Guatemala's Indigenous Communities Shape Sustainable Tourism Master Plan

Totonicapán Leads the Way: Indigenous Voices Shape Guatemala's Sustainable Tourism Plan Totonicapán, Guatemala – In a landmark event, indigenous authorities from the Totonicapán region of Guatemala participated for the first time in the creation of a national Sustainable Tourism Master Plan. This historic workshop, documented in a recent video, marks a significant step towards more inclusive and sustainable tourism practices in the country. The workshop brought together indigenous entrepreneurs and community leaders with government officials and tourism experts. Participants engaged in discussions about how to develop tourism that respects local cultures, customs, and ancestral knowledge. One participant, Marina Morales, a consultant working with indigenous businesses, stated, "What we seek in this process is to gather the voices of the original peoples regarding tourism and how we can promote a more inclusive tourism, respecting practices and knowledge of the indigenous people." The video showcases the collaborative nature of the workshop, with participants actively sharing ideas and contributing to the development of the master plan. The inclusion of indigenous perspectives ensures that the plan will address the specific needs and concerns of local communities, promoting tourism that benefits them economically and culturally. This initiative represents a significant shift in Guatemala's approach to tourism, prioritizing sustainability and inclusivity. By empowering indigenous communities to shape the future of tourism in their region, Guatemala is setting an example for other countries to follow.