ABSTRACT
In this chapter the discussion focuses on the practical components needed for the development of ecotourism programmes. This is an area that has received scant treatment both in theory and practice in tourism and ecotourism largely because of what appears to be a conceptual difference in how and why products are developed for tourists. Literature from the recreation field is used for the purpose of demonstrating fundamental differences between programmes for recreationists and products for tourists. If ecotourism service providers are to develop meaningful programmes for participants, then the utilisation of a widely accepted recreational programme planning model will be helpful in generating satisfying experiences as well as profitable enterprises. The chapter will also discuss tourism operators and guides and the professionalism required to conduct appropriate ecotourism programmes, as well as various other components of the on-site ecotourism, including interpretation, certification and accreditation, and finally the sustainable design of ecolodges.
