Tourism Entrepreneurship in Latin America: A Systematic Review of Challenges, Strategies, and Post-COVID-19 Perspectives

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has profoundly impacted the global tourism industry, forcing tourism entrepreneurs to adapt and innovate in order to recover. This systematic review aims to identify scientific evidence on tourism entrepreneurship experiences in Latin America during the COVID-19 pandemic. Specifically, the review seeks to uncover key challenges faced by tourism entrepreneurs, the locations and types of tourism most affected, and to draw lessons from these experiences. The authors followed the PRISMA protocol, identifying 15 research studies on tourism entrepreneurship in Latin America. The review analyzed articles from seven key databases—Scopus, Web of Science, Scielo, EBSCO, Proquest, Gale Academic Onefile, and LA Referencia—focusing on studies that examined tourism entrepreneurship within the context of COVID-19. These studies employed diverse methodologies, including case studies, surveys, and data analysis. The results show tourism entrepreneurs in Latin America faced challenges like economic crises, business closures, and unemployment. They responded with biosecurity protocols, domestic tourism, and digital tools such as online platforms and QR codes. A shift toward sustainable models like ecotourism highlighted local development and conservation. The pandemic spurred innovation and resilience, with adaptability, digital transformation, and collaboration, driving recovery. Sustainable practices and authentic experiences are key to long-term success.

1. Introduction

In recent years, tourism has become one of the main economic drivers worldwide [1,2,3]. The increasing global interconnectedness, facilitated by advancements in transportation and communication, has led to a significant rise in the number of people traveling for leisure, business, or various reasons [4,5]. This phenomenon has generated a progressively more sophisticated and diversified demand, prompting tourist destinations to innovate and constantly adapt to meet travelers’ expectations [6,7].

Moreover, the emergence of trends such as sustainable tourism and experiential tourism has transformed how tourism is conceived and practiced in many parts of the world [8,9,10]. Contemporary travelers seek not only to visit new places but also to experience authentic, environmentally respectful, and culturally enriching experiences [11,12,13].

In this context, the development of tourist infrastructure, the preservation of cultural and natural heritage, as well as the promotion of inclusive and responsible tourism activities, have become priorities for governments and stakeholders in the tourism sector [14,15]. Tourism is perceived not only as a source of economic income but also as a way to promote socially, culturally, and environmentally sustainable development [16,17].

The economic impact of tourism on creating related businesses and generating employment is a topic of great importance in academic research [18,19]. Tourism, as a constantly expanding global industry, exerts considerable influence on the economic structure of the regions where it operates [20]. The pandemic has been a turning point that urges us to build a future where tourism and transportation coexist in harmony with the environment and local communities. In this context, the proliferation of businesses associated with the tourism sector, such as hotels, restaurants, travel agencies, and transportation services, is clearly observed. This growth presents both opportunities and challenges, emphasizing the need for sustainable practices that balance economic development with environmental and social responsibility [21].

These businesses not only meet the needs of tourists but also play a significant role in job creation [22,23,24]. Given the wide range of services and products demanded by tourists, a diversity of skills and job profiles is required, involving the hiring of diverse personnel [25].

Furthermore, the economic impact of tourism extends beyond directly related businesses, as it generates indirect employment in sectors such as agriculture, construction, and public services [26,27]. This multiplier effect translates into increased economic activity and benefits both residents and businesses [28,29].

It is important to note that employment in the tourism sector can be seasonal and, in some cases, temporary, especially in destinations subject to seasonal fluctuations in tourist demand [30,31,32]. However, for many communities, especially those located in tourist areas, these temporary jobs are essential for their livelihoods during the high season [33,34,35].

The essence of sustainability in sustainable and responsible tourism, especially in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, lies in the need to minimize the negative impacts of tourism, including risks to public health, and maximize its positive impacts on destination communities and environments [36].

The pandemic has highlighted the fragility of the global tourism system and the need for a more sustainable and responsible approach [37,38]. Border closures, travel restrictions, and decreased demand have had a devastating impact on the industry, especially on communities that rely on tourism [39,40].

