<![CDATA[Ngovo Cave (DRC) is a site of exceptional ecological and heritage significance, home to the blind fish Caecobarbus geertsii and rich prehistoric deposits. While cave tourism is growing, there is a lack of structured frameworks for evaluating such fragile karst systems in Central Africa. This study addresses this gap by assessing the cave’s ecotourism potential through a SWOT analysis to support sustainable management. A mixed-methods approach combined direct observations with surveys of 50 participants (tourists and residents). Results highlight substantial scientific and ecological assets, but reveal constraints such as limited accessibility and infrastructure. Opportunities include scientific collaborations and cultural valorization, while threats involve environmental degradation and governance challenges. Methodologically, this research demonstrates how SWOT-based frameworks can effectively bridge geological conservation with community-based development in under-studied tropical regions. Recommendations focus on infrastructure, research programs, and participatory governance. By promoting a model of inclusive management, Ngovo Cave represents a strategic site for sustainable ecotourism in Central Africa, balancing conservation with socio-economic benefits.]]>
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