Responsible ecotourism in South Africa

As travel has made the world seem even smaller the nature of tourism has changed.

Dr George Hughes, chief executive officer of the Conservation Trust of KwaZulu-Natal South Africa, explains the changes in the nature of tourism that have affected South Africa and the benefits it can bring to the local people as well as the environment.

Ideas for teaching about ecotourism

• Use key sentences from the article to make statement cards for the pupils. These can be arranged into sustainable or unsustainable practices. Ask the pupils to fill in statements on blank cards. These can then be ranked or arranged in a diamond shape according to their impact on an area.
• Use the website links to create a brochure or PowerPoint presentation to illustrate the attractions of the KwaZulu-Natal area and the importance of ecotourism.
• Draw a mind map to show the attractions, benefits and costs to the area. How could the costs be limited?
• Using the website links, compare the management of KwaZulu-Natal with another conservation area/national park in Africa.

Other information

KwaZulu-Natal Tourism Authority
KwaZulu Natal Conservation Trust
Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife
World Tourism Organisation
Mkomazi – Management of the Tanzanian Savanna
Geography in the news - Rainbow Nation