ICT, Seamless Recreation and Tourism: An Anthropological Perspective

The integration of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) into wildlife and ecotourism marks a profound transformation in how humans engage with natural environments and Indigenous communities. This manuscript explores seamless tourism through an anthropological lens, examining how digital technologies mediate human-nature relationships, reshape cultural practices, and influence conservation outcomes. Seamless tourism refers to a frictionless visitor journey—from planning to post-visit—enabled by integrated ICT systems that ensure continuity through data flows, interoperable services, and context-aware interfaces. The global ecotourism market is rapidly expanding, driven by technologies such as virtual reality, augmented reality, and artificial intelligence that enhance visitor experiences while supporting conservation goals. Digital anthropology provides insight into how cultural meanings, identities, and relationships evolve through digital mediation, revealing how platforms and interfaces reconfigure host–guest dynamics and heritage expression. Findings show that while digital tools can enhance environmental education and conservation awareness, they may also commodity nature and disrupt traditional ecological relationships. Smartphones and web apps now serve as primary interfaces for travelers, combining booking, navigation, and interpretation, though their widespread use centralizes control in platform operators. Case studies highlight how virtual reality can reduce environmental impact, such as immersive orientation programs that lower wildlife disturbance. The manuscript also addresses ethical concerns, including digital colonialism, surveillance through monitoring technologies, and debates over whether virtual wildlife experiences can equitably represent non-human rights and welfare. Anthropological analysis emphasizes the need for culturally sensitive approaches that respect Indigenous knowledge systems, promote community co-production of digital content, and uphold data sovereignty. Recent innovations include virtual reef tours and digital twins that optimize visitor flows while minimizing ecological harm. This research offers guidance for professionals navigating the intersection of technology, culture, and conservation, advocating for inclusive, sustainable, and ethically grounded digital tourism practices.