What is Adventure Tourism?
Adventure tourism in South Africa involves engaging in thrilling, nature-based activities like hiking, kayaking, and 4x4 expeditions. It focuses on exploring natural and cultural heritage, combining excitement with sustainability and safety. Adventure tourism requires trained and professional guides to ensure unforgettable, yet responsible, experiences in high-risk environments.
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The adventure industry is not just about adventure tourism or recreation. There is also outdoor education, adventure therapy, and experience facilitation.
What are the Economic benefits of Adventure Tourism in South Africa?
The outdoor and adventure industry plays an important role in the South African economy, in that it:
o Contributed R 173 billion directly, and R 346 billion indirectly to SA’s GDP (7% of SA’s GDP)
o Created 716 891 direct and 1,2 million indirect jobs (1 in 10 people in SA work in this industry).
o Contributed R 86,5 billion in tax revenue in SARS.
o Contributed 17,500 peer-reviewed academic studies that affirm that outdoor and adventure learning is critical to human development.
Work in the Adventure Industry.
An outdoor adventure leader instructs and guides individuals and groups undertaking adventure activities in a variety of outdoor locations. Activities may include outdoor education and recreation, bicycle touring, bushwalking, canoeing, caving, cross-country skiing, horse trekking, rafting, rock climbing and sailing.
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Here is everything you need to know to get started in your adventure industry career.
What is an Adventure Guide?
An Adventure Tourist Guide in South Africa is a trained and legally registered professional who specializes in leading safe and memorable outdoor activities, such as hiking, 4x4 expeditions, abseiling, or kayaking.
Recognized under the Tourism Act, they must be qualified through accredited training providers and registered with their provincial tourism registrar. Their guiding credentials include both general tourist guiding knowledge and activity-specific competencies, ensuring professionalism and safety in high-risk environments.
Adventure Tourist Guides play a critical role in promoting South Africa’s natural and cultural heritage while adhering to ethical standards, fostering sustainability, and delivering exceptional visitor experiences.