Who are geotourists? A case study from Jordan

Geotourists, defined as individuals who visit sites with significant geological or geomorphic features to learn about them, are primarily motivated by intrinsic factors such as a desire for exploration, enjoyment, and education. A study of 200 tourists in Wadi Rum, Jordan, revealed that these visitors—predominantly young to middle-aged and well-educated—seek a 'sense of wonder' when exploring new places and value high-quality information about geosites. The research categorizes geotourists as special interest tourists whose focus on environmental tourism begins with geology and landscape, often involving interpretation and education. This study contributes to the understanding of geotourist behavior by highlighting their motivations and characteristics, offering insights that could inform sustainable geotourism practices.

Dowling, R., & Allan, M. (2018). Who are geotourists? A case study from Jordan. Handbook of Geotourism. https://doi.org/10.4337/9781785368868.00014