ecotourist

An ecotourist is a traveler who visits natural areas in a way that conserves the environment, sustains the well-being of local people, and involves interpretation and education. This form of tourism emphasizes responsible travel to natural areas, aiming to educate the traveler, provide funds for conservation, and directly benefit the economic development and empowerment of local people.

Key principles of ecotourism include minimizing negative environmental and social impacts, building environmental and cultural awareness and respect, providing direct financial benefits for conservation, generating economic benefits for both local people and private industry, and delivering memorable educational experiences to visitors. Ecotourists often seek authentic experiences and a deeper connection with nature and local cultures.

Activities associated with ecotourism can include wildlife viewing, hiking, birdwatching, visiting protected areas, and engaging with local communities. The focus is on experiencing nature and culture while actively contributing to their preservation. Ecotourism aims to be sustainable, ensuring that resources are available for future generations and that the practices do not deplete natural or cultural capital. It differentiates itself from mass tourism by prioritizing sustainability and conservation over sheer volume of visitors.