DOMINICAN REPUBLIC
ADVENTURE & ECOTOURISM
The growth of the global ecotourism industry can be primarily attributed to growing environmental awareness.
The Dominican Republic definitely sweeps the title for top adventure and ecotourism destination in the Caribbean.
From the coast to the mountains coupled with the tropical climate, the destination lends itself to outdoor activity all year round. There’s a plethora of adventure available for all ages and abilities.
Ecotourism popularity is also exploding, with 20% to 30% growth per year, according to several estimates in 2005. True ecotourism not only protects the environment, but also benefits the local culture and economy; an experience being increasingly demanded by global tourists.
The Dominican Republic hospitality industry recognizes the significance of this and have come together setting 5 sustainability targets;
Reduce 25% of greenhouse gas emissions by 2030
Reduce food waste by half
Reduce non-renewable energy use by 25%
Complete elimination of single-use plastics
Uptake of sustainability certification for hotels
International Adventure Tourism
A consistently growing market that is always hungry for more.
Adventure travel is defined as a combination of physical activity; an interaction with the environment; and a cultural exchange.
International adventure tourism market was valued at $586 billion in 2018, projected to grow to $1,626 billion by 2026.
Social media is a key driver to reach and engage with a global audience.
Globally, governments are allocating budgets to support initiatives that drive participation in extreme and adventure sports.
One of the first groups to return to travel after the current challenges of COVID, are those seeking adventure experiences.
Dominican Republic Tourism Sector
A year-round destination for all nationalities.
According to the Dominican Republic Central Bank, in 2021 the industry accounted for 8.4% of the country’s economy although the Ministry of Tourism feels the sector’s true impact is closer to 30% once ancillary services are accounted.
Between 1995-2019, tourism arrivals to the Caribbean destination has continued to increase generating upwards of US$7billion a year. Post-pandemic, the Ministry of Tourism of Dominican Republic announced positive tourism arrival data signalling the recovery of the tourism industry.
In February 2022, hotel occupancy was up to 73% with 89% of guests being foreigners. By December 2022, the country is forecasted to welcome over 7 million tourists, 9% more than 2019.
The destination’s main source markets are the USA, Canada and several South American countries although France and Germany also feature amongst the top ten. Repeaters identify the weather and the hospitality of the people as the key elements bringing them back to the country.
Motivation Driving Adventure Travel
Create moments of joy and wonder with your family and close friends.
Adventure travellers have a passion for adventure experiences and an affinity to explore new cultures. Their motivation encompasses:
Personal growth and challenge
Broadened outlook on the world
Enriched life skills
Being at one with nature
Revitalise and renew
Mingle with like-minded people
Create indelible memories
Exercise the body and the mind
Extreme & Adventure Sports Sector
Extreme and adventure sports are becoming more popular than mainstream sports, especially with the younger generation.
Engagement And Growth - There continues to be significant community engagement and growth both locally and globally.
They Are Now Mainstream - No longer considered niche, extreme and adventure sports are now included in the Olympics.
Participation And Global Value - Estimated 490 million participants world wide & a fast-growing industry worth over $200 billion per annum.
Change In Consumer Demand - There is significant change in consumer demand for more adventurous and experiential activities.
Embracing Technology - Advancements in technology are making some activities more accessible and engaging.
Benchmarked Destinations
Identify with the best in the market, to achieve greatness.
There are many incredible mountain based destinations around the world, where resorts and private real estate have been developed over time, to cater to the demand for retreats in nature; escapes to cooler climes; bases to get active in the great outdoors; short and long stay holidays and staycations with friends and family; and idyllic settings for 2nd and 3rd homes.
Some of these locations around the world include:
South Tyrol, Italy
Himalayan Mountains Near Shimla, India
Lhasa, Tibet
Jackson Hole, Wyoming
Aspen, Colorado
Whistler & Blackcomb, Canada
Gstaad, Switzerland
Ubud (Bali), Indonesia
Destination Based Competition
Understanding your competition and identifying your USPs.
With the vast majority of guests coming from Canada, North and South America, ParkVida’s main competition will come from destinations within close traveling proximity to these travelers. These could include:
Whistler, Canada
Patagonia, Chile
Costa Rica
Hawaii
Yellowstone, USA
Mexico
Arizona, USA
Yosemite National Park, USA
Jungle Bay, Dominica
Within the destination itself lies several properties that although different in their offerings, would also be deemed as indirect competitors to ParkVida. These could include:
Natura Cabana, Cabarete
Dominican Treehouse Village, Samana
