and cultures, seeking permission before photographing people, avoiding products made from endangered species, and supporting conservation programs and organizations.

Before You Go …

Thanks for reading, we hope you learned something. Before you go we would like to recommend checking out our articles on slow travel and our eco-friendly travel tips . If you have any questions or comments please contact us on our social media. Safe Travels!

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An Introduction to Ecotourism

An Overview of Ecotourism

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Ecotourism is broadly defined as low impact travel to endangered and often undisturbed locations. It is different from traditional tourism because it allows the traveler to become educated about the areas — both in terms of the physical landscape and cultural characteristics, and often provides funds for conservation and benefits the economic development of places that are frequently impoverished.

When Did Ecotourism Start?

Ecotourism and other forms of sustainable travel have their origins with the environmental movement of the 1970s. Ecotourism itself did not become prevalent as a travel concept until the late 1980s. During that time, increasing environmental awareness and a desire to travel to natural locations as opposed to built up tourist locations made ecotourism desirable.

Since then, several different organizations specializing in ecotourism have developed and many different people have become experts on it. Martha D. Honey, PhD , a co-founder of the Center for Responsible Tourism, for example, is just one of many ecotourism experts.

Principles of Ecotourism

Due to the growing popularity of environmentally-related and adventure travel, various types of trips are now being classified as ecotourism. Most of these are not truly ecotourism, however, because they do not emphasize conservation, education, low impact travel, and social and cultural participation in the locations being visited.

Therefore, to be considered ecotourism, a trip must meet the following principles set forth by the International Ecotourism Society :

• Minimize the impact of visiting the location (i.e.- the use of roads)
• Build respect and awareness for the environment and cultural practices
• Ensure that the tourism provides positive experiences for both the visitors and the hosts
• Provide direct financial aid for conservation
• Provide financial aid, empowerment and other benefits for local peoples
• Raise the traveler's awareness of the host country's political, environmental and social climate

Examples of Ecotourism

Opportunities for ecotourism exist in many different locations worldwide and its activities can vary as widely.

Madagascar, for instance, is famous for its ecotourist activity as it is a biodiversity hotspot, but also has a high priority for environmental conservation and is committed to reducing poverty. Conservation International says that 80% of the country's animals and 90% of its plants are endemic only to the island. Madagascar's lemurs are just one of many species that people visit the island to see.

Because the island's government is committed to conservation, ecotourism is allowed in small numbers because education and funds from the travel will make it easier in the future. In addition, this tourist revenue also aids in reducing the country's poverty.

Another place where ecotourism is popular is in Indonesia at Komodo National Park . The park is made up of 233 square miles (603 sq km) of land that is spread out over several islands and 469 square miles (1,214 sq km) of water. The area was established as a national park in 1980 and is popular for ecotourism because of its unique and endangered biodiversity. Activities at Komodo National Park vary from whale watching to hiking and accommodations strive to have a low impact on the natural environment.

Finally, ecotourism is also popular in Central and South America. Destinations include Bolivia, Brazil, Ecuador, Venezuela, Guatemala, and Panama. These destinations are just a few where ecotourism is popular but opportunities exist in hundreds of more places worldwide.

Criticisms of Ecotourism

Despite the popularity of ecotourism in the above-mentioned examples, there are several criticisms of ecotourism as well. The first of these is that there is no one definition of the term so it is difficult to know which trips are truly considered ecotourism.

In addition, the terms "nature," "low impact," "bio," and "green" tourism are often interchanged with "ecotourism," and these do not usually meet the principles defined by organizations like the Nature Conservancy or the International Ecotourism Society.

Critics of ecotourism also cite that increased tourism to sensitive areas or ecosystems without proper planning and management can actually harm the ecosystem and its species because the infrastructure needed to sustain tourism such as roads can contribute to environmental degradation.

Ecotourism is also said by critics to have a negative impact on local communities because the arrival of foreign visitors and wealth can shift political and economic conditions and sometimes make the area dependent on tourism as opposed to the domestic economic practices.

Regardless of these criticisms though, ecotourism and tourism, in general, are increasing in popularity all over the globe and tourism plays a large role in many worldwide economies.

Pick a Travel Company That Specializes

In order to keep this tourism as sustainable as possible, however, it is essential that travelers understand what principles make a trip fall into the category of ecotourism and attempt to use travel companies that have been distinguished for their work in ecotourism — one of which is Intrepid Travel, a small company that offers worldwide eco-conscious trips and has won a number of awards for their efforts.

International tourism will no doubt continue to increase in the coming years and as the Earth's resources become more limited and ecosystems suffer more damage, the practices shown by Intrepid and others associated with ecotourism can make future travel a little more sustainable.

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What is ecotourism? A guide on how to travel sustainably.

Immerse yourself in nature — with respect for the environment and the culture that supports it.

by Julieta Cardenas

If you love nature, you may have tried to plan a vacation where you get to be immersed in it. Maybe you’ve explored a coral reef or visited an elephant sanctuary, or you dream of doing so one day. These activities can fall under the umbrella of ecotourism — a kind of nature-based travel that aims to protect and empower the environment, animals, and local communities — when planning vacations.

Tourism is one of the fastest-growing industries in the world, accounting for 22 million new jobs last year , with a large part of that growth stemming from a post-lockdown itch for travel . As people return to packing as much stuff as humanly possible into a carry-on, ecotourism, too, will likely skyrocket to a market value of $299 billion by 2026 . In the last 10 years, travelers have become more environmentally conscious and socially responsible , looking for travel experiences that reflect their morals.

Still, the question for many well-meaning tourists remains: Is ethical ecotourism even possible?

There are a few things that complicate ecotourism’s narrative, like the carbon emissions produced by flights , or the challenges of ensuring that a significant degree of profits actually do go to local communities, protecting wildlife, and cultural heritage. Nature-based travel, too, can risk losing the plot, from sanctuaries that operate like petting zoos to the development of tropical coasts into even the most nature-forward resorts.

“It really boils down to an attitude, and an ethic about how we approach the natural world,” says David Fennell , a geography and tourism studies professor at Brock University in Ontario, Canada, and editor-in-chief of the Journal of Ecotourism . “Just by virtue of going to a national park doesn’t mean you’re an ecotourist, you have to have that attitude. And you have to tap into that ethic about what is important [to] not just yourself as a tourist, but about conservation and animal welfare.”

As a tourist, choosing where to go is an important decision, one that can help or hurt the environment and communities where you are visiting. There are some situations that are too good to be truly as effective as they claim, and accreditations, though helpful, may not tell the whole story. Understandably, trying to figure out what’s best for the environment, for communities, and for yourself can be overwhelming. It may be that ecotourism is a state of mind rather than a destination. Here are some ways to think about your next adventure to ensure your ethics align.

What actually is ecotourism?

An alternative to mass tourism — or when thousands of people visit a destination day in and day out ( think the resort-ification of Ibiza , in which people partied so hard that legislation was passed in 2022 to change the destination’s wasteful image) — ecotourism is meant to get you off the beaten trail and into a mindset of reciprocity with the site you are visiting.

As with many sustainability-oriented services, ecotourism got its start in the ’70s. It officially became a dictionary entry in 1982 , where it is defined as supporting conservation efforts, especially in often threatened natural environments. Since then though, the definition and intent have evolved to include bolstering local communities.

In the literature on ecotourism, travel can be distinguished into “hard paths” and “soft paths,” based on how many aspects of your trip follow the ethical north star of ecotourism and how demanding the trip will be of you. For example, if your trip features a strong environmental commitment and will be physically active, you’re likely on the hard path of ecotourism. If your trip is aimed at physical comfort with only a moderate nod to environmental commitment, you may be on a soft path. But taking it as an ethos means you can be an ecotourist anywhere, especially locally.

You might be wondering if a hike on a busy trail or swimming with manatees is ecotourism. Although both of those examples are nature-based tourism as they interface with the natural world, they’re not necessarily ecotourism, since both of these activities can put these destinations at risk if done in excess. Hiking a spot to death or droves of tourists putting Florida’s manatees at risk put pressure on the ecology of those places. In the 1980s, mass tourism began to wreck some of the world’s most sensitive ecosystems, such as the Riviera Maya in Mexico, where near-constant development has led to local forests being cleared .

Wildlife tourism runs the gamut from cruel breeding and hunting of lions to we-really-shouldn’t-have-cetaceans-in-captivity dolphin shows to cool , ethical birdwatching. Ecotourism including wildlife can be ethical as long as the animals you are engaging with are not manipulated or not free to disengage in interaction with tourists. “Anytime you have an animal that’s held in a captive environment, that you’re manipulating, the animal is not free to disengage that interaction, based on its own will,” says Fennell.

If you’re interested in going on adventures that are a little more sport-oriented, such as kayaking or diving, then this might be also considered nature-based tourism, since activities like climbing, sailing, camping, and snorkeling are less directly connected to ecological benefits. An example of nature tourism would be surfing lessons off Australia’s Coffs coast : You’re in nature having fun, but vibes are about all you’re contributing to the scene.

Ecotourism also has an educational component: You’re meant to learn about nature, culture, and threats to the area you’re in. Paul Rosolie — founder and Wildlife Director of Junglekeepers , a program that uses donations and tourist money to buy tracts of the Amazon along the Las Piedras River, in the Madre de Dios region of Peru — highlighted how ecotourism has brought people to the front lines of conservation.

“This is the edge of human presence on this planet,” Rosolie said via voice memo deep in the Amazon. “The battle is playing out between the progress of roads and development and the last places where there are untouched ecosystems, Indigenous communities, communities of species yet to be discovered. You get to see incredibly pristine, pure wilderness where a few people have managed to make a living.”

Ecotourism should encourage ethical considerations, like respect for the environment and host communities. For example, ecotourism aims to be biocentric , meaning that the interest of the living beings you are hoping to protect is prioritized over your own drive for pleasure. There is also the risk of too much tourism causing gentrification and raising prices for locals — see what’s currently happening in Mexico City , or consider the (fictional, but still germane) plot of HBO’s The White Lotus . Ecotourism aims to reverse the exploitative relationships between tourists and locals.

Lastly, ecotourism should strive for sustainability. In the case of Junglekeepers , which offers base station visits and ranger-accompanied hikes to tourists, this means extending employment to former loggers in their ranger program. The Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, where there are six ecolodges for tourists to book, has anti-poaching teams who work with the Kenya Wildlife Service to stop illegal poaching for ivory, bushmeat, and logging.

The tricky questions around ecotourism

Just because ecotourism might have a broader application these days, it doesn’t necessarily mean all travel qualifies, especially since there are slews of companies and organizations attempting to make a quick buck off a catchy buzzword. Unfortunately, it’s hard to sift the wheat from the chaff. As ecotourism as a concept grows more and more popular, some experiences and excursions may not necessarily meet the intentions lined up above.

Tourism can be rife with greenwashing : vague and unsupported claims, and exaggerations about how much good a given entity is doing, like hotels highlighting their donations to ecological causes, but underpaying their staff . Some excursions put Indigenous peoples in precarious situations , and some force animals to perform or be ridden or petted in a forced and unnatural manner .

Milo Putnam — founder of Laro Ethical Wildlife Travels , a service that helps people plan eco-travel — warns, “Don’t be tricked by misused greenwashing buzzwords like ‘rescue,’ ‘sanctuary,’ or ‘eco-park.’ Companies know that tourists like these terms, which to these companies can mean more profits, even if it isn’t true. These terms are meaningless if not backed by actual ethical practices. Instead, look further to see if they are certified or accredited by a trusted organization.” (More on this below.)

Additionally, Fennell believes the most ethical ecotourists — the traveler and any organizations involved — should keep animals off the menu. Ecotourism’s biocentric approach should lead us to widen our moral consideration of animals and to care not only for charismatic megafauna like lions and elephants, but also for all creatures that make ecosystems function. “The global food system — mainly animal agriculture — is the primary driver of biodiversity loss ,” Putnam added. “Choosing a more plant-based diet has a positive impact on wildlife around the world.”

How to choose where to go

Certifications may give a clue to how well a given destination is achieving ecotourism goals, but they may not always exist.

Putnam has compiled a tip list for planning animal-based adventures and points to the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries as a resource. The federation checks in to ensure that no captive breeding is taking place, that tourists do not have direct contact with wildlife, and that animals have appropriate housing and veterinary care.

There is no universal ecotourism certification, but the Global Sustainable Tourism Council has compiled a list of certifications around the world that emphasize the four “C’s”: conservation, community, culture, and commerce. These certifications are a good place to start and they cover Asia, Europe, Africa, North and South America, and Australia.

The land down under is at the top when it comes to vetting their tourism options.Australia’s ecotourism industry has some of the most sophisticated certifications including nature tourism, ecotourism, and advanced ecotourism . In this certification system, outback safari glamping in Karijini National Park counts as ecotourism, because it supports Indigenous peoples as it is owned and operated by the Gumala Aboriginal Corporation , which represents the interests of the Banjima, Yinhawangka, and Nyiyaparli peoples in Western Australia.

Everyone I spoke to underscored the importance of selecting an ethical destination for travel because the money you spend as a tourist can have a positive impact rather than an ambiguous impact or even detrimental effect on the places you’re visiting. As Rosolie puts it, “Finding the right place to go as a traveler is a very powerful decision to people who are devoting their whole lives to protecting a place.”

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Ecotourism and Protected areas

According to the UN Tourism's definition, ecotourism refers to forms of tourism which have the following characteristics:

• All nature-based forms of tourism in which the main motivation of the tourists is the observation and appreciation of nature as well as the traditional cultures prevailing in natural areas.
• It contains educational and interpretation features.
• It is generally, but not exclusively organised by specialised tour operators for small groups. Service provider partners at the destinations tend to be small, locally owned businesses.
• It minimises negative impacts upon the natural and socio-cultural environment.
• Generating economic benefits for host communities, organisations and authorities managing natural areas with conservation purposes;
• Providing alternative employment and income opportunities for local communities;
• Increasing awareness towards the conservation of natural and cultural assets, both among locals and tourists.

Source: The British Ecotourism Market, UNWTO 2002

UN Tourism has been involved in the field of ecotourism since the early 1990s and developed a set of guidelines focusing on the strong link between protected area and tourism, with the aim of ensuring that tourism contributes to the purposes of protected areas and does not undermine them.

In the framework of the UN-declared International Year of Ecotourism (IYE) 2002, UN Tourism undertook a wide range of activities, including the organization of regional conferences and the World Ecotourism Summit , and published guidelines and methodologies for ecotourism development and market studies, as well as supported regional and national activities.

At the request of the United Nations General Assembly, the UN Tourism prepared a report on the activities undertaken by States and major international organizations in the framework of the International Year of Ecotourism . Also UN Tourism prepared a series of market reports to increase the knowledge of seven important countries considered “Ecotourism generating markets”.

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What Is Ecotourism And How Does It Differ From Traditional Tourism?

