According to the International Ecotourism Society:
“Ecotourism (also called ecological tourism) is defined as responsible travel to natural areas that conserve the environment, sustain the well-being of the local population.”
Its differential is the performance of activities that aim to promote knowledge and experience with nature.
In addition, it contributes to the development of people living in the tourist area, with the purpose of recognizing the riches and beauties, as well as contributing to the growth of the region. It also involves learning more about the history of other cities and preserving the historical landmarks.
The concept of ecotourism may be associated with sustainable tourism, but – although the practices have similarities, each has individual premises that differentiate them from the other.
Ecotourism: Ecological tourism / Appreciation of Nature / Conservation of the Environment / Direct Contact with Nature
Sustainable Tourism: Harmony between nature and community / Defense of Environmental Integrity / Focus on sustainability / Environmental Protection
Basically, it means that ecotourism is based on two pillars of sustainability: economic and environmental – complementing its activities with actions based on the political and cultural sector of society. While sustainable tourism takes into account all aspects related to sustainability, encompassing the various segments of tourism activity – economic, social and cultural.
Principles of ecotourism
Ecotourism is made up of logical concepts for action, both who provides and who participates and must adopt the following principles of ecotourism:
- Minimize physical, social, behavioral and psychological impacts;
- Enhance awareness of the need for environmental and cultural respect;
- Provide positive experiences for visitors and residents;
- Provide direct financial benefits for environmental conservation;
- Generate financial benefits for the local population and
- Deliver memorable interpretive experiences to visitors that help increase sensitivity to local political, environmental and social climates.
Benefits of ecotourism
As you travel, you not only learn about others and teach them about their ways of life, you also learn more about yourself than you might imagine. Ecotourism gives us a completely different view of the world and challenges us to open our minds to different ways of thinking and consuming.
Everyone longs for a sense of excitement in their lives and eco-travel entertains the thrill seeker in you. There are many sustainable adventures on land and below water. Go hiking, climbing, explore waterfalls, or even venture into horseback riding or biking trails.
The story comes alive for ecotourists. If you want to feel like you’ve traveled back in time, you can enjoy the feeling, food and atmosphere of past places based on where you decide to visit. Make a tour through sites with preserved and restored buildings that have historical value.
Sustainable tourism is a learning experience for all.
The rewards that come with this tourism model and the satisfying learning experiences of travel are irreplaceable. As an ecotourist, you travel with more than personal satisfaction in mind. You know and explore the planet, and allow the people who live in your places to move forward in their work, through the capital that is generated from the investments investments applied by tourists. In preserved regions, we are offered a tourism experience that reminds us of the enchanting qualities of nature and the people who inhabit these locations.
The more we know about a place, our love and admiration grow and inspire us to protect it. Guides and hosts are educated at a deeper level in order to share knowledge with visitors while tourists come to appreciate the beauty of the new environment. Adding to the visual appeal is the new perspective that comes with learning the historical and environmental significance of unknown places.Through your stories, we have an insight into what needs and wants are. When you meet people while traveling sustainably, mutual understanding allows all parties involved to learn about each other. You are able to tell others where you are from and show them that you would like to visit the area without disrupting your lifestyle or disrespecting your values and environment. By showing this, they see you as a representative of your home and as an ally. This creates a sense of unity and cultural sensitivity.
Ecotourism promotes economy and sensitivity
We live in a very diverse world, full of eclectic people who live off the earth and depend on what nature offers.Commercial tourist attractions can be placed in a specific area, but that does not mean it offers a good return to the communities that house them.
And ecotourism comes in return for that. The goal is to know and recognize the different cultures, people, animals and vegetation that make up our planet, in a respectful way, in which we honor and encourage the growth of these places, without negatively interfering and undermining their traditional habits and realities. When we visit these places and tell others about the experience, we are helping to promote green businesses and keep them running.
Come to São Luiz do Purunã
If you feel inspired by these tips and want to plan a trip aligned with ecotourism in this vacation, put São Luiz do Purunã in your list of possibilities and come enjoy our traditions, gastronomy, beauty and natural riches. Meet Visit Purunã and schedule your arrival!