The Geotourism Charter Template
This global template is designed for nations but can also be
adjusted for signature by provinces, states, or smaller
jurisdictions, and for endorsement by international organizations.
Geotourism is defined as tourism that sustains
or enhances the geographical character of a place – its environment,
culture, aesthetics, heritage, and the well being of its residents.
Charter:
WHEREAS the geotourism approach is all-inclusive, focusing not only
on the environment, but also on the diversity of the cultural, historic,
and scenic assets of _______,
WHEREAS the geotourism approach encourages citizens and visitors to
get involved rather than remain tourism spectators, and
WHEREAS the geotourism approach helps build a sense of national
identity and pride, stressing what is authentic and unique to________,
THE UNDERSIGNED parties to this Agreement of Intent commit to support
these geotourism principles, to sustain and enhance the geographical
character of _________— its environment, culture, aesthetics, heritage,
and the well being of its residents:
Integrity of place: Enhance geographical character by
developing and improving it in ways distinctive to the locale,
reflective of its natural and cultural heritage, so as to encourage
market differentiation and cultural pride.
International codes: Adhere to the principles embodied in the
World Tourism Organization’s Global
Code of Ethics for Tourism and the Principles of the Cultural Tourism
Charter established by the International Council on Monuments and Sites
(ICOMOS).
Market selectivity: Encourage growth in tourism market
segments most likely to appreciate, respect, and disseminate information
about the distinctive assets of the locale.
Market diversity: Encourage a full range of appropriate food
and lodging facilities, so as to appeal to the entire demographic
spectrum of the geotourism market and so maximize economic resiliency
over both the short and long term.
Tourist satisfaction: Ensure that satisfied, excited
geotourists bring new vacation stories home and send friends off to
experience the same thing, thus providing continuing demand for the
destination.
