Identifying ecotourists’ accommodation needs and preferences?

M. Saayman,P. Van der Merwe

doi:10.4102/sajbm.v48i1.21

M. Saayman, P. Van der Merwe

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.4102/sajbm.v48i1.21

Copy DOI

Abstract

The purpose of this research is to determine ecotourists’ needs and preferences concerning national parks in South Africa. A survey was conducted at the Tsitsikamma National Park, focusing on fixed-roof accommodation, camping and ecolodges. Results showed that the preferences for each aspect are unique and that setting remains paramount when it comes to fixed-roof accommodation. The research also confirmed that a variety of accommodation types, including provision for self-catering, is preferred by ecotourists. This research makes a valuable contribution to the managing of accommodation in South African National Parks.

Highlights

Nature-based travel is one of the key reasons why tourists travel to South Africa; this is most probably true for most countries in Africa (Saayman, Rossouw & Saayman, 2012)
The results are divided into four parts, namely the profile of respondents, and the needs and preferences of fixed-roof accommodation in national parks, campsites and ecolodges
The profile of these results correlates well with previous research that has been conducted by Hermann (2015), Engelbrecht (2015), Cini & Saayman (2013), Kruger et al (2012), Saayman et al (2008) and Van der Merwe and Saayman (2008), who determined the profile of tourists visiting South African National Parks

Summary

Introduction

Nature-based travel is one of the key reasons why tourists travel to South Africa; this is most probably true for most countries in Africa (Saayman, Rossouw & Saayman, 2012). With increased travel to nature-based attractions, an increased popularity of ecolodges as accomodation has emerged (Kwan, Eagles & Gebhardt, 2010) These increases in demand for accommodation have led to a steep growth in the supply or development of different types of accommodation, from the original tents and rondawels (circular and often thatched buildings with conical roofs) in the early 1900s to the luxurious tents and chalets of today. In this context, Wight (1997) found that ecotourists are looking for a range of products and that setting is of paramount importance; this includes uncrowded wilderness and remoteness. This research will focus on these types of accommodation

Objectives

Methods

Results

Conclusion