ABSTRACT
What does it take to ensure that the nature tourism experience is optimal? This chapter will identify the components of maximizing the visitor experience prior to, during, and after the visitor is exposed to the unique aspects of the natural environment. While quality is a consideration in all visitor experience, those who venture into a natural environment are engaging in a less controlled environment—one that is full of beauty, intrigue, and strangeness. Tourism professionals, who provide this experience, need to be aware of and plan for a visitor who is not used to the challenges of the natural environment. In addition, the respect for the environment must be paramount in decisions to provide opportunities for visitors to experience the natural environment and come away from that experience enriched and informed about the challenges and risks inherent in the experience and also the value of living according to sound sustainability principles.
