Identifying Afghanistan’s Extraordinary Natural Sites for Ecotourism: A Review of Ideal Ecosystems

Afghanistan's unique geography and rich history position it as an ideal destination for ecotourism, capable of supporting both environmental conservation and economic growth. The study identifies key ecotourism sites, including biodiversity reserves, wildlife habitats, natural landscapes, and cultural landmarks like the Minaret of Jam. It highlights the potential for sustainable development through food tourism and medicinal plants while noting challenges such as bureaucratic obstacles and threats from climate change, including landslides and earthquakes. Despite a decline post-Soviet invasion, recent efforts by the Ministry of Information and Culture have shown promise, with foreign tourist numbers rising significantly between 2021 and 2022. Effective management and collaboration among stakeholders are crucial for overcoming these challenges and fostering long-term sustainability.

Safi, L., Safi, A. G., & Mujeeb, M. (2024). Identifying Afghanistan’s Extraordinary Natural Sites for Ecotourism: A Review of Ideal Ecosystems. Journal of Natural Science Review, 2(4), 147–168. https://doi.org/10.62810/jnsr.v2i4.152