Sustainable Ecotourism Research Articles (Page 1)

In the face of global tourism industry challenges, innovation in tourism services is essential for achieving sustainable development goals. This research aims to address the multifaceted challenges of sustainable mangrove ecotourism in Indonesia through an integrative approach combining ethnoecopreneuship, collaborative, and creative economy. Utilizing participatory rural appraisal (PRA) and focus group discussion (FGD), data analysis combines strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, threats (SWOT) analyses and analytic hierarchy process (AHP) method. The results emphasize the importance of community involvement, ecological considerations, effective promotion, and adoption of digital technology in the sustainability of mangrove ecotourism. The research calls for collaboration among stakeholders, policy emphasis on local government responsibilities, and active involvement of local communities and non-governmental organizations in mangrove conservation and management. This research underscores the potential for sustainable development, aligning with the sustainable development goals (SDGs) and enhancing economic and social outcomes in Indonesia’s mangrove ecotourism sector.

This study evaluates the effectiveness of integrating local wisdom with the use of Alat Pemecah, Peredam Ombak, dan Sedimen Traps (APPOSTRAPS) or Breakers, Wave Dampers, and Sediment Traps in empowering coastal communities in Karawang, Indonesia, as a strategic response to climate change, coastal erosion, and sustainable ecotourism development. The research aims to assess the combined impact of APPOSTRAPS technology and the Jaga Alam Melalui Pemberdayaan Masyarakat Pesisir (JAM PASIR) or Protecting Nature Through Coastal Community Empowerment program in reducing coastal abrasion, restoring mangrove ecosystems, and fostering sustainable livelihoods. A mixed methods approach was applied, combining quantitative analysis of coastline changes using Geographic Information System (GIS) with Landsat and Sentinel-2 imagery (2022–2024), field surveys using differential GPS (±2 m accuracy), and qualitative methods including 150 interviews, 18 months of participant observation, and community documentation. Results show a coastline extension of about 400 m (±15 m), increased ecotourism revenue from IDR 11.25 million per month in 2019 to IDR 90 million in 2024, women’s participation rising from 12% to 68%, and livelihood diversification reaching 110% of the target with 98 families involved. APPOSTRAPS, a patented breakwater and sediment trap made from repurposed tires, combined with the JAM PASIR program covering mangrove-based ecotourism, MSMEs for fishermen’s wives, waste management, and the Masyarakat Sadar Lingkungan and Bencana (MASDARLINA) or Environmentally and Disaster Aware Society system, effectively mitigates erosion and supports economic growth. The study concludes that integrating indigenous knowledge and technology strengthens community resilience and provides a replicable model for sustainable coastal adaptation.

Fuzzy AHP approach to assess sustainable ecotourism spot in an emerging economy using GIS and remote sensing

The development of sustainable ecotourism that integrates design thinking and indigenous Climate education in Digital-Social Agrotourism is supported by the important role of reflection-based community learning design. The community in this study is a reflective actor who actively designs and manages the adaptive and participatory learning process. Key elements in learning design implemented through cross-stakeholder collaboration, including learning facilitators, local governments, creative industry players, and indigenous peoples, are case studies to be analyzed. Thematic analysis focusing on in-situ and post-implementation reflection identifies challenges and opportunities in the community learning process, such as integrating digital technologies, preserving local wisdom, and adaptation to climate change. The development of social innovation capacity and ecotourism management that is ecologically and socially sustainable will also be supported by community reflection. The results of this study highlight the importance of facilitator capacity building and ongoing collaboration in supporting a responsive and inclusive community learning ecosystem. The implications of this research can guide the development of community learning models and ecotourism support policies based on digital technology and local wisdom in the future.

