Agro-tourism is a way of sustainable tourist development and multi-activity in rural areas through which the visitor has the opportunity to get aware with agricultural areas, agricultural occupations, local products, traditional food and the daily life of the rural people, as well as the cultural elements and traditions. Moreover, this activity brings visitors closer to nature and rural activities in which they can participate, be entertained and feel the pleasure of touring. 2.2 TYPES OF AGRO-TOURISM
The scope of Agro-tourism varies drastically depending on the type of farm, available land and how much of the business is aimed at the Agro-Tourism market. However, the varying forms can be broken down into three basic groups. 1. Direct market Agro-tourism : if you have ever seen a road side produce stan, you have seen direct market Agro-Tourism in action. Farmers sell goods like produce, canned items and other organic products directly to consumers either at markets and fairs or on the farm itself, often along side other Agro-Tourism offerings. Farmers may be selling an organic product similar to what consumer could find at a grocery store, but their product has the added appeal of coming directly from a local farm. To appeal to some consumers, the goods may be marketed as organic , all natural , or the product of “old fashioned” methods. 2. Education and experience Agro-tourism: this form of Agro-Tourism includes pick yours own apple grove, farm tours, bed and breakfasts and packages aimed at giving guests a hands on education in farm life. The farm itself is marketed as a tourist destination. whether Agro tourists pay to pick their own produce, attend wine tastings at a vineyard or simply enjoy the farm atmosphere, the draw is first hand experience. Once visitors are acquainted with the farm more closely, they may also be more inclined to buy its agricultural products. 3. Recreation and event Agro-tourism: while still considered Agro-Tourism, these offerings tend to involve using farm land for other marketable uses. Harvest festivals, corn mazes, haunted hay rides and country wedding held on farm land may draw heavily on the farm’s atmosphere. Other activities like camping , archery and horseback riding are often less dependent on the farm itself . however, such forms of Agro-Tourism still draw in guests who may be tempted to buy goods. 15 | P a g e
