Visitor profile and resident's opinion about Mirante do Limpão, APA Serra do Lajeado (TO, Brazil)

Abstract

The municipality of Palmas, the capital of Tocantins, Brazil) has several natural attractions, such as waterfalls, caves, beaches, mountains, and archaeological sites, with the Mirante do Limpão standing out. It is located in the Serra do Lajeado Environmental Protection Area (APASL) and can be accessed via two trails, known as the Main Trail and Baiano Trail.

This study aimed to understand the profile and perceptions of visitors and a local resident who frequent or have visited Mirante do Limpão, with an emphasis on nature-based tourism practices, especially ecotourism, which values environmental contact and promotes sustainable development. Field research was conducted between August 7 and October 15, 2023, through the application of 42 questionnaires to visitors and an interview with the resident/owner of one of the trails. This approach allowed both a quantitative analysis of visitor profiles — including age, gender, education, income, occupation, visit frequency, motivation, and transportation used — and a qualitative analysis of opinions about the site and suggestions for improvement. Environmental impacts resulting from tourism, such as soil erosion, compaction, creation of parallel trails, and vegetation changes, were investigated through direct observation, drone use, and analysis of an informational banner present on the trail. The results indicate that most visitors reside in Palmas, visit the site more than three times per year, and primarily seek nature contemplation and leisure. Although adventure sports are attractive, they have caused significant environmental impacts, highlighting the need for continuous monitoring and sustainable management of the viewpoint. The study demonstrates that Mirante do Limpão is a space for integration with nature and the local community. The increase in visitor flow in recent years indicates a growing appreciation for the site and therefore, the need for an assessment of its potential as a sustainable tourist attraction.. The results are expected to support future studies and public policies focused on sustainable tourism, contributing to the quality of tourist experiences, maintaining visitation levels compatible with ecosystem capacity, and generating social and economic benefits for the local population.