Geotourism Potential Research Articles

Geosite assessment as the first step for the development of canyoning activities in North Montenegro

Abstract The objective of the study is to investigate the current state of the canyons in the northern part of Montenegro, their potential for sustainable development, which could be achieved through canyoning as an attractive tourist attraction, and to assess the area’s geotourism potential. The canyons encompassed in this research are the Nevidio Canyon, the Tara Canyon, the Grlja Canyon, and the canyon of the river Ibar. The research was carried out using the modified Geosite Assessment Model, which includes tourists’ opinions on the significance of indicators in the assessment process. The obtained results show that all four canyons possess significant scientific, educational, and aesthetic values for the development of canyoning tourism. Since surveyed tourists pointed out not only the advantages but disadvantages of these geosites, these findings should be further used for the valorization and geoconservation of the geosite and provide a more favorable deal for the arrival of as many tourists as possible. In the future, investigated geosites should be improved with tourist content and activities, such as interpretive boards for tourists, expert guides, organized visits, tourist infrastructure, and promotion. Successful activities in these critical areas could contribute to sustainable geotourism being one of the key economically beneficial activities of the local population that will develop local communities through the arrival of a larger number of domestic and foreign tourists.

Geotourism and Geoeducation: A Holistic Approach for Socioeconomic Development in Rural Areas of Los Santos Municipality, Santander, Colombia

This study emphasizes the untapped geotourism and geoeducation potential in the Mesa de Los Santos region, situated within the Chicamocha Canyon in Colombia, renowned for its abundant geoheritage. Despite the region's geological richness, geotourism development opportunities have been overlooked, leaving its geoheritage largely unexplored for tourism. Focused on the georoute Refugio La Roca—Los Santos, the study identifies key geosites with significant potential for future geotourism endeavors. The Mesa de Los Santos region boasts a complex geological history and diverse geodiversity shaped by various natural phenomena. However, its full geotourism potential remains undiscovered. The georoute, incorporating natural and cultural heritage, is strategically designed for geotourism and geoeducation, aiming at fostering geoconservation in rural areas. Educational and interpretive panels are employed as didactic resources to enlighten tourists about the natural phenomena shaping the landscape, enhancing their overall experience and understanding. By integrating geoethical considerations into geosite management, the study proposes achieving sustainable geoconservation in the Chicamocha Canyon territory. This approach not only contributes to preserving the region's geological uniqueness but also provides a platform for socio-economic development in rural areas. The study envisions creating meaningful experiences that attract tourists while benefiting local communities, thereby promoting holistic and sustainable rural development.

Unveiling the geoheritage, cultural geomorphology and geotourism potential of Zanskar region, NW Himalaya, India

The Zanskar region, nestled in the heart of the Tethyan Himalaya, represents a significant geological and cultural repository that has remained relatively unexplored by the global tourism industry. This study investigates Zanskar's geoheritage and cultural geomorphology, highlighting its importance for geotourism and advocating for the implementation of sustainable development to preserve its fragile ecosystem. Flowing northward from the Higher Himalayas, the Zanskar River, one of the largest northeast-flowing tributary of the Upper Indus River Basin (UIRB), traverses the complex, strongly folded, and thrusted Zanskar Range via a steep, narrow 60-kilometer-long gorge. Zanskar has consistently garnered attention from geoscientists and tourists owing to its unique geographic location and remoteness. Many areas and routes in Zanskar are challenging to reach, but it stands out as a prime location where glaciers can be accessed by road, making it an ideal destination for studying geoscience. Geologically, the study area is part of the Zanskar Range, with its boundaries defined by the Ladakh Range to the northeast and the Great Himalayan Range to the southwest. The Indus Tsangpo Suture Zone, the Tethyan Sedimentary Sequence, and the Higher Himalayan Crystalline Sequence are exposed from north to south. Zanskar serves as a pristine field museum for studying young Himalayan orogenic tectonics, featuring prominent exposures such as the Zanskar Shear Zone (ZSZ)/South Tibetan Detachment System (STDS) and the structural outcrop of Zangla, showcasing a variety of folding types. These folds signify different phases of deformation resulting from the Indo-Eurasian collision. Moreover, it serves as a prime sequence of Quaternary Glacial Periods (QGP), providing an ideal natural laboratory and an open, practical classroom for geoscientists and Earth science students. We propose ten geoheritage sites in Zanskar, which encompass cultural, geomorphological, and geological attractions with potential for geotourism in this region.

