Community-based tourism development : a Hiking Trails perspective

Abstract

Community-based tourism (CBT) is an alternative form of tourism development that aims to contribute to holistic development of disadvantaged community members. The relevance of CBT is growing and while CBT development may have many opportunities, it also boast various and relevant challenges. Thus, specific CBT development models are required to enhance CBT chances of success. Hiking trails are seen as a possible option to local development specifically, but not exclusively, to rural areas. In addition heritage tourism is also seen as a relevant tourism sector. In this context, this paper proposes a specific model for CBT link to hiking trails development as trails mostly based on the local cultural and natural assets. The paper that is based on desk research intends to contribute to the tourism literature in relation to community development by specifically proposing a model of CBT hiking trails development. After an introductory section, the paper will explore matters related to CBT and trails development leading to a proposed CBT hiking trail development model. Thereafter, an initial suggestion about a possible CBT hiking trails system in the South Coast of KwaZulu-Natal province of South Africa is briefly outlined. A conclusion will terminate the paper.