Rural community tourism: what does Marontoari offer for its implementation?

Abstract

This research aimed to analyze natural and cultural resources with tourism potential within the framework of community-based tourism in the Marontoari native community, located in the Pichari district of Cusco. A qualitative and descriptive approach was used through interviews with heads of households in the community. The data were processed using Microsoft Visio and Atlas.ti 8 software, allowing for the identification and organization of local perceptions regarding tourism, as well as the characterization of available resources. The results reveal a wealth of natural and cultural resources, highlighting rivers, waterfalls, caves, and biodiversity, along with Asháninka cultural expressions such as dances, songs, cuisine, and crafts, which are enthusiastically shared during tourist visits. However, the community has an incipient tourism infrastructure, limited to a communal bungalow and without formal accommodation or food services, although community members are willing to welcome tourists into their homes. Access to the community is via trails and motorcycle taxis, with restrictions during the rainy season. It is concluded that Marontoari has high potential for community-based tourism development, but requires infrastructure improvements, tourism management training, and awareness-raising strategies to strengthen a sustainable, authentic, and participatory offering from the community itself.