Conditional factors on the ecotourism viability with maya communities located in protected natural areas in yucatán peninsula, mexico

Abstract

This study analyzes the conditional factors impacting the socioeconomic viability of ecotourism in Maya organizations living in the protected natural areas (PNA) in the Yucatán Peninsula, Mexico. This analysis was conducted under a way-of-living approach and based on the information gathered from participant observation, interviews and workshops. Conclusion is drawn that the social organization and schooling are essential to the development of ecotourism, even though these factors are not enough when the organizations lack the required managerial skills. Likewise, it is concluded that public policies may strengthen the skills required for managing and organizing ecotourism businesses, by removing the paternalistic practices, fostering the local participation in the PNA management and regulating the land tenancy.