ECO-TOURISM ALONG ROUTE 62
Eco-tourism and adventure travel are among the fastest growing segments of the global tourism trade. While it is undeniable that travel uses resources and can harm the environment, it is also true that it can provide many benefits, such as supporting local economies, providing economic alternatives to exploitative practices, and spreading cross-cultural awareness. It is true that people are much more likely to protect the planet if they see it first-hand. The key is to go gently, and authentic eco tourism offers just that. It is almost impossible to separate a tourism experience in South Africa from a nature experience and specifically to this area. So rich is the Route62 in scenic beauty and wildlife, that these facets remain the strongest motivation for overseas tourists to visit this region. As an eco-destination, South Africa has an enormous responsibility. The international definition of the word eco-tourism implies far more than merely a nature-experience. The word environment in its broader context has come to include the diverse community activities and cultures of a country’s inhabitants, as well as its scarce and sensitive natural resources. Eco-tourism implies tourism practices that would benefit all concerned parties rather than benefit some concerns and neglect others. The term “eco-tourism” has therefore come to include concepts such as planning before development, sustainability of resources, economic viability of a tourism product, no negative impact on either the environment and local communities, responsibility for the environment from developers, the tourism industry and tourism, environmentally friendly practices by all parties concerned and economic benefits flowing to local communities. The naturally diverse Route 62 are fantastic destinations for the keen eco-tourist to explore. With ever growing numbers of “eco-options” available, visitors can enjoy a wonderful holiday, whilst helping to ensure the sustainability of the local environment and communities, always making sure to travel the true eco-way and “Take only pictures, leave only footprints”. With stunning natural landscapes and an abundance of uniquely African wildlife, it is no wonder that several “Eco-Lodges” have sprung up around South Africa’s Route 62 to accommodate the responsible eco-tourist.Another important facet to the eco-tourist’s holiday is ensuring that the effect on nature’s creatures is kept to a minimum. Once again the Route 62 provides plenty of options for wildlife viewing with minimal impact. With wildlife safaris proving to be one of the most popular activities here, several operators in this malaria-free area offer guests safaris in reserves where conservation and ensuring the way of life for the magnificent animals of the African veld are a top priority. Eco-tourism is not only about watching the wildlife, it's also about giving a little something back to the local environment and community. 
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