How does ecotourism help the rainforest?

The local people understand the local ecosystem to the extent that they may have grown up there, learned from each other, and in other ways are extremely knowledgeable about the locale.

When locals are involved in ecotourism, visitors can learn first-hand what the actions are that best maintain the sustainability of the ecosystem. Often this translates to income: visitors pay for learning experiences presented by locals.

Commercial tour leaders and organizers are often most concerned with a 'tour experience standard', which must be unique for every local ecosystem. So they help identify locals who are the most knowledgeable and accessible.

When local people are involved in the management and direction of the increased visitor traffic, they know best how to protect their homelands.

Finally, there are areas in the world where people live in the natural world that are extremely interesting to curious humans. This kind of vacation often appeals to visitors more than a vacation to a predictable resort or amusement park.