Guatemala and Panama’s biodiversity conservation projects received gold and silver awards at WTM Latin America, recognizing their impactful initiatives. During the April WTM Latin America fair in São Paulo, twenty-two responsible tourism awards presented projects from ten countries. Among the winners were two Central American initiatives. The Asociación de Guías de Turismo Comunitario Explorando el Valle from Guatemala received the gold medal, and the Fundación Agua y Tierra from Panama won the silver medal, both recognized for their efforts in biodiversity conservation.
The Asociación de Guías de Turismo Comunitario Explorando el Valle, composed of young Indigenous people from the Department of Quetzaltenango, promotes biodiversity conservation and local economic development through community-based tourism. They have made significant improvements in living conditions and the creation of local enterprises, focusing on the participation of women and youth. Their activities include educational tours to the Tecún Umán cave, bird watching, and rock climbing, all led by certified guides.
On the other hand, the Fundación Agua y Tierra in Panama focuses on sea turtle conservation and sustainable development through the Eco Ruta Tortuga in Mariato, Veraguas. This rural tourism circuit allows visitors to immerse themselves in local life, participate in turtle watching, and enjoy activities such as kayaking in mangroves, visiting agro-tourism farms, and discovering waterfalls in a breathtaking natural setting.
These initiatives highlight Guatemala and Panama’s unwavering commitment to sustainable tourism, highlighting their ability to provide unique experiences that respect and value the natural and cultural environment.
