A true dream for nature lovers, ecotourism allows the average traveler to enjoy pristine nature in its original form. Ecotourism, also known as jungle tourism, responsible tourism and sustainable development, is one of the fastest growing trends in the tourism industry. Defined as responsible travel that promotes environmental conservation and improves the well-being of local people, it acts as an alternative to conventional tourism, aiming to educate the traveler, provide funds for ecological conservation, promote respect and increase awareness of different cultures. It is a truly unique experience, where you have the opportunity to visit a corner of the earth that has escaped the touch of human hands. Ecotourism was the product of the union of mass tourism and environmental awareness. The term originated in 1983, supposedly coined by Hector Ceballos-Lascurain, when he was lobbying for the conservation of wetlands in northern Yucatán. Now a major source of income for the long-term conservation and care of more than 33,000 protected areas worldwide, ecotourism is based on the combination of environmental preservation, local communities and sustainable travel. The industry, unlike conventional tourism, is not focused on attracting tourists to locations such as the Galapagos Islands and Madagascar. Instead, ecotourism ensures responsible travel, protection of wildlife, and contribution to the well-being of local communities. However, it only works when it generates economic benefits for local people, while reducing the human impact of travel. Therefore, ecotourism thrives due to the active and educated participation of the travel industry and tourists. Thanks to the involvement of everyone, from the traveler himself to the tour......middle of paper......d to the local communities. These industry benefits have inspired major international hotel chains, tour operators and other sectors of the tourism industry to adopt environmentally responsible practices, such as recycling, use of renewable resources and water conservation programs . Ecotourism represents “green tourism”: a pioneering idea that has inspired innovative actions and technologies, which it is hoped will pave the way for a more sustainable future for the entire tourism industry. Furthermore, ecotourism is the answer to the requests of an international community that is increasingly attentive to the environment. Ecotourism is undoubtedly a thriving industry and is an example of ecologically sustainable development. Ecotourism has what it takes to lead not only the tourism industry, but also governments and communities in the pursuit of sustainable development.