How the growth of ecotourism has the power to drive economic, cultural and environmental benefits for Azerbaijan

Abstract

As Azerbaijan’s national strategy has shifted to encourage non-oil revenues, tourism has become one area of focus. While the impact of some tourism activities, such as the influx of visitors during Baku’s Formula 1 or other major sporting events, are both tangible and visible, the value of other tourism sectors may appear less evident. Ecotourism is one such niche. This research shows that ecotourism offers significant potential for development, with benefits for the environment and national brand, as well as stimulation for local economies. Azerbaijan has in abundance the most important attributes required to develop its ecotourism industry: Natural areas of recognised outstanding beauty, rich cultural and gastronomic history, and a stable, welcoming climate. Added to this is the country’s investment in the renovation of historical places and transport links, growth of international languages such as English and improvement in accommodation and tourism infrastructure. This research is supported by data and interviews from public and private sector organisations. But underpinning the potential for growth in Azerbaijan’s ecotourism sector are the country’s natural resources, and there is already evidence from the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources that, with coordinated promotion at only minimal levels, the number of foreign tourists visiting the national parks of Azerbaijan are increasing steadily.