Geotourism – a sustainable development option for Namibia

ABSTRACT In the context of a weakening of Namibia's resource-oriented economy, which is anchored on a rather narrow and vulnerable footing, tourism is placed to play a more prominent role in the future. It will provide a more sustainable development perspective as a potential mechanism to address socio-economic inequalities, in particular for regional and rural areas. This research note describes Namibia's tourism economy and tourism products noting the country's commitment to sustainable tourism. It then puts forward the notion that the advancement of geotourism presents a sustainable development opportunity based on Namibia's rich and diverse geological assets and landscapes. Case studies are presented of two current geotourism attractions, the /Ai/Ais-Richtersveld Transfrontier Park and Hoba Meteorite National Monument. The paper concludes by arguing that geotourism can be a valuable sustainable development vehicle for Namibia through the generation of economic revenue, community wellbeing, and conservation.