PRIORITY DEVELOPMENT AREAS OF NATURE TOURISM RESOURCES IN SHAKI-ZAGATALA ECONOMIC AND GEOGRAPHIC REGION

Abstract

Nature-based tourism makes individual tourist trips attractive. In this regard, when its scale becomes massive, it stimulates the socio-economic development of the region and significantly contributes to the gross domestic product. In this regard, tourism, considered a priority area of regional sustainable development, should be constantly developed. In addition, its sustainability should be measured mainly by nature tourism resources. Purpose. The main purpose of the research is the comprehensive analysis of the Shaki-Zagatala economic-geographic region, being considered one of the regions with the richest natural and tourism resources of Azerbaijan, the current problems and the priority directions that stimulate development. Research method. Analysis of nature tourism resources includes historical, comparative analysis, and descriptive observation methods. Result. The research process studied the natural conditions of the region from the tourism attractiveness point of view, determined the advantage of the relief factor during nature tourism trips, studied the indicato rs of climate comfort for the efficient organisation of tourists’ recreation, evaluated the tourism importance of forest resources, and analysed the hydro-tourism potential of water resources in recreation and health. Finally. The materials provided in the research process can be used in preparing regional development programs.

Keywords

• tourism
• nature tourism
• wildlife tourism
• ecotourism
• adventure tourism
• hydro-tourism