Institute for Tourism and Leisure Studies, North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, Potchefstroom 2520, South Africa; School of Economics, North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, Potchefstroom 2520, South Africa
Saayman, M., Institute for Tourism and Leisure Studies, North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, Potchefstroom 2520, South Africa; Saayman, A., School of Economics, North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, Potchefstroom 2520, South Africa
National parks in South Africa are seen as major tourism assets, since wildlife is the biggest draw-card for international visitors to the country. Yet little is known of the socio-economic contribution of these parks to their respective local economies. The purpose of this research is to develop a framework for assessing the socio-economic impact of the Addo Elephant National Park in South Africa. The results show that the park has a significant impact in terms of production, income generation and employment in the area. Key results include a proposed framework for assessing the socio-economic impact of national parks in a developing country.