What is Ecotourism?

Ecotourism is the term which basically means responsible tourism. It focuses on the local, traditional cultures, wilderness and personal growth. The travel destinations which exhibit untouched flora, fauna and rich cultural heritage are the major attractions. Environment in its preserved and original form, landforms and geological attractions are all included in ecotourism. Conservation is essential and this is what ecotourism aspires for.

The Nature Conservancy defines eco tourism 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."

Why is Ecotourism important?

The advancement in transportation has enabled man to travel far off places within a short period, explore places that were never heard of. With the onset of information technology and age of globalisation, people all over the world aspire to explore the planet earth and visit far off places with the convenience of technology. This is the reason tourism has emerged as one of the largest industries of the world today where nature tourism is on top of the list. People, living in cemented urbanized cities with technology all around them wish to visit natural wonders and experience something that brings them closer to nature.

However, this interaction between man and the natural environment must be done in such a way that the beauty of it is maintained and preserved. This is the reason the new travel ethic, ecotourism has emerged to protect and safeguard the planet earth from negative aspects of tourism. With the rise in tourism, the importance of ecotourism has only grown.

What are the objectives of Eco tourism?

Ecotourism advocates a number of objectives and aims which are:

1.      To provide tourism which is just and yields benefits which are distributed fairly

2.      To provide tourism that respects and recognizes the rights of the residents

3.      To provide sustainable tourism

4.      To increase the level of education and conservation activism among the travelers

5.      To generate revenues for conservation and preservation

Ecotourism in South Africa has a lot of potential. It can help alleviate poverty in this geologically and naturally well endowed country and can bring positive changes to its economy.