An investigation into value creation in the tourism industry of Haenertsburg and Magoebaskloof area, Limpopo Province

Abstract

This study investigates value creation in the tourism industry of the Haenertsburg and Magoebaskloof area, Limpopo Province, by examining how local tourism and businesses use their resources to create value for tourists, the environment, and local enterprises. Using a mixed-methods phenomenological research design, data were collected via structured questionnaires from 54 participants, including tourists, business owners/managers, and residents, and analysed through the lens of the Value Creation Framework (VCF). The findings reveal that the local tourism industry generates various forms of value, affecting stakeholders in both beneficial and detrimental ways. A significant majority of tourists (95.84%) reported satisfaction, indicating positive value creation through enjoyable experiences, good customer service, and the area's natural beauty. For businesses, 60% gained valuable insights from tourist interactions, aiding operational improvements, and many engaged in environmentally responsible practices. However, the study also identified negative impacts, as most residents highlighted environmental degradation, including increased pollution, waste production, and damage to infrastructure. The study concludes that while the tourism industry successfully creates immediate, potential, applied, and transformative value for tourists and businesses, these benefits are counterbalanced by negative transformative value for the broader environment. Therefore, balanced and sustainable approaches, emphasising value co-creation and community engagement, are needed to maximise positive outcomes while mitigating negative environmental impacts.