Clustering tourists’ perceptions of Marine Protected Areas: A comparative study in Southern Africa

A comparative analysis of tourists' perceptions of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) in Southern Africa reveals a stark contrast between South African and Mozambican visitors. While both groups recognize the ecological value of MPAs, South African tourists predominantly exhibit strong support for conservation efforts, whereas Mozambican tourists tend to be more skeptical or passive. This study, conducted through quantitative surveys of 504 participants at Ponta do Ouro Partial Marine Reserve (Mozambique) and Table Mountain National Park MPA (South Africa), underscores the need for targeted communication strategies that emphasize the broader social, economic, and cultural benefits of MPAs to foster sustainable stakeholder support. The findings highlight regional differences in conservation attitudes and provide actionable insights for marketing and management practices.

Meyer, M., & Lucrezi, S. (2027). Clustering tourists’ perceptions of Marine Protected Areas: A comparative study in Southern Africa. Marine Policy, 195, 107269. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.marpol.2026.107269