From the pdf. I take no responsibility for the awful English!
SANParks
National Tour Guide Symposium
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The Adventure tourism possibilities in Protected areas
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18 February 2016
THEME:
“BUILDING A SUCCESSFUL AND SUSTAINABLE TOURIST GUIDING SECTOR”
How can SANParks help
Stay in touch with the market
Offer great products
Focus on sustainability
Capitalise on the Adventure tourism possibilities
Activity Hubs
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developing business in and around National Parks
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Activities in National Parks traditionally been limited
•
Introduction of contemporary activities are seen as an exception more than the rule
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Parks do offer relaxation, connecting to nature and mostly self-drives
•
However, there is a definite need to cater to the guests who are looking at optimising the visit to a National
Park
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Objective of the Wild Activity Hubs (WAH’s):
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Located close to communities which will allow these communities to benefit
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Activity centres accessible to tourists
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Increases spent in National Parks and contributes to improved visitor
experience
Objectives of the Wild Activity Hub
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Increase activities
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> optimize stay in National Parks
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Increased stay
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> increased revenue
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Activity hub model
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> allows for creation of many
small businesses benefitting from established
operation
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Great model for beneficiation and involvement of
local communities
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> traditional and cultural activities
to be introduced
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All done in environmental friendly way
Adventure Tourism, valued at $263 billion is one of the fastest growing categories of tourism that attracts high
value customers, supports local economies, and encourages sustainable practices (Global Report of Adventure
Tourism, 2014)
Way forward
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SANParks received funding for the Planning Phase of:
Phalaborwa Activity Hub
Shangoni gate (Phase 1 New gate for high clearance vehicles with new camp
site and picnic sites on Shingwedzi river)
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Funding for Phase 2 with extended gate and tarred access with associated activities at hub to follow
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Involvement of local communities integral in making this initiative a
success