Recreational tourism for sustainable development in Poza Honda Wildlife, Manabí, Ecuador

Abstract

This research aims to analyze recreational tourism as a strategic tool to enhance sustainable development in the Poza Honda Wildlife Reserve, located in the Portoviejo canton, Manabí province, Ecuador. It is based on the premise that well-planned and managed tourism can generate economic, social, and environmental benefits for local communities while contributing to ecosystem conservation. The study adopts a mixed approach, with a qualitative focus, and utilizes methods such as direct observation, semi-structured interviews, and surveys administered to tourists, residents, and institutional stakeholders. The results reveal a natural environment conducive to nature tourism activities such as hiking, birdwatching, kayaking, and wildlife photography, although limited by factors such as limited tourism infrastructure, insufficient signage, lack of awareness of the destination, and a lack of training programs. The local population expressed a willingness to participate in tourism ventures provided they respect biodiversity and offer shared benefits. It is concluded that recreational tourism can become a key driver of sustainable development in Poza Honda, provided that inter-institutional actions, infrastructure investment, environmental awareness, and community empowerment are coordinated. The study proposes the creation of an ecotourism route that integrates the area's main attractions and promotes participatory conservation