“Desert Tours Sing” explores the intersection of tourism and oral history within Khoisan communities in Southern Africa. It highlights how tourism, when ethically developed, can empower these communities and preserve their cultural heritage. The Khoisan, the first people of Southern Africa, have a rich history often overlooked; this book seeks to amplify their voices through the lens of tourism, particularly focusing on community-led initiatives.
The book examines the evolution of tourism in Khoisan ancestral lands, emphasizing the importance of decolonized tourism models. It details how these models prioritize community ownership and benefit-sharing. The research draws heavily on first-hand accounts and oral histories, offering perspectives often absent from mainstream historical accounts. For example, it reveals how oral storytelling shapes the narratives of desert tours, providing tourists with authentic insights into Khoisan cosmology and social structures.
The book progresses by first introducing the Khoisan people and their history, then exploring the impact of tourism on their communities. It analyzes specific tourism initiatives and weaves oral histories into guiding practices. Ultimately, “Desert Tours Sing” offers recommendations for sustainable and ethical tourism development, encouraging a deeper understanding of the Khoisan people and their invaluable cultural heritage.
