Abstract:
Purpose: Hiking, climbing and walking have the potential to disturb wildlife and affect soil in a
number of ways including trampling, littering, changing animal habitat or degrading soil through
use of undesignated trail and trailside management. The aim of the study is to analyze the
effectiveness of the management measures undertaken to mitigate the impact of recreational
activities on vegetation, soil, water and wild game.
Methodology: The descriptive survey research design was used. Out of the three hundred and
twenty nine (329) questionnaires administered, two hundred and sixty three 263(79.9%)
responded to the questionnaires by completely filling and returning them. Descriptive statistics
that included frequencies and percentages were used to organize and summarize the data. Tables
and bar charts were drawn to present the collected data.
Findings: Proactive planning, change design of facilities and improved maintenance were the
most used methods of limiting recreation impact. This is attributed to the check in and checkout
procedures, hardening of recreation sites, use of already established trails, designed and
established water points. Managing tourism in a sustainable way requires both a long-term
perspective and careful consideration of ways in which tourist activities and environment
interrelate.
Unique contribution to theory, practice and policy: There is need for the ministry of tourism
to develop a systematic approach to address environmental conservation threat of recreation
activities and come up with management frame works of monitoring visitors’ impact in national
parks.
