Abstract
Sustainability management and especially socio-cultural sustainability of tourism is premised on
community awareness, participation and deriving socio-economic benefits from tourism. The purpose
of the study was to examine local awareness, attitudes and relations towards tourism operations in
Maun and Tshabong, Botswana. A qualitative study informed by in-depth interviews was undertaken in
two tourist destinations in Botswana, viz. Maun and Tshabong which are at different stages and scales
of tourism development. Based on the study the interviewed community members from both case sites
were supportive of further tourism growth and development. Interestingly, in particular, there was
support for the promotion of cultural tourism which was seen as ensuring meaningful community
participation in tourism development and operations. Other findings suggested that interviewees were
also aware of negative impacts associated with tourism such as pollution, demonstration effects and
economic leakages. The issue of poaching was of particular local concern as it was perceived against
the spirit of community-based tourism.