M. Tech. Tourism and Hospitality Management / The focus of this study was to determine tourists' preferences of the content of packaged tours in the Mahikeng area. Packaged tours are designed without really knowing whether such tours will be purchased. The preferences of tourists differ in terms of all the components of tourism incorporated into packaged tours. Preferences can be influenced by the reasons of travelling. Tour operators play a significant role in designing and selling tourism packages. It is therefore crucial for them to recognise the preferences of current and potential customers. Knowing tourists' preferences before crafting tour packages will enable tour operators to save money and will also contribute to the successful selling of packaged tours.