Published: November 14, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Gladi Hayward

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Introduction

Welcome to the world of ecotourism, a unique approach to travel that combines adventure, education, and environmental conservation. In today’s rapidly changing world, where the need to protect our planet has never been more urgent, ecotourism has risen as a sustainable alternative to traditional tourism. It offers a way for travelers to explore natural and cultural wonders while minimizing their impact on the environment.

So, what exactly is ecotourism and how does it differ from traditional tourism? In this article, we will delve into the definition and key differences between these two forms of travel, exploring their environmental, economic, and cultural implications. We will also explore the benefits of ecotourism and the challenges it faces.

Ecotourism can be defined as responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment, sustains the well-being of local communities, and involves interpretation and education. Unlike traditional tourism, which often focuses solely on recreational and leisure activities, ecotourism places a strong emphasis on environmental conservation and community engagement.

Traditional tourism, on the other hand, is typically driven by mass consumption and commercialization. It often relies on large-scale infrastructure development, excessive resource consumption, and the exploitation of local communities and ecosystems.

The key differences between ecotourism and traditional tourism lie in their approach and impact. Ecotourism aims to minimize negative environmental, economic, and cultural impacts, while maximizing positive benefits for local communities and ecosystems.

Throughout this article, we will explore the various aspects of ecotourism and traditional tourism, highlighting the ways in which they differ and the impacts they have on the environment, economy, and local cultures. By gaining a clearer understanding of these distinctions, we can make more informed choices as travelers and support the growth of sustainable tourism practices.

Definition of Ecotourism

Ecotourism is a form of tourism that focuses on responsible travel to natural areas, with the primary goal of conserving the environment, supporting local communities, and promoting education and sustainable practices. It combines adventure, exploration, and learning, giving travelers the opportunity to connect with and appreciate the beauty and diversity of the natural world.

At its core, ecotourism seeks to minimize the negative impacts of tourism on the environment, while enhancing the well-being of local communities and fostering cultural understanding. It encourages travelers to be mindful of their actions and choices, promoting sustainable practices and conservation efforts.

One of the fundamental principles of ecotourism is the concept of sustainability. This means taking into account the long-term ecological, social, and economic consequences of travel activities. Sustainable ecotourism strives to maintain the integrity of natural ecosystems, preserve biodiversity, and protect the cultural heritage of local communities.

In order to be considered true ecotourism, certain criteria must be met. These criteria include:

• Providing unique and immersive experiences that focus on the natural environment and cultural heritage of the destination.
• Minimizing the negative impacts of tourism on the environment through sustainable practices, such as waste reduction, energy conservation, and responsible resource management.
• Supporting the well-being of local communities by creating economic opportunities, preserving cultural traditions, and involving local people in decision-making processes.
• Fostering environmental and cultural education by providing informative and interactive experiences that promote a deeper understanding of the natural world and local cultures.
• Contributing to the conservation and protection of biodiversity by supporting local environmental initiatives and participating in conservation activities, such as wildlife monitoring or habitat restoration.

By adhering to these principles and criteria, ecotourism aims to provide a more sustainable and meaningful travel experience, empowering both travelers and local communities to be stewards of the environment and advocates for conservation.

Definition of Traditional Tourism

Traditional tourism, also known as mainstream or mass tourism, refers to the conventional form of travel that is primarily focused on leisure, entertainment, and relaxation. It typically involves visiting popular tourist destinations, staying in large accommodations such as hotels and resorts, and engaging in recreational activities.

In traditional tourism, the main objective is often to escape from daily routines and seek entertainment and relaxation. Travelers may prioritize visiting famous landmarks, popular attractions, and participating in activities that are designed for leisure and enjoyment.

Unlike ecotourism, traditional tourism tends to place less emphasis on environmental conservation and sustainability. It often involves high levels of resource consumption, such as energy, water, and food, as well as generating waste and causing pollution. Large-scale infrastructure developments, such as hotels, airports, and resorts, are commonly associated with traditional tourism, leading to the ecological footprint of the destination.

Furthermore, traditional tourism can have both positive and negative impacts on local communities. On one hand, it can bring economic opportunities and employment to the destination by creating jobs in the tourism sector. It can also promote cultural exchange and raise awareness about different cultures and traditions.

On the other hand, traditional tourism can contribute to issues such as overcrowding, cultural erosion, and economic leakage. Overcrowding in popular tourist destinations can put strain on the local infrastructure, resources, and ecosystems. Cultural erosion occurs as local customs and traditions may be modified or commercialized to cater to the expectations and demands of tourists. Economic leakage happens when a significant portion of the tourism revenue does not stay within the local economy but flows back to external stakeholders.

Overall, traditional tourism is characterized by a focus on recreational activities and entertainment, often leading to environmental degradation and challenges for local communities. While it may provide economic benefits, it does not prioritize sustainability and conservation in the same way that ecotourism does.

Key Differences between Ecotourism and Traditional Tourism

While both ecotourism and traditional tourism involve travel and exploration, there are several key differences that set them apart. These differences encompass their approach to the environment, economic impact, and cultural interactions.

1. Environmental Impact: Ecotourism focuses on minimizing negative impacts on the environment by promoting sustainable practices such as waste reduction, energy conservation, and responsible resource management. Traditional tourism, on the other hand, often leads to environmental degradation through high resource consumption, pollution, and habitat disruption.

2. Economic Impact: Ecotourism aims to support local communities by creating economic opportunities through locally-owned accommodations, tours, and services. It emphasizes the importance of revenue staying within the destination, contributing to the sustainable development of the local economy. Traditional tourism, in contrast, may lead to economic leakage, where a significant portion of the income generated from tourism flows back to external stakeholders.

3. Cultural Impact: Ecotourism prioritizes cultural preservation and engagement. It encourages interaction with local communities, respect for their customs and traditions, and supports the preservation of cultural heritage. In contrast, traditional tourism can lead to cultural erosion as local traditions may be modified or commercialized, catering to the expectations and demands of mass tourism.

4. Travel Experience: Ecotourism offers unique and immersive experiences that focus on the natural environment and cultural heritage of the destination. Travelers have the opportunity to learn about local ecosystems, participate in conservation activities, and engage with indigenous communities. Traditional tourism, on the other hand, often prioritizes recreational activities, entertainment, and mainstream attractions.

5. Educational Component: Ecotourism puts a strong emphasis on environmental and cultural education. It aims to provide informative and interactive experiences that promote a deeper understanding of the natural world and cultural diversity. Traditional tourism, while it may offer general information about attractions, does not typically have the same educational focus.

6. Sustainability: Ecotourism has sustainability as a core principle, taking into account the long-term ecological, social, and economic consequences of travel activities. It aims to maintain the integrity of natural ecosystems, preserve biodiversity, and protect the cultural heritage of local communities. Traditional tourism, on the other hand, often lacks a strong focus on sustainability and may prioritize short-term economic gains.

By understanding these key differences, travelers can make more informed choices and support the growth of sustainable tourism practices. Both ecotourism and traditional tourism have their merits, but ecotourism offers a more responsible and mindful approach to travel, promoting conservation, community well-being, and cultural preservation.

Environmental Impact

The environmental impact is one of the most significant differences between ecotourism and traditional tourism. Ecotourism aims to minimize negative impacts on the environment and promote conservation efforts, while traditional tourism often leads to environmental degradation.

In ecotourism, responsible practices are emphasized to minimize the ecological footprint. This includes promoting sustainable transportation options such as walking or cycling, using eco-friendly accommodations, and supporting local food and products. Ecotourism operators also prioritize waste reduction, efficient energy and water use, and responsible resource management.

On the other hand, traditional tourism can have detrimental effects on the environment. Large-scale infrastructure development for resorts and hotels can lead to habitat destruction, deforestation, and the loss of natural ecosystems. Resource consumption, including water and energy usage, is often high in traditional tourism, leading to increased pollution and waste generation.

Ecotourism destinations often prioritize the preservation of biodiversity and ecosystems. Travelers engage in activities such as wildlife observation, nature hikes, and visits to protected areas, where they can experience the beauty of natural landscapes while contributing to their conservation. Ecotourism also supports initiatives such as reforestation, habitat restoration, and wildlife preservation.

In contrast, traditional tourism may lead to the degradation of natural habitats and ecosystems. Activities such as overcrowding, unregulated tourism infrastructure, and unrestricted access to sensitive areas can result in the destruction of fragile ecosystems, erosion of biodiversity, and disruption of wildlife habitats.

The carbon footprint is another significant environmental impact of tourism. Ecotourism endeavors to reduce carbon emissions by promoting sustainable transport options, minimizing the use of fossil fuels, and supporting local eco-friendly initiatives. In traditional tourism, carbon emissions are often higher due to extensive air travel, larger accommodations, and increased transportation demands.

By choosing ecotourism, travelers can have a more positive environmental impact. They support destinations that prioritize environmental conservation, reducing carbon emissions, preserving biodiversity, and protecting fragile ecosystems. Ecotourism promotes responsible practices that aim to leave a minimal footprint and contribute to the overall sustainability of the destination.

Ultimately, conscious choices in travel can help preserve the natural beauty of our planet for future generations and support the well-being of ecosystems that are essential for a healthy and balanced environment.

Economic Impact

The economic impact of ecotourism and traditional tourism differs significantly, with ecotourism aiming to support local communities and foster sustainable economic development, while traditional tourism can sometimes lead to economic leakage and inequalities.

In ecotourism, there is a focus on supporting local economies by creating economic opportunities for local communities. Locally-owned accommodations, tour operators, and services are prioritized, ensuring that the majority of the tourism income stays within the destination. This direct involvement of local communities in the tourism industry helps to empower them economically and promotes self-sufficiency.

Furthermore, ecotourism often works hand in hand with local communities to develop and implement sustainable projects. By involving community members in decision-making processes and sharing the benefits of tourism, ecotourism contributes to poverty reduction and promotes social inclusion.

Traditional tourism, on the other hand, may experience economic leakage, where a significant portion of the tourism revenue flows back to external stakeholders, such as multinational corporations or foreign investors. This can result in limited economic benefits for the local communities and a widening wealth gap between the tourism industry and the residents.

In traditional tourism, large-scale resorts and hotels are often developed by international chains, and many of the goods and services are sourced from external suppliers. This can limit the economic benefits to the local communities and lead to dependency on external sources for employment and goods.

Additionally, ecotourism focuses on promoting sustainable and responsible tourism practices that are less likely to negatively impact local resources and livelihoods. By putting the emphasis on low-impact activities, promoting local artisans and products, and involving local communities in tourism initiatives, ecotourism can contribute to the long-term economic sustainability of the destination.

Ecotourism also has the potential to stimulate alternative forms of income for local communities, such as ecotourism-related entrepreneurship, sustainable agriculture, or handicraft production. This diversification of income sources can provide resilience against economic shocks and reduce reliance on a single sector.

It is important to note that the economic impact of both ecotourism and traditional tourism can vary greatly depending on the specific context and practices in place. When ecotourism is implemented responsibly, it has the potential to bring significant economic benefits to local communities and contribute to sustainable economic development. However, careful planning, community involvement, and monitoring are essential to ensure that the economic benefits are equitably distributed and contribute to the overall well-being of the destination.

Cultural Impact

The cultural impact of ecotourism and traditional tourism differs in their approach to preserving cultural heritage, fostering cultural exchange, and supporting local communities.

Ecotourism places a strong emphasis on cultural preservation and respectful engagement with local communities. It recognizes the value of cultural diversity and the importance of preserving traditional customs, rituals, and ways of life. Ecotourism activities often include opportunities to learn from and interact with indigenous communities, allowing travelers to gain a deeper understanding of their traditions, beliefs, and practices.

Ecotourism strives to minimize cultural erosion, which occurs when local customs and traditions are modified or commercialized to cater to the expectations and demands of tourists. Instead, it promotes authentic cultural experiences that respect the integrity of local cultures and empower communities to preserve their heritage.

Traditional tourism, on the other hand, may contribute to the dilution or commodification of local cultures. In popular tourist destinations, the focus is often on providing mass entertainment and mainstream attractions, which can result in the distortion or commercialization of cultural practices. Traditional tourism tends to cater to mass consumption and may sometimes perpetuate stereotypes or create inauthentic representations of local cultures.

Ecotourism actively engages with local communities and encourages visitors to interact respectfully with the host cultures. This includes supporting local artisans and purchasing locally-made products, participating in community-based activities, and learning the appropriate cultural etiquette. These interactions can foster cross-cultural understanding and promote appreciation for the diverse cultural landscapes of a destination.

Another aspect of cultural impact relates to community empowerment and involvement in decision-making processes. Ecotourism emphasizes the importance of engaging and co-creating with local communities. This can involve initiatives such as community-run tourism enterprises or the development of participatory programs for cultural exchange. By involving local communities in the planning and management of tourism activities, ecotourism promotes local ownership and ensures that cultural preservation is a shared responsibility.

In contrast, traditional tourism may have limited engagement with local communities, with decision-making often being concentrated in the hands of external or corporate entities. This can result in the marginalization of local voices and a lack of community control over tourism development, leading to cultural homogenization and the loss of authenticity.

Overall, ecotourism aims to promote cultural preservation, authentic cultural experiences, and mutual respect between travelers and the host communities. By engaging in responsible cultural interactions, ecotourism can contribute to the preservation of cultural heritage, support local communities, and foster meaningful cultural exchange.

Benefits of Ecotourism

Ecotourism offers a myriad of benefits, both for the destinations and for travelers themselves. These benefits extend to environmental conservation, economic development, cultural preservation, and personal enrichment.

1. Environmental Conservation: Ecotourism plays a crucial role in conserving natural habitats and biodiversity. By promoting sustainable practices such as responsible wildlife viewing, supporting protected areas, and participating in conservation initiatives, ecotourism helps to preserve ecosystems for future generations. It raises awareness about the importance of environmental conservation and fosters a sense of responsibility for the natural world.

2. Economic Development: Ecotourism can be a powerful tool for sustainable economic development, particularly in areas with limited economic opportunities. It supports local communities by creating jobs, promoting entrepreneurship, and stimulating income diversification. Locally-owned accommodations, tour operators, and services benefit from ecotourism revenue, leading to the overall well-being and prosperity of the community.

3. Cultural Preservation: Ecotourism values and celebrates cultural diversity, fostering the preservation of indigenous knowledge, customs, and traditions. By engaging with local communities in a respectful and authentic manner, ecotourism encourages the transmission of cultural heritage from one generation to another. Visitors have the opportunity to learn from and interact with local communities, gaining a deeper understanding of different cultures and promoting cultural exchange.

4. Education and Awareness: Ecotourism promotes a deeper understanding of the natural world and the importance of environmental conservation. It provides educational opportunities for travelers to learn about ecosystems, wildlife, and sustainable practices. Through informative and interactive experiences, ecotourism fosters environmental literacy and raises awareness about environmental issues, inspiring travelers to become advocates for the planet.

