Potentialities of natural and cultural resources for the development of fluvial tourism in the riverside municipalities along the Paraguay river in the Asunción-Villa Hayes stretch

Abstract

Fluvial tourism on rivers is gaining increasing relevance today, especially in riverside municipalities. These areas not only stand out for their unparalleled natural beauty but also for the richness of their cultural heritage and the daily lives of their inhabitants. The interaction between the natural environment and the cultural practices of the riverside communities offers a unique and authentic tourist experience, with the potential to promote sustainable development and the preservation of natural and cultural resources in the region. The research aimed to analyze the potential of the natural and cultural resources possessed by the riverside municipalities along the Paraguay River, in the Asunción-Villa Hayes stretch, to develop a fluvial tourism project that includes sports and recreational activities, and direct interaction with history, culture, and nature. The research was conducted with a quantitative approach and a descriptive scope, using a purposive non-probability sample. A guide was used for data collection. It was concluded that the natural potential of the investigated municipalities includes hydrology and biodiversity, while the cultural potential focuses on history, architecture, customs, beliefs, and local cuisine. The analyzed natural and cultural resources have moderate tourism potential, but with proper enhancement, they could become a highly representative national tourism product, capable of managing and articulating an attractive offer.