A new type of ecotourism

The Cancuen Archaeological Project will also be involved in the development of regulated tourism and education at the site. Cancuen is located at a key point of the "Ruta Maya", between the Maya Lowlands and Highlands. This will open new alternatives and routes for tourists interested in experiencing the archaeology and ecology of the ancient Maya World. This opportunity will bring economic advantages to local communities. A rotating team of villagers to guard the site has already been trained. With the Guatemalan technical training institutes, the project has helped local Q'eqchi' villagers to become tour guides and Inn managers for an ecotouristic lodge at Cancuen. It is a realistic, feasible plan for small-scale sustainable tourism that will preserve the region and bring local economic benefits without major ecological impact.

The zone of Cancuen on the Upper Pasión River has many cultural and natural attractions including vast caverns, river cascades and rapids, and the amazingly preserved rainforest and ruins at Cancuen.

The cave of Cancelaria, where the ancient Mayans held their religious ceremonies

There is a plan not only to educate the surrounding communities in the splendor of their history, but to provide for more a complete development incorporating these indigenous populations. The contribution includes improvements to local school buildings and the donation of equipment, books and supplies. All projects are proposed by the Q'eqchi' community committees. In addition to managing the parks and services to present their own heritage, projects also include improvement of basic health and hygiene, micro businesses in cacao and vanilla, solar panels for schools, and potable water wells. More information:

www.puertamundomaya.com

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