ECOLOGICAL TOURS AS KEY FOR SUSTAINABLE TOURISM DEVELOPMENT IN TRANSYLVANIA

Abstract

This paper aims to analyse the current state of eco-touristic destinations in the Transylvanian region of Romania, with special attention on the supply and characteristics of ecological tours and its impact on the local community, the environment and the economy. The analysis, in the first place, is based on an exploratory analysis, which identifies the main stakeholders. Afterwards primary data, collected through a structured online questionnaire, present on one hand the approach of the tour operators and tour guides towards the organization of ecological tours, on the other hand, the perception of the customers towards eco-touristic products. The results indicate that a high percentage of tour operators and tour guides show indifferent attitude towards the organization of ecological tours. However, most of the stakeholders are aware of the fact that in order to preserve our natural sites, on one hand, there is a high need to increase the ecological tour offer and on the other hand, it is crucial to educate both the tourists and the local community. The customers, depending on their socio-economic status and educational level, fall in very different groups when the principles of sustainability are to be kept in practice.