Integration of an agro-ecotourism network in Mexico and Guatemala as a local development alternative

The zone of influence contiguous to the Tacana Volcano Biosphere Reserve, located in the state of Chiapas in southeastern Mexico, is notable for its coffee production and a high diversity of flora and fauna; however, the rural communities that populate these areas are constantly searching for production alternatives to improve their way of life and protect the local environment from further deterioration. Therefore, partly in response to this social-ecological context, an agro-ecotourism network in the municipalities of Cacahoatan, Tuxtla Chico and Union Juarez in Chiapas, Mexico and a community in Guatemala was planned. This proposal was constructed within the livelihood strategy framework using participative workshops, smallholding visits and potential tourism products were identified. The region presents characteristics and opportunities for the development of an agro-ecotourism network as an economic alternative.