Visitor Attractions 2024 PDF

TYPES OF VISITOR ATTRACTIONS AND ACTIVITIES PRESENTED BY SAMIRA RAHIM  Lesson Objective: Describe the different categories of visitor attractions and activities  Attraction An attraction is a place of interest that people visit, typically for its inherent(per...

TYPES OF VISITOR ATTRACTIONS AND ACTIVITIES PRESENTED BY SAMIRA RAHIM  Lesson Objective: Describe the different categories of visitor attractions and activities  Attraction An attraction is a place of interest that people visit, typically for its inherent(permanence) or an exhibited natural or cultural value, historical significance, natural or built beauty, offering leisure and amusement. Classification of Attractions A common system of classification is the establishment of 3 categories; 1.) Natural attractions based on features of Natural Environment 2) Cultural attractions based on Man’s activities 3) Special type attractions which are artificially made  Natural attractions a. Climate Warm, sunny, dry climate is considered desirable by most tourists especially those from cold winter areas. Climate seasonality should be considered when developing such destinations. Other activities such as skiing, ice-skating, snowboarding require cold weather.  Natural attractions b) Scenic beauty Scenic beauty refers to visually appealing landscapes and environments that attract tourists seeking natural aesthetics and tranquility. Associated with scenic beauty are activities such as hiking, picnicking, camping and wildlife viewing. Remote scenic areas may also offer activities such as rafting, rock climbing and long distance trekking. Most of these areas are gazetted as parks and reserves eg Mt. Kenya National Park, Hellsgate National Park and Longonot National Park.  Natural Attractions C) Flora and Fauna Flora and fauna are terms used to describe the plant and animal life, respectively, within a specific region or habitat. Examples of flora; grasses, herbs, shrubs, trees, flowering plants, ferns and mosses. These attractions are normally combined with scenic landscapes. East Africa’s National Parks are famous for the Big Five. Bird watching, amateur botanists, and controlled game hunting is very popular in these areas. Animals and plant life conservation is a major issue here. Zoos, aquarium, botanical gardens are specialized Flora and Fauna features and are International attractions.  Natural Attractions d) Special environmental features These are unique natural formations or phenomena that attract tourists due to their distinctive characteristics and the experiences they offer. These features can range from dramatic landscapes to rare geological formations, and they often cater to both general sightseeing and special interest tourism. Special Features such as high mountains, caves, geysers hot water springs, volcanic activities are important attractions for general sightseeing and special interest tourists.  Natural Attractions Activities associated with these areas are:-Rock climbing, cave exploration and development of health spas. Caves such as Mammoth cave and Carlsbad caverns in USA attract millions of tourists. In Kenya we have Lake Bogoria for hot water springs, Mt Elgon for caves and Hell’s gate for rock climbing.  Natural Attractions e) National parks, reserves and other conservation areas The conservation of natural areas, including their flora and fauna, is crucial for preserving biodiversity and maintaining ecological balance. Various conservation statuses, such as national parks, reserves, and other protected areas, help ensure that these natural habitats are preserved and managed effectively. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), is represented by several protected areas where human activities are highly restricted to minimize impact on the natural environment. e) National parks, reserves and other conservation areas CONT’ IUCN has established categories and criteria for designating these areas. Category I: Strict Nature Reserves e.g. Kakamega Forest Reserve, Aberdare National Park Category II: National Parks e.g. Amboseli National Park Category III: Natural Monuments or Features e.g. Hell’s Gate National Park Category IV: Habitat/Species Management Areas e.g. Lewa Wildlife conservancy, Ol Pejeta conservancy Category V: Protected Landscapes/Seascapes e.g. Lake Naivasha Category VI: Protected Areas with Sustainable Use of Natural Resources e.g. Masai Mara conservancies  Natural Attractions f) Health Attractions They have become an increasingly popular segment in tourism, focusing on wellness and relaxation. These attractions are designed to promote health, well-being, and rejuvenation. Here are some key types of health attractions: Spas, diet resorts, detox retreats and wellness retreats.  