Ecotourism, theory, and practice: different views on Polo Chapada das Mesas, Maranhão, Brasil.

Abstract

Historically, the relationship between theory and practice has been the object of study in several areas and the concern of researchers. This article addressed the ecotourism segment to analyze the concepts of ecotourism mentioned in the contemporary literature, as well as the vision of receptive tourism agents who commercialize ecotourism products and services in the tourist region “Polo Chapada das Mesas,” in the southern state of Maranhão, in the northeast region of Brazil. As for the methods, exploratory research techniques were applied using a quali-quantitative approach. For data collection, a questionnaire directed to these agents from the municipality of Carolina-MA, was used. The research results revealed that, when analyzing the understanding of ecotourism by local agents, there was a difference between theory and the practices concerning the concepts of ecotourism, since, in addition to those who are unaware of fundamental and practical aspects, in this segment, agents who claimed to carry out environmental education activities, comply with certifications, and establish relationships with the local community, showing a certain incomprehension when detailing their actions. Therefore, ecotourism needs to align its theoretical assumptions with its practical applications, enabling agents to offer genuine ecotourism activities.