Diseño de una cicloruta turística en la comunidad de Toldo, parroquia Quimiag, cantón Riobamba, provincia de Chimborazo.

Abstract

This research aimed to design a cycle touring route in the rural area called Toldo, Quimiag town, Riobamba city, Chimborazo province. A methodological process was performed based on primary and secondary information through bibliographic review and field trips. It was identified an attraction with a high tourist potential within the inventory of tourist attractions where is one of the most striking extinct volcanoes in Ecuador. The cycle touring route presented three degrees of difficulty which were easy, medium and hard. For this reason, the offer focused on the typology of demand: mountain bikers, children or beginners, experienced cross-country cyclists and specialized downhill cyclists. For the evaluation of the cycle path, two elements were used, the tourist system and the technical elements of cycle tourism. Related to the environmental evaluation, it was shown that this activity does not generate negative impacts that could cause significant damage. Therefore, mitigation measures were proposed through the environmental management plan. According to the financial evaluation, it was determined that the product is profitable, obtaining a NPV of 6,829.34 and an IRR of 28%. Regarding the cost benefit, it was determined that for each dollar invested in the product, a return of $1.06 cents is produced, evidencing that for the first year the capital invested was recovered, obtaining net profits. It is recommended to promote the participation and linkage of public, private, community organizations and the local population settled in the bike path for an improvement in terms of tourist services and facilities.