COVID-19 impacts on nature-based tourism-dependent small towns: St Lucia in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

Africa’s conservation areas are world-renowned, contributing to local and regional livelihoods. The town of St Lucia is located in the isiMangaliso Wetland Park (KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa) is an example of a location that is dependent on nature-based tourism. There is limited research concerning the impacts that COVID-19 has on businesses and livelihoods in smaller towns. An examination of the literature and primary data collection (specifically undertaking quantitative surveys with 140 tourism-related businesses) was the methodological approach adopted. The key findings reveal that nature-based businesses have been impacted by the pandemic, especially in relation to disruptions in operations and staff. Most businesses indicated that they would fully recover, although the length of recovery differed. Long-term impacts on the environment and related smaller town economies were identified, with perceptions of the impacts being divergent. Nature-based tourism can be better prepared to deal with disruptions in the future, with adequate and timely support.