Natural Ecotourism Objects in Rokan Hulu Regency, Riau Province, Indonesia.

Abstract

Abstract Ecotourism is environmentally friendly tourism with the activities of watching, studying, admiring nature, flora and fauna, socio-cultural local ethnicity, and fostering the preservation of the natural environment by involving local residents. Rokan Hulu is a regency in Riau Province, Indonesia. Ecotourism is not a major sector in this area, however, this regency has some natural locations that might be developed. This study aimed to identify and analysed natural ecotourism objects in this area. The locations and respondents was nominated by using purposive sampling method. Respondents consisted of local people, tourists, tourism businesses, and stakeholders. The collected data was associated with the concept of 4A (attraction, amenity, accessibility, and ancillary service) and SWOT (strength, weakness, opportunity and threat) analysed, WTA (willing to accept) and WTP (willing to pay), and descriptive potential analysis natural ecotourism economy. Some ecotourism objects in this area were identified, namely Aek Martua Waterfall Ecourism, Batu Gajah Ecourism, Huta Sikapir Cave Ecotourism, and Hapanasan Natural Hot Springs. It is recommended to improve facilities and infrastructure access to each location and the main object of natural ecotourism is managed by professionals by involving local communities.