Geotourism Strategies in Fars Province

Geotourism or geographic tourism as the name applies is one of the newest approaches in tourism attraction, whose generalization is derived from its geographic characteristics. Not only the geotourism can be a factor for natural attractions of geology and geomorphology field, but it also can contain historical and cultural attractions.Therefore, there is a need for such study and we might suggest that there is a gap in general plans of the country for this field. Fars Province is one of the appropriate regions for geotourism planning taking on various rich geologic, and geomorphic heritage's (such as gorges, salt domes, waterfalls, etc.), and historical and cultural attractions (such as Persepolis, Pasargad, etc.). We have attempted in this paper to introduce natural and cultural attractions concentrating on comprehensive views, and applying Various maps including geologic maps, satellite pictures, and other provincial maps, and finally doing field works. We have introduced later on some places that have sufficient standards for geotourism planning in this province. Results of study indicate that locating of some geomorphic features like gorges, anticlines, salt domes, and springs alongside historical and cultural attractions and their close relationship and short distances from each other have changed these places into suitable areas for tourism. It is notable that there is a necessity for geotourism planning in specified places, but it is not sufficient. Paying attention to sustainable geotourism which stems from sustainable development would complete the study and planning for tourism. Out of many strategies for sustainable development there is public participation of local people in tourism planning whereby the quality of local living would promote. Also the benefits of these people might be maximized, and their local and national identity would be enhanced.Some other approaches and strategies include the construction of infrastructures, and their development (e.g., the construction of roads), the increment of tourism facilities and services, the stimulation of private investments, the conservation and maintenance of historical and cultural monuments, and the training of specialized tour guides.