Abstract:
This study focusses on the effects of community based tourism on the communities living in the Kakamega region. My area of concern was communities living near community based tourism ventures and those who own community based tourism ventures themselves.Community Based Tourism being a means of sustenance for the people of Kakamega County presents a lot of different phenomena for the members. It presents a number of good proper benefits for them and alongside the benefits there are a number of challenges to them, Community Based Tourism also impacts hugely on the lifestyle of these communities in Kakamega County.The study relies heavily on secondary data which I collected during the research from the community members, County Tourism officials, tour operators and Community Based Tourism venture owners.From the research findings, I have concluded that Community Based Tourism has a great amount of effects to the communities living in Kakamega County. I therefore recommended that measures be put in place to mitigate the challenges facing Community Based Tourism and as well develop side ventures that support Community Based Tourism.