Routes and the tourism industry.

Adventure tourism operators play a pivotal role in developing and maintaining trail-based products, as demonstrated by their engagement with the Qhapaq Ñan (Andean Road System) in Peru. This study reveals that small-scale operators can significantly contribute to route development through strategic partnerships, community involvement, and the expertise of local guides. The research highlights how a private tour operator opened up a previously remote stretch of the Inca Trail, showcasing the potential for adventure tourism to drive both economic benefits and sustainable trail preservation. The findings underscore the importance of collaborative approaches in balancing tourism growth with conservation efforts at UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Ward-Perkins, D., Beckmann, C., & Ellis, J. (2020). Routes and the tourism industry. Tourism Routes and Trails: Theory and Practice, 130–143. https://doi.org/10.1079/9781786394767.0130