Ecotourism in Protected Areas: A Literature Review

This study explores the opportunities and challenges of ecotourism development in Uzbekistan’s protectedareas. With rising global interest in sustainable travel, Uzbekistan's rich natural and cultural assets remain underutilized.Using a mixed-methods approach, the study analyzes literature, visitor statistics, and case studies of key sites, includingChatkal, Nuratau-Kyzylkum, Zaamin, and Surkhan reserves. Findings show that infrastructure gaps, limited awareness,and weak policy coordination hinder ecotourism progress. However, strategic government initiatives and stakeholdercollaboration indicate growth potential. Community-based ecotourism, eco-friendly infrastructure, and technologyadoption are essential for sustainable development. The study emphasizes the need for integrated policies and furtherresearch on ecotourism’s socio-economic and conservation impacts.