Valoración económica de los servicios recreativos de los Monumentos Naturales Cerro Kõi y Chorori, Areguá, Paraguay

Abstract

The Monumentos Naturales Cerro Kõi y Chorori (MNCKC) constitute a protected wilderness area in Paraguay, notable for their outcrops of columnar sandstones, which are rare geological formations found in few places around the world. Despite their ecological value, they face economic challenges in ensuring their long-term protection and conservation. The expansion of urbanization in nearby towns has driven a considerable increase in the demand for ecosystem services provided by this site. To secure the necessary resources that allow for enhancing visitor experience at the MNCKC through the implementation of a management plan, it is essential to consider their ecotourism potential. The general objective of the research was to economically value the recreational services offered by the MNCKC through the contingent valuation method. Data collection was carried out through the application of previously validated surveys in the study area, following the recommendations of Amarilla Rodríguez et al. (2023). A non-parametric analysis of the data was conducted using Kriström’s model (1990). The main reasons for visiting were nature tourism, relaxation, and the observation of geological formations—examples of cultural ecosystem services. The findings highlight the need to implement environmental access fees that consider not only visitors’ ability to pay, but also principles of equity and institutional trust.