What type of tourism involves viewing wildlife in its natural habitat?

The type of tourism that focuses on viewing wildlife in its natural habitat is best defined as ecotourism. This form of tourism is centered around responsible travel to natural areas, aiming to conserve the environment and improve the well-being of local people. Ecotourism typically involves activities like wildlife observation, hiking, and staying in eco-friendly accommodations that educate visitors about the ecosystems they are exploring.

While safari tourism also involves wildlife viewing, particularly in specific regions like Africa, it does not inherently emphasize sustainability or the conservation aspect that ecotourism embodies. Adventure tourism, on the other hand, encompasses a wide range of activities that may include physical challenges and outdoor experiences, not exclusively focused on wildlife observation. Cultural tourism is primarily centered on experiencing the culture, traditions, and lifestyles of local communities rather than wildlife itself. Therefore, although safari tourism shares similarities with ecotourism, the term that most accurately reflects the principle of observing wildlife in a natural, responsible context is ecotourism.