ABSTRACT
Volunteer tourism has developed as alternative tourism in building humanitarian, ecological, and socio-cultural solidarity. This study aims to analyze the perception of the Aketobololo community on the impact of the implementation of the volunteer tourism program. It also investigates the satisfaction and behavior changes of volunteer tourism tourists and identifies the sustainability of volunteer tourism-based tour packages. The study used a descriptive qualitative design. Data collection was through in-depth interview techniques, questionnaires, and documentation. Data were analyzed using mixed methods. The results showed that the Aketobololo community had a positive perception of the volunteer tourism program, tourists gained satisfaction, and experienced changes in behavior after participating in the volunteer program. Volunteer tourism has a sustainability aspect because it receives positive support from the community, and provides satisfaction for tourists. Therefore, it is recommended for the community, business actors, and the government to develop volunteer tourism.
