Propuesta de bioturismo en el Centro Turístico Comunitario Panga Wasi, comunidad San Carlos, cantón Loya de los Sachas, provincia de Orellana

Abstract

The Panga Wasi Community Tourism Center, located in the province of Orellana, faces limitations in sustainable and innovative activities and a lack of adequate infrastructure to meet the needs of diversified and growing tourism, affecting its tourism potential in sustainable tourism. The objective of the study was to develop a bio tourism proposal that addresses key aspects such as environmental preservation and cultural integration to diversify the activities of the tourism center. The research used a mixed approach (quantitative and qualitative), with an exploratory and descriptive scope, analyzing the influx of 2331 visitors to the Orellana Archaeological Museum and Cultural Center (MACCO) in the last six months of 2023. Documentary and field research techniques were used, including observation sheets, surveys of national and international tourists, and semi-structured interviews with four leaders of the sector. In addition, a valuation matrix was used to compare six outstanding national and international bio tourism projects. The results of the diagnostic of the Panga Wasi Center indicated challenges in training, conservation and sustainability, with a tourist preference for immersive activities in nature and culture, and a particular interest in bio tourism. After evaluating the projects, it was determined that "Yachana: Education and Conservation" was the most suitable. The conclusion of the research resulted in the formulation of the proposal "Raíces de Panga Wasi: Sustainable Connection with the Amazon", which includes activities such as interpretive ecological trails, environmental education, a digital platform and focuses on conservation, community participation, innovation and sustainability.