10 Different Types of Tourism for Every Traveller

No matter what your interests may be, there will always be a type of tourism that suits you. Tourism isn’t one-size-fits-all – there are so many different types of tourism and we’re here to tell you all about the most common ones. 

What are the different types of tourism?

#1 Cultural Tourism

Cultural tourism is one of the main different types of tourism. It’s when travellers show interest in getting to know foreign cultures, whether by immersing themselves in those cultures or by experiencing aspects of them. This could be done by visiting museums, hanging out with locals, engaging in local traditions, and trying out different cuisines.

Cultural tourism inspo: Maasai village visit in Kenya or attending a dance show in India.

#2 Historical Tourism

Visiting historic sites and landmarks is what defines historical tourism. There are many different types of tourism but historical tourism is one of the most popular amongst travellers. Even if you’re not a bookwork or history buff, some countries’ heritage is too fascinating to not be interested in. 

Historical tourism inspo: Visiting the Great Pyramids of Giza and ancient Egypt temples; visiting the Temple of Olympian Zeus in Greece; or the Colosseum in Italy.

#3 Religious Tourism

Religious tourism is a sub-sector of cultural tourism, that involves travelling for religious purposes or interests. You don’t have to have or conform with the religious beliefs of the holy sites you’re visiting though. You could simply visit to learn more about a culture through its religious practices.

Religious tourism inspo: Visiting the Vatican City.

#4 Adventure Tourism

This one is for the adrenaline junkies! Adventure tourism, also known as adventure travel, is defined by the Adventure Travel Trade Association to involve physical activities, cultural exchange, and a connection with nature. Adventure travel activities also usually come with a degree of risk. These are things like hiking, rock climbing, water rafting, and zip-lining. 

Adventure tourism inspo: Trekking Machu Picchu in Peru; zip-lining over the Niagra Falls; and diving the Great Barrier Reef in Australia

#5 Ecotourism 

Ecotourism aims to conserve threatened natural environments by minimising the impact on these environments. It’s a very similar concept to sustainable travel but focuses more on preservation. A great example of ecotourism would be staying in an eco-lodge that uses solar energy to power the property, cuts off single plastic use, and utilises recycled and upcycled materials only.

Ecotourism inspo: Visiting the Amazon Rainforest in South America or the Galapagos Islands in Ecuador

#6 Nightlife Tourism

If you’re a party animal, then you’re definitely going to enjoy this one. As the name suggests, nightlife tourism revolves around partying and all sorts of nighttime activities. These include things like bar hopping, clubbing, concerts, and music festivals – only to name a few. Just remember to party responsibly and stay away from drugs!

Nightlife tourism inspo: Party in Las Vegas, Ibiza, or Goa.

#7 Food Tourism 

The closest to any travel foodie’s heart! As food is an integral part of any culture, getting to know a country through its cuisine is a very mouthwatering experience. That’s why food tourism is considered another branch of cultural tourism, but can also be a type of tourism on its own. Indulging a destination’s traditional dishes and enjoying its authentic flavours is one of the best parts of any international trip.

Food tourism inspo: Indulge in the cuisines of Mexico, Italy; or Japan.

#8 Medical tourism

What’s also referred to as health tourism, involves travelling to a foreign destination to get medical treatment. Sometimes, a traveller may be seeking lower costs or higher quality of treatment, especially if it’s a serious condition. And other times, certain wellness-centred experiences, like sitting in healing sand baths, are considered some type of medical tourism.

Medical tourism inspo: Experience the salt lakes and hot springs of Siwa in Egypt, or the thermal baths of Hungary’s Budapest.

#9 Volunteer Tourism

Also known as voluntourism, this type of tourism involves travelling to destinations that are underdeveloped or developing to contribute to building them or offering support of any kind. This could be anything from volunteering at a children’s school to volunteering at a refugee camp. 

Volunteer tourism inspo: Join voluntourism programs by organisations like Teach English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) or Worldwide Opportunities on Organic Farms (WWOOF).

#10 Safari Tourism

As the name suggests, safari tourism is all about safari expeditions. Most of these are in Africa, where you get to see the famed Big 5 animals. If you’re into wildlife, nature, and photography, then you’ll definitely enjoy going on safaris. 

Safari tourism inspo: Visit the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania; Maasai Mara National Reserve in Kenya; or Kruger National Park in South Africa.

Which of these different types of tourism do you enjoy the most? Let us know in the comments section below.