I have been working across three spheres of the ecotourism sector for the past 33 years. Principally, I am a co-owner of a safari company, and at times, I accompany guests as a wilderness guide. I am also an inquisitive photographer and journalist covering environmental, conservation and sustainability issues.
Conventional wisdom deems such participation to be a positive factor in the conservation of the continents protected areas and biodiversity. However, I have long pondered these apparent contributions, including thoughts on the shortcomings and drawbacks of what we do. In 2008, I wrote an article titled Is Ecotourism Working? and mused as to whether I was part of the solution or merely contributing to the problem. I am not alone: I…