5. Personal Enrichment and Well-being: Ecotourism offers unique and immersive experiences that connect travelers with nature and foster personal growth. It provides opportunities for adventure, exploration, and self-discovery in breathtaking natural environments. Time spent in nature has been shown to reduce stress, improve mental health, and enhance overall well-being. Ecotourism allows travelers to disconnect from busy routines and connect with the natural world, resulting in a sense of rejuvenation and connection to the earth.

6. Conservation Funding: Ecotourism revenue often directly supports conservation efforts. Entrance fees to protected areas, visitor contributions to conservation organizations, and donations to local conservation initiatives are often included in ecotourism experiences. These funds play a crucial role in supporting ongoing conservation projects, habitat restoration, wildlife monitoring, and environmental research.

By supporting ecotourism practices, travelers can contribute to the preservation of natural and cultural treasures while experiencing unique and enriching travel experiences. The benefits of ecotourism extend far beyond individual trips, making a positive impact on the planet, local communities, and personal well-being.

Challenges and Criticisms of Ecotourism

While ecotourism is often seen as a positive form of travel, it is not without its challenges and criticisms. It is important to acknowledge and address these concerns in order to ensure the long-term sustainability and effectiveness of ecotourism initiatives.

1. Greenwashing and Lack of Standards: One of the main challenges is the potential for greenwashing, where businesses or destinations falsely promote themselves as eco-friendly without implementing genuine sustainable practices. Lack of standardized regulations and certification systems can make it difficult for travelers to identify truly responsible and sustainable ecotourism options.

2. Overcrowding and Ecological Impacts: The popularity of ecotourism destinations can lead to issues of overcrowding, putting strain on fragile ecosystems and natural resources. Increased foot traffic in sensitive areas can disrupt wildlife habitats, cause soil erosion, and damage natural landscapes if not properly managed.

3. Damage to Cultural Integrity: Ecotourism can sometimes result in unintentional cultural commodification and loss of authenticity. When local traditions and practices are altered or modified purely for the entertainment of tourists, it can erode the cultural integrity of the community. It is essential to foster respectful cultural interactions and ensure that local communities retain control over their customs and traditions.

4. Socioeconomic Inequalities: In some cases, ecotourism development can exacerbate existing socioeconomic inequalities. Certain communities may benefit more from tourism revenue and economic opportunities, while others may be marginalized and left excluded. Ensuring equitable distribution of economic benefits and addressing social disparities are important considerations in ecotourism planning and implementation.

5. Wildlife Disturbance: Wildlife tourism, a popular component of ecotourism, can unintentionally disturb wildlife if proper guidelines and regulations are not in place. For example, irresponsible wildlife viewing practices or overcrowded wildlife areas can disrupt animal behavior and impact their natural habitats. It is crucial to adhere to responsible wildlife viewing guidelines to minimize these negative impacts.

6. Carbon Footprint: While ecotourism aims to promote sustainable practices, travel itself contributes to carbon emissions, primarily through transportation. The carbon footprint of ecotourism can vary depending on the distance traveled and the modes of transportation used. It is important to address the carbon footprint of ecotourism and explore ways to minimize emissions, such as supporting local and sustainable transportation options.

Addressing these challenges requires a multifaceted approach that involves collaboration between stakeholders, including government bodies, local communities, businesses, and travelers. Developing and implementing clear guidelines and standards, promoting education and awareness, and fostering community involvement are key strategies for mitigating these challenges and ensuring the long-term success and sustainability of ecotourism initiatives.

Ecotourism, with its focus on responsible travel, environmental conservation, community engagement, and cultural preservation, offers a sustainable alternative to traditional tourism. It promotes a deep connection with nature, fosters cross-cultural understanding, and supports local economies in a way that minimizes negative impacts and maximizes positive benefits.

Throughout this article, we have explored the key differences between ecotourism and traditional tourism, highlighting their environmental, economic, and cultural implications. Ecotourism strives to minimize environmental impact, support local communities, and preserve cultural heritage. It prioritizes sustainable practices, educational experiences, and responsible interactions with the natural world and local cultures.

While ecotourism brings forth numerous benefits, there are also challenges and criticisms that need to be addressed. These include issues of greenwashing, overcrowding, cultural commodification, socio-economic inequalities, wildlife disturbance, and carbon emissions. Recognizing and working to mitigate these challenges is essential for ensuring the long-term sustainability and effectiveness of ecotourism initiatives.

Ultimately, the power lies in the hands of travelers to make informed choices and support ecotourism practices that align with their values. By selecting responsible tour operators, engaging in sustainable activities, respecting local cultures, and being mindful of their environmental footprint, travelers can contribute to the positive impact of ecotourism and become advocates for sustainable travel.

Ecotourism has the potential to not only benefit the environment, local communities, and cultural preservation but also to enrich the lives of travelers. It offers unique and immersive experiences that foster personal growth, rejuvenation, and a deeper understanding of the natural world. Through responsible and mindful travel choices, we can support the growth of ecotourism and create a more sustainable future for the planet and the people who call it home.

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• agroecology
• air pollution
• anti-conservation
• carbon capture
• dumping ground
• eco-footprint
• energy conservation
• energy security
• environmental justice
• environmentalism
• reduce, reuse, recycle idiom

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What Ecotourism is, Definition and Principles

Ecotourism is a new way of looking at tourism. It’s about sustainable tourism, which means tourism that has a low impact on the environment. Ecotourism is also about education, conservation, and community development. But, what’s the definition of ecotourism?

By definition, ecotourism is travel to natural areas that conserves the environment and improves the well-being of local people.

Now let’s see more in detail what ecotourism is, its principles, and some interesting ecotourism examples around the world!

What is Ecotourism?

Ecotourism is a type of tourism that is both environmentally friendly and educational. It focuses on the conservation of natural resources and the protection of the environment while providing locals with sustainable economic opportunities.

This form of tourism is designed to provide an immersive experience that allows visitors to gain an understanding of the local environment and its associated issues.

Ecotourism typically involves activities that are respectful of the environment, such as hiking, biking, and bird watching. It also usually involves staying in eco-friendly accommodations, such as tree houses, cabins, and eco lodges made from renewable materials.

Ecotourism operators also strive to be environmentally conscious and reduce their environmental footprint and use renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power, whenever possible.

Ecotourism not only benefits the environment, but it also provides economic opportunities for local communities. By providing jobs and income to people in the area, ecotourism helps to support the local economy.

Finally, there is also a different flavor of ecotourism: geotourism . This is a form of ecological tourism that is focusing more on the geological aspects of the destination.

Why is ecotourism important?

Ecotourism is an important form of tourism because it helps to protect the environment and promote sustainable development .

By encouraging visitors to take part in activities such as eco-friendly travel, environmental education, and conservation efforts, ecotourism helps support local communities and their natural resources.

Ecotourism is a form of green tourism and acts on all the 3 pillars of sustainability (also known as the triple bottom line , 3 Ps , or 3 Es ): environmental, social, and economic.

• Environmental sustainability aspects: ecotourism encourages people to become more aware of the environment and their impact on it. By promoting eco-friendly practices, such as reducing energy consumption, minimizing waste, and using renewable energy sources, ecotourism helps to reduce the negative effects of tourism on the environment. This can help to create a healthier environment for everyone, both locals and tourists alike.
• Social sustainability aspects: this type of tourism helps to promote cultural sustainability , a deeper understanding of local traditions, and appreciation, as visitors get to experience the local culture and customs.
• Economic sustainability aspects: ecotourism helps to create jobs and stimulate local economies. By providing sustainable economic opportunities for local communities, ecotourism helps to create a more equitable and sustainable economic system.

The Principles Of Ecotourism

Here are some of the principles of ecotourism (as outlined by the United Nations Environment Programme ) that ensure the positive effects of tourism are felt both locally and globally.

The primary goal of ecotourism is to minimize the negative environmental and cultural impacts of tourism. To do this, travelers must be educated on the importance of conservation and the need for responsible business practices. Additionally, the money generated from tourism should be directed toward the conservation and management of natural and protected areas.

Zoning and visitor management plans should also be employed to ensure that tourism development does not exceed the social and environmental limits of acceptable change. Furthermore, it’s important to minimize the use of fossil fuels and to construct infrastructure that blends with the natural and cultural environment.

Ecotourism is all about maximizing the economic benefits for the host country, local businesses, and communities while following sustainable business practices . Those should particularly benefit local people living near or around natural and protected areas. By adhering to these principles, ecotourism can be a great way to enjoy the beauty of nature while also making a positive impact on the environment.

This means that ecotourism is not just about visiting a place and taking pictures. It’s about learning the local culture and the natural environment and doing your part to protect both.

10 Ecotourism Examples: The Best Destinations Around the World

There are a variety of ecotourism examples around the world, ranging from remote rainforest lodges to luxury safari camps.

Now, let’s dive deeper into some of the top examples of ecotourism around the world. Each of these places offers a unique and memorable experience, with opportunities for wildlife viewing, bird watching, and learning about the local culture and environment!

1. Costa Rica

Costa Rica is a prime destination for ecotourism, with its lush green rainforests, stunning beaches, and abundant wildlife. The country has made a name for itself as a leader in sustainable tourism, with a strong commitment to conservation and protecting the environment.

Costa Rica is home to many national parks and nature reserves, where visitors can explore and experience the beauty of the country’s biodiversity. From zip-lining through the tree canopy to spotting monkeys and sloths in their natural habitat, there are countless opportunities for ecotourism in Costa Rica.

Costa Rica is also home to many eco-lodges, which are designed to be both comfortable and eco-friendly. Eco-lodges are built with sustainable materials, incorporate renewable energy sources, and often offer organic food. They also strive to minimize their impact on the environment and to support local businesses and communities.

2. The Galapagos Islands

The Galapagos Islands are renowned for their extraordinary wildlife and stunning scenery. Located in the Pacific Ocean, about 600 miles west of the mainland of Ecuador, the Galapagos Islands are a perfect example of an ecotourism destination.

The archipelago is made up of 18 main islands, as well as many small islets, and is home to many unique species of plants and animals, some of which are found nowhere else in the world.

The islands are a protected environment, and the Galapagos National Park works to conserve the flora and fauna by limiting the number of visitors and strictly controlling the activities of those who do visit. The park has also implemented a number of initiatives to reduce the impact of tourism, such as the use of sustainable tourism practices and the promotion of responsible tourism.

3. The Amazon Rainforest

The Amazon Rainforest is one of the most incredible places on the planet. Spanning more than five and a half million square kilometers, it is the largest tropical rainforest in the world, home to an astounding array of plants and animals. It is a vital part of the global ecosystem, providing oxygen and helping to regulate the climate.

Ecotourism in the Amazon Rainforest is a great way to explore this incredible region and learn about its biodiversity and the threats it faces.

Visitors can experience the rainforest firsthand, discovering its unique flora and fauna, and learning about the culture of the local communities. Ecotourism activities can include guided hikes, wildlife spotting, and river tours.

The Amazon Rainforest is under threat from deforestation, poaching, and illegal logging. Ecotourism can help to protect and preserve this unique environment by providing an alternative source of income for local communities, while also raising awareness of the importance of conservation.

4. The Great Barrier Reef

The Great Barrier Reef is one of the world’s greatest natural wonders, stretching over 2,300 kilometers along Australia’s northeast coast. It is the world’s largest living organism and is home to a wide variety of marine life, including coral, dolphins, sea turtles and over 1,500 species of fish.

The Great Barrier Reef has long been a popular tourist destination, offering visitors the opportunity to explore the vibrant underwater world and experience the unique beauty of the reef.

Ecotourism is a great way to visit and appreciate the Great Barrier Reef. Responsible ecotourism practices can help to protect this delicate ecosystem and ensure that visitors get the most out of their experience.

Tour operators offer eco-friendly tours that focus on education and conservation, such as snorkeling and diving trips, boat tours (like one of those I mentioned in the examples of sustainable tourism ), and guided walks. These tours provide visitors with an understanding of the importance of the reef, while also providing opportunities to appreciate its unique beauty.

5. Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is a unique and beautiful destination in the United States, and it is an ideal place for ecotourism. It is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including bears, wolves, bison, elk, and antelope, and its breathtaking landscapes of geysers, hot springs, and canyons are unparalleled.

For those looking to explore Yellowstone in an eco-friendly way, there are many options available. Visitors can take part in ranger-led activities, such as guided hikes, wildlife viewing, and educational programs.

These activities focus on the park’s natural environment and help to ensure that visitors are respectful of the park’s resources. Additionally, visitors can take part in volunteer programs that help to preserve the park’s wildlife and ecosystems.

Ecotourism in Yellowstone also includes sustainable practices such as reducing waste, using reusable containers, and avoiding single-use plastics.

But Yellowstone is not the only ecotourism destination in the USA, in fact, there are many breathtaking eco lodges in the United States . The country is especially rich in diverse National Parks that offer very desirable options for the green tourist.

6. The Arctic

The Arctic is a unique and fragile environment that is home to a variety of wildlife , landscapes, and cultures. Ecotourism in the Arctic is a great way to experience this region while also helping to protect it.

Ecotourism in the Arctic focuses on the appreciation of the environment and its inhabitants, while minimizing the impact on the environment.

Visitors can explore the Arctic by taking part in activities such as wildlife watching , birding, photography, and kayaking. There are also opportunities to learn about the traditional cultures of the indigenous people living in the region.

Ecotourism in the Arctic helps to protect the environment by making sure that travelers are aware of their impact and how to minimize it. This includes following the rules set by local communities and organizations, respecting wildlife, and avoiding activities that could potentially harm the environment.

7. The Antarctic

The Antarctic is the world’s southernmost continent, located in the Southern Hemisphere and surrounded by the Southern Ocean. It is an incredibly unique and diverse ecosystem, with a wide range of habitats, from the snow and ice of the polar desert to the subantarctic islands and the ocean surrounding them.

The Antarctic is home to an incredibly diverse array of wildlife, including penguins, whales, seals, and seabirds.

Ecotourism is a great way to explore the Antarctic, while also helping to preserve this precious environment. Ecotourism activities in the Antarctic focus on educational, non-invasive activities that minimize environmental impacts. These can include bird watching, whale watching , photography, and even kayaking, as long as the activity is conducted in a sustainable manner.

Ecotourism can also help to support local communities, as many of the eco-tourism activities in the Antarctic are based in local towns or research stations.

8. The Himalayas

The Himalayas are an awe-inspiring mountain range that spans across India, Nepal, Tibet, Bhutan and Pakistan. This range is home to some of the world’s highest peaks, including the world’s tallest mountain, Mount Everest.