Whale watching and sustainable ecotourism in the Las Perlas Archipelago, Panama

The present study investigates the spatial-temporal patterns of Tulipa greigii distribution across the heterogeneous landscapes of the Turkistan Region, southern Kazakhstan. As a flagship species with high conservation and ecotourism value Tulipa greigii is increasingly affected by climate variability and landscape fragmentation. The aim of the research is to identify the ecological parameters governing tulip distribution and to assess the potential for sustainable ecotourism based on floral landscape dynamics. The methodology integrates field ecological surveys, multi-seasonal remote sensing (Sentinel-2 and Landsat 8), and geospatial modeling using NDVI and NDMI indices. Additionally, public interest and ecotourism potential were assessed through digital footprint analysis on social media platforms (Instagram and TikTok), as well as national visitation statistics. Geostatistical tools were employed to analyze spatial trends and vegetation stress patterns across six key study locations selected for their landscape diversity. Findings reveal a strong correlation between seasonal soil moisture levels and the spatial presence of Tulipa greigii. Higher vegetation indices were observed in slope-adjacent piedmonts and montane meadow belts, which also correspond with increased social media activity during the blooming season. The results confirm the role of geomorphological position, hydrological balance, and digital visibility in determining ecotourism hotspots. This study demonstrates the value of interdisciplinary methods in understanding plant distribution and promoting nature-based tourism. By integrating biophysical indicators with geospatial technologies and public engagement metrics, the research provides a holistic framework for identifying ecologically significant zones under pressure from climate change and human activity. Moreover, the proposed approach highlights the utility of coupling traditional ecological monitoring with digital analytics to track spatial interest trends and ecological vulnerabilities. The study contributes to the scientific basis for the development of adaptive conservation strategies, fostering synergies between biodiversity protection and regional ecotourism planning. It provides regionally grounded and practically oriented recommendations for harmonizing biodiversity conservation efforts with the development of digital ecotourism strategies, tailored specifically to the ecological and socio-spatial characteristics of Central Asia’s dryland landscapes.

This study presents a comprehensive bibliometric review of scholarly research on Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) for eco-tourism development, with the aim of mapping the collaborative frameworks, research themes, and global trends that have shaped the field over the past two decades. Using data extracted from the Scopus database and analyzed through VOSviewer software, the study identifies key concepts, author and institutional networks, and geographic contributions that have influenced discourse on sustainable tourism partnerships. The co-occurrence analysis reveals dominant themes such as sustainable development, governance, tourism management, risk assessment, and environmental protection, while temporal overlay mapping highlights a shift from foundational governance-oriented studies to more recent emphases on innovation, investment, and climate resilience. Country collaboration networks underscore the central role of nations like the United States, United Kingdom, China, and Australia, while also pointing to underrepresentation in certain regions. The findings offer both practical insights for policymakers and private stakeholders in designing inclusive, efficient PPP frameworks, and theoretical contributions by highlighting evolving research clusters and interdisciplinary gaps. This study serves as a foundation for future inquiry and global collaboration in sustainable eco-tourism governance.

This article presents an integrative review of literature on value co-creation in the eco-tourism industry between 2020 and 2025. Value co-creation is a collaborative process where tourists, local communities, enterprises, and governance structures engage to generate shared benefits across ecological, social, and economic dimensions. In eco-tourism, this process aligns with principles of sustainability, cultural preservation, and community empowerment, while shifting tourists’ roles from passive consumers to active participants in shaping experiences. Despite growing scholarly attention, existing studies remain fragmented across contexts such as heritage tourism, community-based conservation, and post-pandemic recovery, with limited synthesis of how co-creation is implemented, operationalized, and evaluated. Using Torraco’s (2016) integrative review framework, this article systematically identified, screened, and analyzed 17 peer-reviewed articles from major academic databases and snowball searches. Findings highlight five dominant themes: (1) stakeholder engagement in conservation and cultural exchange, (2) the role of digital platforms in extending collaboration, (3) governance and policy as both enablers and barriers, (4) crisis adaptation in contexts such as COVID-19, and (5) emerging tools for measurement and evaluation of co-creation outcomes. The review underscores that value co-creation enhances visitor satisfaction, environmental stewardship, and community empowerment, yet faces challenges including inclusivity gaps, governance rigidity, and tensions between economic and ecological objectives. This article concludes that value co-creation is a strategic pathway toward sustainable eco-tourism, but requires strengthened policy support, digital inclusivity, standardized measurement, community empowerment, and crisis-resilient strategies. These insights hopefully provide a foundation for advancing both research and practice in sustainable tourism development.

