Ecotourism in Africa

According to the Quebec Declaration on Ecotourism, ecotourism:

• Contributes actively to the conservation of natural and cultural heritage

• Includes local and indigenous communities in its planning, development and operation, contributing to their well-being

• Interprets the natural and cultural heritage of the destination to the visitor

• Lends itself better to independent travellers, as well as to organized tours for small size groups

Ecotour or Just Good Marketing?

While collecting information about Ecotourism in Africa I was disappointed in the way ecotourism seems to have transformed itself from a great idea to a marketing ploy. Ecotours seem to have become synonymous with adventure tours, nature tours and cultural tours on web sites selling african vacations. If you're looking for a true ecotourism experience make sure the company follows the guidelines above.

I came upon the International Ecotourism Society web site and found some links to eco-friendly African tour operators and noted that many of them are luxury safari operators. At first it seemed a little odd to me that a luxury tented safari with 5 course dinners and full hot baths in the bush could be considered an eco-tourist experience. I was wondering if Maasai warriors serving gin and tonics to guests in safari outfits was their idea of local community involvement. But it appears that some luxury safari companies like CC Africa do indeed support local community initiatives. So even if the tour itself doesn't appear to follow the guidelines above, the company may be using your money for the greater good.

I've selected links to ecotours in Africa which follow the basic ecotourism principles. Please email me if you know of more.