Rural tourism as a factor of development. Interpretive trail for cacao village in Quintana Roo

Abstract

The tourist development of southern Quintana Roo, in accordance with the development plans and programs of the various levels of government, is oriented towards low-impact tourism, which complements the offer of other destinations located throughout its geography and that satisfy diverse options for sun and beach, for tourists interested in the enjoyment of nature and culture. Along the banks of the Hondo River, the natural border with the country of Belize, tourist services are offered that combine rural tourism, adventure tourism and ecotourism. In order to disseminate and promote the biodiversity of this area through significant experiences, the development of an interpretive trail is proposed that attracts new participatory forms of tourism and education in the appreciation of heritage, promoting the economic development of the town of Cacao. The field study integrated interviews with the inhabitants of the locality, complemented with data obtained through documentary review in recognized sources. The work was structured in three stages: 1. Description of the area, which allowed the identification of characteristics such as location, extension, natural resources, ease of access and elements with interpretive opportunities; 2. Trail design with interpretative script and support materials; and 3. Validation of the interpretive trail. The results are translated into the design of a linear interpretive trail and the production of texts for each of the six stops.