Kapawi Ecolodge: A Community Enterprise in the Amazon Rainforest

The Kapawi Ecolodge and Reserve, located in the Ecuadorian Amazon, is an ecotourism enterprise that is managed by an indigenous population. Through in-person and online interviews, onsite research and supporting online research, this case study was created to present the unique business and management structure, hospitality experience and responsible tourism practices of the ecolodge. It addresses the primary managerial, structural, experimental and sustainable aspects of the business and outlines the ways in which cultural and community-based tourism are used to support the sustainability of both the Amazon region and its local population. It also uncovers the challenges of the business, which are mostly environmental and social. This study should serve as a reference to other tourism businesses who want to achieve a higher level of sustainability, particularly in hospitality.

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