The Amazonian biome extends over 7.5 million square kilometers and occupies approximately 40% of the South American territory. It is one of the most diversified ecosystems in the world and an incomparable tourism attraction. Despite the enormous ecological and adventure tourism potential of the ecosystem, however, the region, with 30 million inhabitants, attracts comparatively few visitors. Although a number of Amazon countries register an intense flow of tourism, the most sought out destinations are the beaches and well-known urban centers of other regions.
The relatively small number of visitors contrasts with the trend towards a growing interest in "nature tourism" pointed to by statistics of the tourism sector. This new direction of the tourism market translates into a growing number of trips to unknown or relatively unknown destinations. These offer travelers access to novel and enriching experiences by making it possible for them to have contact with different cultures and lifestyles and to discover breathtaking ecosystems and natural attractions.
The "Destination Amazonia Year 2009" will be the first regional campaign of this type to celebrate the Amazon Region while at the same time seeking to create better conditions for its future development.
The initiative consists in developing and implementing activities that reinforce the tourism potential of the Amazon while at the same time establishing the bases for sustainable tourism development in the region. The activities programmed include defining guidelines for sustainable tourism in the Amazon and promoting the region through fairs, festivals, culinary events, sports events, tours and international tourism conferences according to an events calendar set-up for 2009. A Sustainable Tourism Award for lodging establishments and an International Photography Contest have also been planned.
Visit the website: Destination Amazonia Year 2009
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