Gorilla tourism in Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is widely praised as a conservation success, but a closer look reveals unintended consequences for local communities. While the park benefits from tourism revenue and international attention, nearby villages often face restricted land use, limited access to resources, and little say in decisions affecting their lives. Control over conservation and tourism efforts is largely held by national and international organizations, leaving local voices marginalized.
Though ecotourism brings tourists and money, it can also create dependency and deepen poverty when profits don’t flow back to the community. Locals may feel pressured to perform cultural dances or crafts for visitors, leading to the commodification of culture and the loss of authenticity. Traditional social structures and cultural practices risk being eroded to meet tourist expectations.
True ecotourism must do more than protect wildlife or attract foreign dollars—it must empower local people. That means involving communities in park management, sharing tourism revenue fairly, and respecting their cultural autonomy. If gorilla tourism is to be truly sustainable, it must strike a balance between conservation goals and the well-being of the people who live closest to the wildlife.
