Developing ecotourism: International experiences and lessons for Vietnam

Abstract

Ecotourism is an important component of sustainable tourism. More and more countries consider ecotourism as one of their national socio-economic development goals. In addition to helping preserve ecosystems and biodiversity, ecotourism also contributes to creating jobs and income for people and boosting the local economy. In Vietnam, there are not many policies for ecotourism development, which in the long run leads to fragmentation and lack of uniformity. This research will focus on understanding the role of ecotourism in protecting the environment and local communities. By analyzing secondary data on countries' experiences in developing ecotourism, including: Serengeti National Park (Tanzania), Galapagos National Park (Ecuador), The Toledo Ecotourism Association (Belize), Nam Et-Phou Louey National Park (Laos) and The Kapawi Ecolodge (Ecuador), research results found values that Vietnam can learn their efforts to develop ecotourism. Thereby, providing some management implications for the Government of Vietnam in maintaining and developing sustainable national ecotourism.