Graduate Certificate in Desert Safari Ecotourism Practices
Published on June 18, 2025
About this Podcast
HOST: Welcome to our podcast, today I'm thrilled to be joined by Dr. Sarah Peterson, an expert in ecotourism and the lead instructor for the Graduate Certificate in Desert Safari Ecotourism Practices. Sarah, can you tell us a bit about your personal experiences that led you to this field? GUEST: Absolutely, I've always been passionate about conservation and cultural preservation. During my PhD, I had the opportunity to work with local communities in desert ecosystems, and that's where I saw the potential for responsible tourism to drive sustainability. HOST: That's fascinating. And as an expert, what current trends do you see in the ecotourism industry, particularly in desert safari practices? GUEST: There's a growing emphasis on low-impact, sustainable operations and authentic cultural experiences. Tourists are increasingly interested in learning about and contributing to the preservation of these unique environments and heritage. HOST: I can imagine that balancing conservation, cultural sensitivity, and business interests can be quite challenging. Could you share some insights on overcoming these challenges? GUEST: Definitely. It's about fostering a strong relationship with local communities, ensuring that they benefit from the tourism activities and are involved in decision-making processes. Additionally, continuous training and capacity building are crucial for ecotourism practitioners. HOST: That's a great approach. Now, looking to the future, how do you see the role of desert safari ecotourism evolving in the broader travel and tourism sector? GUEST: I believe desert safari ecotourism will play an essential role in promoting sustainable development and conservation efforts in arid regions. As more travelers seek responsible and authentic experiences, this niche sector is poised for growth and impact. HOST: Dr. Sarah Peterson, thank you so much for sharing your insights on the Graduate Certificate in Desert Safari Ecotourism Practices. It's been a pleasure and very informative. GUEST: Thank you for having me. I encourage everyone interested in responsible tourism and desert conservation to explore this exciting program.
