Managing nature-based tourism in protected karst area based on tourism carrying capacity analysis

Abstract

Nature-based tourism relies on the beauty of nature to maintain sustainability and attraction. However, karst environment is vulnerable to disturbance due to tourism activity. This study, therefore, aims to analyze the social, ecological, physical, real, and effective carrying capacity of Pattunuang Assue Nature Tourism Object, Bantimurung Bulusaraung National Park. Data were collected through field measurement, observation, and interviews. Data of visitors' favorite spot and its size were measured through observation and field measurement. Visitors' perceptions related to the destination, including their duration activities were collected through interviews. It was further collected by observing the various spots of activity, and measuring the area of restrictive factors such as physical (number of rainy days), biotic (vegetation diversity at tree level, the diversity of birds during the busy visiting hours, the initial period of the Tarsius fuscus' birth). We also observe the equipment and infrastructure of the destination and collected data related to management through interviews with the managers. This study reveals various carrying capacity value which can be used as an option for the managers to choose the best way to manage destination in the right way. The result showed that particular activities exceeded carrying capacity but other activities far below their carrying capacity value. The study furthermore discusses how to deal with numerous activities. It also suggests an increase in the number of visitors by considering their ecological characteristics and management capacity.