Purpose: This study proposes a community-based ecotourism circuit in the district of Pomacancha, Junín region, Peru, through the participatory integration of natural and cultural heritage from a sustainable development perspective.
Design/methodology/approach – The research adopted a mixed methodological approach, descriptive-exploratory in nature, integrating systematized field observation, a technical inventory of tourism resources following the hierarchy guidelines of MINCETUR, semi-structured interviews with local residents (n=15), and structured questionnaires administered to visitors (n=15). The data analysis combined descriptive statistics, thematic coding, and methodological triangulation.
Findings: The results showed a predominance of young visitors aged 18 to 35, primarily motivated by adventure activities and contact with nature. Natural and archaeological resources were highly valued by the participants, while the main needs identified were community training and improved tourism signage. The “Ruta Natural e cultural de Pomachancha” (Natural and Cultural Route of Pomacancha) was characterized as a moderately difficult ecotourism circuit, integrating natural, cultural, and scenic attractions under a participatory management model.
Practical implications: The study provides technical inputs for sustainable tourism planning in high-Andean rural territories, contributing to territorial tourism organization, strengthening community participation, and enhancing the value of local heritage.
Originality/value: The article contributes to the field of community-based ecotourism by integrating territorial diagnosis, social participation, and ecotourism planning in an Andean rural context still little explored in Latin American scientific literature.
Research limitations: The main limitations include the small sample size and the exploratory nature of the study, which restrict the generalization of the results to other territorial contexts.
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