differ from the emphasis on intense and physically demanding interaction with
the natural environment evident from the limited data available relating to
research ecotourists (Weiler & Richins, 1995). Indeed, commonalities with the
Research Ecotourism in Developing Countries 251
Table 4 Factor analysis and details of Likert scale responses relating to
motivational statements amongst research ecotourists
Factor Variance Loading Modal
class of
responses
% of
responses
in modal
class
1. Culturally-oriented group 11.52
To meet local people 0.83 5 28
To enjoy country’s history and culture 0.75 3 40
To interact with the local community 0.63 4 33
To learn local language 0.61 2 33
2. Experiential-oriented group 8.67
To learn forest survival techniques 0.8 2 37
To trek in forests 0.7 5 28
To interact with the local community 0.41 4 33
To learn to dive 0.4 5 27
3. Socially-oriented group 7.77
To holiday and experience good
weather
0.7 2 34
To mix with fellow travellers 0.62 4 31
To experience beautiful beaches 0.55 2 28
To seek challenging things to do 0.36 4 46
4. Personal achievement group 7.76
To take part in a rare opportunity 0.71 5 62
To learn something completely new 0.68 5 68
To seek challenging things to do 0.49 4 46
To observe diversity of animal species 0.39 5 51
5. Relaxation-oriented group 7.34
To enjoy relaxing and peaceful
atmosphere
0.88 2 35
To observe picturesque scenery 0.56 4 45
To holiday and experience good
weather
0.46 2 34
To experience beautiful beaches 0.36 2 28
1 = not important; 2 = slightly important; 3 = fairly important; 4 = important; 5 = very important
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backpacker segment of the tourist market are evident with regard to motivations
and preferred activities (Loker-Murphy, 1996; Scheyvens, 2002b), as well as the
types of economic benefits which can accrue from this style of tourism
(Hampton, 1998). These characteristics are evidently conducive to the frequent
informal contact which facilitate cultural exchanges favoured by local residents
and which would satisfy some of the research ecotourists’ motivations for participation.