Scroll down for posts that have been tagged with “community-based tourism”.
Community-based tourism is a responsible form of tourism that seeks to empower local communities by involving them in the development and management of tourism activities. It ensures that the host community of a destination has a stake and/or say in the development of tourism via consultation, decision-making, employment, and/or direct ownership.
According to the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), community-based tourism is defined as “tourism that is owned and managed by the local community, where tourists stay with local families, learn local traditions and participate in local activities”.
Community-based tourism is growing in popularity as more people become aware of the negative impacts of mass tourism on the environment and local cultures. It is a way for travellers to connect with local people, learn about their customs and traditions, and experience their way of life.
The benefits of community-based tourism are numerous; offering a more authentic and immersive experience for tourists, while supporting local jobs and businesses, and (hopefully) preserving the cultural and natural heritage of the destination.
Theoretically, community-based tourism can help to reduce the negative impact of mass tourism. By involving local people in the development and management of tourism activities, community-based tourism is more likely to set and enforce limits to visitor numbers. Furthermore, with stakes in both the industry and the destination, local people are more likely to ensure that the benefits of tourism are maximised and/or distributed equitably while mitigating the potential downsides of tourism.
Tags are informal. The “Good Tourism” Blog tries not to get bogged down with terminology and definitions. You may disagree with tags applied (or not applied) to a post. If so, feel free to comment on any post you think has been incorrectly or insufficiently tagged. “GT” encourages good-faith debate and discussion.
CABI Tourism Cases, a “Good Tourism” Partner, publishes peer-reviewed case studies on travel & tourism’s interactions with the world from just about every angle … including tourism and communities. This is the second in a new series of posts in which CABI shares brief summaries of its most recent tourism-related case studies (and books) along various themes.
Read More CABI Tourism Cases: Tourism and communities
It can be difficult to find a balance between species conservation and the needs and aspirations of our own species. In this “Good Tourism” Insight, Sheillah Munsabe of the Wildlife Friendly Enterprise Network describes a gorilla-friendly model for conservation, responsible tourism, and improved community livelihoods. As we become more globalised, the responsibility for protecting Earth’s […]
Read More Is gorilla-friendly conservation compatible with local communities and tourism?
Emma Raissa Isheja is not only passionate about her Nyakinama village community but is also keen to harness the heart and energy of its women and young people to advance sustainable development in Rwanda. The volunteer, tour guide, and electrical engineering graduate is a believer in tourism’s potential to be a force for good. In the […]
Read More Heart, energy, force for good: Tourism and sustainable development in Rwanda
Indigenous tourism has enormous potential as travellers’ expectations evolve, according to Alastair Naughton. Perhaps the biggest challenge now is turning interest in indigenous tourism experiences into investment and bookings. It’s a “Good Tourism” Insight. (You too can write a “GT” Insight.)
Read More Indigenous tourism’s interest-action disparity reflects sustainable tourism’s ‘say-do gap’
Red Rocks Initiative for Sustainable Development is an African non-governmental organisation (NGO) that focuses on community development in Rwanda and beyond. By prioritising women and youth, Red Rocks aims to increase their social standing and economic livelihoods through skills development and job opportunities. Collaborating with community stakeholders, Red Rocks overcomes barriers that limit women’s involvement […]
Read More Red Rocks’ journey towards sustainable community development in Rwanda
As a travel agent or tour operator, you are always on the lookout for unique and authentic experiences to recommend. If you are looking for a wholesome and culturally-rich African experience for your clients, then Red Rocks Cultural Campsite in Musanze, Rwanda, is an excellent option for Rwandan culture and traditions. Red Rocks Cultural Campsite […]
Read More Appreciate Rwandan culture and traditions at Red Rocks Cultural Campsite