Female empowerment: women's experience in Ecotourism and Adventure Tourism in RN (Brazil)

Abstract

This study investigates the relationship between Ecotourism, Adventure Tourism, and female empowerment, highlighting how these activities provide liberating experiences for women, despite the challenges they may face to take part in them. The main objective is to analyze how Ecotourism and Adventure Tourism promote women's empowerment in the state of Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil. The research adopts an exploratory-descriptive approach with a qualitative methodology. Data was collected through interviews conducted with women who participated in Ecotourism and Adventure Tourism activities offered by an anonymous travel agency specialized in this field.  Additionally, the interviews were supported by comprehensive literature research on the topic. The results reveal that women who engage in adventure activities experience a sense of empowerment in social, economic, psychological, and political dimensions. It is important to note that although the experiences of empowerment are significant, many women face obstacles to participate in these activities, such as social and cultural restrictions, lack of access to financial resources, and physical limitations. Therefore, it is necessary to create strategies and policies that promote gender equality in tourism, encouraging women's participation and empowerment.