Accessible tourism approaches in protected areas: göreme national park and the rock sites of cappadocia

In recent decades, awareness of accessibility has grown globally alongside the achievements of the disability rights movement. Beyond being a human right, accessibility also represents an expanding market for accessible tourism. Universal design, awareness, and investment are key factors in meeting the increasing demand for this market. In countries like Turkiye, where tourism is a vital sector, improving the quality of tourism is crucial. This research aims to identify design and planning barriers to accessibility in protected areas and to present approaches for accessible tourism and management within these areas. Göreme National Park and the Rock Sites of Cappadocia, listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, consist of historical and cultural landscapes formed by erosion. Despite their geological structures and rock-carved settlements making them highly significant for tourism, these areas are under threat of over-tourism due to planning deficiencies. The study adopts a mixed-methods approach, integrating the analysis of both quantitative and qualitative data. Quantitative data include measurements of accessibility, field observations, aerial photographs, and satellite imagery, while qualitative data involve interviews with experts playing scientific and managerial roles in planning the area. The originality of this research lies in its comprehensive and holistic evaluation of Cappadocia's accessibility challenges, considering both design and planning barriers. According to the findings, the natural and cultural heritage sites of Göreme National Park and the Rock Sites of Cappadocia face significant accessibility limitations due to topographic features and existing infrastructure deficiencies. The conditions are particularly unsuitable for individuals with physical disabilities, parents with strollers, people with mobility issues, and elderly visitors. The results indicate that developing accessible tourism will not only enhance the inclusivity of the area for disadvantaged groups but also improve the overall quality of tourism. Enhancing tourism infrastructure could position Göreme National Park and the Rock Sites of Cappadocia as exemplary models for other tourist destinations in Turkiye. Recommendations for increasing accessibility in the region prioritize preserving natural and cultural values while incorporating sustainable solutions to enhance visitor experience. Accessible tourism approaches improve the promotion of historical landscapes and boost both tourist numbers and the quality of tourism. However, this process must maintain a balance between conservation and use, ensuring that the region's natural and cultural heritage is preserved while providing sustainable solutions to cater to a broader audience