Identification of geotourism potential for hot spring tourism development in Karangan Sub-District, East Kutai Distric, East Kalimantan Province

Abstract East Kutai is a district in East Kalimantan Province that possesses a diverse range of stunning geological heritage, distributed throughout the region, each with its own unique allure. In the Karangan District of East Kutai Regency, there are villages that possess alluring geotourism potential in the form of hot springs. Specifically, these hot springs are situated in Batu Lepoq Village and Pangadan Village, and they exhibit promising opportunities for further development. The objective of this research is to assess the state of geotourism in the study region, analyse the appraisal of geotourism potential, and provide recommendations for the development of geology-based tourist in the Karangan sub-district based on the conducted investigation. The study used the geotourism box, Kubalikova quantification analysis (2013), and Geological Survey Centre (2017) as methods. Additionally, interviews are conducted and analysed using SWOT analysis to generate recommendations. According to Kubalikova’s study in 2013, the Batu Lepoq Hot Springs location has a geotourism potential of 58%, indicating a moderate level of geotourism potential. On the other hand, the hot springs and Ampanas Caves have a geotourism potential of 67%, indicating a high level of geotourism potential. These assessments were based on an evaluation of the geological heritage resources [1]. The Batu Lepoq Hot Springs exhibit moderate geotourism potential in terms of scientific value, high geotourism potential in terms of educational value, medium geotourism potential in terms of tourism value, and low geotourism potential in terms of degradation risk. Ampanas Hot Springs exhibits significant geotourism potential due to its scientific and educational value, moderate potential for tourism, and relatively low danger of degradation. Both locations fulfil the requirements for development and management by necessitating increased promotion through various tourism events to attract the community. Additionally, efforts should be made to preserve the natural aesthetics of the surroundings, repair and maintain access roads, install street lights along these roads, and refurbish the pool. Furthermore, it is advisable to construct additional facilities such as toilets, gazebos, and maintenance areas, as well as build new structure.

Evaluation of the Geotourism Potential of the Mountain Lakes in the Călimani Massif: Colibița Lake, Iezer Lake and Zânelor Lake

Evaluation of the Geotourism Potential of the Mountain Lakes in the Călimani Massif: Colibița Lake, Iezer Lake and Zânelor Lake. This paper evaluates the key geosites in the Călimani National Park: Colibița Lake, Iezer Lake and Zânelor Lake. The internationally recognized methodology used in this study has a crucial role in the development of tourism and the conservation of natural resources. The obtained results show that these geosites have a significant potential for tourism development. Colibița Lake, an artificial lake, attracts tourists with its picturesque landscape and recreational activities. Iezer Lake impresses with its natural beauty and ecological importance, being a crucial habitat for local flora and fauna. Zânelor Lake offers a unique cultural experience, thanks to the charming landscape and local legends. The evaluation and management of these geosites will contribute to the management and conservation of natural resources in the Călimani Massif. The development of sustainable tourism requires appropriate management strategies that ensure responsible use and conservation of the environment. Promoting sustainable tourism and respecting conservation principles will ensure the preservation and sustainable exploitation of these geosites, benefiting both local communities and visitors. Keywords: Geotourism, Geosite, Călimani Massif, Carpathian Mountains, Romania.

