First ecotourism festival to take place in June
On June 4-5 in Gomk and Martiros communities of Vayots Dzor province for the first time an ecotourism festival will be organized aiming to promote the development of ecotourism in the communities, as well as to increase public awareness, said “Jermuk Development Centre” NGO president and organizer of the festival Vazgen Galstyan at a press conference.
"Through this festival, we’ve tried to create a ground for those involved in eco-culture and tourism. With the first festival, we’re going to support the local business. This year’s main purpose is to support the development of the communities. The program involves local food sale, ecotourism service exhibition, competitions, hiking and horseback riding,” said Vazgen Galstyan.
“Young Botanists Association” NGO vice-president Sargis Aghayan, also an organizer of the festival, said that they are actively cooperating with state institutions and the private sector, “We’re open for cooperation. There will be 20-30 boots in the communities where the products of local people will be presented, as well as services of tour agencies and state organizations”.
He stressed that due to the festival the tourist will be in a direct contact with the residents, for whom this will also be a platform for consumption of agricultural goods.
“About 500 participants will be attending the festival, who will be provided with transportation and tents. The project will cost about 4 million AMD. The profit will be invested in the development of the community,” added Sargis Aghayan stressing that the festival will be continuous in other communities as well.