The Contribution Of Hiking To The Development Of Sustainable Tourism In Fez-Meknes Region[Contribution des randonnées au développement d'un tourisme durable dans la région Fès Meknès]

Historically, tourism was an elitist phenomenon. As a result of economic development, a new model of mass tourism has emerged, reaching a wide swathe of society and conveying a standardized and unique vision. Today, mass tourism is criticized for both its high ecological footprint and its low contribution to local development. At the same time, the structure of the tourism market has undergone profound change, with the emergence of an alternative offer that is more respectful of the environment and local populations. On the one hand, this alternative tourism makes it possible to internalize the negative externalities of mass tourism and, on the other, to enhance the specific resources of the region. It also aims to reveal and promote the assets of each territory. Hiking is a form of tourism based on walking in the great outdoors on marked trails. With their low ecological footprint, local impact and cultural dimension, hiking is fully in line with the principles of alternative, sustainable tourism. So, to what extent do the emerging activities of alternative tourism via hiking contribute to the sustainable development of the Fez-Meknes region? The results of the qualitative study carried out show the importance of hiking for the local population and the preponderance of cultural dimensions. Nevertheless, poor communication and safety issues persist, calling for a comprehensive approach to developing hiking tourism in the Fez-Meknes region.