Fonte: Turismo y Sociedad; Vol 18 (2016): Enero-Junio; 117-135
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Resumo: We present the case study “Valentin Natural” promoted by the Mexican government as a successful community-based ecotourism project in southeast of Mexico. From the perspective of local people describe how ecotourismhas changed their lives, particularly as a source of employment and income for the population described. The results indicate that beyond the official rhetoric “Natural Valentine” cannot be considered a success. Ecotourism has not been a source of jobs and income for the population, participation has been limited and important sectors have been excluded from the decision-making process. We conclude that for this kind of projects require consistent long-term public policies that strengthen local capabilities and provide the necessary resources to consolidate ecotourism projects in rural communities in a framework of sustainability.