Abstract:
Community-based ecotourism is understood as ecologically minded intervention which owned and run by local
communities. This study examines contributions of community-based ecotourism as alternative livelihoods
options to the local community in tourist destination areas of Ethiopia. The study used cross-sectional survey
involving both qualitative and quantitative approaches. Data were generated through household survey by using
semi-structure interview schedule, on-spot observations and review of different related works and documents.
The results of the study revealed that community-based ecotourism opened widow of opportunities for gainful
livelihood activities on which local people could be involved. Based on evidences of the study it is concluded that
diversifying ecotourism packages along with existing agricultural based livelihood activities have potential to
ensure sustainable community-based ecotourism development.
