What is Ecotourism?

What is ecotourism and how to travel consciously in Kyrgyzstan?

Ecotourism is a way of traveling that focuses on protecting the environment, preserving cultural heritage, and supporting local communities. It’s not just about visiting beautiful places – it’s about traveling to help preserve them for future generations.

As residents of our country, we have a unique opportunity to promote sustainable travel practices by exploring Kyrgyzstan’s stunning nature and cultural diversity. Here’s how:
Ecotourism is low-impact travel that prioritizes conservation and respect for local traditions. It’s a conscious choice that benefits both nature and the people who live in these places.

Examples of ecotourism in Kyrgyzstan:

Staying in CBT (Community-Based Tourism) guesthouses. These guesthouses were established by local families and offer a warm, authentic experience, allowing you to directly support the well-being of rural communities in Kyrgyzstan.

Stay in eco-friendly yurt camps: Many of these camps incorporate sustainable practices such as using natural building materials, minimizing waste, conserving water and energy, and preparing traditional meals from local ingredients. This allows you to immerse yourself in nomadic culture with minimal impact on the environment.

Eco-treks with local guides: Choose routes led by local guides who know the area, respect nature, and share natural and cultural knowledge that will enrich your experience.

Why It Matters 
This is more than a tourism project—it’s a movement to inspire change, celebrate the power of women, and protect the breathtaking beauty of Kyrgyzstan. Together, we can create a future where communities thrive, nature flourishes, and visitors leave not just footprints but a lasting positive impact. Let’s build a legacy of hope, resilience, and sustainability—one village, one woman, one step at a time. "Empowering Women through Community-Based Ecotourism in Kyrgyzstan" project was supported by Canada Fund for Local Initiatives (CFLI) in 2024-2025 
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