Around the globe, eco-tourism is quickly becoming one of the most popular ways of vacationing. But what is ecotourism?

Ecotourism is a type of sustainable tourism, a responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment and improves the well-being of local people. It includes local and indigenous communities in its planning, development and operation, contributing to their well-being. It interprets the natural and cultural heritage of the destination to visitors. It finally lends itself better to independent travelers, as well as to organized tours for small size groups. In simple words, ecotourism means while practicing any kind of tourism one should not harm nature. For today's fast changing world only the practice of ecotourism can save nature from ever growing human population. Ecotourism is the best way to practice any kind of tourism whether it is wildlife tourism or adventure tourism.

While nature-based tourism is just travel to natural places, ecotourism provides local benefits - environmentally, culturally and economically. A nature-based tourist may just go bird watching; an eco-tourist goes bird watching with a local guide, stays in a locally operated eco-lodge and contributes to the local economy. It includes an interpretation/learning experience, is delivered to small groups by small-scale businesses, and stresses local ownership, particularly for rural people.

Ecotourism focuses on local cultures, wilderness adventures, volunteering, personal growth and learning new ways to live on our vulnerable planet. It is typically defined as travel to destinations where the flora, fauna, and cultural heritage are the primary attractions. Responsible ecotourism includes programs that minimize the adverse effects of traditional tourism on the natural environment, and enhance the cultural integrity of local people. Therefore, in addition to evaluating environmental and cultural factors, initiatives by hospitality providers to promote recycling, energy efficiency, water re-use, and the creation of economic opportunities for local communities are an integral part of ecotourism.