Rural tourism involves visiting rural places, such as natural areas which are not urbanized. Although most of these rural areas are not highly populated, they offer memorable experiences to tourists. Tourists spend time connecting with nature through hiking, camping, and outdoor sports. When exploring rural areas, tourists get to enjoy the local life, stay away from crowds and touristy prices, and experience the benefits of being outdoors. Rural tourism guarantees tourists maximum relaxation from their busy lives. Ghana has various rural areas with amazing tourist attractions. Nzulezu Stilt Village is one of the prominent rural attraction sites in Ghana.
Rural tourism has various interesting benefits for the people living in these areas and the entire country. It offers so many opportunities for development. Some of the top benefits include;
1. Promotion of Ghanaian Culture
Rural tourism offers a great chance to tourists to experience the beliefs and traditions of those living in regions. Besides, tourists engage and participate in local activities. Tourists with diverse cultures and beliefs travel to rural communities, creating a major hub for cultural exchange. The residents get a chance to promote their culture and beliefs and learn about their visitors’ cultures.
Promoting the Ghanaian culture also helps in preserving the practices particular to those areas from being forgotten. It helps in the preservation of the history and heritage of the people and place despite the increasing urbanization and modernism.
2. Growth of the rural Economy
Rural Tourism motivates tourists because most of these sites offer a beautiful and relaxing environment. This, therefore, enhances the economic growth of remote rural regions. Tourism in these areas results in stable income for the local community through various aspects such as employment and investment.
Residents get the opportunity to involve themselves in money-making activities that enable the growth of their creativity and knowledge and generate a sustainable income for the community. The growth of the rural economy results in minimal population migration to urban areas looking for employment opportunities, resulting in community welfare.
3. Experiencing the Actual Rural life
Ghanaian citizens are naturally friendly and welcoming; visiting the rural areas gives tourists the chance to interact with the locals and experience their warmth. Touring local tourist sites guarantees some beautiful views since most areas feature beautiful green villages and narrow streets. Authentic rural life serves as a refreshing and relaxing change for tourists caught in the busy culture.
Local tourism gives tourists a great opportunity to interact with the locals and enjoy the meals prepared by locals with organically grown ingredients. Experience Slow Lifestyles in rural areas and learn to appreciate every moment of your life. Going out for those village walks and hearing the village talk all day is advisable. End your day with a hot cup of tea and some storytelling.
4. Nurture an Eco-Friendly Mindset
Eco-tourism is a key type of rural tourism that advocates for preserving the environment. An eco-friendly mindset encourages preserving and protecting natural resources such as rivers, forest lands, sacred groves and mountains, native flora and fauna, and aquatic life.
Rural Tourism helps develop awareness towards the biodiversity in rural areas. It helps to generate awareness among both the natives and the travellers and promotes the preservation and conservation of the natural environment and its inhabitants.
With advancements in technology and accessibility of resources, the multiple stakeholders of the tourism sector, including both government and private organizations, are working to accelerate the growth and development of rural areas. Ghana Tourism is responsible for promoting Responsible Rural Tourism by creating economic opportunities for the locals while offering you once in a lifetime experience.
