Impact of COVID-19 on visitor attitude and management strategies at Komodo National Park: Insights for enhancing park adaptive experience

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted the dynamics of visitor behavior and management strategies at national parks, particularly at Komodo National Park, situated within a critical forest ecosystem. This study deployed Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) to assess how changes induced by the pandemic affected visitor intentions to revisit the park. Key findings include the influence of perceived behavioral control and adaptive experiences on revisitation intentions. Specifically, Hypothesis 1 highlighted that visitor attitudes moderately influence social norms. Hypothesis 2 found no significant effect of perceived behavioral control on social norms. Hypothesis 3 and Hypothesis 4 demonstrated strong relationships between visitor attitudes and adaptive experiences, and between social norms and adaptive experiences, respectively. Hypothesis 5 showed that perceived behavioral control does not significantly impact adaptive experiences, while Hypothesis 6 and Hypothesis 7 revealed that both perceived behavioral control and adaptive experiences significantly influence the intention to revisit. These insights underscore the need for adaptive management strategies that enhance safety, engagement, and education, facilitating sustainable tourism and conservation in the post-pandemic landscape within the forested areas of the park. The study's recommendations aim to improve visitor experiences and park resilience, aligning with global efforts to adapt to evolving tourist expectations and environmental concerns.