In this context, Giddens’ duality of structure theory [41,42] becomes even more relevant. Structures, such as government policies and health regulations, play a crucial role in managing the pandemic and driving the recovery of tourism [36].

The agency of tourists and businesses is also essential. Tourists must make responsible decisions to minimize the risk of contagion, while businesses must implement safety protocols and adapt to the new demands of the market [43,44].

It is important to remember that sustainability in tourism is not limited to environmental protection. It also encompasses social and economic dimensions. Post-COVID-19 tourism must be inclusive and generate benefits for everyone involved, especially for the most vulnerable communities.

On the other hand, a technical note developed by the International Labour Organization detailed that, by the end of 2022, employment in the tourism sector in Latin America had not yet recovered from the significant job losses caused by the pandemic, being 7.4 percent lower than in 2019 (before the onset of COVID-19), even with indications of a possible increase in informal occupations [45]. This discouraging scenario had already been forecasted a year earlier by the United Nations, which in 2020 presented an assessment of the effects and impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on tourism in Latin America and the Caribbean.

Therefore, establishing a favorable institutional environment that fosters entrepreneurship in tourism-related activities has the potential to catalyze greater innovation, job creation, and overall economic growth [46,47]. Conversely, an institutional landscape lacking support for entrepreneurial initiatives can hinder innovation and impede economic progress.

The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of adaptability in the hotel entrepreneurship sector, both during and after the pandemic. Businesses have had to innovate and diversify their offerings to survive the decline in international tourism caused by air travel restrictions aimed at reducing the spread of COVID-19 from country to country.

For example, the adoption of digital tools facilitated the recovery of some tourism businesses during the pandemic. However, their effectiveness varied by context. For instance, rural ecotourism ventures leveraged social media platforms to attract domestic travelers seeking nature-based experiences [48], while urban mass tourism operators relied more on online booking systems and virtual tours to maintain engagement with international customers [49,50]. Similarly, sustainable tourism models also demonstrated differing impacts: rural areas benefited from community-based tourism that integrated local cultural experiences [51], whereas urban settings emphasized green certifications and energy-efficient practices to attract environmentally conscious travelers [52].

In a global context, a study on Japan’s Naoshima Island emphasizes the resilience of small tourism enterprises, which adapted by focusing on the local market, collaborating with other businesses, and creating new experiences [53]. Meanwhile, research on women entrepreneurs in Tanzania reveals their disproportionate vulnerability during the crisis, underscoring the need for targeted support for this sector—a scenario experienced worldwide, as tourism was classified as a non-essential activity [54]. It is important to highlight the analysis of outdoor tourism conducted in Poland, which suggests a shift in traveler preferences toward nature-based experiences and non-massive trips to reduce infections—an emerging trend that tourism businesses were able to leverage [55].

In addition, research from Latin America has significantly contributed to understanding how COVID-19 has impacted the region across different economic sectors [56,57,58,59,60,61]. Studies have investigated how Latin American countries can adapt to the challenges posed by the pandemic and move towards economic resilience, with a specific emphasis on fostering entrepreneurship and innovation as drivers of recovery and growth.

Numerous studies highlight the importance of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) not only in sustaining economic activity but also in generating employment opportunities and promoting innovation within the region [62,63,64,65,66]. Additionally, it is known that companies characterized by an entrepreneurial culture demonstrate greater adaptability and resilience when facing disruptive events like the COVID-19 pandemic [67,68,69]. This underscores the crucial role that entrepreneurship plays in building economic resilience and driving sustainable growth throughout Latin America.

To deepen and advance the knowledge acquired in this area, this study had the following research questions: What scientific evidence is available regarding tourism entrepreneurship experiences in Latin America during the COVID-19 pandemic? What are the key issues related to tourism entrepreneurship in Latin America during COVID-19, including reported locations and types of tourism? What methodological approaches have been used in research on tourism entrepreneurship during COVID-19, and what are the key findings of these studies?

