Developing and Implementing a Participatory Nature Tourism Strategy for Nalga de Maco National Park and Valle Nuevo National Park Key Biodiversity Area : Informe final de proyecto CEPF

Abstract

The report details a project funded by the Critical Ecosystem Partnership Fund (CEPF) and executed by SOH Conservación. The project aimed to create and implement a sustainable nature tourism strategy that integrates conservation goals with community engagement in two critical biodiversity areas in the Dominican Republic: Nalga de Maco National Park and Valle Nuevo National Park (Dominican Republic). The strategy emphasized participatory approaches, involving local communities in the planning and management of tourism initiatives to ensure alignment with conservation priorities and to promote socio-economic benefits. Key activities included the development of tourism infrastructure, capacity building for local stakeholders, and the design of interpretative materials and visitor experiences that highlight the ecological and cultural significance of the parks. The report documents the achievements, challenges, and lessons learned during the project. It highlights the importance of community involvement in fostering sustainable tourism and biodiversity conservation, positioning this strategy as a replicable model for similar initiatives in other protected areas.