The Exotic Beauty of Karst Morphology of Langgun Island and Geotourism Potential of Langkawi Island, Malaysia

The Exotic Beauty of Karst Morphology of Langgun Island and Geotourism Potential of Langkawi Island, Malaysia

The Hidden Paradises: Geology and Geotourism Potentials in Lambu District, West Nusa Tenggara

Lambu District of Bima Regency, West Nusa Tenggara Province has three extraordinary geological features that can potentially be developed into geotourism objects: Pulau Kelapa, Tanjung Meriam, and Pantai Pink. These three objects can be accessed by water transportation. Pulau Kelapa is a geomorphological feature in the form of crescent-shaped hills. The land use as savanna with views of small island cluster resulted from volcanic activities, and can be observed from the top of the hills. Tanjung Meriam forms a headland morphology protruding towards the beach, composed of andesitic-basaltic igneous rocks in the form of columnar joints that extended spectacularly along the coastline. Tanjung Meriam is said to be the only largest columnar joint site in Indonesia that is still pristine and does not undergo any shape changes by human activities. The pink color of the sand at Pantai Pink is caused by the pigment of decomposed foraminifers that formed sand grains stretching along the beach area. In addition, the clean and clear sea water complements the beauty and aesthetics of the beach. Geologically, the area is made of by the Layered Limestone Formation (Tml) and Old Volcano Products (QTvs). Geomorphosite assessment for geotourism purpose, according to Kubalikova (2013), showed that the feasibility value of Pulau Kelapa, Tanjung Meriam and Pantai Pink is 57.91%, 51.66% and 51,66% respectively. Tourism development in this area is still limited to individual visits; yet to be managed further by the local government while at the same time the potential is enormous. Therefore, planning is needed to develop geotourism potential by considering scientific and educational (geology, biology and local culture) and tourism values for sustainable development

Geotouristic potential of selected outcrops of Palaeozoic rocks from the southern Kraków-Częstochowa Upland

Geotouristic potential of selected outcrops of Palaeozoic rocks from the southern Kraków-Częstochowa Upland

Enhancing Geosıte Accessibility Assessment: A New Mcdm Model

Geosites are significant geological heritage areas that serve as field laboratories for researchers. They offer insights into geological processes that have occurred from the past to the present and hold high potential for geotourism. To preserve and make geosites sustainable, their accessibility is a prerequisite. For this purpose, a model consisting of various parameters was developed in accordance with the Multi-Criteria Decision Making (MCDM) method, identifying 183 geosite areas that have been determined by experts and are subjects of literature. As a result, four evaluation criteria were established, including accessibility, access to service/attractiveness areas, scientific importance, and geomorphological features. Taking these parameters into account, a collective evaluation map was obtained using GIS-based AHP, drawing upon literature and expert opinions. The study concluded that the most critical parameter for accessibility to geosites is accessibility itself, accounting for 50% of the importance. Other parameters have influenced the accessibility of geosites in the following order of importance: 25% land, 15% scientific importance, and 10% service/attractiveness. Consequently, the areas where accessibility to geosites in Türkiye is most convenient are those with the highest road density. Road density, in turn, exhibits a pattern based on the characteristics of topography, population, and trade factors. Additionally, a parallel outcome emerged between areas that are more suitable in terms of these factors and the density of geosites. As a validation of the newly created model, the accessibility of Türkiye's areas recognized by UNESCO was found to be very high, indicating that the model is a suitable and convenient method that can be applied to different areas.

Comparison of geosite and geomorphosite quantitative analysis for geotourism purposes in Baturraden (Purwokerto) and Guci (Tegal) hot springs tourism area, Central Java

Baturraden (Purwokerto) and Guci (Tegal) are popular tourist attractions on the hill of Gunung Slamet, Central Java Province. Each location has an object that can be analyzed as a geotourism potential, as the manifestation of hot springs. Regionally, the research area is included in the Slamet Volcano Lava Rock (Qvls), which is composed of Quaternary andesitic vesicular andesitic lava, and Undifferentiated Slamet Volcano Rock (Qvs), which is composed of Quaternary volcanic breccia, lava, and tuff. The research was carried out using three stages of research, e.g: the literature study stage, the field research stage, and the geosite and geomorphosite analysis stage, using a quantitative assessment method, according to Kubalikova (2013). Five geosites and geomorphosite are assessed: Pancuran-7 and Pancuran-3 (Baturraden), as well as Pancuran-13, Pancuran-5, and Sigeong hot spring (Guci). The results of the quantitative analysis based on the existing parameters sequentially are 82%, 75%, 79%, 79%, and 63%. These results indicate that Pancuran-7, Pancuran-3, Pancuran-13, and Pancuran-5 sites are very feasible for geotourism-based tourist objects. The Sigeong site needs to be improved in several aspects, especially infrastructure. Parameters that need to be considered for all objects are conservation values due to disaster risk factors that already exist and disaster risk factors that are still potential and have yet to occur, such as volcanic eruptions and landslides, as well as the process of destruction that occurs in several objects that can threaten the sustainability of tourist sites. In addition, it is necessary to increase the understanding of residents and visitors who come about geological information related to the formation of hot springs, both in the form of information boards posted around the site and information displayed on local websites.

