Planting 120,000 Trees, EIGER Develops Ecotourism Destination in Bogor
BOGOR – EIGER is developing the EIGER Nature ecotourism destination in Bogor, West Java, integrating nature tourism activities, environmental conservation, and community empowerment. In developing the area, EIGER has planted more than 120,000 trees.
Beyond tree planting, the development also includes the planting of around 8 million shrubs and ground cover plants, land restoration, biodiversity mapping, water and hydrology management, and waste management systems.
EIGER Nature was previously known as EIGER Adventure Land.
The identity change was made as part of sharpening the direction of the area’s development into an ecotourism destination that integrates ecological, social, cultural, and economic aspects.
Chief Executive Officer of EIGER Nature Imanuel Wirajaya said the change was not merely a rebranding. According to him, developing the area is part of EIGER’s ongoing process of learning from nature, culture, and people.
“This change is not just about the name, but about our commitment to building an ecotourism venture that can be a blessing for visitors, nature, culture, and communities,” said Imanuel.
In its development, EIGER Nature uses a 3E Ecotourism approach encompassing Ecology, Ethnology, and Economy. This approach has since been expanded into a 7E framework covering Ecology, Ethnology, Economy, Education, Aesthetics, Ethics, and Entertainment.
This framework underpins the area’s planning and programme development, so that tourism activities can run in step with nature conservation, cultural preservation, education, and community empowerment.
“Ecotourism is not just about bringing people to nature. Ecotourism must be able to build better relationships between people, nature, culture, and communities, while delivering sustainable benefits,” said Imanuel.
From a social and economic perspective, more than 500 workers have been involved in the development of EIGER Nature. Around 300 of them come from communities surrounding the area.
Once it begins operating, EIGER Nature is projected to create more than 1,200 jobs.
EIGER Nature also plans to allocate 5 per cent of its net profit to support nature and cultural preservation programmes as well as initiatives to improve community quality of life. These programmes include conservation activities, waste management, and the 1 Ticket 1 Tree initiative.
In terms of visitor experience, EIGER Nature integrates nature-based activities with elements of adventure, culture, and hospitality. Facilities and activities on offer include a Suspension Bridge, Tree House & Net Adventure, Cultural Walk, Playscape, Nature Walk, and Forest Adventure.
A Forest Camp area has also been prepared for visitors wishing to stay overnight amid a natural environment, with options including a Camping Ground, Glamping, and Cabins.
Imanuel said the experiences on offer are expected to go beyond mere recreation.
“Ultimately, we want people to come not only to enjoy nature, but to leave with new experiences, understanding, and meaning,” he said.
Through EIGER Nature, the company seeks to develop ecotourism as part of an ecosystem that brings together the interests of tourism, conservation, culture, and community.