Although there are many definitions for ecotourism, they all share four common activities.
1. It is the contribution made to the conservation of cultural and natural resources in a geographical region.
2. It is the support given to local communities to improve their well-being including financial support and assistance with preserving or developing their environment.
3. It is resonating with the cultural and natural heritage of a geographical region, respecting it by taking care of it and appreciating its value.
4. It is respected on an ethical basis, even when there are no legal penalties for harming the environment, people, and flora and fauna in a given area.
By following the spirit of ecotourism in Africa, it will contribute greatly to the well fare of the people, the wildlife, and the environment.
Africa is a magnificent continent with huge tracts of unspoiled land where nature thrives in all its glory. By emphasizing the value of eco-tourism, traditional African culture and wildlife will be preserved for future generations to enjoy.
If every safari camp does its part in treating the land with respect, then the fundamental principles of ecology will ensure the conservation of natural resources.
There are numerous ways that a safari touring company and safari camps can show respect for the unspoiled lands in a safari camp in an African game park. Here are some examples of what can be done to promote ecotourism in camps during a safari tour:
• Following the guidelines established by conservation groups for the role played by safari camps in environmental conservation.
• Educating safari guests about the ecology as part of their tour, including issuing brochures on ecotourism ethics. These brochures should offer tips on how not to disturb the animals or despoil the land.
• Keeping a safe distance from wild animals, not provoking them by driving vehicles right up to them. In addition, guests should be discouraged from approaching animals, taunting them or offering them junk food.
• Directing a portion of income earned by the safari company and the game parks back to land and wildlife conservation projects.
• Encouraging safari guests to be goodwill ambassadors of ecotourism when recommending an African safari to their friends.
Ultimately, ecotourism is less about following rules and regulations to preserve a natural heritage and more about spontaneously acting in an ethical and responsible manner. Ecotourism is more about following the spirit than the letter of the law. For instance, an ecotourist has no interest in abusing or endangering indigenous people or despoiling their lands; an ecotourist will not disturb flora or desecrate the land; and an ecotourist will treat animals with respect by giving them the space they need to feel safe.
Author Description :
Porini have years of expertise in providing Kenya safari holidays to clients and work closely with local communities to ensure responsible tourism.
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