Geotourism in Mount Pandan and Bledug Kuwu Hotspring as a potential resources for community development

Mount Pandan and Bledug Kuwu are popular tourist attractions in the central part of Java Island. Each location has an object that can be analyzed as a geotourism potential, as the manifestation of hot springs. These results indicate that Bledug Kuwu Mud Volcano, Crewek Hot Spring, Banyu Kuning Hot Spring, and Jari Kasinen Hot Spring sites can be geotourism-based tourist objects. Mount Pandan and Bledug Kuwu sites need to be improved in several aspects, especially in terms of infrastructure. Parameters that need to be considered for all objects are conservation values due to disaster risk factors that already exist and disaster risk factors that are still potential and have yet to occur, such as volcanic eruptions and landslides, as well as the process of destruction that appears in several objects that can threaten the sustainability of tourist sites. In addition, it is necessary to increase the understanding of residents and visitors who come about geological information related to the formation of hot springs, both in the form of information boards posted around the site and information displayed on local websites.

Geotourism of Telomoyo Volcano complex: an in-depth analysis for future development

Indonesia is located between the three world tectonic plates, the Eurasian Plate, the Indo-Australian Plate and the Pacific Plate. The collision of these three plates creates a series of volcanoes and tectonics activity in various regions, especially the subduction of the Indo-Australian Plate in southern Java. This subduction forming a row of tertiary-aged volcanoes in the south of the island of Java and quaternary in the central part of the island of Java. One of the Quaternary Volcanoes on the island of Java that is extends in a northwest-southeast, the volcanoes are Ungaran - Telomoyo - Merbabu - Merapi. The use of the geotourism analysis method is used to develop the existing geotourism potential in the Telomoyo Volcano Complex by carrying out a geodiversity inventory carried out through field activities to collect geological component data in the research area. The data collected is minerals, rocks, geological and morphological structures or landscapes that include several stages of work include categorization, assessment, evaluation, clustering and determination of geodiversity. This work is accomplished by identifying geoheritage to increase geological diversity into geological heritage through the stages of determining geodiversity and then classified to determine the status, value, meaning and function of geoheritage. The score ranking carried out to determine the geoheritage ranking by comparing the geotourism of the research location with the geotourism of other locations. The Telomoyo Volcano Complex holds a variety of unique and interesting geological phenomena so it had a promising geological conservation-based tourism potential. However, the lack of public knowledge about the potential for geology-based tourism or geotourism has caused the development of this tourism potential to be less than optimal and less desirable. Education, development and good management of the tourism sector are needed so that the potential of geotourism can be recognized by the wider community and can have a good impact, especially for the surrounding community, especially in the economic field.

Tsunami Geotourism Potential in Aceh and Regional Government Efforts and Constraints in its Development

