"Ecotourism is responsible travel to natural areas that preserves the environment and improves the well-being of local people".*
* Definition defined by TIES – The International Ecotourism Society – worldwide network of ecotourism that brings together more than 90 countries and affiliations with more than 40 regional and national ecotourism associations.
Ecotourism stays are based on apprenticeship and experience. The tourist becomes the participant of his trip
Ecotourism can also involve an active participation by local people and tourists in actions for biodiversity conservation (reforestation, protection of fauna and flora, reintroduction of endangered species ...).
Ecotourism is part of a sustainable and environmentally-friendly approach. The development of such tourism contributes to the individual awareness of the need to protect the environment, but also allows for the dissemination of knowledge at an international level. Ecotourism provides personal enrichment. It’s all about having intelligent tourism, not passive.
Indeed, the ecotourist focuses on local people, their know-how, their culture, their customs and traditions. During his/her stay, he/she will discover and learn many things.
In addition, it makes tourism stakeholders (tourists and operators) more responsible in their modes of development dynamics of tourism by raising awareness about biodiversity, about the complexity and richness of the laws of nature.
It motivates tourism operators to sustainably preserve their natural heritage and environment for it is this heritage that makes them live. It can be a trigger to start changing lifestyles, when you are on vacation, more relaxed and receptive. You may then try to change your daily routine.
