Community Based Tourism

Community Based Tourism (CBT) is tourism that takes environmental, social and cultural sustainability into account. It is managed and owned by the community, for the community, with the purpose of enabling visitors to increase their awareness and learn about the community and local ways of life.

A community by definition implies individuals with some kind of collective responsibility, and the ability to make decisions by representative bodies.

Community based tourism is tourism in which local residents invite tourists to visit their communities with the provision of overnight accommodation.

The residents earn income as land managers, entrepreneurs, service and produce providers, and employees. At least part of the tourist income is set aside for projects which provide benefits to the community as a whole.

Community based tourism enables the tourist to discover local habitats and wildlife, and celebrates and respects traditional cultures, rituals and wisdom. The community will be aware of the commercial and social value placed on their natural and cultural heritage through tourism, and this will foster community based conservation of these resources.

Community Based Tourism programs are usually developed based around special elements of local lifestyle, culture, people and nature that community members feel proud of and choose to share with guests.

Guests have an opportunity to experience and learn about the community and the environment through fun, “hands-on” activities lead by local community guides. These include jungle trekking, traditional fishing, natural dying, learning to cook local dishes, etc.
Tourism services and activities are planned and managed by local people, working together in a “CBT Group.”