Prison Tourism: The Emotional Responses to Robben Island, South Africa

A qualitative study of Western visitors to Robben Island, South Africa, reveals that sadness is the predominant emotional response, with motivations for visitation including historical interest, education, and remembrance. The research, conducted through semi-structured interviews with 25 participants, identifies key factors that evoke emotions and influence visitor behavior. These insights suggest that the Robben Island Museum can enhance the visitor experience by strategically evoking these emotions to create a more impactful and lasting impression.

Isaac, R. K. (2024). Prison Tourism: The Emotional Responses to Robben Island, South Africa. Dark Tourism, 41–59. https://doi.org/10.1108/978-1-83797-336-120241004