Pros and cons of jaguar tourism: a systematic review

Abstract

The jaguar (Panthera onca) tourism (JT) has expanded across Latin America, but its impacts on sustainability dimensions remain unclear. This systematic review analyzed 88 studies on JT impacts published between 1989 and 2022. Database searches yielded 3,401 initial studies, refined to 88 relevant documents meeting review criteria. Results were compiled into impact tables categorizing 98 specific positive and negative environmental, economic, and sociocultural JT impacts. Key findings demonstrate that, while JT can bring conservation benefits, economic growth, and cultural appreciation of jaguars, negative impacts like habituation, culture commodification, and limited economic reach also occur. Environmental impacts accounted for 41.8% of documented effects, economic impacts 23.5%, and sociocultural impacts 34.7%. Half were positive and half negative. The review reveals the complex trade-offs involved in JT. A comprehensive sustainability approach is needed that minimizes harms and maximizes benefits across all dimensions. This requires policies and regulations to promote responsible practices, ongoing impact monitoring and research, and active local community participation. Our findings provide key insights to inform jaguar conservation and tourism management strategies in Latin America.