Although tourism is a well-known area of study, there is still a need to thoroughly explore tourism entrepreneurship in Latin America, especially in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. This study aims to address this gap by investigating how tourism entrepreneurs in the region are facing the challenges arising from this disruptive event.

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a considerable impact on the tourism industry worldwide, and Latin America has not escaped it [70,71,72,73]. In this regard, this study is relevant in the scientific field because it focuses on a current issue, offering valuable information on how tourism entrepreneurs are adapting to the challenges posed by the pandemic in the region.

By researching entrepreneurship experiences in the tourism sector after the pandemic, this study becomes a valuable tool for better understanding how the tourism sector is changing in Latin America. By analyzing the strategies used, the challenges faced, and the emerging opportunities, this study offers a detailed insight into the adaptation and evolution of the tourism industry in a post-COVID-19 world.

The insights derived from this research have the potential to provide new perspectives on how to reactivate and strengthen tourism in the region. Both academic and tourism professionals can benefit from these findings, as they offer a deeper understanding of present and future trends in the sector. Additionally, policymakers can use this information to design policies and strategies that foster sustainable economic and tourism development in Latin America.

Given the justification, the study objectives were the following: (A) to identify scientific evidence detailing tourism entrepreneurship experiences in the context of COVID-19 in Latin America; (B) to identify the issues related to entrepreneurship in tourism during COVID-19, tourism entrepreneurship locations, and types of tourism; and (C) to identification the methodological approach and key findings on research on entrepreneurship in tourism during COVID-19.

2. Methodology

This study employs a systematic review methodology, following the PRISMA protocol [74,75]. This rigorous approach was deliberately chosen for its robustness in conducting a comprehensive and transparent analysis of existing literature. By systematically synthesizing findings from previous research, this methodology allows for the identification of recurrent patterns and emerging trends, as well as exploring possible avenues for future investigations. This systematic review was not registered in a prospective register because it was not anticipated to meet the eligibility criteria for registration. The scope of the review focuses on tourism entrepreneurship in Latin America, specifically addressing challenges, strategies, and post-COVID-19 perspectives. Methodological rigor was ensured through adherence to the PRISMA guidelines, and the PRISMA Checklist is provided in the Supplementary Materials Section.

In the specific context of this study, conducting a systematic review offers a unique opportunity to gain a comprehensive understanding of how entrepreneurial activities in the tourism field have been addressed after the COVID-19 pandemic, with a particular focus on the Latin American region. Given the profound impact of the pandemic on the tourism industry worldwide, understanding how entrepreneurs have navigated and responded to the resulting challenges becomes imperative. Additionally, Latin America presents a unique set of dynamics and challenges, including linguistic diversity and socioeconomic disparities, which require detailed examination. Therefore, employing a systematic review methodology allows for a holistic understanding of the multifaceted landscape of entrepreneurship in tourism in the region, informing future research directions and policy considerations.

2.1. Eligibility Criteria

This study included all articles hosted in the Scopus, Web of Science, Scielo, EBSCO, Proquest, and Gale Academic Onefile, and LA Referencia databases available as of 29 March 2024. Seven exclusion criteria were applied:

(a)

Criterion 1: Temporality. Due to the COVID-19 virus being reported from late 2019 onwards, all articles published in 2018 or earlier were excluded from this study.

(b)

Criterion 2: Country of origin. We used the list of 42 member countries of Latin America and the Caribbean, provided by the Latin American Network Information Center, as reference. Therefore, information from countries not included in this list was excluded.

(c)

Criterion 3: Language. Due to the diversity of languages spoken in Latin America, we considered the three most used in scientific communication in this region: Spanish, Portuguese, and English. Therefore, we decided to exclude information in other languages.

(d)

Criterion 4: Article type. We were interested in real experiences of entrepreneurship related to tourism supported by empirical research. Therefore, any scientific production other than original research, such as literature reviews, editorials, theses, etc., was discarded.

