Geotourism: Who is a Geotourist? ©

Ecotourism is ecologically sustainable tourism, focusing on natural areas. Its aim is to foster environmental and cultural understanding, appreciation and conservation. Geotourism is ecotourism with an added geological theme. Geotourism has great potential as a new niche ecotourism product, but will require the same disciplines that apply to other niche, ‘high value’ tourism activities. Where ever tourism contributes a direct environmental benefit to a visited location, its clients gain empathy for the holistic heritage of the area, and this reward creates enhanced customer loyalty to the operator. The Commonwealth Government’s 1994 National Ecotourism Strategy considered that ecotourists may include a mix of independent travelers, people who travel in organised groups of a scientific, educational or recreational nature, and individuals or families who are interested in an ecotourism experience as part of a varied holiday. Whilst based on limited sources, the Strategy then considere...