Prodetur

The funds to implement Prodetur programs are provided by the Fund Initiative of the Americas, Program of Small Donations, the World Fund for the Environment, and the Binational Program of Frontier Development.^[1] Under the Binational Program of Frontier Development which was implemented in 2005, both Honduras and El Salvador created nuclei of development along the border provinces. Nucleus of Local Development number three, located in Morazán, has largely been a tourism initiative, of which Prodetur is a part. Prodetur, in coordination with bordering municipalities in Honduras, has developed a series of programs that integrate the southern part of Honduras and the department of Morazán.^[7] Central to this tourism initiative is a series of services offered by Prodetur and Morazán province, such as food, lodging, transportation, and various outdoor/recreation activities, including, but not limited to, mountain biking, bird-watching, nature walks, hiking, camping, and swimming.^[2][8]

Prodetur operates in villages and hamlets along one of the most historically significant roads in Morazán.^[9] The Ruta de la Paz Lenca was a road of strategic importance, militarily and economically, during the Salvadoran Civil War which lasted from 1980 to 1992. Subsequently, the north of Morazán has become an important tourist destination for its historic sites from the civil war. Prodetur has utilized this increasing tourist attention to Morazán by directing these tourists to local businesses for their accommodations. In this way, the local post-war economy benefits from the tourist activity as well. Prodetur’s operation benefits the communities along the Ruta de Paz,^[10] including Perquín, Arambala, Joacaitique, San Fernando, Joateca, Meanguera, El Rosario, Torola, Guatajiagua, Cacaopera and Maroon.^[4] Prodetur and the local businesses of these towns, together, offer tourists guided tours of natural and historic attractions,^[11] lodging, meals, recreational activities, and transportation to/from sites.^[8][12]