Cultural tourism is becoming an increasing domain many tourists wants to explore to unearth Africa’s rich cultures.
It is a type of tourism where travelers experience the culture, lifestyle, history, art and heritage of a destination. These tourists actively seek out cultural experiences, which can vary from visiting historic sites, exploring traditional arts and crafts, experiencing local customs and traditions, to relishing authentic cuisines. By engaging in cultural tourism, travelers gain valuable knowledge and understanding of different cultures.
In the 21st century, cultural tourism has emerged as one of the most rapidly growing forms of travel. Due to emerging economic markets, increased worldwide accessibility, and the increasing desire of the tourist to engage and immerse themselves in unfamiliar cultures, cultural tourism has become more mainstream. The interest in cultural tourism continues to grow and according to the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), approximately 37% of global tourism is considered cultural tourism, and this percentage rises yearly (UNWTO, 2017). Cultural tourism plays a pivotal role in the tourism industry, serving as a Key driver in shaping the experience of travelers Worldwide.
The intricate relationship between tourism and culture in multifaceted. Influencing the choice of destination, the design of travel experience and the overall satisfaction of tourists. The primary difference between cultural tourism and traditional forms of tourism lies in the traveler’s motivation. Traditional tourism typically involves sightseeing, relaxation and entertainment. In contrast, cultural tourism is about immersing oneself in a different culture. It involves visiting both tangible and intangible assets include customs, cuisine, and traditional arts and crafts.
Cultural tourism plays an integral role in showcasing a nation’s unique heritage, tradition, and diversity to the rest of the world. In Africa, the arts and crafts industry harbor a rich cultural tapestry that conveys distinct stories, histories, and civilization of the continent. Therefore, the integration of this sector with the tourism industry can engender a suitable and enriching cultural tourism experience. Cultural tourism plays a crucial role in economic development. It generates economic benefits by creating jobs, fuelling local economies, and fostering sustainable development. It also helps in preserving local traditions and heritage, thus fostering pride and identity among local communities.
Although, the rise in cultural tourism is due to several factors including; advancement in technology and transportation as more people can travel across the world more easily; increasing awareness about the importance of cultural preservation, such that numerous destinations invest heavily in infrastructure aimed at conserving and showcasing their cultural heritage to visitors, as well as increase people’s innate desire to explore and comprehend the world’s diverse cultural heritage, cultural tourism however, has its drawbacks. There can be negative impact on the local culture and environment. The introduction of tourists to local cultures can sometimes results in cultural appropriation, distortion, and commodification.
Artists and craftsmen can easily be exploited by the visitors, alternatively, the rats and crafts objects may lose its ingenuity and become mass produced commodities. These drawback necessities responsible strategies to mitigate the possible negative impacts and maximize the benefits of cultural tourism.
A Guest Editorial