From the recovery of natural spaces to the promotion of local economies, the commune is moving towards a tourism model that transforms its history and values the commitment of its communities to the territory.

In a context in which coastal communities are seeking to redefine their identity based on more environmentally friendly practices, Puchuncavi is doing so with concrete initiatives to position itself as the new capital of sustainable tourism in the Valparaiso Region. In order to leave behind its past linked to industrial pollution, this commune has committed itself to a process of profound transformation, where respect for biodiversity and local development are the protagonists.

Thus, Puchuncavi has become a meeting point for those who enjoy outdoor activities, from hiking to extreme sports such as paragliding and mountain biking. In this green rebirth, Quirilluca Park stands out as the most recent addition, with 125 hectares of native forests, cliffs and a unique biodiversity.

Managed and cared for by the Maratue project, this protected area has become a center of attraction for responsible tourism, integrating activities such as bird watching and environmental education.

“It is very satisfying for us that Quirilluca Park is considered as part of the sustainable tourism offerings in the area. This is a reflection of the effort and dedication with which we have been working for years to protect and preserve Puchuncavi’s ecosystem, which has not gone unnoticed,” Franco emphasizes, who is Maratue’s Socio-environmental and Territorial Manager, adding that this effort is the result of years of commitment to protecting a territory.

The Community as Main Character

Through tourism, Puchuncavi has generated an estimated economic impact of CLP 200 million annually, boosting local services and promoting jobs related to environmental care. This conversion also has a symbolic component for local authorities, such as the councilman, Juan Elías Pérez.

“The communities, entrepreneurs and social organizations have been protagonists in the creation of a new identity for Puchuncavi. They have contributed with their experience, knowledge and commitment to the territory, in addition to being a contribution in each full day articulated in our commune, where craft factories, breweries, artisans and nurseries are part of the local economic offer. All have contributed to the development of a sustainable tourism model that respects the environment and promotes the local economy. Today, more than ever, we are working collaboratively”.

In this sense, the person in charge of tourism activities in the municipality of Puchuncavi, Fabrizio Valenzuela, emphasizes that sustainable tourism is not only a source of income, but also a tool for repair and reframing. “Today, spaces once marked by pain are transformed into places of hope, learning and encounter,” he says. Thus, with a coherent, articulated proposal based on respect for its surroundings, Puchuncavi is positioned as the epicenter of sustainable tourism in Chile, offering an experience that combines conservation, economic development and environmental memory.

Other Interesting Options

But Puchuncavi is not alone in its efforts to generate sustainable tourism. In addition to the offers with clean energy, connection with nature and an unrestricted waste separation plan of some lodgings in Olmue, there is the commune of Concon where, with the support of the Pontificia Universidad Católica de Valparaíso and several local actors, it seeks to promote sustainable tourism that respects the environment and promotes authentic experiences.

This initiative is financed by the regional government and is aligned with the vision of diversifying the tourism offer and improving the region’s competitiveness. Under the name “Concón – Mantagua Turistech Program: Transfer for Sustainable Tourism and Authentic Experiences”, about 35 establishments in the area will participate in this joint effort, which includes areas such as gastronomy, adventure tourism and hospitality, among others.

Rolando Chamy, Director of Núcleo Biotecnología Curauma (NBC) and Leader of the project, pointed out that the first step will be the preparation of a comprehensive diagnosis to identify areas for improvement. In this line, Pamela Venegas, (A) Director of SERNATUR, the National Tourism Service, expressed her support for the initiative, indicating that it is crucial to advance in sustainability to ensure that tourist destinations remain attractive and sustainable.