Mota, LuísFranco, MaraSantos, Rossana2023-05-172023-05-172021Mota, L., Franco, M., & Santos, R. (2021). Island tourism carrying capacity in the UNESCO Site Laurisilva of Madeira. Isl. Stud. J, 16, 255-270.http://hdl.handle.net/10400.13/5170The Laurisilva of Madeira is an important natural resource as well as a location for nature-based tourism and recreational activities. Despite UNESCO’s concerns and recommendations for assessing tourism capacity, the local population is perceived as overusing this resource; yet precisely how many tourists visit its most popular areas remains unknown. Tourism carrying capacity (TCC) was assessed on two Rabaçal trails using a specific formulation relating physical aspects to environmental correction factors. Tourism carrying capacity was found to be below theoretical limits, and trail access was not restricted despite being a major concern in natural resource management.engCarrying capacityIslandsLaurisilvaMadeira (Portugal)Sustainable managementTourismUNESCO.Escola Superior de Tecnologias e Gestãojournal article10.24043/isj.143