Diversidad y Dinámicas del Ecoturismo en la Amazonia:  Estudio de Caso en Florencia- Caquetá, Colombia

Salomón Calvache López; Esther Julia Olaya Marin; Cesar Omar Jaramillo Morales; Cristian David Plaza Pérez

doi:10.32991/2237-2717.2024v14i3.p553-580

Authors

Salomón Calvache López Universidad de la Amazonia https://orcid.org/0009-0001-0019-6715
Esther Julia Olaya Marin Universidad de la Amazonia https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5819-2477
Cesar Omar Jaramillo Morales Universidad de la Amazonia https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3610-5950
Cristian David Plaza Pérez Universidad de la Amazonia https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6644-040X

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.32991/2237-2717.2024v14i3.p553-580

Keywords:

ecotourism, amazonian rivers, political ecology, conservation

Abstract

Florencia, located in the Amazon region of Colombia, has experienced an increase in tourism following the 2016 Peace Agreement, promoting ecotourism as a way to improve the quality of life of its inhabitants and the conservation of its ecosystems. The purpose of this article is to identify and analyze the patterns, groupings, and key factors that have shaped the current reality of these ventures, highlighting how historical and environmental dynamics have influenced their development. The research was conducted in three phases: identification of ecotourism ventures, evaluation of owners' perceptions regarding economic, sociocultural, and environmental aspects, and statistical analysis of the collected data. The case study of Florencia, Caquetá, highlights the positive influence of ecotourism on employment, income, and cultural valuation. The research identified three distinct groups of ecotourism ventures: the first, with high participation in cultural activities and a positive perception of ecotourism in terms of employment and community well-being; the second, composed of individuals with university education and experience in livestock farming; and the third, closely linked to the Hacha River and focused on the conservation of water resources. Ecotourism in Florencia, if properly managed, has the potential to be a powerful tool for peace and sustainability in the Colombian Amazon. Integrating environmental history into the planning and management of ecotourism is crucial for developing innovative approaches and inclusive policies that promote reconciliation and equitable development. Personalizing tourism development strategies, strengthening local capacities, and recognizing indigenous knowledge are essential to maximizing the benefits of ecotourism and contributing to the conservation of the Amazon ecosystem.

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