Abstract Ecotourism is extremely important for sustainable development and preservation of cultural heritage, particularly in ancient cities such as Kano, Nigeria. This research explores the multifaceted relationship between ecotourism, architectural heritage, and sustainability in the context of Kano’s historic resources, namely the old city, its ancient defensive walls, and associated cultural monuments. The research takes a qualitative methodology of direct site observation, interviews with stakeholders like heritage professionals, tourists, and locals, and community engagement sessions to unfold the perception, value, and level of involvement of various groups in the conservation of these heritage sites. Furthermore, it illustrates a keen communal regard for the architectural and cultural significance of Kano’s heritage but recognises crucial lacunae in preservation planning, infrastructural support, and participatory inclusiveness of communities. These limitations pose very real challenges to the success of a model of sustainable ecotourism in the region. Informing context-specific, adaptive solutions from successful ecotourism experience in other parts of the world, the study proposes strategies that seek to integrate heritage conservation in Kano. It also emphasises the potentials of ecotourism in local economic transformation, cultural identity enhancement, and environmental stewardship. Finally, the paper concludes with a set of practical and policy-specific recommendations specific to architects, urban planners, cultural heritage managers, and government agencies in order to have a more integrated and sustainable pattern of tourism development that is attuned to the socio-cultural and environmental dynamics of Kano.

Abstract Mangrove areas have a vital role in coastal ecosystems and have the potential to become sustainable ecotourism destinations. One of the important elements in supporting mangrove ecotourism is the provision of environmentally friendly pedestrian paths. This research aims to develop the concept of sustainable walking paths by utilizing materials that are suitable for coastal environments. The methods used include literature study, field observation, and material analysis. Results showed that compressed bamboo, recycled wood and plastic, and natural fiber biocomposites have high resistance to coastal conditions and low impact on the environment. The design concept of the pathway prioritizes cost efficiency, material durability, ease of construction, and integration with the mangrove ecosystem. The proposed model is a modular elevated pathway that is flexible to environmental changes. This development not only improves access and tourism experience, but also supports mangrove conservation and reduces the ecological footprint.

This study examines the relationships among motivation, satisfaction, place attachment, and revisit intention in the context of ecotourism in the Ayabaca Moorlands, a biodiverse Andean ecosystem of high cultural significance in northern Peru. Using a non-experimental quantitative design, data were collected from 350 national and international visitors and analyzed through Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM). Findings reveal that while motivation does not directly influence place attachment, it significantly affects satisfaction and revisit intention. Results provide empirical evidence that satisfying experiences foster enduring emotional bonds with environmentally sensitive destinations. The study underscores the importance of tourism management strategies that cultivate emotional connections and visitor loyalty while integrating cultural and contextual factors to ensure the long-term sustainability of high-mountain ecotourism.

ABSTRACT This paper examines the challenges, environmental impacts, and adaptive strategies faced by ecolodge owners in the Peruvian Amazon in the context of government support, socio-political instability, management capabilities and environmental impact. While ecolodges have the potential to promote conservation and local development, the Amazon region suffers from weak public policies, insufficient tourism promotion, and high levels of informality, which undermine sustainability efforts. Socio-political conflicts such as the COVID-19 pandemic, political instability, and global crises like the Russia-Ukraine war have exacerbated operational difficulties, resulting in business closures, increased informality, and environmental degradation. Through a mixed-methods approach, combining 24 in-depth interviews and a structured survey, this study reveals how ecolodge managers have implemented resilience strategies such as inter-business cooperation, digital transformation, product diversification, and scientific tourism to attract national and international markets. However, persistent obstacles such as high costs for sustainability certifications, fragile governance, poor infrastructure, and unregulated tourism limit long-term viability and contribute to ecosystem degradation. The findings underscore the need for targeted public policies that promote formalization, strengthen environmental governance, and integrate sustainable tourism into national recovery strategies, ensuring that ecolodges can balance ecological protection with financial resilience in volatile contexts.

This paper offers a comprehensive sociological reflection on ecotourism and wildlife migration in Tanzania within the broader framework of sustainable development. Through an interdisciplinary lens, it explores the historical legacies of colonial conservation, the structural dynamics of community-based ecotourism, and the gendered dimensions of benefit distribution. The analysis interrogates the role of policy and governance in mediating access to tourism revenues, wildlife corridors, and decision-making authority. Particular attention is given to the socioecological impacts of climate change on migratory species and the communities living in critical corridors. The research highlights the tensions between ecological goals and community rights, underscoring the need for more inclusive, adaptive, and equitable governance models. Drawing on empirical studies, policy critiques, and case-based literature, the paper argues that sustainable ecotourism in Tanzania cannot succeed without centering local participation, securing land tenure, mainstreaming gender equity, and aligning conservation goals with social justice imperatives. Wildlife migration is not only an ecological phenomenon but also a sociopolitical process that reveals the limitations of top-down conservation and the potential of transformative governance.

