Community Based Ecotourism Development in Ethiopia

Over the last half century, the growth and development of tourism as both a social and economic activity has been remarkable. For many developing countries tourism is one of the main sources for foreign exchange income and the number one export category, creating much needed employment and opportunities for development. In this regard, it would be no exaggeration to say that Ethiopia has a cornucopia of attractions of many types ranging from landscape scenery, wildlife, culture, history, and archaeology sites that set it apart from its neighbours. Its assets are unique and potentially very productive for community based ecotourism development. The effectiveness of tourism is ultimately depend on what form of tourism has to be developed and who will benefit, as well as where, when and how it can be appropriately implemented. This book gives explanation on how well generally accepted tourism discourses resonate with the reality on the ground in terms of leading to better livelihoods in the developing countries. Specifically, it addresses practices, challenges and prospects of community based tourism development in Ethiopia.