The Rise of Ecotourism

Ecotourism is not a new concept but it is gaining momentum as tourists and volunteers worldover see the potential damage mass tourism has on not only natural area but the local communities within those areas. The International Ecotourism Society (TIES), founded in 1990, has been at the forefront developing guidelines and standards for ecotourism, as well as providing training and educational resources.

Dr Martha Honey, author of Ecotourism and Sustainable Development: Who Owns Paradise?, talks about ecotourism in terms of being beneficial to environmental conservation and local communities as well as being respectful of local cultures. In an article “What is Eco Tourism?” by The Chartered Institute of Tourism and Hospitality (ITHSA) the ‘eco’ in ecotourism isn’t just about ECOlogy but also ECOnomy. The key to this holistic approach to tourism is education focusing on long-term sustainable development goals rather than quick short-term profits that are potentially damaging and may end up costing more in the future.

Good Hope Volunteers has a large number of conservation projects to choose from with two in particular focusing on both community development and wildlife conservation. Our Community & Wilderness Outreach is a unique project that focuses on building relationships between communities, families, and the animals and owners of game reserves in rural Botswana. It also offers support programmes and educational outreach activities in the hopes of bridging the delicate gap between all members of this unique environment. Our Conservation & Community project offers a rare opportunity to combine community development and environmental protection. Volunteers will work directly with children from a local care facility as well as support environmental conservation efforts on a working game reserve.

Volunteering at any of our conservation projects allows you the opportunity to work directly with ethical, environmental projects across South Africa and in Namibia and Botswana. You will work with wild and rehabilitated animals in game reserves or sanctuaries and help make a difference in the lives of animals affected by hunting, poaching or habitat destruction. These projects are perfect for volunteers who are passionate about wildlife, protecting natural heritage and promoting sustainable community development.

Yours,
The Good Hope Volunteer Team

To be part of our amazing volunteer community, please contact us.