Africa’s tourist makeover

When most people think of Africa, they tend not to think of it as their top vacation destination. Perhaps a few venture out on safaris in Kenya now and again, or hit the beaches of Zanzibar. Most are innodated with the images of conflict and poverty coming out of Africa. But many countries on the continent have had stable governments for some time now and have been encouraging travelers to explore within their borders. In particular, many tour operators and tourists alike have become very interested in West Africa’s ecotourism opportunities.

While many people have ben flocking to Uganda, Tanzania and Kenya for the untouched wilderness and amazing animals, countries in West Africa have started getting into the game. Ecotourism caught on fast in Gabon and Ghana but countries like Angola and Nigeria are starting to catch up.

One such interested party is Rombout Swanborn, a Dutch conservationist and business man who recently purchased two hotels on the island of Principe, off the West African Coast. In addition to his new purchases, the Dutch man is also heavily involved with ecotourism businesses in Gabon.

“The people here are sitting on a pot of gold,” said Swanborn.

The pot of gold he’s referring to includes virgin rainforests and unspoiled tropical landscapes.

And people, it seems, are catching on. The World Tourism Organization said in October that Africa was the industry’s “star performer” and it is expected to continue performing in the upcoming year with an estimated growth of ten percent. That’s over two times the world’s average for growth in tourism.

Most of the growth in Africa is occurring in the eco-tourism sector and is getting support from the United Nations and other international environmental groups. Even the World Wildlife Fund is supporting the trend. Many of these organizations believe that ecotourism is a sustainable way for nations to preserve local customs, needs and environments, and participate in the global economy.