Subsídios for The construction of a tourist visitation plan in the Potiguara territory: proposal applied to villages in the municipality of Baía da Traição (PB, Brazil)

Abstract

Tourism influenced by the Fordist model underwent significant transformations with the arrival of Post-Fordism in the 1980s, resulting in a diversity of tourist experiences such as cultural tourism, ecotourism, and ethnic tourism in indigenous areas. These new forms of tourism promote the appreciation of traditional communities and peoples, seeking a balance between economic development and environmental conservation. Therefore, the Potiguara Indigenous Land, located in Paraíba, Brazil, is an example of how tourism can be directed toward sustainable development. With 33 villages, 13 of which are in the municipality of Baía da Traição, the region encompasses indigenous cultural richness and natural beauty. The study conducted in this area identified tourist attractions and routes that value the Potiguara culture while also emphasizing the need for environmental preservation. However, tourism in indigenous lands requires careful management to avoid negative impacts, such as cultural loss and exploitation.  The National Foundation for Indigenous Peoples (FUNAI) established Normative Instruction No. 03/2015 to regulate tourism on indigenous lands, aiming to generate income for communities, promote culture, and preserve the environment. The proposal outlines some guidelines for the future development of a visitation plan for Potiguara villages, including tourist routes that highlight local culture and nature, with a focus on environmental education and Potiguara indigenous traditions. It emphasizes that, for tourism on indigenous lands to be truly sustainable, the active involvement of communities in tourism management is paramount. This includes the development of visitation plans that consider economic interests in relation to environmental and cultural protection. The proposal seeks to ensure that tourism benefits not only visitors but also contributes to the sustainable development of indigenous communities and cultural preservation.