With its lush green valleys, snow-capped mountain peaks and deep gorges, the Himalayas are a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

The Himalayas offer a unique opportunity for ecotourism, as they are home to a wide range of flora and fauna, as well as some of the world’s rarest species. These include the snow leopard, red panda, musk deer, Himalayan tahr , and the Tibetan antelope . These endangered species are protected in the various national parks and conservation areas located in the Himalayas.

9. The Sahara Desert

The Sahara Desert is the world’s largest hot desert and covers an area of over 9 million square kilometers. It’s an incredible landscape that’s full of surprises, with a diverse range of flora and fauna, unique geological features, and a rich cultural history.

Ecotourism in the Sahara Desert is a great way to explore this fascinating region. Visitors can experience the breathtaking beauty of the desert, from its vast sand dunes to its rugged mountains and canyons. There are also opportunities to witness the incredible wildlife that inhabits the region, including camels, gazelles, antelope, and desert foxes.

The Sahara Desert is also home to a number of ancient human settlements, such as the famous Berber tribes of Morocco, Algeria, and Tunisia. Visitors can learn about the unique lifestyles and cultures of these desert dwellers, as well as the history of the region.

10. The Kalahari Desert

The Kalahari Desert is a vast expanse of land located in southern Africa, covering parts of Botswana, Namibia, and South Africa. It is one of the world’s largest deserts and is home to a diverse array of wildlife and vegetation.

The Kalahari is an ideal destination for ecotourism, as it offers visitors the chance to experience a unique ecosystem and learn about conservation efforts in the region.

The Kalahari Desert is characterized by its red sand dunes and sparse vegetation, consisting mostly of shrubs and grasses. It is home to a variety of wildlife, including the African wild dog, cheetah, brown hyena, and many species of birds. Visitors can explore the desert by foot, by 4×4 , or by hot air balloon.

Ecotourism Pros And Cons

Before embarking on an ecotourism trip, it is important to consider both the pros and cons carefully.

Ecotourism has many benefits , such as helping to conserve natural resources, providing economic benefits to local communities, and increasing environmental awareness.

However, it also has some drawbacks , such as increased pressure on fragile ecosystems, potential negative impacts on local cultures, and increased costs for travelers.

Let’s look at those more in detail!

The Benefits of Ecotourism

Ecotourism can provide a number of benefits both to the environment and to local communities:

• Economic Benefits : Ecotourism can bring in additional revenue to a local economy, providing income to tour guides, outfitters, and other businesses that depend on the natural environment.
• Environmental Benefits : Ecotourism can help protect endangered species and habitats by introducing tourists to them and giving them an incentive to conserve them.
• Education Benefits : Ecotourism encourages tourists to learn more about the local environment and its importance, providing an opportunity to increase environmental awareness.
• Social Benefits : Ecotourism can help local communities by providing employment opportunities and supporting local businesses.
• Cultural Benefits : Ecotourism can help preserve local traditions and cultures by encouraging people to learn about them and experience them first-hand.

The Disadvantages of Ecotourism

Here are the potential disadvantages of ecotourism:

• Negative Impacts on the Environment : Ecotourism can have a negative impact on the environment if it is not managed properly. This includes the destruction of habitats and disruption of ecosystems.
• Overcrowding : Ecotourism can lead to overcrowding in certain areas, leading to increased pollution, environmental damage, and disruption to local communities.
• Negative Impacts on Local Communities : Ecotourism can have a negative impact on local communities if the profits from tourism don’t go back to the local people.
• Cultural Appropriation : Ecotourism can lead to cultural appropriation if tourists don’t respect local cultures and traditions. This means that members of a culture may adopt or use elements of another culture that has more attractive aspects for touristic purposes.
• Impact on Wildlife : Ecotourism can have a negative impact on wildlife if it is not managed properly. This includes disturbing wildlife habitats, overhunting, and introducing non-native species.
• It can often be expensive for tourists, who may not be able to afford the cost of flights, accommodations, and activities. This can lead to a lack of diversity in the types of people who are able to visit and enjoy the area.

Through sustainable tourism practices, ecotourism can help to conserve natural resources, reduce pollution, and protect vulnerable wildlife. Additionally, it can also provide economic opportunities for local communities, helping to create jobs and improve the quality of life in the areas visited.

Ecotourism is a great way to see the world while also helping to preserve it. By supporting eco-friendly initiatives and responsible tourism practices, we can all do our part to protect the planet. So next time you’re planning a trip, consider an eco-tourism destination. It’s a win-win for everyone.

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Ecotourism 101: What is Ecotourism? The Good, The Bad, and Sustainable Ecotourism

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Last updated on April 30th, 2024 at 08:04 pm

A re you curious about what ecotourism is, if it’s really as beneficial as it sounds, and how to ensure you’re engaging in sustainable ecotourism? Ecotourism is when we travel to vulnerable natural places to increase our understanding of the surrounding natural and cultural landscape while delivering equitable socio-economic benefits throughout the surrounding region. When conducted properly and aligned with these values, ecotourism can work toward preserving a region’s environmental conservation and cultural preservation while simultaneously improving the quality of life for those impacted by tourism. However, when models of ecotourism are put in place that don’t carefully consider the impacts of tourism and work to counter them, ecotourism can have adverse effects, such as contributing to the loss of biodiversity in a region and ultimately adding to the stresses that put these vulnerable regions at risk. 

Whether ecotourism can be a force for good or damaging in some of the world’s most sensitive environments is up to us, the travelers! It is up to us to be informed about how our behaviors and choices can impact natural places. That all starts with education surrounding the topic. Let’s dive into the nuances of ecotourism, the benefits and the negatives, what “good” ecotourism looks like in practice, and, most importantly, why sustainable ecotourism matters. By understanding how to identify sustainable ecotourism, you’ll become a more informed traveler doing your part to save travel and the protected natural areas we choose to visit.

This post was carefully curated based on personal experience, an MSc in biodiversity with a thesis covering biodiversity and tourism, and research based on government documents, case studies, and international conservation entities. Get to know me better to learn more about my expertise on this subject matter. 

Looking for more 101 guides to becoming a more responsible traveler? Start here!

• Agritourism 101
• Responsible Travel at UNESCO sites
• Economic Tourism Leakage 101
• Sustainable Travel Tips

What We’re Covering

What is Ecotourism

5 Requirements of Sustainable Ecotourism

Benefits and Negative Impacts

Real-life Examples

Tips to Plan an Ecotour

Discuss, Share, Engage

• Ecotourism happens in vulnerable communities and protected natural areas.
• Sustainable ecotourism engages the 3 pillars of sustainability: environmental , economic, and social benefits.
• Unsustainable ecotourism neglects 1-2 of the pillars resulting in negative implications for nature or locals.
• Nature-based tourism is often confused with ecotourism – learn how to spot the difference.
• Before engaging in ecotourism, ask yourself or the company you book how they benefit ALL three pillars.
• Often the best solution is to work directly with local tour groups or organizations.
• Ecotourism does not always mean ethical tourism.
• There is no perfect model of ecotourism. It is up to you to ensure you have a positive impact on vulnerable natural destinations.

What is Ecotourism?

One of the most common buzzwords in the sustainable travel industry is ‘ecotourism.’ Many travelers rely on this word being synonymous with environmentally friendly, ethical tourism. Others might be asking if ecotourism is as good as it says it is.  When ecotourism is executed sustainably – based on research and understanding of the impacts on the natural environment and with guidance from the local communities, then yes, it can be synonymous with ethical tourism. This type of “good” ecotourism is if you create a powerful positive force for environmental conservation and local community well-being.

On the other hand, unsustainable ecotourism, a model of tourism that happens with the best intentions but fails to involve the community or maintain checks and balances regarding the environmental impact of tourism, can be detrimental to both the natural and local communities.

Ecotourism is often conducted in protected natural areas surrounded by vulnerable communities such as nature reserves, national parks, wilderness areas, heritage sites, or natural monuments. In these incredibly culturally and ecologically sensitive communities, true ecotourism can do a lot of good, while failed models of ecotourism or tourism operating under the guise of ecotourism can have catastrophic impacts.  In these protected areas, ecotourism must contribute to environmental conservation and the alleviation of poverty or risk destroying the places we love as travelers. 

Sustainable Ecotourism

Sustainable ecotourism, or really just ecotourism as it was intended to be, is responsible travel to protected or vulnerable natural areas focusing on environmental conservation/education while sustaining local communities’ economic and social well-being. For ecotourism to be sustainable for generations to come, it must include all three pillars, or the triple bottom line, of sustainability, as seen in the infographic. It isn’t quite enough to have all three of these pillars included; they need to be somewhat balanced, ensuring that tourism develops in a way that doesn’t take too much of an environmental toll while infusing a lot of economic benefits into the economy.

Ideally, the economic development from ecotourism is equitable and able to sustain long-term job development and growth in the region while equally contributing to wildlife conversation and preserving cultural identity. It is normal to have one piece of the Venn Diagram to be slightly larger as true equilibrium is difficult and impossible, but each should grow at a rate that doesn’t create too much imbalance. When things get out of balance, or one circle takes priority over another, no matter the intentions, we begin to have unsustainable ecotourism.

Unsustainable Ecotourism

Unsustainable ecotourism may embody or prioritize only one or two pillars of sustainable ecotourism. This can happen for a variety of reasons.

• Tour operators and travel companies may conduct ecotours as a marketing ploy to get the attention of travelers looking for more environmentally friendly travel options. These operators may conduct businesses without fully understanding their impact on the natural environment or equitably distribute tourism’s benefits within their community. 
• Adventure companies or individual travelers may enjoy nature-based adventures while disregarding local communities.
• Others may seek to capitalize on the economic gain of nature-based tourism while exploiting nature.
• Culturally sensitive communities may alter their customs or traditional crafts to appeal to tourists, thus increasing their economic gain while degrading their culture.
• Perhaps a national park becomes so popular that the number of people visiting begins to have irreversible impacts on natural vegetation or wildlife.
• Other companies may lack adequate support and resources from their governments, communities, or foreign tour companies to meet well-intended goals.

These are all examples of unsustainable ecotourism, ultimately resulting in the problematic exploitation of natural resources or local communities. 

Nature-based tourism vs. ecotourism?

Many people use nature-based and ecotourism interchangeably, but they are not the same. Nature-based tourism is traveling to a natural landscape to enjoy nature. Ecotourism is visiting a place with the goal of contributing to conservation while benefitting the community for a positive impact. I consider the multi-day hikes in the European Alps nature-based, as I am just out for a hike to enjoy nature. If I were to hire a local guide in Peru to take me on a culturally infused hike to learn about nature and culture – then we start to cross into ecotourism.

The penguin tour I did in New Zealand is a great example of a sustainable eco-tour . We learned about the local conservation efforts of a penguin colony on the brink of extinction (environmental), supported a local farm and conservation group (economic), and had a high-quality social engagement learning about New Zealand’s connection to the environment (Social).

Mass Tourism vs Ecotourism? What is better?

When I first started on my journey toward embracing sustainable tourism, I automatically assumed that mass tourism = bad. Ecotourism = good. This is something I see across the board among travelers. However, many tourism academics disagree on this binary and highlight the nuances and importance of well-managed tourism development, whether eco or mass.

Their arguments hinge on the fact that mass tourism ultimately contains people in places that generally already have the infrastructure to support large groups of people. Imagine if we took the thousands of people staying at an all-inclusive Disney resort – a place with adequate infrastructure to handle these numbers and dropped them all at a small Peruvian rainforest eco-lodge. The small ecolodges set up for sustainable ecotourism and minimal crowds would be overwhelmed, and the environmental and cultural damage would be dramatic. There are also examples of how ecotourism can bring tourists into places previously undisturbed by tourists historically, and it is important to first understand and plan for potential impacts.

This isn’t to put mass or ecotourism into their boxes, but it highlights that there are examples of well-managed mass tourism in areas with infrastructure that are worth supporting. Just as there are examples of poorly managed ecotourism disturbing nature for the first time, it all comes down to how tourism is managed.

What do you think about this argument? Share in the comments!

Five Requirements of Sustainable Ecotourism

What else separates sustainable and unsustainable ecotourism? It’s not enough for ecotourism to vaguely target the three pillars of sustainability at free will. Carefully thought-out itineraries should be constructed before engaging in ecotourism. While there is situational and regional flexibility in how sustainable ecotourism plays out in real life, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has listed five minimum requirements, hitting all three pillars, that tourists and tour operators should address before engaging in ecotourism. We can use these guidelines to create a custom itinerary when visiting vulnerable natural communities or booking a tour operator.

1. Tourism should benefit environmental conservation

Tourism activities, development, and tour operators should safeguard the environment, conserve natural resources, protect ecosystems, and benefit biodiversity. Several key players need to work together to ensure this. Governments and land managers should ensure that proper scientific impact assessments are done prior to tourism development. Rules and regulations should be established so tour companies, guides, and tourists follow. Involving the community in conservation-based tourism is key.

For us travelers, environmental education is a key component of this. As you visit vulnerable areas, you should try to learn about local biodiversity and environmental concerns. Doing some research ahead of time allows you to align your behaviors in a way that doesn’t degrade the environment, and you can also hold tourism companies accountable for their actions if you are more informed.

• Mass crowds, overdevelopment, and overtourism. Overdevelopment of the region surrounding a protected area to accommodate mass tourism may negatively impact nature. Many species are not confined to the protected natural zone, and over-development can damage migration and breeding patterns, increase water and air pollution, and increase erosion. Protected areas often have a limited capacity before ecosystem degradation may occur.
• Large tour buses or cruise ships drop large groups of people off in a protected region for a short amount of time.
• If a protected region is capitalizing on economic profit and bringing in as many guests as possible without sticking to a sustainable plan.
• Clear-cutting and ecosystem fragmentation to build large resorts
• Tour companies that allow you to touch, feed, or interact with wildlife

Actionable Steps

• Look for places with non-invasive infrastructure that keep you a safe distance from animals. Look for well-planned trails, viewing platforms/sky bridges, nature centers for education, etc.
• Find alternatives to nature’s hot spots, seeking out small-scale educational nature-based tourism.
• Visit places that minimize capacity with permits and quotas.
• Be willing to pay fees and fines that support sustainable infrastructure.
• Learn and follow all regional, local, and tribal etiquette before entering a protected area. 
• Support eco-lodges, regenerative hotels, and other low-impact options.
• Book small group tours or go alone and hire personal local guides to take you into nature on a designated trail.

Read a guest post by an ecologist from India about the do’s and don’ts for visiting national parks in India . This post highlights proper behavior to ensure that you, your local guide, the ecosystem, and the animals you see are safeguarded and protected. – A great example of sustainable ecotourism.

2. Safeguard the cultural and natural heritage of the region

Oftentimes, without even knowing it, we, as travelers, support the decline of a region’s cultural heritage. With the presence of tourism, locals may feel the pressure to please us with certain trinkets or displays that don’t align with their culture to put on a show. There are a few cruise shows in Alaska that are not traditional and are upsetting to certain elders as they have permanently altered traditions to appeal to Western tourists.

