Ecotourism is the tourism of natural areas that preserves and develops the needs of surrounding communities ( The Higher Association for Ecotourism ). It is a tour engaged with nature for the purpose of promoting, enjoying, recreation and providing knowledge without harming it. Ecotourism supports conservation, managed sustainably, that is practiced by small groups. It may include education and awareness to enhance understanding of natural environments and their relationship to local cultures. It is the only type of tourism suitable for environmentally sensitive sites, including most protected areas.