Unsustainability of ecotourism in Khuzestan Province

Many planners and policy makers have argued that tourism is the main branch of sustainable development. This allocates a great part of national income in many countries especially in third world. Ecotourism management is vital element for growth and development of society in Iran. Diversity of climate، plants and wildlife in Iran is suitable for ecotourism management. Khuzestan province with natural spaces and beautiful landscapes can absorb foreigner and inner tourists. The findings of this paper indicate that this industry is confronted with several problems and difficulties like weakness of management and planning، lack of clear rules and financial credits، insufficient training of staff and experts and lack of participation of local people. The findings show unsustainability and degradation of rural ecotourism in Khuzestan province. The paper has provided some recommendations for sustainable development of ecotourism in Khuzestan. Keywords