How to start an eco tourism business

First ask yourself, why do you want to start an eco tourism business?

From what I have experienced people in my industry, who are success, have a passion for what they do. Do you have that passion? Do you want to share that passion with someone else? If not maybe rethink this industry.

Customers and guests who come in search of an eco tour are typically someone in the know or want to know more about the environment. And hot topics they might bring up could be global warming, plastics and recycling and then specifically in Florida, the reef systems dying and algea blooms that are affecting our eco systems. As an individual you have to take this passion on yourself spending time learning and engaging and volunteering towards those same efforts you want to use your business to educate others about. Most often someone hits a question or a topic that I jump in on and dive deep in explanations and research going on in different organizations. I spending time volunteering for groups like Reef Relief, Paddle with a Purpose, Surfrider and others. Most often guests would have been happy with the simple yes made up answer that many uneducated tour guides give like… “Yeah sure, global warming is hurting our reefs…. Look at that tree!” Well why? No one else gives them the why unless they have that passion and have done that same research themselves.

I pride myself in oozing that passion to all my guests and my staffs. Sharing passion is lighting a fire for change and that is what eco tourism should do. Every guest should leave invigorated and have an idea on what small impact they can have either on their trip or when they return home and keep that fire burning. If you don’t continuously find yourself engaged and wanting to learn more how can you expect to be able share and educate your customers and inspire them to do the same?

So how do you start an eco tourism business? Find that fire! Then we can talk all about the nitty gritty business stuff.

And so the adventure continues….

Lionfish Lauren