Inventory and assessment of geosites to promote geotourism in Coto Brus, Costa Rica

Abstract

This study constitutes a pioneering inventory of geosites and an assessment of Coto Brus, Costa Rica. In collaboration with the Municipality of Coto Brus, we generated baseline knowledge of the existing geosites from this area to support the creation of a touristic route, within the framework of the project One Village, One Product (OVOP), hereinafter OVOP Coto Brus. The slogan of the project is “We are Coto Brus, a paradise Discover us!” The project seeks the economic growth in a region that has been historically dependent on cattle and agriculture. The study reveals the geodiversity of Coto Brus, providing a paleogeographic perspective. On the one hand, it is based on the demonstrated role of geotourism for the socioeconomic development of local economies that adopt it. On the other hand, it contributes to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) of the region. Key geosites identified for geotourism include waterfalls such as El Ángel and Santa Fe, the hills of Cerro Pelón and Cerro Quijada del Diablo, and the thermal waters of Aguas Calientes. In addition, the Laguna Zoncho stands out as a lagoon with paleoecological, paleoclimatological, and archaeological importance in ecologically rich sites such as the San Vito Wetland, La Caverna Barranquilla, Cerros Gemelo, and Pittier. They constitute unique opportunities for bird and wildlife observation. Finally, the study recommends that the Municipality of Coto Brus and the stakeholders in the OVOP Coto Brus project implement geosite management plans in the formulation of the touristic route, emphasizing the community's commitment to guarantee sustainable tourism and geoconservation.