What is ecotourism?

As a guest you can do your part too, and that’s where ecotourism comes in. But what is ecotourism in simple terms? What are examples of ecotourism? And how can ecotourism benefit sustainability in Aruba? Read further to get to know more about the benefits of ecotourism. You might get inspired and even implement some elements of ecotourism in your next trip! 

The Definition of Ecotourism

Let’s start right at the beginning and define the meaning of ecotourism, because what is ecotourism exactly? According to the International Ecotourism Society, ecotourism is defined as responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment, sustains the well-being of the local people, and involves interpretation and education. That’s the theory, but the definition of ecotourism is more than that. The primary goal of ecotourism is to create a balance between environmental conservation, community well-being, and guest experience. When managed properly, ecotourism can provide significant economic benefits.

What is ecotourism in simple terms?

To understand the meaning of ecotourism, we’ll try to break it down in simple terms. The primary objective of ecotourism is to conserve natural and cultural resources while creating educational travel experiences. Economically, it benefits destinations by creating jobs, supporting local businesses, and generating support for conservation funding. Specifically, ecotourism seeks to:

• Protect biodiversity and natural ecosystems

• Preserve local cultures and traditions

• Educate visitors about environmental and cultural values

• Encourage responsible travel practices

• Generate support for conservation through tourism revenue

Ecotourism examples in Aruba

Now that we have a definition of ecotourism and explained it in more simple terms, let’s give some examples of ecotourism in Aruba. There are many ways to enjoy the pristine landscapes and natural wonders in Aruba. An ecofriendly activity to explore the island is during a guided hiking tour of Aruba’s national park Arikok. Other ecotourism examples in Aruba include bike-riding along the many trails on Aruba’s North Shore, bird-watching at Bubali Plas and exploring the vibrant murals and artistic expressions in San Nicolas during a walking tour.

Ecotourism destination

What is the difference between ecotourism and conventional tourism? To answer this question, let’s talk about some important pillars that define an ecotourism destination. Travelers looking for an ecotourism destination in general prefer being in nature over city trips. And while visiting an ecotourism destination, they might want to do more for the environment. This brings us to the following.

Ecotourism and environmental awareness

Many guests prefer eco-friendly travel because it helps to maintain a balance of tourism’s impact on the environment. To fully enjoy destinations worldwide and to keep them pristine, guests are invited to contribute to maintaining and protecting those places. To do so, education is essential. Ecotourism and environmental awareness initiatives such as the Aruba Promise, will only be successful if the destination and its guests are aligned and the right information is shared.

Focus on education

Therefore, an important part of ecotourism is the focus on education. Many eco travelers are interested in nature and want to learn more about this. Especially the part about how they can support a healthy environment. In Aruba there are many ways guests can contribute to the island. For starters, leave nothing behind in nature except for your footprints, and take trash with you. Drink from a reusable bottle, bring your own bag and avoid single-use plastics as much as possible. Don’t disturb wildlife and respect Aruba’s flora, fauna and white sand dunes and beaches by not driving or parking on them. And when exploring the island, opt for non-motorized trails and guided tours.

Support Aruba’s locals

Another important aspect of ecotourism is supporting local people. Ecotourism may also boost the employment and empowerment of locals. When you stay at a locally owned hotel or accommodation, eat at a locally owned restaurant or food truck, or go on a guided tour with locals, you support them financially. This way, you directly support Aruba’s local people. Another way to support Aruba’s locals is by buying souvenirs and local arts and crafts that are made by local artists.

Why should we care about ecotourism?

Traveling in large numbers all over the world is putting a lot of pressure on the environment and local ecosystems, especially in popular destinations. Vulnerable areas and small destinations with limited infrastructure can often not handle the increase of all these travelers. Places can also easily be disrupted if guests don't visit a destination in the right way. For example, people often leave garbage behind, which can create environmental degradation, and off roading through nature in large, motorized tour groups has a negative impact on wildlife. In other words: mass tourism is not beneficial for the environment. This is exactly why we should care about ecotourism. Ecotourism is, unlike other forms of tourism, less harmful to the environment. To be aware of this, is an important part of ecotourism. If you care about ecotourism and the destination you are planning to visit, you can act and make more conscious choices during your travels.

Key benefits of ecotourism

So how can ecotourism benefit the environment? Ecotourism aims to reduce environmental impact, and there are multiple ways to do so. When it comes to lodging, you can choose an eco-friendly accommodation for example. What measures they take varies by accommodation. You can always ask the host about this before booking any accommodation or looking at specific seals and certifications such as Green Globe. 

Another benefit of ecotourism is the support for conservation efforts. By visiting Arikok National Park and paying the entrance fee you are helping the environment, as proceeds are invested in nature preservation. Also, you can visit less populated places. Is a particular beach or snorkeling spot very busy? Choose another location from the endless beach options in Aruba. This measure of ecotourism relieves the pressure on the environment and is therefore another key benefit. Lastly, ecotourism is focused on the preservation of cultural heritage in Aruba. As a guest you can help in these preservation efforts by buying locally made products, respecting local monuments and sights, visiting local museums and choosing a restaurant that serves local Aruban cuisine.

How to be an ecotourist

Now that you’ve read everything there is to know about ecotourism, let’s answer the last question: how can you be an ecotourist? The rule of thumb is to be mindful of your environment and to remain careful. Manage personal resource consumption and avoid being wasteful with water and energy. Avoid single-use plastics. Stick strictly to designated trails to prevent ecosystem damage. Choose certified operators and research local businesses or guides that have formal eco-certifications. By making these mindful choices and treading carefully you will soon be a perfect example of an ecotourist and leave a very grateful destination behind long after your visit.

Make ecotourism part of your next discovery

Although sustainable ecotourism might sound a bit contradictory, there are still some ways to harm the world a bit less. If you’ve decided to travel, you can still do a lot to reduce your impact at least in some respects and even realize positive changes. Make ecotourism part of your next discoveries and travel plans.