Turismo de aventura em Osório, Rio Grande do Sul : uma possibilidade para consolidação de um destino

Abstract

This study was conducted at the Coastal Lagoons Project 3, sponsored by Petrobras and developed by researchers at the University of Caxias do Sul (UCS), between 2014 and 2016. The study was done by an exploratory research of qualitative nature. The objective was to identify, characterize and map the adventure tourism activities in the city of Osório-RS, within an environmental perspective. It was used as reconnaissance visits for data collection techniques to the region, on-site observation with photographic records and interviews with offerors segment of adventure. The interviews were applied of nine specialized operators in adventure activities, were transcribed, tabulated and analyzed to interpret the results. The visits and on-site observations complement the information from the interviews. In Osorio, were identified 12 activities (kitesurf, stand up paddle, boat sailing, windsurfing, canoeing, glider, paraglider, parafly, hang gliding, mountain biking, hiking trails and horseback riding). Among the services offered by operators, 65% are developed in water, 20% air and 15% on earth. It was estimated 4.060 attendances per year in adventure operations in Osório, coming from Porto Alegre, Vale dos Sinos and Serra Gaucha. Of the nine respondents, eight reported to worry about the quality of the environment where they perform their activities. Two operators take actions to educate their customers about the conservation of the sites where the activities are developed. The results indicate the city's potential for adventure tourism due to its diversity of natural resources, lakes, mountain and ocean. In addition, receiving enough wind allowing practice 60% of the identified activities. A striking feature for tourism in Osório is its geographical position, located about 90 km from the state capital, Porto Alegre. It also has quality access roads which facilitates transportation to the site. Osório has geographical and landscape features that could make the city a tourist destination. Promoting contact with nature, prioritizing the quality of life through leisure added to sport, health and adventure.