Religiously motivated travel and rural tourism in Vhembe District of South Africa

The study investigates the socioeconomic impact of the United African Apostolic Church gathering on the rural tourism industry and on surrounding rural communities in Vhembe District Municipality of South Africa. Questionnaires were used to collect data on pilgrims (visitors), businesses and residents during and immediately after the event. A significant finding is that the average spending per pilgrim by pilgrims from the rest of South Africa is larger than their Limpopo and foreign pilgrim counterparts. Out of every R100 of pilgrims spending only R2.16 remains in the local economy. The study also reveals consensus among residents that the annual pilgrimage gathering promotes morality, improved socialization as well as a sense of feeling good and proud of their community.