Ecotourism and the revival of nomadic traditions in Kazakhstan: a model for Central Asia

This study examines the role of nomadic tourism, a branch of ecotourism, in the diversifying the economy and preserving the cultural heritage of Central Asian countries. By analyzing its potentials, challenges, and possibilities, the research demonstrated how similar ecotourism projects can be introduced in other Central Asian countries, with Kazakhstan serving as a model for sustainable tourism and cultural preservation.

Keywords: nomadic tourism, ecotourism, sustainable development, cultural revival, economic growth, Kazakhstan, Central Asia.

Introduction

In an era of technological advancements and increasing urbanization mixed with globalization, individuals are becoming increasingly detached from the natural environment and their cultural heritage. Findings of numerous studies indicate that the level of happiness in humans tends to increase as interactions with natural habitats become more frequent [1, p. 2]. Therefore, in adapting to the global changing landscape, conventional tourism has given way to ecotourism, emphasizing sustainability by balancing economic growth, cultural preservation, and environmental protection.

The rise of ecotourism can be traced back to the 1980s, when it was primarily perceived as nature-based tourism aimed at encouraging enjoyment and environmental education [2, p. 2]. For example, researchers like Ismail et al. (2021) emphasized the importance of connecting tourists with natural habitats to instill a deeper appreciation for conservation efforts. Over the decades, the concept evolved to encompass broader goals, including community involvement and cultural heritage preservation [2, p. 2].

In Central Asia now, tourism is now being reconsidered not just as a tool for economic growth but also as a means of reclaiming cultural identity. During the 19th and 20th centuries, much of the region’s nomadic heritage was marginalized or lost altogether [3, p. 125]. Nomadic tourism—modern revitalization of traditional practices centered on the nomadic way of life—has the potential to mitigate this legacy. By providing opportunities to showcase the unique cultural practices of the region, such as yurts and pastoral livelihoods, nomadic tourism can play a crucial role in cultural revival and international recognition.

For instance, Mongolia has actively promoted nomadic tourism, showing how cultural practices can be successfully incorporated into contemporary tourism models. Nomadic tourism involves visitors spending time in the summer pastures (jailau) of local shepherds, engaging in cultural exchange, and experiencing the lifestyle of nomadic communities. Statistics from Mongolia’s tourism sector show that nomadic tourism not only promotes cultural preservation but also boosts economic growth. In 2019 alone, Mongolia attracted over 577,000 foreign tourists, with tourism generating USD 607 million and contributing 3.4 % to GDP, showcasing nomadic tourism as a powerful catalyst for sustainable economic growth and the preservation of nomadic heritage on a global scale [4, p. 60]. Such successes suggest that Central Asian states, with their similarly rich nomadic traditions, could benefit greatly by adopting and adapting these practices. This research paper explores three interconnected themes: economic benefits, cultural preservation, and environmental sustainability.

Literature review

Ecotourism is a form of environmentally friendly tourism that encourages nature appreciation and learning while benefiting the economy of the local community and the economy of the country in general [5, p. 774]. Bhuiyan et al. (2012) claim that ecotourism has significant potential in ensuring sustainable development in developing countries [6, p. 54]. Sustainable development incorporates economic, social, cultural, ecological, and physical factors, where present needs are met without compromising the future generations [6, p. 55].

Given the challenges Central Asia faces today, including environmental challenges like the shrinking Aral Sea, desertification, and water scarcity, sustainable development is at risk [7]. Nomadic tourism at this point emerges as a distinctive form of sustainable tourism that honors and preserves nomadic traditions. This model combines community-based tourism with the promotion of local cultural identity [4, p. 70]. Consequently, nomadic tourism holds significant potential to stimulate economic and social sustainability in the region. However, Kiper (2013) and Jamal, Borges, & Stronza (2006) highlight several challenges that weaken nomadic tourism’s ability to fully support sustainability. Jamal, Borges, & Stronza (2006) argue that contemporary ecotourism has shifted away from its original purpose of ensuring sustainability and supporting local livelihoods, instead prioritizing economic gains over environmental and societal well-being [8, p. 168]. Kiper (2013) points out specific issues that emerge while implementing ecotourism [9, p. 788]:

1. Increased tourism can lead to habitat destruction, pollution, and resource depletion.
2. Traditional cultures may face misrepresentation, loss of identity, and economic exploitation due to the necessity to appeal to tourists.
3. The unequal distribution of tourism revenues can leave local communities with minimal benefits while external investors gain the most.
4. A lack of proper planning and regulation can lead to over-tourism, ecosystem degradation, and conflicts between stakeholders.

1. In order to protect biodiversity and cultural heritage, low-impact tourism strategies must be implemented.
2. To ensure fair distribution of economic benefits, local ownership and control over ecotourism businesses must be encouraged.
3. Establishing waste management systems, limiting visitor numbers, and enforcing conservation laws need to be carried out.
4. To instill responsible tourism behavior, environmental education for tourists and locals needs to be promoted.
5. To adapt policies accordingly, tourism impacts must be constantly tracked by government or organizations.

Nomadic tourism holds promise for cultural revival and sustainability, given that strategic planning and regulatory measures are implemented to minimize challenges linked to ecotourism.

