Visitor perceptions of appropriate future recreational use of the Cederberg Mountains, South Africa

The challenge of managing recreational opportunities in the context of increasing visitor pressure is experienced worldwide. It is particularly onerous in areas where the impact of excessive visitor use could lead to irreversible destruction of unique resources. This challenge faces managers of the Cederberg Mountains in South Africa. A survey was undertaken to investigate visitor perceptions of the appropriate future recreational use of the currently undeveloped area of the Cederberg. The survey focused on three key elements of the recreation opportunity spectrum concept: settings, activities and experiences. Conjoint analysis was used to examine the appropriateness of alternative settings, and the relative importance of attributes that define any particular setting. The survey results were then analysed to determine the implications for planning the future recreational use of the Cederberg.