Carrying capacity and environmental education for rural tourism on the ecological trails of el Encano, Nariño

Abstract

The township of El Encano is recognized as one of the most visited tourist destinations in the department of Nariño, due to its natural and cultural richness and, in particular, its outstanding landscape value. Nevertheless, the expansion of tourism in the area has not consistently been accompanied by educational processes or sustainable planning. In this context, the objective of the present study is to formulate a proposal that integrates rural tourism with environmental education, to be implemented along ecological trails as a strategy to foster both community economic development and the sustainability of natural resources.

Methodologically, the study adopts a qualitative design with a participatory approach, emphasizing territorial recognition, the identification of areas with high tourism value, and the estimation of tourism carrying capacity at three levels: physical, real, and effective. This methodological framework seeks to strengthen community capacities and develop skills that facilitate the effective implementation of rural tourism practices.

The results highlight the identification of two main ecological trails: the Quillinzayaco Ecological Trail, which offers a terrestrial route complemented by an aquatic return, and the El Motilón Ecological Trail. Both trails exhibit a wide range of resources, including remarkable scenic beauty, biodiversity, cultural elements, and opportunities for diverse activities such as photography, sports, and wildlife observation. These features expand access to new market segments and attract tourists with heterogeneous interests.

Despite these potentials, several limitations were identified. The community emphasized the need to improve infrastructure, enhance local training processes, and optimize the use of digital platforms and social networks. With respect to carrying capacity, the study determined that social and environmental constraints constitute the main limiting factors for tourism development. Additionally, management capacity is hindered by inadequate infrastructure and the limited training of local service providers, which are essential both for visitor management and for the stewardship of ecological areas.

In conclusion, the research contributed to strengthening local community capacities in three key dimensions: the identification of rural tourism attractions, the provision of quality tourism services, and the comprehensive management of ecological trails to ensure their long-term conservation.