Analysis Of Ecotourism

According to The International Ecotourism Society (2015), 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"

In the previous assignment (01) an investigation, exploration and study was done on the current situation at the Kgalagadi Transfonteir Park. The study investigated the current conservation initiatives at the Park and addressed the advantages of conserving natural and cultural resources which is essential to the growth of Tourism in the area.

Ecotourism is often based on nature (unless culture is the main attraction), while some nature- based tourism, with all four fundamentals in place, can certainly

The Ecotourism Society (1993) enlisted a guideline with regards to the prevention of environmental impacts which states that nature tour operators should minimize visitor impacts on the environment by offering literature, briefings, leading by example, and taking corrective actions.

It is vital to note that to some extend the Kgalagadi Transfrontier adheres to this guideline by hosting lectures at the Twee Rivieren Information Centre.

Guidelines should not be limited to the environment only but also the cultural resources and how best to prevent impacts on the cultural resources. The Ecotourism Society (1993) enlisted seven guidelines with regards to the prevention of cultural impacts, which are as follows:

1. Minimize traveller impacts on local cultures by offering literature, briefings, leading by example, and taking corrective actions.

2. Use adequate leadership, and maintain small enough groups to ensure minimum group impact on destinations. Avoid areas that are undermanaged and

Ecotourism benefits the local communities and the environment through the preservation and conservation of natural and cultural resources. The involvement of local communities also assists in retaining financial benefits for the local people through the income of tourists.

Governing bodies and responsible entities are therefore compelled to be proactive in conserving cultural and natural resources through responsible and sustainable tourism initiatives.

Best Practices and Guidelines have been set out by various related organisations that direct nature conservation parks on methods and processes on the best possible ways to preserve and conserve natural and cultural resources.

This study has provided a better understanding on all four fundamentals of ecotourism and how they are linked. It is the responsibility of the ecotourism industry to ensure that they create awareness on the environment and the impact of tourism on the environment and also critical to engage all stakeholders particularly tourists and local community on the conservation of natural