What Makes Eco Tourism Different from Destination Tourism

While most eco-tourism is destination tourism, destination tourism is not eco-tourism. The difference between the two is huge. Eco-tourism is

Experiential – Tourists are in the middle of it, not viewing it. Rather than watch exotic fish from a glass bottomed boat, eco-tourism offers participants the chance to swim among the fish and experience the ocean currents.

Educational –Participants learn new things. They do new things. The see sights, hear sounds, and smell scents that they have never before experienced.

Non-consumptive – Eco tourism leaves no footprint. Eco-tourism treads lightly with the primary goal to leave the surroundings "untouched" for future generations. Plants and wildlife are observed, not "harvested". Marked trails are provided in lieu of four lane highways. Bed and breakfast accommodations and refurbished farm buildings serve in lieu of chain hotels.

Family-Friendly and Gender Neutral – Eco tourism sites are accessible to a wide range of ages with appropriate learning opportunities at each level. Both men and women enjoy and participate equally in eco-tourism opportunities.

Active Lifestyle – Eco tourists participate actively – they hike, bike, walk and climb. They inquire, question, and discuss. They work/play hard. They don’t mind sweating as long as there is a warm bath at the end of the day.