Exploring Sustainable Tourism Practices in Dark Tourism

Aim: This study aims to explore sustainable tourism practices in the context of dark tourism, using the sustainable framework as a guide. Method: To achieve the objectives of this study, a participant observation technique was employed during two guided tours of the Gallipoli Battlefields; one conducted in English and the other in Turkish. The study field is well-known for being a key destination for battlefield tourism, and it's a prime example of war-related attractions that fit into the category of dark tourism. Findings: According to the sustainable framework established in the literature, the data analysis identified three primary themes: economic factors, socio-cultural factors, and environmental factors. Under each of these themes, sustainable tourism practices were observed during the data collection process. The principal sustainable practices noted during the tours included the preservation and promotion of cultural and historical heritage, experiential activities such as boat rides or hiking, and contributions to the local economy by supporting local restaurants. Conclusion: There are significant differences between English-speaking and Turkish-speaking tours. The Gallipoli Peninsula, recognised as a significant site for dark tourism in Türkiye, offers prospects for diversifying mass tourism activities through sustainable initiatives, such as the establishment of hiking trails. The Dire Directorate of Gallipoli Historic Site, the leading destination management organisation on the Gallipoli Peninsula, is expected to set up partnerships with tour companies, who will create tour itineraries centred on sustainable tourism practices in the battlefields.