This study aims to identify and analyze the obstacles in ecotourism practices in Waturaka Village, Kelimutu District, Ende Regency, East Nusa Tenggara Province. Waturaka Village is a buffer village for Kelimutu National Park which has great potential in developing community-based ecotourism. This study uses a descriptive qualitative approach with data collection techniques through observation, in-depth interviews, and literature studies. The results of the study indicate that ecotourism practices in Waturaka Village face various obstacles, including limited infrastructure, lack of equitable community participation, minimal training and technical knowledge, and management that still requires intensive assistance. In addition, the development and promotion model that has not been maximized also hinders the advancement of ecotourism in this village. These obstacles have an impact on the sustainability of ecotourism based on conservation and empowerment of local communities. Therefore, synergy between stakeholders, increasing human resource capacity, and sustainable management strategies are needed to support the success of ecotourism in Waturaka Village.

Tulung Ni Lenggo is a lake area in Berau Regency that has been opened as an ecotourism location since 2016. The manager chose the ecotourism concept as an effort to implement the concept of sustainable development. This study aimed to analyze the direct, indirect and advanced economic impacts and multiplier effects of ecotourism of Tulung Ni Lenggo Lake in Berau Regency. The analysis method used was the multiplier effect economic impact analysis method. The direct economic impact on the business unit was IDR 273,043,166.67/year, the indirect economic impact was IDR 369,096,833.33/year and the further economic impact was IDR 173,880,000.00/year. The value of the Keynesian multiplier effect was 0.07, the value of income multiplier ratio type 1 was 2.35, and the value of income multiplier ratio type 2 was 2.99. This means that the management of Lake Tulung Ni Lenggo as sustainable ecotourism had been able to provide an economic impact on business unit income and labor in the ecotourism area, which also impacts increasing consumption and the local economy.Keywords:Economic effectTulung Ni LenggoLakeBerau Regency

Abstract. Ecotourism is recognised as a sustainable tourism paradigm that harmonises environmental preservation with economic and cultural advantages. This study examines the integration of advanced technologies, particularly Geographic Information Systems (GIS), remote sensing, and mobile applications, in evaluating and developing Alula's ecotourism opportunities. It employs a mixed-method approach to examine Alula's viability for ecotourism, including essential environmental, topographical, and infrastructural elements, as well as evaluating tourist preferences and stakeholder perspectives on technology adoption. The GIS and remote sensing research determined that Alula's mild temperature (22.5°C), low population density (2.44 individuals/km2), and slope changes (0–27%) render it an appropriate location for ecotourism. Moreover, the prominent visibility of picturesque locations, closeness to historical sites (0–15 km), and accessibility through road infrastructure augment its tourism potential. Water shortage (21 mm annual rainfall) and habitat fragmentation persist as challenges necessitating sustainable management techniques. The mobile application survey indicated a significant preference for real-time navigation, cultural heritage information, and sustainability education functionalities. Stakeholder interviews highlighted the significance of integrating smart technology to enhance visitor management, resource conservation, and tourist planning. This study combines GIS-based suitability analysis with mobile technology uptake to develop a comprehensive framework for smart ecotourism planning in ecotourism destinations. The findings emphasise the need for GIS and remote sensing for land-use optimisation, mobile apps for visitor interaction, and sustainable infrastructure policies. Tourism planners, environmentalists, and lawmakers might learn from the proposed paradigm on sustainable ecotourism and smart tourism in heritage-rich places.

