Intrinsic motivation and satisfaction of tourists in cave tourism in Quezon Province, Philippines

This study investigated the relationship between intrinsic motivations and tourist satisfaction in cave tourism in the District 1 of Quezon Province, Philippines, with a focus on Tinipak Cave, Malaog Cave, and Lawigue Cave. The study utilized Frequency Percentage, Weighted Arithmetic Mean, Kruskal-Wallis, Mann-Whitney, and Spearman tests for data analysis. Findings indicated that most respondents, predominantly aged 18–27, male, students, and employed individuals, had their motivations fulfilled through educational and experiential activities offered at the caves. Data collected from 45 visitors revealed a significant correlation between intrinsic motivations, such as enjoyment, relaxation, novelty-seeking, escape, socialization, and knowledge, and overall satisfaction. The study underscored the importance of recognizing and addressing these intrinsic motivations to enhance visitor satisfaction and promote sustainable tourism practices. Recommendations for tourism offices include improving guide training, upgrading facilities and amenities, and involving visitors in ongoing research and conservation efforts. These strategies aim to foster a deeper appreciation for natural attractions and ensure a more fulfilling experience for all tourists.