There are mindful ways we can learn about and support traditions by appreciating authentic experiences; for example, The Alaska Native Heritage Center is operated by Native stakeholders, and the art, song, dance, and cultural shows are true to the tribe’s heritage.

Unsustainable tourism booms at UNESCO sites such as Hoi An are notorious for contributing to tourism tourism-fiction. This means that culture becomes a commodity rather than part of the heritage. Some have described tourism’s impacts on Hoi An as leaving the city a husk of its former self and operating more like Disneyland than a place of important culture.

• Locals selling mass-produced or cheap trinkets, such as sunglasses, outside protected zones. Many of these people may have given up traditional crafts or lifestyles to get short-term benefits from tourism in the area because they have been exploited and excluded for economic benefits.
• International tour companies that host cultural shows in which traditional songs, dances, or clothing have been changed to appeal to foreigners.  
• Commodification of culture
• Invest in quality certified crafts work from master artisans – look for certifications.
• Seek out authentic cultural experiences from homestays or by learning from local guides.
• Visit Indigenous or locally-owned culture centers for an authentic educational song, dance, and cultural experience.  

3. Respect Indigenous Peoples and local communities rights

If there is one thing that can grind my gears, it’s when tourists have more rights than locals. When Glacier Bay National Park first opened to tourism many Indigenous groups were no longer allowed to use the land for subsistence hunting and gathering . Meanwhile, massive cruise ships pulled in and dumped their greywater. Efforts are being made to restore subsistence rights, and Indigenous tribes can now harvest certain things, but as it still stands, most cruise companies have more rights in that Bay than many Alaskans. While the Indigenous peoples of Alaska are left suffering the consequences of cruise impacts on their ancestral land, they are also excluded from tourism’s benefits, with multinational cruise companies making the most money.

But, it is not enough to consider Indigenous peoples and the surrounding communities impacted by tourism; they must be a key partner in tourism. Their consent and well-being regarding tourism in protected areas should come first. They should have a direct say in developing tourism while receiving equitable benefits.

• Areas that give tourists more rights than local or Indigenous Peoples. i.e., when people climbed Uluru on eco-excursions despite the wishes of Australia’s Aboriginal People.
• Tours that bring you into protected natural areas without providing ways to learn about local or Indigenous culture directly from the marginalized people. 

Actionable Steps 

• If Indigenous groups have been displaced from an area, take it upon yourself to enter the protected area as a guest respecting the traditional owners.
• Hire local guides or meet locals to engage in cultural exchange.
• Learn about tribal history, present, culture, and wishes.
• Perform a land acknowledgment.
• If an area is sacred to an Indigenous group and they ask you not to enter, reconsider your plans and find a viable alternative. 

4. Create viable, long-term economic operations in the region

The presence of a booming tourism industry looks great on paper in any region. But, if you dig deep, you’ll start to notice that maybe a lot of that money leaves the local destination and ends up in the pockets of large multinational companies. Or maybe locals don’t have access to year-round jobs that provide them with enough healthcare and healthy food because of boom-bust seasonal cycles. Ensuring local access to stable employment is important to reduce global poverty. Tourism jobs can’t only be seasonal jobs that exploit foreign workers. Locals should be interested in tourism jobs to reach management positions and receive benefits.

Many cite the economic benefits of tourism as the sole reason to develop tourism, but research shows that many locals aren’t interested in tourism jobs because of the lack of sustainable and beneficial long-term employment. When I was a tour guide in Alaska, I worked long hours during the summer months without long-term security, health care, or retirement benefits.

• Tourism leakage . Leakage happens when large international tour corporations or foreign-owned all-inclusive resorts profit off ecotourism while locals are forced deeper into poverty. Locals should be primarily profiting off tourism as they suffer any negative impacts. 
• Lack of local guides. Lack of locals in management or hospitality positions.
• Mass-over-tourism booms happening during a short seasonal window, resulting in an employment depression during the off-season.
• Foreign workers are imported for cheap labor exploitation or to make tourists comfortable.
• Support locally owned tour companies providing residents with stable year-round jobs, training, and income-earning opportunities. 
• Support local businesses and buy local products when traveling through vulnerable communities.
• Visit places during the shoulder or off-season to support a healthy year-round economy.
• Avoid booking with international tour companies and all-inclusive resorts unless they engage in the trip-bottom line. 

5. Create meaningful and high-quality visitor experiences

If you’re stepping out of a tour bus for that Instagram photo opportunity without learning about your destination, you are not having a meaningful or high-quality experience. Slow down and enjoy the lesser-known sights, and learn about the local food, nature, and people. These tourism experiences should be led by locals with a deep affinity for a region, allowing you to connect them to the place on an intimate level. Canada has a rigorous tour guide certification called interpretative guides. The guides aim to foster a deep and meaningful connections between the local people, places, and tourists. Tourists are more likely to care for their destination if they have a connection and understanding regarding why its protection is important.

• Tour busses that drop people off in a protected area to look around and snap a few photos and leave without offering educational information or ways to learn about the landscape.
• Violating local rules to gain access to a protected area for an Instagram photo.
• Engage in ecotourism that hinges on environmental education and cultural connection.
• Stay in a region longer than a bus stop or half a day.
• Book locally-owned accommodation, engaging in regenerative practices that educate you meaningfully.
• Please do it for more than the gram.

The Pros and Cons of Ecotourism

There is no perfect model of truly sustainable ecotourism. Even the most sustainable ecotourism models will have some negative implications, but the ultimate goal is to create a long-term sustainable plan that maximizes benefits and minimizes negative impacts .  As you can see the potential benefits are almost equal to any potential negative impacts. The key is understanding how your presence can have a positive or negative impact, and strive to check as many positives as possible. Ensure you are engaging in ecotourism that ticks positives in environmental, social, AND economic, otherwise, it is likely the negatives outweigh the positives of sustainable ecotourism. 

Does the Good Outweigh the Bad?

I went on an eco-tour to see brown bears in the wild in Alaska . We learned about brown bears from a distance and the Lake Clark National Park ecosystem (environmental) with a local company (economic) on a quality tour (social). However, they could have included more information about the region’s Indigenous culture (social). So, I did some of my own research, doing a land acknowledgment  and discovering the park’s true name is Qizhjeh Vena , meaning a place where people gather in the Dena’ina language. Despite a few shortcomings, I decided this ecotour had more positive than negative impacts especially since Indigenous Alaskans have access to the park. But this shows that not everything will be perfect. You can weigh your options and take personal actions outside of the tour to balance it out, such as independent research, donations, land acknowledgments, and buying high-quality souvenirs.

Ecotourism in Practice

We’ve covered a lot so far, but let’s review a few real examples of sustainable and unsustainable ecotourism in practice so you can better identify them.

Sustainable – Mountain Gorilla Trekking Ecotourism

Mountain gorilla treks in Uganda and DR Congo are great sustainable ecotourism models supported by local government, residents, and conservation groups. Uganda even has a conservation economy that prioritizes conservation as an economic value. Mountain gorillas are endangered in a vulnerable natural habitat surrounded by high-density rural farmers. A sustainable ecotourism model in the region protects both gorillas and includes the livelihood of residents.

Environmental: The presence of tourists deter poachers and encourage local governments to implement protection of the gorillas. Gorilla populations are increasing as a result of sustainable ecotourism. 

Economic: Locals are offered stable employment opportunities as guides, trackers, and anti-poaching guards. Many of them are ex-poachers, which reduces the poaching threat even more.  Over five years, US$428,000 was directly invested in Rwandan communities, helping locals build schools, enact locally-driven environmental projects, and aid food security.

Social : Cultural exchange between local guides and tourists enhances cultural and environmental education. Local guides can showcase years of local expertise and take pride in their culture and nature. Gorilla ecotourism has played a fundamental role in keeping the peace in Rwanda in a post-genocide landscape. 

Interested in learning more about ethical mountain gorilla treks? Kesi from Kesi to Fro created an awesome guest post detailing her first-hand experience seeing mountain gorillas in the wild. You can join her on a group trip to Uganda to work with local tour operators to support conservation, boost the local economy, and engage in cultural exchange. Learn more about sustainable gorilla trekking!

Unsustainable – Machu Picchu Ecotreks

Ecotourism in Machu Picchu has exploded over the last decade. Tourism in the region has grown unchecked, with international and local tour companies capitalizing on the economic benefit of a booming industry. However, tourism grew unsustainable, focusing primarily on the economy rather than the environment or social aspects. This is a prime example of when ecotourism turns into mass overtourism. 

Photo by Alan Hurt Jr. Unsplash

Environment: Mass development in the region surrounding Machu Picchu threatens South America’s last remaining pocket of the Andean cloud forest. Increased waste from humans adds to air and water pollution. Heavy foot traffic damages the fragile Paramo grasslands. Noise pollution contributed to the disappearance of the Andean condors from the region. Migrating and breeding patterns of threatened animals have changed.

Economic: Most workers and guides are left without work or stable year-round income during the off-season. Tourism leakage, where locals do not benefit as much as they should from tourism in the region, is problematic. 

Social: Portions of the city are sliding downhill, causing damage to a cultural and historical icon. Visitors have defaced, broken, and damaged parts of the city. An increase in cheaply made trinkets has caused a decline in local artisanal craftwork. Overall, the region has suffered a loss of cultural authenticity. The visitor experience has suffered greatly, too, with packed trails and long waits.  

*This does not mean that all Machu Picchu treks are bad. You can still visit, but be respectful as you visit, support local tour operators, respect permits, buy quality souvenirs, pay additional fees, and follow all instructions from your guide to minimize your impact. You should also consider other ways to learn about the region’s history or find an alternative hike.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Susanna • Sustainble Travel (@curiositysaves.travel)

Tips for Planning a Sustainable Ecotour

By now you should have a pretty good idea of what constitutes sustainable ecotourism and be able to identify if your next nature-based adventure checks some of these boxes, but here are my top tips to help you get started. 

Read Their About Page

You can tell a lot about a tour operator by looking at their “about” page. I always say the more details, the better. Tour companies, hotels, and excursions near vulnerable nature and communities should freely offer up a lot of detailed information about how they are hitting that triple bottom line. If any of the three pillars of sustainable ecotourism is missing from their mission statement or is not easily accessible online, that is your first major red flag. Browse the website to see how they support the environment, local economic development, and cultural conservation. 

Look for Greenwashing

There is the possibility that companies will engage in greenwashing, presenting information on their website that makes for a convincing sustainable ecotourism model. Some signs companies are greenwashing are when they offer vague information, make general statements about committing to sustainability without examples, or put customer satisfaction and fun at the center of their advertising rather than social impact. 

When in Doubt, Ask

I always recommend sending an email asking how they give back to the community, where your money goes, what local conservation efforts are, how they engage with local culture if they employ locals, etc.  The tour company should be able to respond with detailed statements of how they consider and benefit local communities, economic vitality, and conservation of the natural environment.

Check Their Business Model

Is sustainability part of their core mission, or is it an afterthought? Research shows that companies built around a sustainable business model prioritizing social, economic, and environmental benefits to the local community are more likely to be ethical in the long term. Companies that create a sustainable statement as an afterthought or in response to harmful behavior they are caught for are more likely to engage in damaging behavior. A great example of this is Carnival Cruises. Carnival has literal pages outlining their commitment to the environment, but this was created because a court ordered them and not necessarily because they wanted to do it from the goodness of their heart. Look for companies that were founded to create a positive impact. This information is often included in an origin story or about section.

Find the Owner

Who owns the company? Is it locally owned? Google the name of the owner. For example, many cruise lines and resorts appear to be small boutique companies, but they are owned by large international conglomerates. If in doubt, Google “Who owns X eco-resort.”

Look for certifications, read reviews, and the internet stalk them. Look for environmental warnings report cards, read comments on their social media, and dig up any information you can find.

Self Planning? Carefully Craft Your Itinerary

If you are self-planning carefully, identify each hotel and excursion operator to see how they engage in the triple-bottom line. Research environmental concerns in the area. For example – did you know you should clean your shoes in Hawai’i before entering protected natural areas?  Learn about Indigenous and local culture and history. Be aware of local etiquette for engaging in nature.

• Create a checklist and save it on your computer to help you identify sustainable ecotourism. Having this handy will help you identify sustainable ecotourism excursions that you can feel good supporting.
• What are some of your favorite sustainable eco-tour companies or excursions you’ve supported? Let us know in the comments so we can all learn about great companies around the world working toward helping local communities and protecting our environment.

Make sure you share this post so all your fellow travelers can discover the benefits of sustainable ecotourism and be able to identify the difference between sustainable and unsustainable ecotourism – so we can all do our part to save travel!

About the Author: Susanna Kelly-Shankar

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20 comments.

Eco-tourism may eventually turn into over-tourism. AFAIK Bhutan is the leader in eco-tourism and they have achieved so through active community participation and effective government regulation.

Thanks for writing the post.

Hi Pawan, Yes, ecotourism can quickly turn into over-tourism and it is the responsibility of the traveler to do their research and engage in sustainable ecotourism. That’s lovely you’re engaging the community! I wish you the best and hope I am able to visit Bhutan in the future!

This is so detailed! So much to think about and consider how we can do better during our travels. There’s always room to do better!!

I love how much ecotourism is starting to get attention. I think, especially for travelers, we love the earth and communities around the earth so much that it’s so important to learn how to connect responsibly and take care of it/each other

It really is important to learn about sustainable ecotourism and how to engage to be mindful of the environment. Thanks for reading.

This is alot of great information.

Thank you for such a thought provoking post. I learned a lot. You’ve given me much to think about. Thank you for all that you’ve invested in this post.

Thanks for sharing this insightful post on ecotourism. The way you broke down and explained everything was better than anything else I’ve read on the topic.

I love this! It’s so important to differentiate between nature-based tourism and eco tourism, and I feel like even I have been guilty of confusing thee two in the past. Definitely saving this and sharing!

It’s super confusing – and not always the fault of the traveler with greenwashing or companies that simply don’t know any better or lack resources to be sustainable. So, hopefully, this guide to ecotourism helps differentiate between nature-based tourism, sustainable and unsustainable ecotourism. Thanks for reading.

This is such a smart post. It’s well written and very compelling. It’s the kind of information I would gladly assign my environmental ed. students. Great job!

Oh let me know if you end up sharing it with some of your students. It is a great topic to learn about regarding the intersection of the environment and tourism.

For island destinations, the problem is often even more a concern. Islands belonging to countries with a mainland usually have tourism that’s developed from the mainland, with resorts being technically local but are really effectively like foreign owners since there’s often a distinct cultural difference between the two. After all, if the tourism collapses because the nature is gone, the resort investor just liquidates and goes back to the mainland, where they have their real homes. But the islanders are often tempted by the promises of employment by such resort developments, that sometimes they don’t query too hard which of the resorts are legit committed to them and which are insincere. It’s really bullying and it pisses me off.

