Local development, tourism and traditional populations: conceptual elements and notes for reflection

The objective of this paper was to broaden the discussion on the relationship between local development concepts, tourism and traditional communities. It is a research of narrative and bibliographical revision, based on tourist activity and its relationship with indigenous communities in Brazil, specifically the Pataxó in southern Bahia and Potiguara, Paraiba. It is considered that tourism is well planned can generate positive impacts, such as the affirmation of the cultural identity of indigenous communities.

Key words:
cultural tourism; ethnoturism; indigenous communities; culture; environmental sustainability