Communities' vision of benefits derived from ecotourism in Amacayacu National Park (Amazon region, Colombia)

Ecotourism is an opportunity to create development, conservation and benefits for communities. Under these principles in 2004 National Parks gave in concession the ecotourism services of PNN Amacayacu. This process has generated questions and discomfort. This research analyzes the communities' vision of the PNN Amacayacu about the benefits derived from ecotourism through a qualitative methodology that establishes the community perception on the issue. Results show ecotourism as an exogenous development model that generates some economic income but also impacts livelihoods and local culture. It also shows that there are benefits more valued by the community as participation in decision-making. This research highlights the relevance of inquiring which type of development ecotourism brings and the importance that communities themselves decide on development through ecotourism.