What is Community Based Ecotourism?
According to the Nature Conservancy and the World Conservation Union (IUCN) ecotourism is defined as , “environmentally responsible travel to natural areas, in order to enjoy and appreciate nature (and accompanying cultural features, both past and present) that promote conservation, have a low visitor impact and provide for beneficially active socio-economic involvement of local peoples.” As opposed to other forms of travel, ecotourism can be distinguished by its emphasis on conservation, traveler responsibility, education and active community participation. More specifically community based ecotourism should follow the following principles: • Maintain local ownership and control • Result in minimal impact • Build environmental and cultural awareness and respect • Provide positive experiences for both visitors and hosts • Provide direct financial benefits for conservation • Provide financial benefits and empowerment for local people • Raise sensitivity to host countries’ political, env