Cultural attractions Cultural attractions are significant points of interest based on human activities and heritage. They encompass a variety of sites and experiences that reflect the history, art, traditions, and customs of different communities. They include the following:- a) Archeological attractions b) Historical attractions c) Cultural attractions Other tourists will be attracted by historical buildings, religious buildings and sites, synagogues, temples, mosques and other monasteries are important archeological sites and are found in every country. Types of Cultural Attractions in Kenya Archaeological Attractions - Olorgesailie Prehistoric Site: A site with evidence of early human tool-making dating back to the Acheulean period. Koobi Fora-Located in the Turkana Basin, it is a significant site for the study of early human evolution and prehistoric life. Historical Attractions- Fort Jesus, Mombasa. A UNESCO World Heritage site built by the Portuguese in the late 16th century.Represents the historical colonial and trading influences in East Africa. Karen Blixen Offers a glimpse into the life of the author and the colonial history of Kenya.  CONT’ Cultural Attractions- Maasai Mara Cultural Tours- Tours that offer an immersive experience into the Maasai way of life, including their traditional dances, crafts, and customs. Lamu Old Town: A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its well-preserved Swahili architecture and cultural heritage. Reflects the blend of African, Arab, and Indian cultures in the coastal region.  3. Special types of attractions Special types of attractions cater to diverse interests and activities, providing unique experiences for tourists. These attractions can range from entertainment and shopping to major events and recreational activities, drawing visitors with various preferences and budgets.  CONT’ 1. Theme Parks, Amusement Parks, and Circuses Description: Large entertainment complexes designed with specific themes and a variety of rides, games, and shows. Examples in Kenya: Two Rivers Amusement Park (Nairobi): Offers a range of rides, games, and family-friendly entertainment. Bomas of Kenya (Nairobi): Provides cultural shows and performances reflecting Kenya's diverse ethnic groups. Significance: These attractions offer fun and leisure for families, tourists, and locals, enhancing the overall tourism experience.  CONT’ 2. Shopping for Low and High Spenders Description: Shopping experiences tailored to different budgets, from street markets to luxury malls. Examples in Kenya: Maasai Market (Various Locations): An open-air market offering traditional crafts, jewelry, and souvenirs at affordable prices. The Village Market (Nairobi): A high-end shopping mall with international brands, dining, and entertainment options. Significance: Shopping is a major draw for tourists, providing opportunities to purchase local crafts and international products.  CONT’ 3. Meeting, Conferences, and Conventions Description: Facilities and services catering to business tourism, including venues for meetings, conferences, and conventions. Examples in Kenya: Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) (Nairobi): A prominent venue for international conferences and exhibitions. Sarova Panafric (Nairobi): A hotel with extensive conference facilities for business meetings and events. Significance: These attractions boost business tourism, bringing in professionals and contributing to the local economy.  CONT’ 4. World Events Description: Large-scale events that attract international participants and spectators. Examples in Kenya: Safari Rally: Part of the World Rally Championship, attracting motorsport enthusiasts globally. Magical Kenya Open (Golf): An international golf tournament held annually in Nairobi. Significance: World events enhance Kenya's global visibility and attract significant tourist influx during these periods.  CONT’ 5. Gambling in Casinos Description: Casinos offering gambling and entertainment services to tourists and locals. Examples in Kenya: The Mayfair Casino (Nairobi): A popular casino offering a range of gaming options. Flamingo Casino (Nakuru): Another major casino providing gambling entertainment. Significance: Casinos contribute to the nightlife and entertainment options available to tourists.  CONT’ 6. Entertainment Description: Various entertainment options including music, theater, and nightlife. Examples in Kenya: Carnivore Restaurant (Nairobi): Known for live music and vibrant nightlife. Alliance Française (Nairobi): Hosts cultural events, film screenings, and live performances. Significance: Entertainment venues enrich the cultural and social experiences of tourists, offering a taste of local and international acts.  CONT’ 7. Recreation and Sports Description: Recreational activities and sports facilities for tourists. Examples in Kenya: Karen Country Club (Nairobi): Offers golf, tennis, and other recreational activities. Diani Beach (Coast): Popular for water sports like snorkeling, diving, and kite surfing. Significance: Recreational sports attract tourists looking for active and adventurous experiences, promoting healthy lifestyles and leisure