The ecotourism in National Park Serra da Capivara: it is one practice sustainable?

Abstract

This essay examines ecotourism as an activity capable of generating economical and social improvement as well as of helping preserving the environment in the municipalities of Coronel José Dias and São Raimundo Nonato, Piauí, where is located the Serra da Capivara National Park (PNSC, in Portuguese). In that sense, I analyzed the situation of the receptive infrastructure found in the two cities and in the park, the tourism supply and demand, and potentialities and limitations for ecotourism in the Serra da Capivara National Park. The research demonstrated that 49.89% of the ecotourists would pay for the maintenance of the several functions of the park and that 95.79% of the visitors acknowledge the historical and cultural value of the park as well as its importance as a heritage site. I also perceived that investments for improving the urban infrastructure will be needed. Therefore, I conclude that the activity provides environmental preservation, but has not yet been translated into improvement in the quality of life for local communities.