Eco-cultural tourism development in Ghana: potentials and expected benefits in the Lawra Municipality

The focus of Ghana's tourism industry has been lob-sided as emphasis has most often been placed on nature-based, historical, cultural and conference tourism with no attention to eco-cultural tourism. This study explores the potentials and expected benefits of eco-cultural tourism development in Eremon in the Lawra Municipality of Ghana. The study employed mixed methods for data collection and analysis. Data were obtained from 150 household heads systematically sampled from five communities within the Traditional Area, six heads of public institutions in tourism development, and traditional leaders. The findings revealed the existence of many untapped eco-cultural tourism resources of ecological, spiritual, cultural, and mythical significance including rivers, hills and groves. These resources have potentials to be developed for touristic purposes to support rural livelihoods through employment creation, reduction in rural-urban drift, provision of market for tourist products, and improved social amenities. The study concludes that eco-cultural tourism development can spiritually revitalize and promote local traditions and cultural values, rejuvenate degraded ecological resources, and promote alternative livelihoods. To realize these benefits, community bye-laws should be strengthened and strictly applied. Additionally, there is the need to market eco-cultural tourism attractions in the area using existing platforms, such as traditional festivals and new media.