That’s a great addition talking about islands with the mainland – that even though they are local there can still be problems. I know this likely happens in the Hawaiian islands. I agree with the bullying tactics. Sometimes the lure of money is so tempting for these places that they are pigeonholed into supporting sustainable tourism. In Alaska, one small Indigenous town simply asked a major cruise line to limit capacity during their drop-offs and within 2 days the cruise line said they would no longer dock there and take all their money. It was an all-or-nothing situation for people simply asking for larger cruise companies to engage in some sustainable behaviors. Thanks for sharing!

That’s a good hard look at an issue we are all struggling with. I’m going to keep all this in mind when booking my next trip.

Thanks for this insightful blog post! Love to read something different and outstanding! We really need to talk more about ecotourism!

this was so informative I didn’t realize there were so many aspects to eco tourism. Thanks for sharing

It is a great article about eco-tourism and sustainable tourism, you have explained everything in detail. It only teaches us how we can travel responsibly. Thanks for this valuable information.

Thank you so much for taking the time to read this, I really appreciate it. I hope you learned something new about sustainable ecotourism. Make sure you share it to pass along the message.

Very insightful article. Thank you so much.

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What is ecotourism and why is it so important?

We’ve all heard of the term ecotourism, but how many of us know what is really means?

The term ecotourism gets thrown about way too much these days, with people claiming to be ‘ecotourists’, when they don’t really understand the principles of ecotourism. Well, I intend to change this!

Today, I will teach you what you need to know about ecotourism. I will cover what is ecotourism, definitions of ecotourism, why it is important, the history of ecotourism and the principles of ecotourism. I will also provide a brief history of how the concept came about. Towards the end of this article I discuss the advantages and disadvantages of ecotourism (this is the important stuff- don’t close the page before you reach this part!). Finally, we will look at some famous examples of ecotourism around the world.

Are you ready to learn more about ecotourism? Keep scrolling and by the end of this article you will know everything you need to about ecotourism…

The difference between sustainable tourism and ecotourism

What is ecotourism a simple explanation, ecotourism definitions, why is ecotourism important, history of ecotourism, provide long term benefits, promote responsibility, minimise negative impacts, demonstrate strong leadership and management, offer site-sensitive accommodation, provide first-hand experiences, demonstrate sustainable tourism practices, integrate tourism into planning, support the local economy, work with stakeholders, staff training, responsible marketing, undertake research, ecotourism activities, environmental advantages, economic advantages, social advantages, environmental disadvantages, economic disadvantages, social disadvantages, ecotourism in costa rica, ecotourism in kenya, ecotourism in the gambia, ecotourism in norway, ecotourism in belize, further reading.

Before we begin to discuss the concept of ecotourism, I would clear up a common misnomer about the difference between sustainable tourism and ecotourism. Sustainable tourism and ecotourism are NOT THE SAME. They are two different concepts with different underlying principles.

An ecotourism project doesn’t, by definition, have to be sustainable . And sustainable tourism doesn’t have to involve the environment (remember- there are THREE pillars to sustainable tourism. Didn’t know this? Then you should definitely take a look at my article on sustainable tourism ).

Here is the major difference:

• Ecotourism is focussed predominantly around the notion of environment.
• Sustainable tourism is focussed on the practical longevity of tourism.

In actual fact, ecotourism is often (although sadly not always-more about this later) an example of sustainable tourism. It comes under the umbrella of sustainable tourism. It is just one example of sustainable tourism.

OK, so is that clear now? Sustainable tourism and ecotourism are NOT THE SAME.

Right, I’m glad that we have that one cleared up. Now lets get on with the article…. so what exactly is ecotourism?

You stumbled across this article because you want to know more about ecotourism, right? So lets start with a simple explanation…

To put it simply, ecotourism is responsible travel to natural areas which conserves the environment and improves the well-being of local people.

There are generally three dimensions to any ecotourism project:

• It is based around nature
• An environmental education is provided
• It is sustainably managed

Of course, there are many discrepancies over exactly what ecotourism should look like and how it should be managed. Each project is unique and operates in its own way.

However, as a general rule of thumb, we can assume that if a project is designated as an ecotourism venture, it will involve nature, provide education about said nature and operate sustainably.

As with most types of tourism , there are many definitions that have been developed within both the academic community and by various stakeholders of tourism to identify the concept of ecotourism.

The first formal definition of ecotourism was developed by Ceballos-Lascuráin in 1987. He defined ecotourism as; ‘ travelling to relatively undisturbed or uncontaminated natural areas with the specific objective of studying, admiring, and enjoying the scenery and its wild plants and animals, as well as any existing cultural manifestations (both past and present) found in these areas’.

Since this time, the concept has evolved somewhat, and in 1993 Wight suggested that ecotourism was a sub-sector of sustainable tourism, identifying it as an ‘ ethical overlay’ of tradition nature-based tourism.

Tickell (1994) simply summarised ecotourism as ‘travel to enjoy the world’s amazing diversity of natural life and human culture without causing damage to either’.

And the International Ecotourism Society states that ‘ around the world, ecotourism has been hailed as a panacea: a way to fund conservation and scientific research, protect fragile and pristine ecosystems, benefit rural communities, promote development in poor countries, enhance ecological and cultural sensitivity, instil environmental awareness and a social conscience in the travel industry, satisfy and educate the discriminating tourist, and, some claim, build world peace.’

As I explain at length in my article on the environmental impacts of tourism , it is important that we protect the environment. Ecotourism is a great way to do this.

We are destroying our planet. It’s happening and it’s happening fast. The population is expanding globally at a rapid rate. And with this we have more waste, more energy consumption and more crowding .

Tourism is inherently one of the most environmentally destructive activities on the planet. Taking just one transatlantic flight omits more pollution into the air per passenger than the average daily commute to work (in the UK) for a year.

Did this surprise you? Head on over to the WWF website to calculate your carbon footprint .

And do you know what the most ironic thing is? Tourism RELIES on the very environment that it damages! Go figure, huh?!

Ecotourism is important because it promotes awareness. It educates people about biodiversity, nature and wildlife. It helps to conserve and protect species and wildlife.

Ecotourism plays an important role in the recent history of tourism . The exact origins of the concept of ecotourism are not entirely clear. But what we do know for sure is that its really started to gain some gravitas in the 60’s and 70s.

In 1965, Hetzer was one of the first to address the concept of ecotourism, by identifying four pillars of responsible tourism. The four pillars, also referred to as principles are:

• minimising environmental impacts
• respecting the host culture
• maximising the benefits to the local community
• Maximising tourist satisfaction

It was the first ‘pillar’ that gained the most attention, highlighting the notion of ecological (aka eco) tourism.

Some argue that the term itself was coined by a Mexican environmentalist named Héctor Ceballos-Lascuráin. Lascurain used the word ecotourism to describe his travels to natural, unspoilt areas, where tourists could appreciate and enjoy the natural beauty and culture. This is an example of the ‘pure’ ecotourism noted in the diagram above.

Lascurain later became the founding president of the Mexican Association for the Conservation of Nature. In the 1980s he was the most influential Mexican in the environmental conservation sector. In 1984 he founded the first Mexican ecotourism travel agency , which he named Ecotours.

The word ‘ecotour’ was formally recorded in the Oxford English Dictionary in 1973 and the term ecotourism followed in1982. Despite the term being absent from the dictionary until the 80s, academics continued to address the issue prior to this. Early references to ecotourism were found in Millar’s work in 1978. Millar examined national park planning for ecodevelopment in Latin America.

It was in the 1980s that the understanding of the term ecotourism began to become widespread. This was the result of an increased awareness of environmental impacts of tourism , alongside a growing dissatisfaction for mass tourism . By the mid 1980s, many countries had identified ecotourism as a way of achieving environmental conservation and economic production. At this time many ecotourism projects were in the planning and development stage .

In the early 90s Epler Wood founded The International Ecotourism Society (TIES) . The International Ecotourism Society (TIES) is a nonprofit organisation dedicated to promoting ecotourism. They help organisations, communities and individuals promote and practice the principles of ecotourism. The organisation currently has members in more than 190 countries and territories, with a range of tourism stakeholders involved including: academics, consultants, conservation professionals and organisations, governments, architects, tour operators, lodge owners and managers, general development experts, and ecotourists.

In 2002, the World Ecotourism Summit further addressed the concept of ecotourism. The outcome of the summit was that 8 postulates were developed, these stipulated that ecotourism should:

• have a natural area focus that ensures visitors have the opportunity to personally and directly experience nature
• provide interpretation or educational services that give visitors the opportunity to experience nature in ways that lead to greater understanding, appreciation and enjoyment
• represent best practice in ecological sustainability practices
•  contribute to conservation of natural areas and cultural heritage
• provide ongoing contributions to the local community
• respect and be sensitive to the culture/s existing in the area
• consistently meet consumer expectations
• be marketed and promoted honestly and accurately so that realistic expectations are formed

Since this time, awareness and popularity of ecotourism has continued to grow. It is estimated that ecotourism represents approximately 15% of all tourist expenditure. The sector continues to grow at around 5% each year. Despite the recent COVID-19 pandemic bringing travel and tourism almost to a complete halt, there continues to be a strong desire and interest for eco-based holidays.

The principles of ecotourism

Ecotourism is identifiable because of its underlying principles. These are the aspects that make up the concept, that define what ecotourism is, how is occurs and what it means. Below, I have briefly outlined what the principles of ecotourism are.

Ecotourism should be designed to provide benefits to the local environment and the local community. This includes aspects such as regeneration, employment, improved social services, research, protection of flora and fauna, growth of species and the protection of wildlife.

These benefits should be long lasting, demonstrating that the ecotourism project is sustainable.

Education is a core principle of ecotourism.

Ecotourism should educate the tourists who visit about the local area and the wildlife that resides within it. It should also educate other tourism stakeholders including the host community, Government, NGOs and the industry as a whole.

Ecotourism provides opportunity for research and development and for both locals and tourists to really gain an understanding of the biological diversity on offer.

Ecotourism should promote ethical and moral responsibility amongst all of those involved.

Tourists, local and other stakeholders should be aware the impacts of their actions and act responsibility.

The negative impacts of tourism should be minimised at all times.

This includes environmental aspects such as littering, erosion , displacement of animals, trampling and pollution.

It also includes social impacts such as globalisation, cultural erosion , enhancing disparities etc.

Ecotourism should demonstrate a strong management approach. This includes management of the physical area as well as the people within it.

Strong management should prevent over-visitation and overtourism , and to promote responsible behaviour amongst tourists. This could include the implementation of various interventions, such as limiting visitors numbers as a given time, blocking off certain areas or providing educational materials.

There are many different types of accommodation offered in ecotourism destinations, not just eco lodges.

In order to adhere to the principles of ecotourism, any accommodation that is associated with the concept of ecotourism should be site-sensitive. This means that it is not wasteful of local resources or destructive to the environment. It should also provide ample opportunity for learning about the environment and for sensitive cultural exchange with local communities.

Ecotourism typically facilitates first-hand experiences with nature. This comes in different shapes and forms, from staying in an ecolodge in the jungle, to birdwatching, to working in turtle conservation in Costa Rica.

First-hand experiences help people to learn easier. And education is another core principle of ecotourism. It also fosters a culture of appreciation.

As I outlined at the beginning of this post, ecotourism is a form of sustainable tourism (most of the time). Therefore, eco tourism should demonstrate a commitment to the three pillars of sustainable tourism: the environment, society and the economy.

In doing so, the ecotourism project should minimise any negative impacts and maximise any positive impacts to the environment, society and the economy.

Tourism planning is important and ecotourism should demonstrate a strong planning process that involves all tourism stakeholders .

Tourism development should be integrated into national and local strategic planning frameworks. These frameworks should undertake environmental impact assessments, as wells other sustainability assessments as part of the planning process.

Economic leakage in tourism should be avoided. Activities should take economic impacts to account, whilst continuing to ensure environmental conservation.

Economic benefits should be aimed towards the local economy and communities.

In order for ecotourism to be sustainable it requires commitment by all stakeholders. This includes members of the local community, staff, tourists and different levels of Government.

Adequate staff training will help to teach employees about sustainable tourism practices. Staff can be taught how to integrate sustainable practices into their work lives.

Responsible ecotourism businesses and destinations should ensure that marketing material is informative and education. It should demonstrate a sincere respect for the natural, social and cultural environments of destination areas.

Research is a powerful tool. Ecotourism destinations should facilitate ongoing research. This will enable to best management strategies to be adopted in the destination and elsewhere.

There are many different types of ecotourism and different ecotourism activities.

A tourist can choose to go on an ecotourism holiday, whereby most aspects of their trip revolve around the concept of ecotourism. Or they can incorporate some elements of ecotourism into their holiday. For example, I stayed in an ecolodge in The Gambia as part of a larger trip visiting the country, the ecotourism element accounted for about 20% of my visit.

Below is a list of ecotourism activities. This list is not exhaustive.

• staying in an ecolodge
• birdwatching
• bike riding
• jungle trekking
• mountain climbing
• volunteering
• wildlife spotting
• sightseeing
• educational tours
• photography
• horse riding

Advantages of ecotourism

Ecotourism can be a fantastic way to bring money into the local economy whilst also satisfying societal needs and conserving the natural environment. Of course, for this to be successful there needs to be strong management, but it is entirely possible.

Of course, the major positive impact of ecotourism is the way that it can help to protect the environment. This can happen in many ways, from raising money that can be spent on environmental research, to encouraging tourists to volunteer to help with breeding programmes of animals that are near extinction.

Ecotourism helps to keep destinations and areas natural and unspoilt. It promotes regrowth of flora and fauna. It encourages diversification of wildlife.

Ecotourism also has many economic advantages.

It creates employment for local people. It brings in foreign currency (if international tourists are targeted). It raises money through taxation, which can then be reinvested in important areas such as education and healthcare.

Ecotourism can also have positive impacts on the local community. Facilities and infrastructure (such as new roads or shops) that are developed for tourism can often be utilised by the local people too. And the money raised through tourism can help to enhance their lives. For example, the money might be used to build a new doctors surgery or social club.

One of the core principles of ecotourism is education. Therefore ecotourism can help to raise awareness of important issues. Issues that may previously gone under the radar can now be exposed on the global stage. This can help their cause and further the preservation and conservation work that is already ongoing.

Disadvantages of ecotourism

Ecotourism is not perfect and there are also disadvantages that should be noted. Good planning and sustainable management should aim to reduce these negative impacts.

Ecotourism often occurs in areas that have fragile ecosystems. These areas sometimes struggle to accommodate the tourists and their associated ecotourism activities. Think Antarctica or the Maldives . Known as ‘last chance tourism’, tourists are often encouraged to visit these areas before it is ‘too late’.

