Indigenous tourism, crisis and resilience in times of COVID-19: theoretical and methodological approaches from Chile

Abstract

This article discusses the relationship between indigenous tourism, crisis situations and resilience from a theoretical and methodological standpoint. The analysis is based on a research process related to indigenous tourism that was implemented during and in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. The process involved theoretical discussion of the relationship between tourism, crises and resilience in indigenous peoples as well as the development of innovative methodologies for collaborative work in conditions of confinement for health reasons and openness of the territories. The work was undertaken in the understanding that indigenous tourism is considered a particular type of tourism in which indigenous individuals, families, organizations and communities exercise control and offer an opportunity for encounters. At the same time, however, it has been seen to be a political proposal put forward by indigenous peoples themselves to strengthen their culture and organization. Historically, indigenous peoples have deployed their own strategies in ‘crisis’ situations. Based on this research and the experience of indigenous tourism in Chile, the article discusses, analyses and links these three concepts from a theoretical standpoint before concluding with a methodological proposal.