Socio-cultural factors involved in tourism development in Boyacá (Colombia)

Abstract

Tourism is a valuable source of income for the department of Boyacá, and its many attrac- tions for visitors. This opportunity hasn´t been optimized regarding the improvement of this compe- titive source and wealth for the region, due to sociocultural factors such as the lack of motivation to receive tourists, which is a particular aspect of Boyacense personality traits and the lack of knowledge about local information asked by the tourists. The objective of this research is to identify if being boyacense and the lack of knowledge about history, culture, patrimony, among others, can be some of the impediments for tourism development. Through surveys and interviews directed to tourists, historians and tour guides. It has been established that Boyacense (native in Boyacá. Colombia) is very friendly and helpful to visitors, but Boyacense lacks specific knowledge, a better treatment and service to improve tourism.