Analysis The Potential of Ecotourism In North Gorontalo Regency, Gorontalo Province

Abstract

Gorontalo Province has abundant potential for tourism resources. The development of ecotourism focuses on aspects of nature conservation, aspects of socio-cultural-economic empowerment of local communities, and aspects of learning and education. One of the tourism potentials in Gorontalo Province is the ecotourism area in North Gorontalo Regency. This study aims to determine the potential for ecotourism in North Gorontalo Regency, Gorontalo Province. Field observation research methods consist of direct measurements, interviews, and distributing questionnaires. This ecotourism potential analysis uses 2 main parameters, namely physical parameters and institutional, social, economic, and environmental parameters with 10 assessment criteria consisting of (1) Physical Parameters: Distance, facilities and infrastructure, accessibility, attractiveness, and availability of clean water. (2) Institutional, Social, Economic, and Environmental Parameters consisting of Management, entertainment attractions, security, sales of souvenirs and food, and spatial planning. Of the three tourist objects that are the object of research, the results show that two of them have high potential and one of them has medium potential as ecotourism. The tourist objects in question are Minanga Beach with a final scoring value of 3.15 and Mohinggito Island 3.25 which are included in the high potential category. Meanwhile, Diyonumo Island received a final score of 2.95 which is included in the medium category.