POSITIVE AND NEGATIVE IMPACTS OF TOURISM – ICELAND (MEDC) THE SHARE OF TOURISM IN ICELAND’S GDP In 2010, the share of tourism in Iceland’s GDP was 6%

INTERNATIONAL VISITORS AND CRUISES Visitors to Iceland have more than doubled since 2000. Their number had risen to 673,000 by 2012. +ve ECONOMIC Since 2000, cruise ship passengers to Iceland have increased by 12% per year. +ve ECONOMIC

INTERNATIONAL VISITORS BY SEASON Around 47% of visitors in 2012 came during the three summer months (Jun.–Aug.) +ve ECONOMIC Under 25% during winter (6 months) –ve ECONOMIC

RECREATION PURCHASED IN ICELAND visitors were particularly interested in recreational activities involving nature experiences, health and wellbeing. +ve Swimming and warm spring baths were the most popular among international visitors during summer and winter.

Grimsnes – holiday homes 1500 holiday homes – 356 permanent residents –ve environmental

GULLFOSS waterfall Honeypot site (coach trips) –ve environmental

Gulfoss waterfall – footpath erosion

Gulfoss waterfall – footpath erosion Paths management – safe but not an eyesore -ve environmental

Skaftafell National Park Offroad vehicles – -ve environmental “1 year growth in the UK equals to 10 year growth in Iceland. So please bare this in mind and be respectful to their nature.”

Skaftafell National Park Offroad vehicles – -ve environmental