The gap analysis between perception and expectation of visitor in Bantimurung Bulusaraung National Park

Abstract

This study aimed to analyze the gap between visitors' perception and expectation for better development of ecotourism potential in Bantimurung Bulusaraung National Park (BBNP). The gap analysis approach used a descriptive survey to 200 respondents selected by non-probability sampling in November 2018. Several ecotourism potentials assessed were accessibility, accommodation, cultural attractions, public facilities, human resources, information and natural attractions. The result showed that there is a higher expectation rather than perception of visitor in BBNP. The highest gap value was found in public facility [-1.71], while the lowest gap value was found in accessibility [-0.97]. Thus, public facility should be prioritized to develop in order to meet the visitor s' expectation. In term of public facility, the highest gap value was found in communication facilities (telephone, fax, internet), while the lowest gap value was found in garbage dump and clean water availability. Therefore, the top priority to improve was the quality and quantity of communication facilities (telephone, fax, internet).