Innovations of ecotourism "Lands of the Leopard" discussed with leading tour operators

Frozen prices for all areas of ecotourism, increased hours of work ecotrope and other novelties "Land of the leopard" discussed with the leading tour operators of Primorye.

Development of ecotourism, safe for nature and convenient for people, - was the main topic of the meeting in the office of the Directorate of reserves in Vladivostok. The participants discussed the possibilities of creating and developing new routes and excursions that would not disturb the natural balance and do not interfere with the life of wildlife, including rare Far Eastern leopards and Amur tigers. The topics of safety, education and attraction of tourists to the unique sights of the region were also touched upon.

Director of Lands of the Leopard Victor Bardyuk informed the participants that the cost of ecotourism services in protected areas will not change in 2024. This will preserve the availability of all excursions, routes, accommodation and much more, will help to popularize the rich natural heritage of Primorye. He expressed hope for fruitful cooperation with tour operators and gratitude for their contribution to environmental protection. The parties exchanged views on the development of key areas of ecotourism, shared plans and discussed future cooperation. So, based on experience, experts from tour operators made a proposal to extend the reception time of visitors on the popular ecotrope "Kravtsov Waterfalls". As a result, it was decided to extend the work time of the trail in the summer. In addition, the duration of the excursion on the southernmost island of Russia – Furugelma – Far Eastern Marine Reserve will be increased by one hour. Eco-tourism on the “Land of the Leopard” gives an opportunity to touch the unique nature of the south-western Primorye without harming it. The flagship of this direction remains the ecotrope “Kravtsov Waterfalls”, opened in 2022. The flooring path opened access to the natural object to tens of thousands of people, while protecting the place from trampling, debris and ultimately from death. 

A large number of people visit the area of "Gamovsky" National Park "Land of the Leopard" with excursions to the reindeer park and protected bays. Another popular destination was a multi-day individual tour “In the footsteps of wild cats”. Many tourists visited photo shelters and personally captured free cats in a natural environment, without cages and fences. Also a significant role in the development of ecotourism is played by the popularity of the comfortable hotel "Central Estate" - the main location of the national park "Land of the Leopard". Going here for weekends and on vacation, in addition to the health center, many of its guests visited the nearby ecological routes “Leopard’s Path” and “Semiverstka”. All funds received from the development of ecotourism go to measures to preserve the Far Eastern leopard and the Amur tiger from poaching, natural fires and other threats.

The material was prepared and provided by the National Park.