Adventure travel is one of the fastest growing, but least understood forms of international tourism. Its role in the economic development of remote world places and its impact on local society, economy, and the environment is not fully comprehended, even though adventure tourism has been adopted enthusiastically by many nations.
Also called sustainable adventure tourism, adventure ecotourism combines outdoor activities with environmental and cultural conservation. Adventure ecotourism organizations go the extra mile to support local communities and environmental projects.
Adventure ecotourism programs typically include activities such as hiking, biking, climbing, kayaking, rafting, wildlife watching, and nature education, as well as visits to local communities or cultural heritage sites. Accommodation is often provided in Eco lodgings, campsites, or small-scale guest houses. Adventure ecotourism organizations mostly employ local guides and economically support the communities they visit through trade (i.e., accommodation, restaurants, and local markets) or charitable donations.
Visitors can travel to rural farming communities. On these trips, they usually have the opportunity to see local working farms, learn about harvest and planting, interact with local farming families, and perhaps purchase local produce. Some agritourism destinations also offer volunteering opportunities.
Staying in accommodation located in natural settings and made with environmental awareness is a good example of ecotourism becoming more mainstream. This can include low-rise buildings that complement the surroundings, structures made from natural/renewable materials, accommodations powered by renewable energy, small-scale/family-run accommodation, or local homestays.
