And if you consider Iran part of ME, it has a host of opportunities: Mediterranean climate of north parts; desert tourism of East and Southern East (most notably Yazd… you know, some famous Israelis belong to it); and green mountains of west.

Thanks Mohammad – Iran sounds beautiful. Are there any specific eco tourism groups or spots you can recommend?

This is really cool. Tourism, if you think about it, is a great tool for peace. It promotes cultural exchange, economic opportunity, historical and identity preservation and natural harmony. Great post!

Karen:

Ecotourism is a relatively new idea in Iran and I’m afraid if there is not an organized effort (such as yours) to promote it right now. National Ecotourism Committee is established, though it might take some time for it to run national-level projects. And some non-governmental sites try to introduce possible ecotourism spots, such as this one.

Meanwhile, there are some established procedures for ecotourists: many travel agencies offer special eco-tours, for example to northern parts of Iran or Yazd.

However, professional ecotourists constitute the main source of ecotourism information. For example, we (I and my wife) have decided to spend two weeks in summer in a northern village. I asked several people, and they offered a relatively detailed description: possible destinations, prices, availability of house/room for rent, some pics, etc.

People are eager to spend some time out of metropolitan areas. Therefore some local ecotourism destinations have come into existence. For example, you may find several villages out of Isfahan (our city) which are relatively well-equipped for a 1-2 week stay. Villagers are increasingly getting aware of this possible source of income, thus try to make a better destination.

I hope that while Ahmadinejad is busy f**king Iran and probably the region as a whole, local efforts provide a proper infrastructure within a decade or so.

There are some amazing places in Turkey — treehouses and butterfly reserves; sleeping in caves in Capadocia. The public transport system there is extremely advanced and it’s even possible to pitch a tent on the beach.

Syria has castles which are a must to see and ancient archeology sites. It’s special because the area is relatively undeveloped making for an authentic experience. Also mini-buses, like in Israel can be caught around Syria with ease.

The ME has definitely a great potential for ecotourism and it seems that it is a kind of perfect fit and it will bring tourists more respectful of the natural beauty and the local resource such as water.

I think Jordan is the best place to enjoy real ecotourism. I was surprised by the diversity of its topography, you’ve got the mountains, the wadis and the desert, and you have a wide range of activities to choose from. I highly recommend Jordan for your next visit, it is a magical country, i know i will go there again.

The eco tourism in the area of Galilee is great because it is very interesting area with many historical sites to visit and combination of nature and agriculture landscape.
There are many small eco tour businesses such as special cabins or organic farms.
Another interesting spot is the authentic villages of beduins , circasians and doruz people.
This unique area has high spiritual value for the visitors – it doesnt matter if you are jew or christian or muslim or any other religion.
This area has special atmosphere – highle recommended.

best regards
Alon
Nazareth
Israel

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