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Highlights

The travel and tourism sector has changed dramatically over the last 20 years, including adventure travel as a new facet. Adventure tourism, as defined by the Adventure Travel Trade Association, is a rapidly expanding and dynamic segment of the tourism industry that involves physical effort, cultural exchange, and outdoor exploration.

Indiatoday.in spoke to Rama Mahendru- Country General Manager- India, Intrepid Travel who says " Adventure tourism is all about adventure! It is a pretty broad term, and many would argue that it is subjective. Nonetheless, this is a big part of the tourism industry, and while it is an example of niche tourism, the sector is growing fast! There are lots of types of activities and types of travel that fall under its umbrella. This is becoming popular because it can give people a feeling of empowerment, independence, and a closer connection to nature. Whether it's going on animal safaris, rafting through white water, or ascending tall summits ".

"India's adventure tourism industry is expected to grow significantly in the coming years due to the government's aggressive plans to make the nation a global hub for adventure travel. India is preparing to welcome millions of local and foreign adventure seekers, with targets including a USD 3 trillion tourist economy by 2047, with adventure tourism contributing USD 800 billion to this goal. A plethora of professional opportunities within the sector are anticipated as a result of this growth trajectory" says Rama. A

This entails welcoming 20 million foreign tourists, 80 million domestic adventure travelers, and generating USD 90 billion in foreign exchange. Ultimately, the rapid growth of this sector is going to offer a range of career and job opportunities in India.

Career opportunities in this sector the companies in adventure tourism sector like Intrepid Travel etc. offers a diverse range of career opportunities with various skill sets, interests, and passions. Such as adventure tour guide/leader, instructor coach, travel planner/consultant, adventure activity instructor, wildlife photographer, adventure travel blogger/writer, tour manager, naturalist, and many other roles. A

According to Mahendru "The qualifications and eligibility for the above roles, etc., vary and depend on the specific job role, employer requirements, and nature of the adventure activities.

Qualification: A

  • A bachelor's degree in fields related to tourism, environmental science, hospitality management, or a specific adventure activity.
  • Specialized certifications, training courses, or workshops may be necessary for certain activities or roles, such as wilderness first aid/CPR, lifeguarding, or specific guiding certifications from recognized organizations (e.g., the Professional Mountain Guides Association).

Technical Skills:

  • Depending on the job role, technical skills and proficiency in equipment operation, navigation, safety protocols, and risk management may be required. For example, proficiency in using GPS devices, ropes and harnesses, kayaks, or specialized gear for adventure activities. A
  • Strong communication skills, leadership abilities, problem-solving skills, and adaptability are often valued attributes for roles involving guiding, instructing, or coordinating adventure experiences.
  • Language Skills: Proficiency in languages relevant to the destination or client base can be advantageous, especially for roles involving international tourism or multicultural environments".

Remuneration: -

  • The starting salary and potential earnings in adventure tourism can vary significantly depending on factors such as job role, experience level, location, employer, and the specific niche within the industry. Here's a general overview:
  • Entry-level positions in adventure tourism may offer starting salaries ranging from the minimum wage to around INR300,000 to INR400,000 per year, depending on the role and geographic location.
  • ÂGuides, instructors, and other frontline positions may start at the lower end of the salary range, especially for seasonal or part-time roles.
  • ÂStarting salaries may be higher for roles that require specialized skills, certifications, or education, such as dive instructors, climbing guides, or adventure travel consultants.
  • Âwith experience and demonstrated competence in their roles, individuals in adventure tourism can expect to progress to mid-level positions with higher salaries.
  • ÂMid-level adventure tourism professionals, such as senior guides, experienced instructors, or adventure travel planners, may earn salaries ranging from INR 500,000 to INR 700,000 per year, or potentially higher depending on factors such as location and employer.
  • Salaries for senior-level roles in adventure tourism can range from INR 700,000 to INR 1,000,000 or more annually, depending on the scope of responsibilities, level of experience, and size and success of the organization.

ÂOverall, while adventure tourism may not always offer salaries comparable to some other industries, many individuals are drawn to careers in this field for the intrinsic rewards of working in dynamic outdoor environments, sharing their passion for adventure with others, and enjoying a lifestyle that prioritizes exploration and connection to nature.

ÂProspects in the sector: -

Looking ahead, the future of the adventure tourism sector appears promising, driven by evolving global trends, shifting consumer preferences, and technological advancements. As the demand for authentic, sustainable, and responsible travel experiences continues to grow, the sector is expected to adapt and innovate, diversifying its offerings and exploring new frontiers.

Opportunities are abundant for those who are prepared to take on the rigors and benefits of this fast-paced profession as it develops and grows. Adventure tourism specialists are important in defining the future of travel and tourism, one exhilarating adventure at a time, whether they are leading trekkers over challenging terrain or creating unique travel experiences.