Synopsis Ecotourism is the responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment and improves the well-being of local people. It is a type of tourism that maximizes the early and long –term participation of local people in the decision making process that determines the kind and amount of tourism that should occur. The degree of power widely by the local community in relation to tourism activities is crucial to its long-term prospects and sustainability. This book analyses the nature of ecotourism and the details of ecotourism programmes around the world. It investigates the role of community participation in the development of ecotourism from social, political, and conservation perspectives. The issues identified in this book and the recommendations provided, offer direct guidance on the development of ecotourism with the full participation of local communities. The lessons learned from the past will help create more sustainable projects in the future.