The 2004 earthquake and tsunami left geological heritage sites and tsunami impact sites as disaster mitigation education through tsunami geotourism. The aim of the research is to identify the potential for developing tsunami geotourism in Aceh and analyze the efforts and constraints of the Regional Government through technical institutions in charge of developing tsunami geotourism in Aceh. The research used a descriptive qualitative method by interviewing sources from the Aceh Energy and Mineral Resources Service, Aceh Disaster Management Agency, Aceh Tourism Office, UPT. Aceh Tsunami Museum and UPT. Syiah Kuala University Disaster Mitigation, as well as observing several geological heritage sites and tsunami impact sites in Aceh based on the results of interviews and literature studies. The research results show that Aceh has the potential to develop tsunami geotourism with many tsunami heritage objects including Ek Leuntie Cave, Zero Tsunami Hill Lhoknga, Tsunami Museum, PLTD Floating Ship, Ship on the roof of the house, Aceh Monument Thanks the world, Gurah Mosque Dome, Baiturrahim Mosque, Rahmatullah Mosque, high tsunami monument and mass grave. In conclusion, Aceh has the potential to develop tsunami Geotourism and the Aceh Government has managed tsunami sites for tourism and proposed several geological heritage sites in Aceh to be designated as Geosites, but is hampered by, among other things, the Aceh Government's minimal budget, lack of coordination between technical institutions and difficulties in land acquisition

Determining climate classifications and producing climate border maps with GIS of Safranbolu district, Karabük, Türkiye.

Knowing climate characteristics enables the detection of particular climate characteristics and their boundaries. This situation is essential in terms of providing sustainable use of areal resources and directing land use plans. For this reason, in this study, climate boundary maps of the Safranbolu district were created based on the need to form a basis for planning. For this purpose, measurement data of all meteorological stations in the district for the last 30 years were obtained; data were associated with the location, and the water balance of each station was calculated using the Thornthwaite climate classification method. In addition, the climate type was determined using different climate classification methods, and the results were compared. All applied methods have shown that Safranbolu has a humid climate; however, the humidity value in the north of Safranbolu is slightly higher than that in the central and southern parts. In addition, water shortage in the north of Safranbolu is observed in July-August, while water shortage in the central and southern parts is observed in July-August-September. Considering the long-term precipitation average of the Safranbolu district, the highest annual precipitation is observed in March and the lowest in August. Etp and Etr throughout the district are highest in July and lowest in January. Surplus water and surface flow occur in the months between December and May, with the highest amount of surface flow occurring in March. There is no month without rain in Safranbolu. Safranbolu, which is on the UNESCO World Heritage List, is a visiting area for local and foreign tourists because of its cultural, architectural, and historical features and geotourism potential. In addition to its current agricultural activities, the cultivation of the "Saffron" plant, which gives its name to the district, and its forest assets cause an increase in both the tourism capacity and population of the district. Considering all of these, studies on climate change risk management and water resources management in Safranbolu have been conducted.

Geoheritage and Geotourism Potential of NEOM, Saudi Arabia: Linking Geoethics, Geoconservation, and Geotourism

Geoheritage and Geotourism Potential of NEOM, Saudi Arabia: Linking Geoethics, Geoconservation, and Geotourism

Century of Laskarev's landmark contribution to Paratethys Science

Laskarev?s seminal contribution to the recognition and elucidation of the Paratethys Sea within geological discourse stands as one of the pivotal milestones in our understanding of Neogene European paleogeography. Although the Neogene marine deposits of central and southeastern Europe were known before him, he greatly facilitated discourse and communication about them by giving them a paleogeographical name. By officially introducing the term Paratethys and meticulously delineating its geographic extent and history, Laskarev unveiled profound insights into past climates, environments, and biotic evolution across Central and Eastern Europe. His work provided a solid foundation for subsequent investigations of the Paratethys region. Moreover, beyond its scientific intrigue, the Paratethys Sea holds considerable economic importance due to its rich geo logical endowment. This reservoir of resources includes hydrocarbon reserves, mineral deposits, and a burgeoning potential for geotourism. While substantial strides have been made in unraveling its mysteries, the Paratethys Sea still beckons further exploration, promising untapped realms of knowledge and economic opportunity.

