Determinación de la sostenibilidad turística del cantón Jaramijó.

Abstract

This research aims to determine the tourism sustainability of the Jaramijó canton, Manabí province, using 23 indicators distributed across four dimensions: economic, sociocultural, environmental, and destination management. This study is justified by the canton's tourism potential, which boasts natural and cultural attractions, but faces challenges such as a lack of adequate infrastructure, limited tourism promotion, and limited environmental management. The research adopted a descriptive approach, employing the deductive method and techniques such as surveys and direct observation. A total of 379 surveys were conducted among residents of the canton, selected through non-probability sampling. In addition, an observation sheet was compiled at tourist attractions such as the Pozo de Aguas Azufradas, El Fondeadero and Balsamaragua beaches, and the Tourist Recreation Area. The results show a favorable community perception of key aspects such as staff training, customer service, and the importance of implementing quality standards. However, high levels of ignorance regarding tourism policies, promotion plans, and environmental management actions were identified. This reflects weak communication between authorities and the local population. The assessment of tourist attractions revealed significant gaps in basic services, infrastructure, and planning. However, the growing interest of the community, especially among young people, in promoting a more sustainable tourism model is recognized. Jaramijó has significant potential for developing sustainable tourism, but it is in an early phase that requires strategic, inclusive, and coordinated interventions. Therefore, the Jaramijó Regional Government (GAD) should design and implement a Sustainable Tourism Strategic Plan that strengthens infrastructure, promotes human capital development, improves environmental management, and encourages citizen and inter-institutional participation to position the canton as a competitive and responsible tourist destination.