Many tourists choose to visit a particular destination because it is mating, breeding or hunting season. This is because these are the best times to get a good look at the wildlife. The problem is, however, that the presence of tourists may impact the behaviour of the animals- they may choose to mate less frequently, thus reducing population sizes, for example.

Whilst ecotourism is by definition a small and intimate venture, is often exceeds capacity limits for a given location. In other words, it presents itself as overtourism , whereby there are more tourists than the destination can comfortable cope with. This then has adverse impacts on the local area- the environment and society.

Even if the tourist activities at the ecotourism destination have a small environmental impact, there may have been significant impact caused during the tourist’s journey to get there. For example, an ecotourist visiting the Ecuadorian Amazon from the UK will have to take a 15 hour flight to get there! The amount of carbon produced in this single flight would be more than the average person produces in an entire year.

Ecotourism isn’t usually cheap. And there is no denying that it has huge economic benefits. However, much of the money spent goes to foreign-owned tour operators , travel agents and airlines. This economic leakage reduces the positive impacts to the local area.

The market for ecotourism is specialised and in order to market their product, many ecotourism ventures partner with larger tour operators, most of whom are based in the Global North. This means that much of the money spent by tourists does not end up in the local area where the tourism takes place, but instead is directed back to major economies such as the USA and the UK. The most money is retained by individual travellers, who do not book via an intermediary.

As I explain ion my article about Butler’s Tourism Area Lifecycle , social impacts increase with the number of visitors. As ecotourism grows in an area, so do the social impacts.

As ecotourism often takes place in place is locations that are somewhat remote, the local population number is often small. This means that it is not uncommon for tourist numbers to be higher than the number of people who live in the area permanently.

This can cause many social impacts , such as resentment, theft, cultural erosion , globalisation , loss of language and more.

In some instances, the development and growth of ecotourism has resulted in the displacement of local people. Dedicated protected areas and conservation efforts will sometimes mean that local people can no longer continue their traditional line of work. This could include hunting wildlife or selling souvenirs made from local wildlife or plant species.

Whilst the ideals of ecotourism are pure, the local community will not be receptive to the idea if this means taking away their ability to make enough money to feed their families or send their children to school. In cases such as this, effective top-down management is required to ensure that people are provided with alternative employment and training, where necessary. However, the reality is that this often does not happen.

Ecotourism examples

There are plenty of examples of ecotourism throughout the world. Here are my top five:

Costa Rica has a well developed ecotourism industry. In fact, is claims to be the world leader in ecotourism!

From zip lining and walking along the tree tops on the Arenal Hanging Bridges to mountain top walks in the Monteverde Cloud Forest to giant turtle breeding in Tortuguero, there is plenty to do in Costa Rica for the eco-conscious traveller.

With its wide open plains, abundant wildlife and bucket loads of culture, it is no wonder that Kenya is a popular ecotourism destination.

Kenya has a wide range of ecotourism activities. There are unique cultural activities for tourists to take part in here, such as visiting the Masaii Mara tribe.

There is also plenty to do in terms of wildlife. You can undertake a volunteer tourism programme, climb Mount Kilimanjaro or go on safari, amongst other things. Oh, the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust is highly rated too.

As I mentioned earlier, I had my very first ecolodge experience in The Gambia.

We stayed far away from the main tourist resorts in Footsteps Ecolodge . Here we ate ethical sourced food, used a compost toilet and spent our days relaxing on a deserted, unspoilt sandy beach overlooking Senegal. It was pure bliss!

Norway prides itself on its sustainable tourism principles.

Offering a variation of tours and holidays in the fjords and mountainous areas, Norway promotes many experiences that promote unspoilt nature and sustainability.

Almost 1/3 of Belize is protected in national parks, nature reserves or sanctuaries.

Belize have done a lot to demonstrate their commitment to sustainability in recent years. They have banned single use plastic cutlery and banned offshore drilling. After years of conservation efforts, the barrier reef has now been removed from the danger list.

It is no wonder that the National Geographic has Belize at the top of their ecotourism list.

Now that I have taught you the basics of ecotourism, I suggest that you do a bit more reading. I have plenty of useful articles on this website and there are also some fantastic books that I recommend. I have listed these below for you.

Useful books-

• Ecotourism and Sustainable Development: Who Owns Paradise? – the most comprehensive overview of worldwide ecotourism available today, showing how both the concept and the reality have evolved over more than twenty-five years
• Ecotourism: Transitioning to the 22nd Century – a critical introduction to the analysis of tourism from a sociological and geographical perspective, the title is essential reading for higher-level and graduate students and researchers in tourism, sociology and geography.
• How to be a highly Sustainable Tourist: A Guidebook for the Conscientious Traveller – a great guide with tips on how to travel sustainably
• The Intrepid Traveler: The ultimate guide to responsible, ecological, and personal-growth travel and tourism – Leading travel expert Adam Rogers draws upon 40 years of experience exploring more than 130 countries in every region on Earth to share the smartest ways to travel in this tip-filled guide
• Outdoor Recreation: Environmental Impacts and Management – an academic text discussing the sustainability of outdoor pursuits
• Sustainable and Responsible Tourism: Trends, Practices and Cases – Sustainable tourism case studies from around the world
• Responsible Tourism: Using tourism for sustainable development – a textbook addressing the concept of sustainability in terms in development

Useful articles on this website-

• Sustainable tourism explained: What, why and where
• Economic impacts of tourism
• Environmental impacts of tourism
• Social impacts of tourism
• Authenticity in tourism
• Economic leakage in tourism

Eco Tourism – Definitions, Types, History, Characteristics, and Functions

Around the world, ecotourism has been hailed as a panacea: a way to fund conservation and scientific research, protect fragile and pristine ecosystems, benefit rural communities, promote development in poor countries, enhance ecological and cultural sensitivity, instill environmental awareness and social conscience in the travel industry, satisfy and educate the discriminating tourist, and, some claim, build world peace.

Ecotourism is a form of tourism that attempts to minimize its impact upon the environment, is ecologically sound, and avoids the negative impacts of many large-scale tourism developments undertaken in the areas which have not previously been developed.

History of Eco Tourism

The origins of the term ‘ ecotourism ‘ are not entirely clear, one of the first to use it appears to have been Hetzer(1965), who identified four ‘ pillars ‘ or principles of responsible tourism: minimizing environmental impacts, respecting host cultures, maximizing the benefits to local people, and maximizing tourist satisfaction. The first of these was held to be the most distinguishing characteristic of ecological tourism.

Other early references to ecotourism are found in Miller’s (1978) work on national park planning for ecodevelopment in Latin America, and documentation produced by Environment Canada in relation to a set of road-based ‘ecotours’ they developed from the mid-1979s through to the early 1980s.

Ecotourism developed ‘within the womb’ of the environmental movement in the 1970s and 1980s . Growing environmental concern coupled with an emerging dissatisfaction with mass tourism led to increased demand for nature-based experiences of an alternative nature.

At the same time, less developed countries began to realize that nature-based tourism offers a means of earning foreign exchange and providing a less destructive use of resources than alternatives such as logging and agriculture.

By the mid-1980s, a number of such countries had identified ecotourism as a means of achieving both conservation and development goals. The first formal definition of ecotourism is generally credited to Ceballos Lascurain in 1987.

Definitions of Eco Tourism

According to Ceballos-Lascurain, ecotourism is the , ” traveling to relatively undisturbed or uncontaminated natural areas with the specific objective of studying, admiring, and enjoying the scenery and its wild plants and animals, as well as any existing cultural manifestation (both past and present) found in these areas.”

Ecotourism Society defines ecotourism as, ” responsible travel to natural areas which conserves the environment and improves the well-being of local people.”

According to the Ecotourism Association of Australia , ” ecotourism is nature-based tourism that involves education and interpretation of the natural environment and is managed to be ecologically sustainable.”

This definition recognizes that ‘natural environment’ includes cultural components and that ‘ecologically sustainable’ involves an appropriate return to the local community and long-term conservation of the resource.

According to Tickell , ecotourism is “travel to enjoy the world’s amazing diversity of natural life and human culture without causing damage to either”.

Ecotourism is ecologically sustainable tourism that fosters environmental and cultural understanding, appreciation and conservation.

Types of Ecotourism

Fennell considers that ecotourism exits within the broader classification of tourism types which, at an initial level, can be divided into the following types:

• Mass Tourism
• Alternative Tourism

Mass tourism we saw as the more traditional form of tourism development where short-term, free-market principles dominate and the maximization of income is paramount. The development of the tourism industry was originally seen as a desirable and relatively ‘clean’ industry for nations and regions to pursue. This was particularly true in terms of benefits in foreign exchange earnings, employment and infrastructural development such as transport networks.

These days we are more prone to vilify or characterize conventional mass tourism as a beast; a monstrosity which has few redeeming qualities for the destination region, their people and their natural resource base.

This is not to deny that ‘ mass tourism ‘ has caused problems, because it has. There has, quite justifiably, been a need to identify an alternative approach to tourism development that lessens the negative consequences of the mass tourism approach.

Thus the ‘ alternative tourism ‘ perspective has become a popular paradigm. This alternative approach has been described as a ‘competing paradigm’ to mass tourism, but it can also be viewed as a complementary approach to tourism. That is, it is not possible to have ‘alternative tourism’ to.

So, the discussion returns to a semantic debate, perhaps it is best to accept that alternative tourism is a natural outcome of the maturing understanding of tourism development and its strengths and weakness. Fennell states that :

Alternative tourism is a generic term that encompasses a whole range of tourism strategies (e.g. appropriate, eco, soft, responsible, people to people, and green tourism) all of which purport to offer a more benign alternative to conventional mass tourism in certain types of destinations.

However, Weaver quite rightly points out that there are also many criticisms of alternative tourism. It is clear that just because alternative tourism has developed as a reaction to the negative consequences of mass tourism it is not necessarily less harmful or better than its alternatives.

Nature of Ecotourism

Tourism activity is expected to grow by 4.3% per annum in real terms between 2008 and 2017. Ecotourism or nature-based tourism has become the fastest growing sector of the tourism industry growing 3 times faster than the industry as a whole.

There can be no doubting of the increasing trends in environmental concern allied with the historically prevalent trend of travel as for, of escape to nature, driven by the pressures of urban living encourage people to seek solitude with nature, therefore, increasing the numbers of visitors to national parks and other protected areas.

There are a number of dimensions to nature-based tourism. All forms of travel to natural areas are not necessarily ecotourism, but this provides a useful step in differentiating nature-based tourism from ecotourism and gives us a number of levels at which to distinguish the relationship between specific tourism activities and nature:

• Those activities or experiences that are dependent on nature.
• Those activities or experiences that are enhanced by nature.
• Those activities or experiences for which the natural setting is incidental.

There are several classes of nature-based tourism, each utilizing a combination of these dimensions. Bird watching, for example, can provide a pleasant and relaxing holiday based around a general interest in nature and the environment. So that without the natural environment it would be difficult to carry out the activity.

Similarly, camping is an activity/experience which often enhanced by nature. Most people would prefer to camp in some type of natural setting rather than on the side of a busy road. Therefore, nature is an integral part of these experiences but not the fundamental motivation for them.

Principles and Guidelines of Ecotourism

Ecotourism attracts people who wish to interact with the environment and, in varying degrees, develop their knowledge, awareness, and appreciation of it. The Ecotourism Society gives the principles and guidelines of ecotourism. These are following as:

•  Prepare travelers to minimize their negative impact while visiting sensitive environments and cultures before departure.
• Prepare traveler for each encounter with local cultures and with native animals and plants.
• Minimize visitors impacts on the on the environment by offering literature, briefing, leading by example, and taking corrective actions.
• Minimize traveler impact on cultures by offering literature, briefings, leading by example, and taking corrective actions.
• Use adequate leadership, and maintain small enough groups to ensure minimum group impact on destination. Avoid areas that are under-managed and over-visited.
• Ensure managers, staff and contract employees know and participate in all aspects of company policy to prevent impacts on the environment and local cultures.
• Give managers, staff and contact employees access to programmes that will upgrade their ability to communicate with and manage clients in sensitive natural and cultural settings.
• Be a contributor to the conservation of the region being visited.
• Provide competitive, local employment in all aspect of business operation.
• Offer site-sensitive accommodations that are not wasteful of local resources or destructive to the environment, which provide ample opportunity for learning about the environment and sensitive interchange with local communities.
• Focuses on personally experiencing natural areas in ways that led to greater understanding and appreciation.

Characteristics of Eco-Tourism

Ecotourism is travel to fragile, pristine, and usually protected areas that strives to be low impact and (often) small scale. It helps educate the traveler, provides funds for conservation, directly benefits the economic development and political empowerment of local communities, and fosters respect for different cultures and for human rights.

Some important characteristics of ecotourism are following as:

1) Involves travel to the natural destination . These destinations are often remote areas, whether inhabited or uninhabited, and are usually under some kind of environmental protection at the national, international, communal, or private travel.

2) Minimize impact . Tourism causes damage. Ecotourism strives to minimize the adverse effects of hotels, trails, and other infrastructure by using either recycled or plentifully available local building material, renewable sources of energy, recycling and safe disposal of waste and garbage, and environmentally and culturally sensitive architectural design.

3) Builds environmental awareness . Ecotourism means education, for both tourist and residents of nearby communities. Well before the tour begins, tour operators should supply travelers with reading material about the country, environment, and local people, as well as a code of conduct for both the traveler and the industry itself. Ecotourism projects should also help educate members of surrounding communities, schoolchildren, and the broader public in the host country.

4) Provides direct financial benefits for conservation . Ecotourism helps raise funds for environmental protection, research, and education through a variety of mechanisms, including park entrance fees; tour company, hotel, airline, and airport taxes. And voluntary contributions.

5) Provides financial benefits and empowerment for local people . Ecotourism holds that national parks and other conservation areas will survive only if, there are happy people around the perimeters. The local community must be involved with and receive income and other tangible benefits (potable water, roads, health clinics, etc.) from the conservation area and its tourist facilities.

6) Respects local culture . Ecotourism is not only “greener” but also less culturally intrusive and exploitative than conventional tourism. Whereas prostitution, black markets, and drug often are byproducts of mass tourism, ecotourism strives to be culturally respectful and the human population of a host country.

7) Supports human rights and democratic movements . The United Nations-sponsored World Tourism Organization proclaims that tourism contributes to “international understanding, peace, prosperity, and universal respect for and observance of human rights and fundamental freedoms for all.

Such sentiments, however, are little reflected in conventional mass tourism. In this way, ecotourism supports humans rights and, to establish international peace.

Functions of Ecotourism

Eco-tourism is nature-based, environmentally educated and sustainably managed. Ross and Wall (1999) outline the five fundamental functions of ecotourism namely:

1. Protection of natural areas 2. Education 3. Generation of money 4. Quality tourism 5. Local participation

Economic Effects of Ecotourism

The job generated by ecotourism provide an important reason for interest in and support for, the phenomenon. These jobs often occur in areas relatively untouched by traditional development efforts and represent tangible economic benefits from natural areas.

