A Replicable Rural Model, Integrating Corn, Culture, and Technology for Sustainable Experiential Tourism: Case Tlaxiaco

This study explains how the integration of native corn cultivation, cultural identity, and technological innovation can foster experiential and sustainable tourism in rural Mexico. Focusing on the community of Llano de Guadalupe in Tlaxiaco, Oaxaca, it was applied a community-based participatory research approach to co-design agroecological practices, including biofertilization with Rhizobium jaguaris, and intercultural education tools such as an illustrated field notebook. The project involved collaborative storytelling, seed preservation practices, and planning of micro-tourism routes. Findings demonstrate that the combination of traditional agricultural knowledge with generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) enhances community empowerment, promotes intergenerational learning, and facilitates sustainable livelihoods. The circular model implemented connects ecological, social, and economic subsystems by converting agroecological practices into tourism assets while preserving cultural values and biodiversity. The results suggest that original communities can lead sustainable destination development when supported by inclusive education, technology, and bottom-up governance. The case of Tlaxiaco offers a replicable model of regenerative rural tourism that strengthens food sovereignty and environmental stewardship while creating new opportunities for youth and regional economies.