Hike, Stay, and Make Cheese With Local Residents on These International Trips

Community-Based Tourism: Empowering Local Communities and Supporting Sustainable Development

Community-based tourism is an interactive travel experience that prioritizes the empowerment of local communities and supports sustainable development. It allows visitors to immerse themselves in the everyday life of these communities, while also preserving their culture and heritage. This article highlights four community-based tourism projects around the world that align with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and offer a unique and enriching travel experience.

1. Yunguilla Community, Ecuador

The Yunguilla Community in Ecuador’s cloud forest is a prime example of community-based tourism that promotes conservation and local livelihoods. Previously reliant on charcoal production, the community now welcomes tourists who can experience daily life by staying in rural family homes, participating in activities such as cheese-making, and exploring the regrown forest. This project contributes to SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) and SDG 15 (Life on Land).

Key Features:

• Opportunity to stay in rural family homes
• Engage in local activities and cultural experiences
• Supports local development and conservation efforts

2. Meket Community Tourism Walk, Ethiopia

The Meket Community Tourism Walk in Ethiopia offers an adventurous trekking experience through the subtropical landscape. With well-maintained walking paths and traditional accommodations called “tukuls,” visitors can explore the plateau rim, encounter wildlife, and visit ancient churches. Local guides share stories about the history and culture, contributing to SDG 4 (Quality Education) and SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities).

Key Features:

• Trekking experience with diverse landscapes
• Thatched hut accommodations with basic amenities
• Local guides provide insights into the area’s history and culture

3. Madi Valley, Nepal

The serene Madi Valley in Nepal offers travelers the opportunity to stay in homestays, immersing themselves in the local community. Nature lovers can explore the nearby Chitwan National Park, engage in bird-watching tours, and experience the vibrant Magar dance performance. The revenue generated from tourism supports local schools and healthcare facilities, contributing to SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) and SDG 4 (Quality Education).

Key Features:

• Homestay accommodations within local family homes
• Access to nature and wildlife experiences
• Contribution to local community development

4. Ccaccaccollo Community, Peru

The Ccaccaccollo Community in Peru is known for its women’s weaving cooperative, which preserves ancient weaving techniques and supports the local Quechuan community. Visitors can witness traditional weaving and dyeing demonstrations, purchase handmade textiles directly from the weavers, and contribute to training programs for younger generations. This project aligns with SDG 5 (Gender Equality) and SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth).

Key Features:

• Opportunity to observe traditional weaving techniques
• Purchase authentic handmade textiles
• Supports women’s empowerment and economic development

By engaging in community-based tourism, travelers can have a more meaningful and sustainable travel experience while directly contributing to the well-being of local communities. These projects exemplify the potential of tourism to support the SDGs and create positive change.

SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

1. SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth

   • Target 8.9: By 2030, devise and implement policies to promote sustainable tourism that creates jobs and promotes local culture and products.
   • Indicator 8.9.1: Tourism direct GDP as a proportion of total GDP and in growth rate.

2. SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities

   • Target 11.4: Strengthen efforts to protect and safeguard the world’s cultural and natural heritage.
   • Indicator 11.4.1: Total expenditure (public and private) per capita spent on the preservation, protection, and conservation of all cultural and natural heritage.

3. SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production

   • Target 12.8: By 2030, ensure that people everywhere have the relevant information and awareness for sustainable development and lifestyles in harmony with nature.
   • Indicator 12.8.1: Extent to which (i) global citizenship education and (ii) education for sustainable development (including climate change education) are mainstreamed in (a) national education policies; (b) curricula; (c) teacher education; and (d) student assessment.

4. SDG 15: Life on Land

   • Target 15.1: By 2020, ensure the conservation, restoration, and sustainable use of terrestrial and inland freshwater ecosystems and their services, in particular forests, wetlands, mountains, and drylands, in line with obligations under international agreements.
   • Indicator 15.1.1: Forest area as a proportion of total land area.

Source: afar.com