Alternative Tourism: A Key Driver of Ecuador's Economy
Keywords:
alternative tourism, sustainable development, local economy, rural communities, entrepreneurshipAbstract
This study aims to analyze the role of alternative tourism as a driver of local economic development and its contribution to sustainable growth in rural communities. A qualitative-descriptive methodology was applied, incorporating recent documentary review and semi-structured interviews with tourism stakeholders. Findings indicate that alternative tourism fosters economic diversification, strengthens cultural identity, promotes community-based entrepreneurship, and supports environmental conservation, although challenges persist regarding training, promotion, and institutional coordination. In conclusion, alternative tourism emerges as a key strategy for sustainable economic development, contingent upon effective planning, capacity building, and active community participation; further applied research in specific rural contexts is recommended.
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