DOI - Mendel University Press

DOI identifiers

DOI: 10.11118/978-80-7701-087-0-0216

INNOVATION TRANSFER IN ECOTOURISM: THE TANZANIAN MANAGEMENT MODEL AND ITS APPLICABILITY IN SLOVAKIA

Veronika Piscová1, William Marandu2,3, Juraj Hreško3
1 Institute of Landscape Ecology – branch Nitra, Akademicka 2, 949 10 Nitra, Slovakia
2 College of African Wildlife Management, Mweka, P.O Box 3031, 25000 Moshi, Tanzania
3 Department of Ecological and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences and Informatics, Constantine the Philosopher University in Nitra, Trieda A. Hlinku 1, 94901 Nitra, Slovakia


Ecotourism in Tanzania represents an inspiring model for Slovakia on how to transform nature conservation into a primary pillar of the national economy and regional development. Tanzania has successfully implemented principles that channel revenue directly to local communities and the maintenance of protected areas. Lessons from Tanzanian practice for Slovakia are evident in the economic value of 'untouched' wilderness. Tanzania demonstrates that preserving ecosystems yields higher long-term value than their industrial exploitation. A direct link to local communities is also crucial. Cultural tourism programs in Tanzania allow visitors to experience the lives of local inhabitants, with profits directly funding the development of village schools and infrastructure. Furthermore, the regulation of visitor numbers through higher added value is essential; Tanzania’s long-standing focus on quality over quantity ('high value, low impact') protects sensitive areas from over-tourism. Ecotourism in Tanzania is not merely about observing nature but about understanding ecological cycles, which enhances the environmental awareness of tourists. The study data were obtained through participant observation during a 45-day mobility in Tanzania, supplemented by semi-structured interviews with local tourism managers. In Slovakia, these best practices from Tanzania could manifest in social impact, biodiversity conservation, and the enhancement of ecosystem services.

Keywords: sustainable development, community-based tourism, biodiversity, visitor management

pages: 216-219, Published: 2026, online: 2026



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