Eksplorasi Pengalaman Wisatawan pada Objek Wisata Alam Luak Gadang Bukik Baka Kabupaten Agam

Abstract

Abstrak Penelitian ini mengkaji pengalaman wisatawan pada objek wisata alam Luak Gadang Bukik Baka di Kabupaten Agam, Sumatera Barat. Penelitian menggunakan pendekatan kualitatif dengan metode deskriptif untuk memahami pengalaman wisatawan melalui interaksi langsung dengan lingkungan wisata. Data dikumpulkan melalui observasi, wawancara mendalam, dan dokumentasi. Informan penelitian terdiri atas pengelola wisata dan wisatawan yang dipilih menggunakan teknik purposive sampling. Analisis data dilakukan menggunakan model Miles dan Huberman melalui tahapan reduksi data, penyajian data, dan penarikan kesimpulan. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa pengalaman wisatawan terbentuk melalui kombinasi daya tarik alam, aktivitas wisata, fasilitas, pelayanan pengelola, suasana sosial masyarakat, dan peran media sosial. Pengalaman estetika dan emosional menjadi pengalaman yang paling dominan dirasakan wisatawan. Panorama tebing batu karst, kolam alami, dan suasana perbukitan yang sejuk memberikan rasa nyaman, relaksasi, dan pengalaman visual yang menarik. Aktivitas wisata seperti hiking, wisata air, fotografi, dan rekreasi keluarga juga memperkuat keterlibatan wisatawan selama berkunjung. Selain itu, sikap ramah pengelola dan masyarakat sekitar turut menciptakan pengalaman wisata yang positif. Penelitian ini menyimpulkan bahwa pengalaman wisatawan menjadi faktor penting dalam mendukung pengembangan destinasi wisata alam secara berkelanjutan melalui peningkatan fasilitas, aksesibilitas, promosi digital, dan pelestarian lingkungan.   Abstract This study examines tourist experiences at the Luak Gadang Bukik Baka natural tourism destination in Agam Regency, West Sumatra. The research employed a qualitative approach with a descriptive method to understand tourist experiences through direct interaction with the tourism environment. Data were collected through observation, in-depth interviews, and documentation. The informants consisted of tourism managers and tourists selected using purposive sampling techniques. Data analysis was conducted using the Miles and Huberman model through data reduction, data presentation, and conclusion drawing. The findings revealed that tourist experiences were shaped by a combination of natural attractions, tourism activities, facilities, management services, social atmosphere, and the role of social media. Aesthetic and emotional experiences were the most dominant experiences perceived by tourists. The scenery of karst cliffs, natural pools, and cool hillside environments created comfort, relaxation, and attractive visual experiences for visitors. Tourism activities such as hiking, water recreation, photography, and family recreation also strengthened tourist engagement during visits. In addition, the hospitality of tourism managers and local communities contributed to positive tourist experiences. This study concludes that tourist experience is an important factor in supporting sustainable tourism destination development through improving facilities, accessibility, digital promotion, and environmental conservation.