Motivations, intentions to return and to recommend protected areas: A study in Costa Rica

In recent years, there has been a growing interest among tourists for the enjoyment of the natural environment. This study was designed to analyze the motivations tourists exhibit to doing ecotourism and their influence on the intentions to return and recommend a protected area. The empirical analysis was carried out in the Arenal National Park and the Caño Negro National Wildlife Refuge in Costa Rica. The sample population consisted of 213 respondents, who were obtained in situ. A factor analysis and the multiple regression method were performed to analyze the data obtained. The results show that there are several motivational dimensions related to ecotourism, such as "self-development", "interpersonal relationships and ego-defensive function", "nature", "building personal relationships", "reward" and "escape". There is a relationship between the motivations and the intentions of returning and recommending the site. This research will serve public institutions and private companies to develop more efficient marketing plans.