Tourism, protected areas, nature conservation, and sustainable development in Mexico

This study explores the differences among some existing forms of alternative tourism. Ecotourism stands out as an alternative source of income for the maintenance of protected natural areas and thus the conservation of biodiversity. Although its benefits are generally highlighted, poorly managed ecotourism can cause the same harmful effects as mass tourism. Unfortunately, in developing countries such as Mexico, the prefix "eco" in front of tourism is not a guarantee of sustainability or respect for nature, though it can be an easy lure for external financing. This paper makes use of off-road races, such as the Baja 1000 and Baja 500, which take place in Baja California, Mexico, as illustrations of the potential threats of nature-based adventure tourism to protected areas and environment generally.