The International Ecotourism Society defines ecotourism as "responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment and improves the well-being of local people.":

• Minimize impact
• Build environmental and cultural awareness and respect
• Provide direct financial benefits for conservation
• Provide financial benefits and empowerment for local people.
  
• Raise sensitivity to host countries’ political, environmental, and social climate
  
• Support international human rights and labor agreements