GEOGUIAS, a Certified Training Program for Local Guides and Educators at the Oeste Geopark (Portugal)

GEOGUIAS is a certified training program for local citizens to become knowledgeable tour guides, promoted by the Oeste UNESCO Global Geopark and supported by the National Tourism Office. The program's primary goal is to promote sustainable tourism and geoeducation, empowering the trainees to conduct geotouristic and educational tours, based on their region's geological, historical, and cultural heritage. The training combines on-line theoretical components with practical face-to-face field experiences. Participants learn about the local geology, history, culture, wildlife, and field safety, receiving a final Geoguide Certificate issued by the Oeste Geopark. The program aims to involve local communities in geotourism activities, contributing to creating new jobs and to support local economy, while safeguarding geoheritage sites. This study is based on a survey answered by >50 certified geoguides, characterizing their profile, expectations, and perceived results. It addresses the impact of training on geoguides, looking at the changes induced by the program on their local and professional or personal activities. Finally, the study aims to identify the impacts of this training and certification on local networking, sustainable geotourism and regional economic dynamics.