RESERVA DA BIOSFERA DA SERRA DO ESPINHAÇO (MAB UNESCO) E SUA IMPORTÂNCIA NA PROMOÇÃO DOS SÍTIOS DA GEODIVERSIDADE

The Serra do Cipó National Park (PARNA Cipó) is a UNESCO-recognized site and part of the Serra do Espinhaço Biosphere Reserve (RBIO Espinhaço). However, the educational and interpretive materials in PARNA primarily focus on nature tourism and do not adequately explore the geodiversity related to abiotic attractions. This study evaluates the potential for geotourism practices in the conservation unit. The methodology involved developing thematic maps of didactic potential, recreational potential, and degradation risk, which were analysed through multicriteria analysis to generate a geotourism potential map. A public-use map of trails was also developed to contextualise the study using data from the Wikiloc application. The results indicate two significant areas with high potential for geotourism, including the Vale Mascate and Vale Bocaina Trails. The study’s findings could contribute to the development of geotourism and promote the conservation and appreciation of the abiotic aspects of nature. Keywords: Geotourism; Geoconservation, PARNA-Cipó, Geoheritage.

Assessment of geosites as a basis for geotourism development: A case study of the Toplica District, Serbia

Abstract Toplica district represents an area in Southern Serbia with significant forms of geoheritage that have not been valorized yet. The aim of this pioneering study is to systematically analyze and evaluate all manifestations of the geodiversity in the Toplica district. Based on the geological importance, degree of attractiveness, and size, a total of six geosites were selected. The main goal of the study is to emphasize the insufficient utilization of huge geotourism potentials of the Toplica district and to determine the current geotourism development and geotourism potential of evaluated geosites. The geotourism suitability of each geosite is defined through comparative analysis. The Geosite Assessment Model (GAM) is used to assess the current state of the various elements of geodiversity in the study area. Positioning within the GAM matrix is defined by the values of the investigated parameters. Visualization of the distribution of the GAM indicators is an innovative approach for the interpretation of the obtained results. As a projection of the geotourism potential, the study presents the results of the traffic accessibility of geosites using the Geographic Information System (GIS)-based isochronous method. GIS and Digital Terrain Models are used in the visualization of the research area. The results of GAM apostrophize the current tourist value of Devil’s City, while the isochron analysis of GIS highlights the great geotourism potential of publicly little-known and touristically unaffirmed geosites. The results represent a basis that can support the affirmation of geotourism, the improvement of existing, and the development of new geotourism strategies in the Toplica district.

Assessment and map of geotourism potential sites in Amhara Regional State, Northwestern Ethiopia

This study focused on the assessment of geo-tourism potentials in Amhara Regional State, the northeastern part of Ethiopia. Geotourism is a newly applicable area of tourism development that is growing rapidly all over the world. Geo-tourism is geomorphic and geologic formations and characteristics. The objective of the study was to produce an inventory assessment for geotourism locations and give some tour guide maps for the peoples of the world through this media, as well as to assess their potential for tourism growth. The methodological approach for the geotourism inventory and mapping was GIS techniques and detailed inventories of geo-tourism locations. The results of the study showed that more than 20 geo-tourism locations were identified and mapped. The parameters used to assess the potential of geotourism sites were related to tourism and the country's scientific, educational, scenic, recreational, protective, functional, and ecological aspects. The findings of the study are not only helpful for the tourism sectors, academic institutions, researchers and visitors, but also make a great contribution to the country's income generation in general.

Loess and geotourism potential of the Braničevo District (NE Serbia): From overexploitation to paleoclimate interpretation

Abstract The use of loess as a resource for paleoclimatic research is quite well established. In Serbia, a significant number of loess sequences have been preserved in old brickyards. The results of the previously conducted research indicate extremely valuable data that enable a better understanding of the mid- to late Pleistocene climatic evolution in this part of Europe, as well as human dispersal from Africa to Europe via the so-called Danubian migration corridor. The aim of this study is to evaluate the geotourism potentials of the loess profiles in Požarevac (northeastern Serbia). The goal is to determine their geotourism potential for paleoclimate interpretation. The Modified Geoheritage Assessment Model method has identified exceptional geotourism potentials that can be implemented in the tourism market. Paleoclimatic data can serve as indicators for the development of scientific visitor centers for the promotion and popularization of paleoclimate science and museums, which will affirm sustainable socio-economic development through multidisciplinary interpretation. By combining geological, paleoclimatic, archaeological, biological, and other values that reveal natural and anthropogenic events from the distant past, it is possible to create a very competitive geotourism destination, whose sustainability can be passed on to future generations.