Assessment of geosites and geotouristic routes proposal for geoheritage promotion on volcanic islands

Abstract

Galapagos Islands (Ecuador) have a unique and internationally recognized flora and fauna. However, despite its strict management framework focused on biotic heritage, understandable elements are needed to transmit geological and geomorphological knowledge to the public. Therefore, the integration of other values, such as geotourism and geoconservation, is an opportunity to improve local tourism, considering the geological history of the oldest area of the archipelago. This study aims to evaluate sites of geological interest and the proposal of geotourism routes on an island (San Cristóbal) under added approaches (e.g. geoeducation), using two international geosite evaluation methodologies, for the valorization of the geoheritage and its integration with the present ecotourism. The workflow included i) analysis and selection of sites, ii) semi-quantitative assessment, and iii) proposals for management strategies. Twelve sites were classified into four typologies of geological/geomorphological domain, where scientific, cultural, and tourist values exceeded 60 % of the total score. Laguna “El Junco” stands out, as it combines volcanic elements (extinct crater) and ecological values (e.g. frigates). “Cerro Quemado” presented a high risk of degradation, given its extractive activity that influences the volcanic landscape of interest to visitors (cinder cones). Simultaneously, the identified weaknesses were the low cultural appropriation of natural elements. Thus, the research proposed four routes with natural and cultural value for the development of geotourism, influenced by Charles Darwin's expedition aboard the Beagle in 1835. Finally, this work showed how geotourism and geoeducation could enrich the framework of “research-oriented” tourism in island-protected areas, as exhibited in similar regions worldwide. For this purpose, it was crucial to design interpretive panels showing the geological importance with tangible and intangible values that configure the island as a World Heritage Site and their links with the cultural elements of the area.