Socio-economic analysis of the women ecotourism activities in Kure Mountain National Park

Ecotourism is a type of tourism that maximum benefits are provided to local people while protecting the environment. Uplifting ecotourism activities in rural areas will increase the livelihoods of local people who live inside those areas. Being developed by economical and social aspects, local people will care more about the sustainability of biodiversity and will be very effective on protecting them. To optimize the utilization of naturel areas by the local people will result in more protection and recognition. Kure Mountains National Park is one of the most important protected area to accelerate ecotourism, having tremendous naturel resources, protected traditional culture, caves, canyons, waterfalls and other naturel beauties. In this study, we have examined the support of women in ecotourism activities in Kure Mountain National Park. In order to measure the support of women in ecotourism we have conducted face to face surveys and observation methods. In the light of the analyzed data, problems faced supporting ecotourism are investigated and try to bring solutions. As a result, the sustainability of women supported ecotourism activities has to be encouraged by local people in the area and by the local government. Currently, ecotourism opportunities are not valued enough, to give this valuation women who live in those areas at first, then local people in general and local government have to support development and sustainability of ecotourism. As a conclusion, to stimulate ecotourism activities with encouragement and micro development plans will increase the livelihoods of local people and people who live in and around of the National Park will act more sensitive to protect those areas. Key Words: Ecotourism, Women, Kure Mountain National Park, Kastamonu