Several studies have assessed the local employment benefits of ecotourism; not surprisingly, the level of benefits varies widely as a result of differences in the quality of attraction, access and other factors.

Some important economic effects of ecotourism are following as:

Fiscal Impacts (taxes, fees, expenditures)

Ecotourism not only generates government revenue through business and other general taxes but also through industry-specific channels, such as payment of occupancy and departure taxes.

Reduced access to the resource

Tourism utilizes various resources as inputs into the products and services provided to visitors. In the case of ecotourism, one of these products is nature in a partially or totally preserved state.

Preservation of natural areas often involves reduced local access to resources, such as wood or medicinal plants. In so far as tourism is a partial or sole rationale for preserving an area, it also causes reduced access to resources.

Many destinations have experienced increased price for goods, services, and land due to tourism development, and this is a cost borne by residents of the area who purchase these items.

Effects of the income distribution

In some cases, tourism development exacerbates existing income inequalities within destination communities, while in others it generates new financial elites.

Revenue sharing

At some ecotourism destinations, residents benefit from revenue-sharing programmes that either provide cash payments or, more commonly, funding for community projects such as well or schools.

Environmental Effects of Ecotourism

The impacts of ecotourism depend on what ecotourism is. The critical issue is that ecotourism should involve deliberates steps to minimize impacts, through the choice of activities, equipment, location and timing, group size, education and training, and operational environmental management.

There is now quite an extensive literature on impacts such as trampling, which is easy to quantify experimentally. However, very little is known about impacts such as noise disturbance, soil and water-borne pathogens, and interference with plant and animal population dynamics and genetics, which are likely to have far greater ecological significance.

Some important environmental effects of ecotourism are following as:

• Crushing or clearance of vegetation.
• Soil modification.
• Introduction of weeds and pathogens.
• Water pollution from human waste.
• Air pollution from generator exhausts, noise from machinery, vehicles, and voices.
• Visual impacts.
• Disturbance to wildlife through all of the above, and through food scraps and litter, etc.

A new group of tourism clients has emerged who are demanding different activities, experiences and approaches to tourism from the industry: ‘ these are the ecotourists – people who require environmentally compatible recreational opportunities, where nature rather than humanity predominates ‘.

They are shrugging off the shackles of traditional tourism in search of knowledge and experience. Their interest is not in lounging by hotels pools or hectic sightseeing schedules. They are interested in visiting wilderness, national parks, and tropical forests, and in viewing birds, mammals, trees and wildflowers.

They want to experience new lifestyles and meet people with similar interests to themselves and they want to see their traveling dollars contributing toward conservation and benefiting the local economy.

Ecotourists can be generally characterized as having higher than average incomes, largely holding tertiary qualifications and there tend to be more female ecotourists than men.

According to the International Ecotourism Society, ecotourists are experienced travelers who are more likely to have a college/university degree and have a higher income bracket .

Ecotourists are expecting discovery and enlightenment from their ecotourism experience. Personal growth in emotional, spiritual, as well as intellectual terms, appear to be expected outcomes from ecotourism travel for the majority of these travelers.

Ecotourism Organizations

Ecotourism organizations are the administrative or functional structures that are concerned with ecotourism. Ecotourism organizations help into to minimize the negative impacts and maximize the positive impacts of ecotourism. These organizations can be sorted into three categories:

• Membership non-government organizations (NGOs)
• Public sector or governmental agencies
• Non-membership organizations (NGOs)

Ecotourism organizations, found throughout the world, play important roles ranging from grass-roots advocacy to international policymaking.

International Organizations

In the international arena, many different organizations address ecotourism related issues.   World Tourism Organization (WTO) plays an important role in the development of ecotourism. The United Nations Development Program (UNDP) is another international governmental organization that deals with ecotourism, through its international development assistance programme.

WTO and UNDP are just two examples of how international governmental ecotourism related organizations can play a role in making ecotourism a tool for sustainable development. At the international level NGOs also play a role.

Tourism Concern, a UK based NGO dedicated to ensuring tourism is just and sustainable form of business has worked for many years to make tourism more sustainable.

The US-based TES is dedicated solely to ensuring that ecotourism is a viable tool for biodiversity conservation and community development.

National Organizations

Government plays an important role in the national arena. Government related ecotourism organization active at this level generally come from areas: parks management agencies, universities, tourism ministries, and environment or natural resource ministries.

For example, in Kenya, much of the government related ecotourism activities at the national level is performed by the Kenya Wildlife Services (KYS), a quasi-governmental organization whose mandate is the management of wildlife in the country.

Every country has their national organizations for conservation and preservation of natural resources and ecotourism.

Sub-national Organizations

Below the national level is found regional, state and local areas for action. Ecotourism organizations play a role at each of these levels.  Queensland Tourism and Tourism Saskatchewan are two examples of state-level public sector ecotourism organizations.

In Australia, Queensland Tourism’s environment division publishes a quarterly newsletter titled EcoTrends informing industry, NGOs, universities and the public sector about ecotourism- related events, accreditation recipients, department research and policy.

What is Ecotourism?

Travel is good for the soul. It expands the mind – and our hearts. And it helps us realise life’s most important purpose, which is to love and respect everyone around us and make the world a better place for humans and animals. But every time we pack our bags and jet off for a new adventure, we leave a footprint behind. This footprint is made up of the emissions from each mode of transport used, as well as other resources acquired to help us have an enjoyable time.

So how do we reduce our impact on the planet when we travel? The biggest problem lies with mass tourism, as many operators do not have environmental care at the top of the agenda. Ecotourism is an alternative to mass tourism and is a great way of exploring the world off the beaten path in the most sustainable way possible.

If this sounds like the type of travel that interests you, read on for a detailed explanation about what ecotourism is, what its principles are, how it can be achieved, and the traps to watch out for.

Ecotourism definition

Ecotourism is a form of tourism that involves responsible travel to fragile, pristine and relatively undisturbed natural areas. These natural areas usually have programmes to conserve the environment or sustain the wellbeing of the local people.

An ecotourism holiday is done on a smaller scale compared to commercial mass tourism and is intended to be low impact. This means that tour operators and accommodation providers act as responsibly as possible, ensuring the protection of flora and fauna in the local area.

What are the goals of ecotourism?

One of the main goals of ecotourism is to boost awareness of what’s going on, both environmentally and socially. An eco-travel tour, conservation project or volunteering holiday aims to educate tourists about the social conditions surrounding a certain travel destination. These conditions are things like poverty, which is often hidden from tourists. Or the declining wildlife due to commercial developments and human impact.

All in all, ecotourism intends to expose travellers to the realities of social and economic climates across the world.

The key principles to know

According to the International Ecotourism Society, the key principles of ecotourism are:

Minimising physical, social, behavioural and psychological impacts

By choosing a responsible tour operator and going to less commercial destinations, we can reduce the impact we have on the places we visit. One of the best ways of giving back when you’re travelling is to volunteer in projects such as teaching English abroad to children of poor communities or using your skills to provide sports coaching .

Building environmental and cultural awareness and respect

Conservation projects are a great way of helping the environment, but an important part of working as a conservationist isn’t just the hands-on work. The educational side is just as important, and you may be involved in doing talks or discussions with local groups or schools. On top of that, what you learn from your conservation experience abroad should be used to spread the word back home, helping everyone gain a better understanding of what’s at risk.

Providing positive experiences for both visitors and hosts

With ecotourism, it’s extremely important to make the exchange a positive one for hosts as well as the visitor. This means that you, the traveller, are not the most important factor as often seen with mass tourism. This means fair pay for local hosts, creating job opportunities and having respect for local traditions and customs.

Providing direct financial benefits for conservation

Many of our animal welfare, environmental conservation or marine conservation experiences help to raise money for future projects by hosting for volunteers. The money spent on an all-inclusive resort in a largely commercialised holiday destination can be used to fund a volunteering trip instead, and your money will help to pay for the work that needs to be done in order to improve the environment.

Generating financial benefits for both local people and private industry

Mass tourism works on a system that can make rich people richer, and poor people poorer. While big tour operators and hotel chains sign lucrative deals, the local community doesn’t always benefit. While tourism can generate jobs in an area, there isn’t a fair distribution of wealth. Ecotourism works on the principle of helping local people come out of poverty and become independent.

Delivering memorable experiences to help raise sensitivity to host countries’ political, environmental, and social climates

By creating interpretative, easy to understand and eye-opening learning experiences, ecotourism can make an impact in changing people’s perspectives. Tourism in the mass market doesn’t do much in terms of educating tourists about political, environmental, and social climates, but ecotourism takes a different approach. Learning is key, and a better understanding will ultimately lead to more sensitivity and compassion.

Designing, constructing and operating low-impact facilities

Large hotel chains and big resorts put the comfort of their guests and cost-cutting at the top of their priorities. But ecotourism is about building facilities that put the environment first. This doesn’t mean that guests don’t get their creature comforts, many wonderful eco-friendly hotels deliver a feeling of luxury. But for those who are serious about reducing their footprint, 5 star mass tourism isn’t the way to go.

Recognising the rights and spiritual beliefs of the Indigenous People in different communities and working in partnership with them to create empowerment

Empowering communities is another key principle of ecotourism. It’s essential to make people from all backgrounds feel safe and empowered. Some of the best volunteering programmes for this include volunteering with monks or helping with women’s empowerment in different communities.

A brief history of ecotourism

In recent years, ecotourism has really come into its own as a concept. This has been largely driven by the younger generations, but has also struck a chord with informed travellers of all ages. With more and more people realising the importance of caring for the planet and wanting to give back when they travel, the platform for ecotourism has grown exponentially.

But what is popular today actually started to take shape many decades ago. The exact origins of the term ‘ecotourism’ aren’t entirely clear, but one of the first uses dates back to 1965 when Hetzer identified the four pillars of responsible tourism. Back then, these were: minimising environmental impact, respecting host cultures, maximising benefits to local people, and maximising tourist satisfaction. These were considered to be the first distinguishing characteristics of ecological tourism.

The concept developed further in the late 1970s and early 1980s. This was due to the growing environmental concern as well as the emerging dissatisfaction with mass tourism. This resulted in an increased demand for nature-based experiences that were off the beaten path and away from the main tourist track.

By the mid-1980s, a number of countries identified ecotourism as an important platform for achieving both conservation and development goals, and the industry has continued to grow ever since.

Today, other buzzwords are often associated with ecological tourism. These are ‘sustainable tourism’, ‘green tourism’, ‘nature tourism’, ‘responsible tourism’, and ‘ethical tourism’. Ultimately, all of these terms refer to mindful travel, and contributing to a better and more informed world.

Why is it important for the planet?

Ecotourism is extremely important to the planet because its principles are built on helping the natural world, as well as the people and animals that live in it. The bottom line is, everyone benefits – humans and nature.

People who embark on eco-travel adventures are required to stick to certain guidelines. These principles can help to shift perspectives and transition people from the indulgent, unenlightened experiences commonly found with mass tourism. The principles of ecotourism are beneficial for the world as a whole, and doesn’t just benefit one or two countries, but the entire planet.

With the growing problems associated with global warming and depleting resources, it’s more important than ever to reduce our footprint in any way we can – not just in the home, but also as we travel.

Some of the benefits of eco-travel:

• We can help to maintain natural environments and keep places of outstanding beauty pristine for future generations
• We can help communities by building cultural awareness and spreading the word through social media
• We can improve the lives of hosts and the lives of local people in host countries
• We can increase employment opportunities in impoverished areas

  The personal benefits of greener travel

As well as being important for the planet and its people, travelling responsibly also brings some great personal benefits. Going green when you travel, volunteering abroad or visiting fragile, pristine nature areas can create a unique and immersive experience.

Some of the benefits include:

Life changing travel

See places that you would never get to see with mass tourism. Get away from the crowded resorts and discover new places with authentic food and people.

Broaden your mind

Learn more about the host country and gain a new perspective of what it’s like to be in someone else’s shoes on the other side of the word.

Experience a new culture

Enjoy immersive travel and get to know the local people.

Work on meaningful projects

If you join a volunteering group or teach abroad, you can make a difference and create real meaning and purpose for yourself.

Make friends for life

A lot of ecotourism travel puts you in the same space as other like-minded people. Meet people who have the same passions, goals and desires, and make friends from around the world.

How to bring it into action

Mindful travel can be approached in a number of ways. If you’re passionate about reducing your footprint, learning more about the world around you, helping the environment and contributing to a better society, you’re not alone.

There are many like-minded folk who want the same things. So even if you’re embarking on solo travel, you’ll be sure to meet lots of friends along the way. To bring ecotourism into action, here are some ideas to inspire you.

Trekking holidays

A trekking holiday is a fantastic way of exploring places lesser travelled with low impact. From the Annapurna Massif in Nepal to Mount Everest, there are so many challenges you can take on.

Conservation and animal welfare

Whether you’re interested in volunteering with elephants , working with safari game animals, or getting veterinary work experience abroad, this is a great way of using your time and money on a good cause.

Medical internships

Internships or medical work experience trips are a fantastic way of giving back while improving your CV. They can be combined with nature travel for the perfect balance of ecotourism.

What is greenwashing? (And how to avoid it)

As well as volunteering as you travel, you can also help the ecotourism cause by choosing only eco-friendly tour operators and accommodation providers. But one of the things that you should beware of is greenwashing.

The term greenwashing describes a form of marketing spin in which green PR and green advertising techniques are deceptively used to persuade travellers that a company’s products or services are environmentally friendly. Sadly, things aren’t always as plain as they seem.

To avoid greenwashing campaigns, always do your own research. Never just take a company’s word for it – look at the small print, read reviews and check the finer details. You should never be afraid to ask questions either. A reputable travel company is always transparent about its processes and procedures.

Here are some commonly asked questions about ecotourism that might help you get a better understanding.

Q: What’s the difference between ecotourism, green tourism and sustainable?

A: These terms are often used interchangeably and can often mean the same thing and drive a similar result. But while the term ‘ecotourism’ can be defined by “responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment and improves the welfare of local people”, the terms ‘green’ and ‘sustainable’ can be used to describe a lot of different things, services and products. Green hotels or sustainable travel doesn’t necessarily mean ecotourism.

Q: Does ecotourism have to involve nature?

A: Yes, generally all ecotourism will involve activities in nature such as hiking or mountain climbing. But many ecotourism projects include cultural activities too.

Q: Won’t ecotourism spoilt a pristine region’s ecosystem?

A: As with any travel, there’s always a risk of leaving too much of a footprint. But ecological tourism operators are trained to create activities that have low-impact. Spreading awareness is one of the main goals, and by giving people access, we can educate the world on being more responsible anywhere we go.

Ready to get going? Take a look at some of our conservation projects online .

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