The primary vision for nature tourism as well as ecotourism is conservation and protection of the natural world. In this case, the emphasis is not at all on exploitation or consumption. Of course, one of the most important places for pursuing this type of tourism is the beach, where the sensitive ocean meets the land. But for others, the undisturbed flora and fauna of the interior is the best place to pursue this new field of travel.



In recent years, the number of selected for ecotourism activities has grown significantly. In its own way, this new type of travel/vacation has helped preserve the environment and the culture of those who call the sites home. One area of the globe that has attracted such attention is the continent of Africa, where residents still live with nature and among fellow creatures. Here it is increasingly common to find tourism devoted to game preserves and parks, in which the tourist can enjoy wildlife, inspect native plants and feel that they are a part of the environment, if only for a short time. Not only that, but travelers have the opportunity to learn about ancient cultures that survive in spite of modern lifestyles and development.

On the advice of a number of early proponents of ecotourism, many of the world's most beautiful and delicate locations are the center of attention. Even some of the more traditional recreation sites, developed by man over the years to accommodate those who expect luxury, have become favored sites for the ecotourist and nature preservation traveler. Certainly this is the case with many of the globe's most beautiful beaches, especially those that have become fouled over the years by mass tourism.

But another site, Tanzania, is a perfect example of the natural world's gift of magnificent scenery and abundant resources. In the past few years, the Ngorongoro Conservation Area in this African country has become, for some, a poster site for the needed transition from mass tourism to true ecotourism. The emphasis here, some argue, must be on protection and conservation of the environment. But these environmentally sensitive individuals also note that this shift of focus is possible while meeting the needs of the local population. It is even recommended.

Some may argue that reducing the number of tourists by focusing only on ecology and restoration of the environment will negatively impact the local population. The debate continues as to whether the tourist activity generates sufficient benefits to trickle down to the individual residents. Ecotourism proponents argue that the change of focus will benefit local residents in the long run, but will also provide a new type of economic benefit. Studies continue that try to determine if ecotourism and emphasis on nature preservation are sufficient economic tools to provide for the local population.

Ecotourism is seen as "responsible" in many eyes, as compared to the exploitive methods of recreation/mass tourism. For travel planners, trip organizers and others in the industry, the shift in focus means directing people to the locations where environmental conservation is key and sustenance of the local population is paramount.

Nature tourism is growing as a regular way of travel, with remote areas increasingly seen as desirable destinations. The Ngorongoro Conservation Area is a perfect place for studying this change, according to many.