Since the 1980s, ecotourism has been considered an important endeavor by environmentalists, who have said they want future generations to experience destinations relatively untouched by human intervention.^[2]: 33 Ecotourism may focus on educating travelers on local environments and natural surroundings with an eye to ecological conservation. Some^[who?] include in the definition of ecotourism the effort to produce economic opportunities that make the conservation of natural resources financially possible.^[3]

Generally, ecotourism deals with interaction with biotic components of the natural environments.^[4] Ecotourism focuses on what advocates define as socially responsible travel, personal growth, and environmental sustainability. Ecotourism typically involves travel to destinations where flora, fauna, and cultural heritage are the primary attractions. Ecotourism is intended to offer tourists an insight into the impact of human beings on the environment and to foster a greater appreciation of our natural habitats. Ecotourism aims at minimal environmental impact on the areas visited. Besides fostering respect towards the natural environment, ecotourism endeavors to create socio-economic benefits for the area's communities.