Residents’ Perception of Tourism Development in Rural Ghana: Insight from Three Ecotourism Villages in the Volta Region, Ghana

Abstract

It is almost axiomatic to state that tourism’s image determines to a large extent its allure and subsequently, its level of support. Though perception can be formed either by tourism planners or from the experiences of the hosts, it is the impressions of the hosts which appear to give a true and a more plausible representation of what pertains in the destination. In this regard, post tourism development perceptions are important to understanding the perspective of the residents. This paper aims at collating these views and exploring the underpinning dynamics.In the study, three hundred and eighty-four (384) residents from three ecotourism villages were chosen using the stratified random sampling method and their views on their inclusiveness and benefits from ecotourism were solicited. Views were also sought from officials of the Ghana Tourist Authority at Ho and the Local Tourist Information Office at Hohoe.Interviews and Descriptive analysis results show that host perception of tourism was favorable and shaped by tourist activities and benefits to the community. It is recommended that the relevant stakeholders in tourism should further sensitize attraction community dwellers on how they can take advantage of the attractions to establish community tourism businesses.

Keywords:  Perception, Tourism Development, Rural Ghana