The challenges of natural and cultural heritages of Galapagos and Quito, Ecuador.

Abstract This chapter analyses tourism impacts at two UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Ecuador. Recognizing that tourism is a marginal activity in general in comparison with other mature destinations in Latin America, the Galapagos and Quito are analysed for their distinctive characteristics, tourism activity and impacts, and institutional frameworks in order to identify strategic actions for ameliorating negative tourism impacts and promoting both destinations as heritage sites. It is revealed that tourism development in these iconic destinations has brought not only benefits but also several concerns related to the country's natural and cultural diversity preservation and that, as a consequence, an increase in the number of tourists is not desirable as it could jeopardize the conservation of its flora and fauna and could lead to the degradation of historical buildings. Long-term policies and control and regulation mechanisms for the conservation and preservation of these heritage sites are thus considered as practical recommendations.