Environmental and social impacts of ecotourism around protected areas: A case study of ecotourism development around Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Uganda

This research was conducted to generate deeper understanding of how ecotourism development around protected areas influences community livelihood strategies and conservation. Both quantitative and qualitative methods were used in the collection and analysis of data. Questionnaires were administered to both households in three selected parishes and 7 organisations that work in association with BINP. Group discussions were conducted among the communities who run the campground and community walk. Key informants were interviewed to gather in-depth information that could not be accessed through interviews and group discussions. The information gathered reveals that ecotourism has had both positive and negative impacts on both community livelihood strategies and conservation of BINP. The change in perceptions had been influenced by a combination of ecotourism opportunities, revenue sharing initiatives and promotion of income generating projects around the national park.