Estudio de la potencialidad turística de la parroquia Picoazá.

Abstract

The present work corresponds to a study on the tourism potential of the parish of Picoazá, which belongs to the canton of Portoviejo. It is a non-experimental research study with an exploratory and descriptive scope, using a deductive approach. For data collection, two techniques were applied: direct observation, using a technical form structured based on the evaluation criteria of the Ministry of Tourism (MINTUR), and two surveys directed at different audiences: visitors and local residents. The key informants were residents and tourists, who provided information on the tourism and cultural reality of the area. Based on the analysis of the data obtained, favorable results were found that allowed for the evaluation of Picoazá's level of tourism potential, which was classified as “medium.” This situation makes it possible to propose a comprehensive tourism development plan that includes infrastructure improvement, training of local stakeholders, and effective promotion of attractions, with the aim of positioning Picoazá as a sustainable and competitive tourist destination.