Keywords
Abstract
Community-Based Tourism (CBT) emphasizes local community participation in tourism planning, decision-making, and benefit sharing. Unlike mass tourism, CBT promotes economic empowerment, cultural preservation, and environmental sustainability. This study examines the role of local communities in tourism development, highlighting economic, social, cultural, and environmental contributions. Case studies from Thailand, Costa Rica, Kenya, Nepal, and Peru show that CBT can increase household income, strengthen social cohesion, preserve intangible cultural heritage, and encourage sustainable environmental practices. Despite challenges such as limited market access, skill gaps, and unequal benefit distribution, effective governance, capacity building, and inclusive policies enhance CBT’s success. The findings suggest that well-implemented CBT provides a sustainable tourism model benefiting communities, visitors, and ecosystems.
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