Cachoeira da Mulada (Mulada Waterfall), located in the Reserva Bertussi in Criúva (Caxias do Sul, RS, Brazil), is a potential geosite within the volcanic Serra Geral Group (GSG). This thick package represents a vast magmatic event that preceded the opening of the South Atlantic. The site combines scenic beauty, adventure tourism, and cultural heritage, making it a significant geotourism attraction. The geological framework places the waterfall within the Paraná-Etendeka Large Igneous Province (PELIP), characterized by flood basalts and acid units of the Early Cretaceous. Two main formations occur at the waterfall: the Vale do Sol Formation (VSF) at the base and the Palmas Formation (PF) at the top, with distinctive rubbly pahoehoe basaltic flows and acidic lava structures shaping the landscape. The Bertussi family maintains the Cachoeira da Mulada, which attends to the site’s cultural legacy, notably as pioneers of traditional Gaúcho music, with the "Irmãos Bertussi" duo gaining national recognition. The site also hosts one of the largest outdoor canyoneering training complexes in Rio Grande do Sul, offering varied rappel routes and training opportunities. A thematic map and digital guide were developed to enhance the visitor experience, alongside educational panels covering geological, geomorphological, botanical, and cultural aspects. Quantitative assessment using the Brilha Method yielded high scores: 290/400 for scientific potential, 310/400 for touristic potential, and 320/400 for educational potential, with a moderate degradation risk (150/400). The results highlight the site's exceptional geological features, strong geotourism appeal, and cultural importance, reinforcing its value for conservation and sustainable ecotourism.

This study explores the development of a sustainable ecotourism model in Kampung Kwau, West Papua, based on local wisdom and community participation. Using a modified 4A (Attraction, Amenity, Accessibility, Ancillary) framework and SWOT analysis, the research assesses the feasibility and strategic potential of Kampung Kwau as a community-based tourism destination. The findings indicate that Kampung Kwau demonstrates strong cultural and ecological attractions supported by local customs such as Igya Ser Hanjob, traditional medicine, and endemic biodiversity. However, improvements are needed in infrastructure and visitor amenities. SWOT mapping reveals a strong internal-external synergy (SO strategy), suggesting that local strengths can be leveraged to seize tourism opportunities. A participatory, educational tourism model is proposed, enabling visitors to engage directly in Arfak traditions, conservation efforts, and cultural learning. This approach positions Kampung Kwau as a model of authentic and sustainable ecotourism in Indonesia

This study examines the ethnobotanical knowledge of the Wamesa Indigenous community in Momiwaren District, South Manokwari Regency, West Papua, with a focus on Metroxylon sagu (sago palm) as a cultural keystone species. Using a qualitative approach that involves interviews, focus group discussions, and participatory observations, the research identifies seven local sago varieties, classified based on morphology, use value, and cultural significance. The findings reveal a gendered division of labor, where men primarily engage in harvesting while women dominate processing and marketing. Sago plays a central role in rituals, food security, household economy, and environmental sustainability. Two varieties, Anangas and Ananggemo, are regarded as “royal sago” due to their ceremonial value and superior starch quality. However, threats such as modernization, land-use change, and declining youth involvement endanger this biocultural heritage. The study emphasizes that community-based sustainable ecotourism could revitalize sago-related knowledge and practices. By integrating traditional wisdom with appropriate technologies and gender-inclusive strategies, sago-based ecotourism can foster local empowerment, cultural preservation, and ecological resilience. This research underscores the importance of viewing sago not merely as an agricultural product but as a biocultural asset with significant potential in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in remote Indigenous territories of Indonesia.

Bimomartani Village, located in Ngemplak Subdistrict, Sleman Regency, is a rural area with high ecological and cultural wealth, such as the presence of Embung Bimomartani, Tuk Bulus, traditional houses, an arts center, a culinary center, and integrated farming practices. However, this potential has not been managed in an integrated manner, resulting in its inability to generate optimal impacts on economic development, environmental conservation, and community empowerment. This study aims to design an integrated tourism area planning model based on the integration of local potential and community participation within the context of sustainable ecotourism development. The method used is a participatory-applicative-integrative approach, through the stages of identifying area potential, focused group discussions, community capacity building, supporting infrastructure development, and qualitative and quantitative impact evaluation. The results of the study indicate that the implementation of a thematic spatial planning model based on natural-educational, spiritual-conservation, cultural-historical, local economic, and food security clusters has successfully created spatial connectivity and a cohesive tourism narrative. 85% of Pokdarwis members have participated in tourism management training, and the income of MSMEs has increased by 40%. Tourist visits also increased by 65%, and a digital tourism village initiative managed by local youth emerged. In conclusion, the integration of tourist areas through a community-based approach and the use of educational technology can drive sustainable social, economic, and institutional transformation in villages, making Bimomartani a model for integrated ecotourism development based on community empowerment.