Pelatihan Kepemanduan Ekowisata dalam Pengembangan Desa Wisata

Abstract

Ecotourism guidance training is an important activity for tour guides, as it not only enhances their ability to guide tourists effectively but also equips them to promote an understanding of sustainable environmental conservation. Ecotourism is a tourism concept that emphasizes environmental preservation and the empowerment of local communities. It is based on principles that foster environmental and cultural awareness, minimize the negative impacts of tourism, provide positive experiences for tourists, and support local community development. This ecotourism guidance training was conducted in East Duda Village, Karangasem Regency, and was attended by members of the local youth organization who are being prepared as future tour guides. East Duda Village has significant tourism potential, including natural attractions such as Putung Hill, Jagra Satru Waterfall, and Beji Dedari. The training was carried out as part of the KKNT program of Triatma Mulya University in 2024. The development of ecotourism offers various benefits across environmental, economic, social, and cultural aspects. It promotes the protection of ecosystems and biodiversity while encouraging both tourists and local communities to become more aware of the importance of environmental conservation. This is supported by the application of sustainable management approaches that emphasize environmentally friendly resource management to reduce negative impacts such as pollution and deforestation. Furthermore, ecotourism development helps preserve local culture, including customs, traditional dances, and local cuisine, by integrating them into tourism attractions. The activities offered in ecotourism also encourage tourists to appreciate local culture, which in turn motivates communities to maintain and sustain their cultural heritage.