Tourists' Perception of the Implementation of Sustainable Visitor Management as an Effort to Overcome Overtourism in Greater Bandung

Abstract

Overtourism in the Greater Bandung area, particularly during peak holiday seasons, has strained infrastructure capacity, environmental quality, accessibility, and the overall tourist experience. This study examines tourists' perceptions of Sustainable Visitor Management (SVM) as a systemic strategy for addressing overtourism. The study used a qualitative case study approach with in-depth, semi-structured interviews, field observations, and document analysis at Situ Patenggang, Farmhouse Lembang, and Jalan Braga. The study purposively selected tourists based on their direct experience visiting the study destinations during periods of high visitor pressure. The findings indicate that tourism pressure is concentrated spatially and temporally, while SVM implementation remains predominantly reactive. The four SVM dimensions examined were spatial management, temporal management, behavior management, and technology-based management and facilities. Tourist perceptions were analyzed in relation to visitor density, travel experience and comfort, environmental conditions, and accessibility. The findings also indicate that tourists generally support adaptive visitor-management measures when they improve comfort and reduce congestion, although preferred instruments differ by destination typology. The study contributes a tourist-centered perspective for evaluating SVM implementation and proposes an adaptive approach to visitor management in Greater Bandung.