ECOTOURISM IN THE LOWER PARNAÍBA MARANHENSE REGION

possibilities for economic and sustainable development

Abstract

This paper has the general objective of analyzing the possibilities of sustainable development from the tourist activity, taking into account the social, cultural and economic aspects in the region of Baixo Parnaíba Maranhense, observing its potential for the ecotourism segment, highlighting the city of São Bernardo. Its methodology was guided by qualitative, exploratory and bibliographic research. In this way, a brief survey was made on the history of ecotourism in Brazil, as well as the public policies elaborated for the activity and the potential of this segment in Baixo Parnaíba Maranhense. Despite the advances in conceptualization and structuring, the set of normalization of the activity, hinders the insertion of new entrepreneurs to actually reach commercialization. The city of São Bernardo, Maranhão, as well as other cities in the lower part of Parnaíba Maranhense, have great natural resources, especially the savanna-type biome, containing a vast natural area suitable for the segment and, even though it is a long way to go due to the lack of basic infrastructure services, support for tourist activity and specialized training for activity drivers, it can reach the criteria established by the Ministry of Tourism for carrying out the tourist activity.