Adventure Tourism in the Spanish Population: Sociodemographic Analysis to Improve Sustainability

Abstract

In recent decades, tourism is an activity in continuous growth and generates a significant impact in the social, economic, and environmental fields. Adventure tourism mainly takes place in natural settings, where tourist immersion will generate, in addition to profits, an impact on nature and the conservation of natural areas. The purpose of this work is to analyze the sociodemographic characteristics of tourists who choose to carry out adventure activities, as well as the means of transport used. For this, we have carried out this study through analysis of the 2019 data file of tourists from the National Statistics Institute with a sample of adventure tourists of 380 people. The results of the analysis show that the type of tourist who does adventure sports is single people with a higher educational level and a stable professional situation. The most frequently used means of transport to a destination is private transport, and lodging accounts for the majority of accommodation. It should be noted that significant gender differences were found in the level of studies, professional status in the job performed, and type of accommodation. Finally, the profile of the adventure tourist will be very useful for planning sustainable tourism.