Discussing the Potential Benefits of Hiking Tourism in Portugal

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Abstract
This study discusses the relevance and potentialities of hiking as a tourist activity, looking at its particular role and potential in Portugal. Based on results of a survey of Portuguese and foreign hikers (N= 200) encountered in different natural areas in Portugal, three groups of hikers are distinguished by the amount of money spent per day during their visit on the walking path. Statistically significant differences between them are studied in order to identify the profile of “biggest spenders” that, arguably, may be the most appealing segment to cater to. The analysis reveals visitor features and patterns of behaviour that are most associated with different levels of spending and correspondingly point at potential interventions aiming at increasing spending at the hiking destination. Also other economic, environmental, social and cultural consequences of selecting the segment of “big spenders” and investing in it to attract it and satisfy its needs are discussed, in a perspective of sustainable tourism development.

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