Residents’ attitudes towards tourism in Bigodi village, Uganda

This research was conducted in the rural village of Bigodi, Uganda. Bigodi is a village of approximately 385 adults and has been involved with tourism since 1991. Bigodi's primary attraction is a forested wetland managed by a local tourism cooperative. Tourists are guided through the wetland in search of primates and tropical birds. Village life and local culture are also experienced. This research investigated residents’ attitudes towards tourism in Bigodi. Data were collected and analyzed with qualitative methods. Results show residents have consistently positive attitudes towards tourism. Positive attitudes result from resident's belief that tourism creates community development, improves agricultural markets, generates income, and finally, that tourism brings random good fortune. Using the Theory of Reasoned Action, it was hypothesized that positive attitudes would lead to pro-tourism behavior. Observations of behavior over 6 months in Bigodi support this hypothesis. Implications for tourism development in poor rural areas are discussed.