As we mentioned in the last blog, ecotourism has a big impact on the environment, the locals, and the country’s economy. And that’s what ecotourism in the Amazon is doing these days.
The Amazon rainforest is the world’s biggest and most diverse tropical forest. It covers an area of about 5.5 million square kilometers across nine countries in South America. This place is home to more than 10% of the Earth’s species of plants, animals, and insects, as well as hundreds of indigenous cultures and languages.
Further, the Amazon rainforest is also a vital source of oxygen, water, and climate regulation for the planet.
However, the Amazon is in danger as deforestation, mining, agriculture, logging, and other human activities destroy its habitats and biodiversity.
According to WWF’s Living Amazon Report 2022, more than 20% of the Amazon has been lost. Also, thousands of species are extinct or endangered.
That is why ecotourism is critical in the Amazon rainforest. Now, let’s dive into how ecotourism helps protect the Amazon rainforest.
Why Is Ecotourism Important In The Amazon Rainforest?
Ecotourism in the Amazon rainforest is a powerful tool for preserving this natural wonder while creating opportunities for local communities to thrive.
Environmental Impact
The first benefit of ecotourism is to help reduce deforestation. The Amazon has reached record-breaking levels of deforestation. This loss of trees leads to extreme weather changes, harming people and creatures in the Amazon rainforest.
By promoting ecotourism, it offers the key to saving the environment. When travelers pay to visit the natural beauty of the Amazon, locals and the government have a greater desire to protect their region due to its biological and economic value. Also, ecotourism can reduce the need to hunt forest animals for income.
Economic Impact
Amazon eco tours create many job opportunities for locals as they can work in different industries, including tourism, construction, hospitality, etc.
The Conservation Strategy Fund has studied tourism’s economic impact within Peru’s natural protected areas. It shows that ecotourism “generated $165 million in household income and wages at the local level, as well as more than 36,000 jobs in localities and surrounding cities”.
For example, the money travelers spend in an eco-lodge creates jobs in the lodge and indirectly in other places in the economy.
Ecotourism will generate government tax revenues for supporting new educational programs, provide training opportunities, and support efforts to protect the environment. As a result, people become more skilled and productive when they get better education and training.
Ecotourism In The Amazon
There are many ecotourism options in the Amazon that cater to different interests and preferences. From wildlife watching, hiking, and camping to cultural visits, you can enjoy the best time ever in this land. Here are some of the most popular ecotourism activities in the Amazon that you should try to celebrate the World Tourism Day 2023:
Jungle Walk
Walking through the Amazon natural areas is an incredible way to explore it step by step. Follow trails or paths that take you through forests, like the highland, floodplain, or swampy areas.
During your walk, you’ll see numerous amazing things like trees, flowers, vines, birds, monkeys, sloths, frogs, snakes, and insects. That’s how sustainable tourism is!
But that’s not all! You can also discover how local people use plants for medicine and food and how they survive in the jungle.
There are two options for your adventure: Join a guided tour with experts or go on your own with a map and a compass to help you find your way. If you choose the first way, here are some TripAdvisor coupons and deals to help you enjoy the natural environment at an affordable price.
Also, check out this guide on the best time To visit the Amazon rainforest and enjoy your endless fun and collect beautiful memories here!
Jungle Cruise
Another way to enjoy the scenery of the Amazon is by jumping on a jungle cruise. It will take you on a ride along the rivers and streams that run through the forest.
As you drift along, you’ll see the incredible views of the treetops in the forest and the river’s shores. That’s a picture-perfect scene from a movie.
But the best part of this activity is spotting the animals hanging near the water, like dolphins, caimans, otters, turtles, fish, and many colorful birds. Visiting small islands or lagoons with unique plants and animals is also a good idea.
Eco Lodges and Amazonian Cuisine
Responsible travel is incomplete without staying in an eco-lodge. Amazon’s lodges are all about being eco-friendly, which means they use renewable energy and innovative ways to manage their waste.
Besides, they also offer Amazon rainforest ecotourism activities that are good for the planet and people there. You will have a chance to enjoy tasty Amazonian cuisine, such as Tacacho, Patarashca, Juane, Paiche, and more.
Don’t hesitate to find these eco-lodges: you will see them by a river, a lake, a waterfall, or a national park.
Some great examples chosen by many ecotourists are Tahuayo Lodge, Juma Amazon Lodge, Sacha Lodge, and many more!
Piranha Fishing
Speaking of the unique ecotourism in the Amazon, piranha fishing is a must. Piranhas are small but ferocious fish with sharp teeth and a strong bite. You only need a simple rod and line or a bamboo pole and meat as bait. Another way to catch piranhas is using a net or a trap.
Piranha fishing can be done during the day or at night, depending on the season and the location. After a long time fishing, you can cook and eat your catch, as piranhas are edible and tasty.
Local Community Visit
A local community visit is a rewarding and educational activity that lets you interact with the indigenous people of the Amazon and explore the local culture here.
As stated above, the Amazon rainforest is home to more than 400 indigenous groups that have their own languages, cultures, and traditions.
A visit helps you learn about their history, lifestyle, beliefs, and challenges. Also, you can participate in their daily activities, such as farming, hunting, fishing, cooking, weaving, dancing, and singing.
See more: Ecotourism In Costa Rica
Final Thoughts
Ecotourism in the Amazon is an exciting adventure that allows you to relish majestic scenery in a sustainable way. When choosing to visit the Amazon in eco-friendly practices, we’re protecting the rainforest’s incredible plants and animals, saving essential resources, and supporting local communities.
As travelers, we can make a big difference, ensuring that the Amazon stays amazing for future generations to enjoy, just like we do today.
