THE CONTRIBUTION OF GEOLOGICAL FEATURES TO VISITOR EXPERIENCES: COMPARISON BETWEEN TWO GEOTOURISM ATTRACTIONS IN SOUTH AFRICA

Abstract

Geotourism offers the opportunity to promote geoconservation as well as an understanding of geoheritage and -diversity. Though sites may have high quality geological resources, visitors to these sites have varied interests and motivations to visit. As such, the geological features of an attraction may make varied contributions to visitors’ experiences. Understanding these differences will aid in determining how specific features should or could be enhanced to facilitate the most appropriate experience dimensions. Aspects such as the content, learning, visitor management and fulfilment are argued to be especially relevant in the geotourism context. This paper explores these perception in the case of two diverse geosites namely the Augrabies Waterfall and Cradle of Humankind, South Africa. Results indicate how specific geological features and representation thereof contribute differently to visitors’ experiences. Recommendations for future research are made.

Keywords

• geotourism
• geological sites
• tourist experiences
• measurement scale
• augrabies national park
• cradle of humankind