There is so much depth in the term “ecotourist”. Get to know more about them as we tackle some of their unique characteristics.
In recent years, a large number of people have become frequent travelers. Increased travel has made people more experienced, discerning and increasingly caring to destinations they visit. They have become more conscious of the choices and actions they make while on travel.
Today, it is noticeable that more and more people are subscribing to the idea of off-the-beaten paths, long haul travel and choice of better places. More leaning towards the what we call an “ecotourist”.
Brought about by their travel experiences and growing awareness about destinations and environmental concerns, “ecotourists” have developed certain characteristics that make them “extra special”.
Ecotourism and Ecotourist
The word ecotourist is derived from the term ecotourism which means “responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment, sustains the well-being of the local people, and involves interpretation and education” (TIES, 2015). It is about choosing better places that are away from mass tourism, choosing activities and suppliers that have low-impact on the environment, patronizing local products to help local communities and integrating an educational experience in your travel.
Ecotourism is the largest and fastest growing industry worldwide, accounts for 10% of the world’s GDP and 7% of the global tourism market. (UNWTO, 2017). With its continued growth, more and more tourists as well as suppliers and operators, have become subscribers of such an approach.
Characteristics of an Ecotourist
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An ecotourist wants an in-depth and authentic experience
They have traveled frequently and they know what they want. They seek quality experience and good value for money.
While average tourists drawn to visiting only the high points or famous landmarks, ecotourists on the other hand, want a real and authentic experience – something that goes beyond the superficial. Oftentimes, they have a realistic grasp of what they want. They want lasting and unique experiences in every destination they visit – experiences like sampling authentic food or even street food, an experience of the public transportation; a visit to a shaman for healing, a picnic lunch by the beach, a visit to the local market, and more.
Growth in the number of such travelers requires that tourism destinations must build in an element of interpretation, education and seeing the “real” place and not just mere sightseeing. Visiting popular attractions, although traditionally valid, is by no means, the best approach.
Any place that wishes to become successful, must have more activities for travelers other than traditional recreational activity like lying on the beach or just a sightseeing tour.
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An ecotourist considers the experience worthwhile, both personally and socially
They travel out of curiosity and cultural reasons. This means that they value local interaction and learning the local “way of life”.
Ecotourists look forward to meeting locals to learn better the wider world – perhaps be introduced to their indigenous culture, ask about a unique food that struck them, about life in the mountains or on the island, get practical tips about the must see places or perhaps some hidden gems that are not published on Google, the world wide web or social media. You can get valuable information and great stories by simply talking to locals.
These interactions can be with a fisher folk, the friendly fruit vendor, the jeepney driver, a passenger in a local ferry, a local at a restaurant or bar, or could be anyone who offers their warm smile. It is always worthwhile to see, learn and be introduced to others’ way of life. It is through these interactions that we are introduced to the diverse culture that exists in the world we live in.
Traveling, in many ways, is empowering. It allows people to be free and be independent. It allows us to discover and rediscover ourselves and see life in a different perspective.
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An ecotourist abhors large tour groups on strict itinerary
Ecotourists don’t want a rigid tour itinerary to allow them full enjoyment of their travel. They want to take time appreciating the tiny little moments that make their travel really worthwhile – like enjoying quiet moments by the beach, reading a good book, enjoying the sound of the waves, perhaps have a camping experience in a remote island, etc.
Anything goes for an ecotourist – all dependent on their time and pacing.
Rather than zip through 7 destinations in one week, spend a relaxing moment in a beautiful location.
Sometimes having a strict itinerary limits us to what we actually care about. For them, it is sometimes better to do a do-it-yourself travel or join a small group tour. They want something that is highly customized, according to their specific interest and pacing.
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An ecotourist seeks involvement, physical and mental challenge and not passive behavior
They seek involvement and not passive behavior. They are NOT content with just sitting in the bus to do sightseeing tours.
They want action and the must-do experiences in every destination they visit. For instance, swimming with the whale shark, a full-day island hopping adventure, a canyoneering experience, trekking, bird watching and more. They demand new experiences and they thrive on adventure.
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Ecotourists are adaptable, tolerates discomfort, often prefers unique and authentic accommodations
They are prepared to be flexible in travel arrangements. They will travel in short notice or even spontaneously. They welcome new adventures even if it means long-haul travel, waking up early, riding the public transportation like the “trisikad” or doing a long walk.
They focus on the positive things and the experience rather than inconveniences. Sometimes, they prefer a boutique and rustic accommodation to allow them more privacy, quieter stays and a unique experience.
They are also fine with staying at typical beach huts accommodation, enjoy a slow island life with only the most basic amenities, without a wifi signal or electricity in some areas.
They are aware that experiences like these are what make for a real and authentic travel experience. They prefer to pay for the experience rather than for comfort.
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Ecotourists have values that encourage ethical consumption of tourism and they will choose destinations and companies on this basis
Their values are oriented to the environment and reflect a changing lifestyle. They are willing to pay extra for products and services that produce the lowest possible impact on the environment and one that benefits the local community.
Philippines is a great option for ecotourists. With its tropical climate and its 7,641 islands, you will never run out of unique and authentic ecotourism adventure here.
Want to have a seamless ecotourism adventure in the Philippines?
We are happy to design and customize an ecotour for you or you might also want to join one of our small group tours.
Have an authentic ecotourism adventure in the Philippines with Kapwa Travel!
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