Tourism in Rural Areas: A Case Study of Opportunities in the South Coast of KwaZulu-Natal

Abstract

This article argues that rural areas should use their rurality as a strength and not a point of weakness on the premise that their peripherality gives them a uniqueness undergirded by their rich histories and heritage, which are pull factors for tourists eager to experience nature and life only available in serene rural areas which great towns and cities do not possess. The article argues that rural tourism is important for domestic tourism which in turn spurs international tourism. Local tour and facility operators need to create jobs, make a profit and use local support as a buffer against international travel fluctuations and seasonality. This article is conceptual in nature as no new primary data was collected during its compilation. It draws upon secondary data from published material. Rural development cannot take place without the support of Government for the provision of socio-economic infrastructure and policy to guide practice with communities at the centre. The article proposed a model which emphasises a strong collaborative framework amongst various actors with a two-pronged approach to address coastal and inland tourism. The model represents a panoply of CBT ventures, adventure tourism and other ‘stand-alone’ attractions to craft the image of rural development which the municipality desires.

Keywords: Tourism, Rural Areas, Community-Based Tourism, Government, South Africa, Community Development

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