Abstract
The study aimed to design a sustainable tourist route in the parish of Imantag, located in Imbabura, Ecuador, integrating its natural and cultural resources into a structured tourism product. A mixed-methods methodology was employed, combining documentary analysis, surveys, and the Tourist Attraction Ranking Methodology of the Ministry of Tourism of Ecuador. Seventeen tourist attractions were identified, classified into hierarchies I and II, highlighting the Peribuela Protected Forest and the Muyu Urcu viewpoint for their potential for ecotourism activities. In parallel, the profile of 217 tourists was characterized through a structured questionnaire, showing a preference for nature-based activities such as hiking and flora and fauna observation. The designed route, called “High Mountain Extremes,” integrates these resources through six thematic stops that combine environmental and cultural interpretation, promoting a sustainable tourism model. The results showed that although Imantag has significant tourism potential, challenges remain related to limited infrastructure, lack of community training, and the absence of systematic monitoring of visitor experiences. It was concluded that strengthening local governance, implementing strategic alliances, and developing capacities are essential to consolidate this route as a competitive and sustainable tourism product aligned with global trends in responsible tourism and the conservation of local heritage.
