مسکن و محیط روستا (Jun 2021)
An Assessment of the Influence of Different Factors on the Rural Ecotourism Development (Case study: Oramanat tourist route)
Abstract
Ecotourism, as one of the most important types of tourism, is growing faster than other types of tourism. It is the best way to benefit the inhabitants and preserve the environment. Using natural resources as tourism destinations without degrading natural resources is an ideal way for the sustainable development of rural areas. This paper tries to assess the influence of different factors on developing ecotourism in the villages located along the Sarvabad-Paveh tourist route, where many tourist potentials, such as natural, cultural, historical, and religious attractions exist. The article applies a descriptive-analytical approach and analyzed a statistical population of 100 researchers, officials, and tourism experts familiar with the area. Data collection was conducted through field surveys and questionnaires. Multivariate regression statistical tests, factor analysis and structural equation modelling in SPSS and Amos were used to analyze data. Findings showed that six factors, including utilization of natural, historical and religious potentials; provision of infrastructure; advertisement and marketing; sustainability in providing infrastructure and preservation of valuable architectural properties; investment, engagement, and awareness-raising of residents; and the cultural-artistic capacities of the area and its proximity to the border, affect the sustainable development of rural areas up to 63.85% on average. Among these, the most influential factor is the utilization of natural, historical and religious potentials with a factor loading of 18.31. The consistency of the conceptual model with the collected data is confirmed because of the goodness of fit. Therefore, in addition to various advantages at the regional and national levels, ecotourism can develop the deprived and isolated areas of the west of the country that act as the conservators of their traditions. Moreover, it can generate employment, create a chain of economic and service activities and become a comprehensive strategy to help the government in economic, social and environmental development.