A study conducted by Snyman (2014) provides real-life scenarios illustrating the crucial role of ecotourism in poverty reduction, employment, and local economic development in rural and underdeveloped areas, specifically in six southern African countries [10]. Results from this study show that 94 % of ecotourism employees rely on their salary as the main source of household income​; 63 % of staff respondents claimed that their job in ecotourism was their first full-time employment, showing that ecotourism provides access to formal employment where none existed before; 82 % of ecotourism staff owned a mobile phone, compared to 41 % of non-staff rural residents [10, p. 9];moreover, nomadic tourism not only improves the financial well-being of the region but also contributes to the preservation of natural resources and cultural heritage [11, p. 20].

As previously mentioned, if strategic planning and regulatory measures are successfully implemented to diminish problems linked to ecotourism, nomadic tourism holds a big potential in promoting culture as well as stimulating economic growth. Mongolia serves as a compelling example of how nomadic tourism can be a stimulator of economic growth and cultural revival, given that problems caused by tourism are mitigated. Gantemur (2020) studied specifically Mongolia’s approach to implementing nomadic tourism [4]. According to Gantemur (2020), despite benefits, nomadic tourism has introduced challenges such as overgrazing, overdevelopment, and cultural commercialization. Some tourism businesses prioritize Western-style accommodations over traditional gers (yurts), diminishing the authenticity of nomadic experiences [4, p. 61].

To address these issues, Mongolia has implemented a “Three-Layer Collaboration System,” incorporating [4, p. 70]:

1. Government Regulation—Establishing policies for sustainable land use and preventing excessive tourism development.
2. Community-Based Initiatives—Ensuring nomadic families actively participate in tourism governance and benefit financially.
3. Eco-Tourism Practices—Promoting low-impact tourism focused on cultural exchange rather than mass tourism expansion.

The concept of “nomadic-friendly tourism,” as proposed in research on Mongolia’s tourism sector, aligns tourism with local cultural and environmental landscapes. Rather than reducing nomadic traditions to attractions, this model actively involves local communities in tourism development, allowing them to have control over their heritage [4, p. 71].

Mongolia’s approach provides key insights for other regions seeking to balance tourism and cultural preservation. Key takeaways include:

1. Incorporating local communities as decision-makers in tourism development.
2. Protecting pastoral lands and traditional practices from over-commercialization.
3. Developing policies that sustain both economic growth and cultural heritage.

How can Central Asian countries introduce something similar?

1. Kazakhstan

Excessive reliance of the economy on extraction and utilization of mineral resources leads to instability and environmental degradation [12]. Kazakhstan, a country whose economy largely depends on exploitation of natural resources, needs to diversify its economy by investing in various fields outside of the raw material industry [13, p. 157]. In this case, supporting the tourism sector may play a significant role in making a country's economy less vulnerable to global crises. Nomadic tourism, as previously mentioned, is an authentic form of ecotourism whose core and principles align with the culture of local dwellers.

During the era of enforced collectivization, the nomadic lifestyle of Kazakh people transitioned to a state-controlled agricultural system that fundamentally reshaped nomadic traditions. However, nomadic culture did not entirely vanish but gradually shifted toward semi-nomadism, with nomadic groups residing in villages during the winter months [14, p. 6].

Recent research regarding current trends in the tourism industry of Kazakhstan indicates that the country has shifted toward a more sustainable form of tourism with an accent on cultural heritage preservation [15, p. 7]. By promoting its nomadic culture and Silk Road legacy, Kazakhstan is enhancing its tourism appeal, with rural tourism expanding outside major cities. The Covid-19 crisis accelerated domestic travel and digitalization, while regional partnerships, notably within the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), are shaping the sector's growth [15, p. 8; 12].

1. Economic barriers and uneven revenue distribution

— Economic instability and funding shortages remain major problems.

— Tourism revenues are often allocated to urban centers, while rural areas struggle with insufficient investment.

2. Infrastructure and accessibility issues

— Poor transportation networks, limited tourism infrastructure, and lack of quality accommodations in rural regions hinder development.

— Many natural attractions lack proper visitor facilities, signposting, and safety measures.

3. Stereotypes and global image issues

— Kazakhstan struggles with a lack of global tourism recognition compared to other destinations.

— Misconceptions about safety, visa restrictions, and accessibility reduce the country’s competitiveness.

4. Environmental concerns and over-tourism risks

— Waste management, water resource depletion, and climate change pose significant risks.

5. Necessity for better tourism regulation and policy implementation

— There is a need for stronger governance and strategic planning in the tourism sector.

— Researchers emphasize the importance of local community involvement, clear policies, and investment in human resources.

6. Barriers to domestic tourism growth

— Many Kazakhstani citizens lack awareness or interest in traveling domestically.

— High domestic travel costs and lack of tourism diversity make international destinations more appealing for locals.

Analyzing the development of nomadic tourism in both Mongolia and Kazakhstan indicates that Mongolia’s model demonstrates greater effectiveness.

Table 1

With the implementation of appropriate policies and effective strategies, Kazakhstan has the potential to develop a nomadic tourism industry that matches or even surpasses the success of Mongolia’s.

In this research, I analyzed the potential of nomadic tourism in diversifying the economy and preserving the cultural heritage of Central Asian countries. While the study focused on Kazakhstan as a case study, its findings can serve as a model for similar initiatives across the region. This example highlights how sustainable tourism possesses the potential to contribute to both economic growth and cultural revival in Central Asia if systematic planning and policy interventions are successfully executed to reduce problems connected to ecotourism.