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How has COVID-19 affected adventure-based tourism and what changes can we expect to see in the future?

Jose Ullett

Hey!

COVID-19 has had an enormous impact on adventure-based tourism. Many of the activities we used to enjoy, like rock climbing, river rafting, and hiking, have all been impacted by this virus.

As a result of the pandemic, many adventure-based tourism companies have had to temporarily close their doors. Those that are still operational have had to make significant changes to their operational procedures.

One of the most significant changes has been the adoption of new hygiene and safety practices to reduce the spread of the virus. This includes measures like wearing masks, social distancing, and increased cleaning and sanitization protocols. In many cases, there have also been restrictions on the number of people who can participate in activities and the number of people in group settings.

However, it is not only the operators of these businesses that are affected. For instance, individuals who have lost their jobs or been furloughed as a result of the pandemic are now more reluctant to spend on leisure activities, including adventure tourism. Furthermore, the stringent travel restrictions have mean few people have been able to travel and do adventure-based tours.

This pandemic has made people rethink their priorities and refocusing on their needs. Rather than just taking part in an exciting adventure, people are now looking for meaningful and personal connections as they seek social distancing.

The future of adventure-based tourism is likely to see more cautious approaches, with a greater focus on safety and hygiene. There may also be a shift towards smaller and more intimate groups rather than larger groups. Sustainability will also become an increasingly important consideration as people become increasingly aware of the need to protect our environment.

In conclusion, COVID-19 has brought about huge changes for the adventure-based tourism industry. However, in the long term, this period of uncertainty also provides an opportunity for the industry to rethink and reimagine how it operates. Ultimately, this could provide better and more meaningful experiences for the tourists while safeguarding the environment.