Catalogación de los atractivos naturales en la parroquia rural de Chuquiribamba para una planificación turística territorial

Abstract

Abstract: The human occupation of the territory has evolved historically, integrating new elements into its planning and development. Initially, the focus was on economic, political, and cultural aspects, with little attention paid to environmental factors. The formalization of Territorial Organization and Territorial Planning emerged to structure and manage space in a more balanced way, seeking to reconcile the natural environment with human activities. This is why the concept of "Sustainable Development" was incorporated into territorial literature at the end of the 20th century, with the objective of recognizing the importance of practices that protect the environment and ecosystem services. In this way, Tourism Planning has been considered a tool for the sustainable management of territories. In Ecuador, for example, it is recognized that tourism can drive economic and social development if managed properly. Chuquiribamba, a parish with significant natural potential, has not yet been sufficiently considered in territorial development plans, despite its proximity to the provincial capital, Loja. This research proposes cataloging, through an inventory, the natural attractions of Chuquiribamba to integrate them into territorial and tourism planning, thus optimizing its economic, environmental, and social benefits.