Agroecological tourist footprint: inventory of the ethnogastronomic resources of the calderas parish, Barinas-Venezuela

Abstract

The purpose of this research is to uncover the inventory of ethnogastronomic resources that will contribute to the development of an agroecological tourism offering in the Calderas Parish, Barinas. This study is base dona descriptive qualitative methodology, specifically Participatory Action Research (PAR), which allows for an in-depth and contextualized exploration of the phenomenon under study. The adoption of a critical socio perspective facilitates the analysis of the power dynamics and social structures that influence reality under investigation. Twenty-three tourism resources associated with biocultural heritage were identified. These findings reveal that the Calderas Parish is home to a rich biocultural diversity that positions it as a tourist destination with immense potential. Its unique culinary products, attractive landscapes, and traditional cultural expressions offer a wide range of opportunities for developing agroecological, gastronomic, and adventure tourism. However, to fully realize this potential, challenges such as a lack of infrastructure and training must be overcome. Proposing themed tourist routes, such as the “Agroecological Tourism Footprint,” which combine gastronomic experiences with exploration of natural landscapes and agroecological practices, can generate income for the community, preserve biocultural heritage, and foster sustainable development. In conclusion, the resource inventory of Calderas Parish reveals a unique opportunity to boost local development through agroecological tourism. Offering authentic gastronomic experiences and activities in contact with nature can generate income and protect the environment.