Analysis of Ecotourists’ Profiles, Trip Characteristics, and Motivations in Nigeria National Parks

摘要

The development of ecotourism market requires information on the users of ecotourism resources. This study focused on the description of the profiles, trip characteristics, and motivations of ecotourists in the seven National Parks in Nigeria. The population for the study was the ecotourists to the parks at the time of this study (October 2008 to May 2009 and October 2009 to May 2010). These periods represents ‘on seasons’ for recreational activities in the national parks. Collection of data was through questionnaire administration on three hundred and fifty (350) randomly selected ecotourists. Sample size of 350 ecotourists was based on 4000 visitors engaged in nature-based recreational activities in all the parks in 2007. Data obtained were presented descriptively and analysed using analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Multiple Linear Regression. The study revealed significant differences in ecotourits’ profiles, trip characteristics and motivations among the parks. Ecotourists’ profiles were also predictors of their trip characteristics and motivations. The findings could impact on management of ecotourism resources and marketing strategies in each of the parks since different markets require different approaches and needs. To fulfill the needs of the ecotourists and their satisfaction, continuous research in these areas is important particularly in emerging ecotourism markets like Nigeria.