Ecotourism in Costa Rica: a conceptual framework.

Abstract

Ecotourism, or nature-oriented travel, is a rapidly growing phenomenon. Developing countries can realize many economic and environmental benefits through a combination of ecotourism, parks management and community development. Ecotourism can play a significant role, providing community benefits that in turn provide incentives for nature conservation. This paper presents a conceptual framework for the understanding of ecotourism. The framework describes the interrelationships among natural resources, the service industry, and the tourists. The framework has been applied to Costa Rica, a small Central American country with a dynamic and growing ecotourism industry.?