Acceso usuarios
Babahoyo, Ecuador
Santay Island, declared a National Recreation Area and part of the Ramsar wetland network, constitutes a strategic enclave for ecotourism in Ecuador.
This study presents a comprehensive territorial diagnosis of the Santay Island Community Tourism Center, considering aspects such as biodiversity, infrastructure, carrying capacity, regulations, and community participation. A qualitative methodology based on documentary review, direct observation, and interviews with local stakeholders was applied. The results reveal strengths in natural heritage and community engagement, but also limitations in accessibility, maintenance, promotion, and technical training. The study concludes that it is essential to design public policies that strengthen local governance, boost territorial marketing, and foster strategic alliances to consolidate a regenerative tourism model, balancing environmental conservation with sustainable community development.
Santay Island, designated as a National Recreation Area and part of the Ramsar Wetlands Network, is a key site for ecotourism in Ecuador due to its biodiversity and proximity to Guayaquil. This study presents a comprehensive territorial diagnosis of the Santay IslandCommunity Tourism Center, examining elements such as biodiversity, infrastructure, carrying capacity, regulations, and community involvement. A qualitative methodology was used, including document review, field observation, and semi-structured interviews with local stakeholders. Findings reveal strong natural assets and community commitment but also challenges related to accessibility, infrastructure maintenance, digital promotion, and technical training. The study concludes that integrated public policies are needed to enhance local governance, strengthen territorial marketing, and foster strategic alliances that support a regenerative tourism model balancing environmental conservation and sustainable community development.