(e)

Criterion 5: Accessibility. We considered articles that could be accessed or downloaded using the virtual library access of Universidad César Vallejo. Therefore, any article considered inaccessible was discarded.

(f)

Criterion 6: Duplicates. Since we conducted two searches in six databases, we considered that if the same article was obtained more than once, duplicates were discarded.

(g)

Criterion 7: Relevance. Finally, each article that reached this stage was read, and those that did not help answer the formulated research questions, considered irrelevant to the study, were excluded.

2.2. Information Sources

The information sources include 7 databases: Scopus, Web of Science, Scielo, EBSCO, Proquest, Gale Academic Onefile, and LA Referencia. Each of them has unique strengths and includes both global and regional literature that together helped identify scientific articles that meet the objectives of this research. It is important to clarify that the last exploration of the databases was conducted on 30 March 2024. Finally, each database was assigned a code, as detailed in

Table 1. Databases explored.

Code	Database	Last Access Date
A	Scopus	30 March 2024
B	Web of Science	30 March 2024
C	Scielo	30 March 2024
D	EBSCO	30 March 2024
E	Proquest	30 March 2024
F	Gale Academic Onefile	30 March 2024
G	LA Referencia	30 March 2024

.

2.3. Search Strategy

We conducted the search for “tourism AND entrepreneurship AND COVID-19” and “turismo AND emprendimiento AND COVID-19” (terms in Spanish) in the abstracts of the articles hosted in each of the six databases detailed previously in Table 1 (see

Table 2. Search codes.

Search Code	Database	Search Codes
A1	Scopus	ABS (“tourism AND entrepreneurship AND COVID-19”)
A2	Scopus	ABS (“turismo AND emprendimiento AND COVID-19”)
B1	Web of Science	ABS (“tourism AND entrepreneurship AND COVID-19”)
B2	Web of Science	ABS (“turismo AND emprendimiento AND COVID-19”)
C1	Scielo	ABS (“tourism AND entrepreneurship AND COVID-19”)
C2	Scielo	ABS (“turismo AND emprendimiento AND COVID-19”)
D1	EBSCO	ABS (“tourism AND entrepreneurship AND COVID-19”)
D2	EBSCO	ABS (“turismo AND emprendimiento AND COVID-19”)
E1	Proquest	ABS (“tourism AND entrepreneurship AND COVID-19”)
E2	Proquest	ABS (“turismo AND emprendimiento AND COVID-19”)
F1	Gale Academic Onefile	ABS (“tourism AND entrepreneurship AND COVID-19”)
F2	Gale Academic Onefile	ABS (“turismo AND emprendimiento AND COVID-19”)
G1	LA Referencia	ABS (“turismo AND emprendimiento AND COVID-19”)
G2	LA Referencia	ABS (“turismo AND emprendimiento AND COVID-19”)

).

2.4. Selection Process of Studies and Data Extraction

Three members of the research group met on 29 March 2024, and conducted searches in the databases, applying the filtering criteria detailed previously. After completing the searches, the results were compared to identify possible differences.

The method used to determine if a study met the inclusion criteria for the systematic review involved thorough review and full reading of each research article once downloaded. No specialized software was used for the selection or data extraction tasks.

(a)

Criterion 1: Temporality. Since the word “COVID-19” was included in the initial search, no articles published in 2018 or earlier were reported, so no articles were removed based on the temporality criterion.

(b)

Criterion 2: Country of origin. We removed 220 articles based on the country of origin. The vast majority came from the United States and Europe.

(c)

Criterion 3: Language. No articles were removed based on this criterion. All articles identified up to this stage were in Spanish, English, or Portuguese in their metadata.

(d)

Criterion 4: Article type. Search filters in the metadata detected some literature review articles, which were discarded based on this criterion. Other articles removed included editorial, and short comments.

(e)

Criterion 5: Accessibility. There was one article in Scopus that could not be accessed through our institution’s virtual library, so it was removed.

(f)

Criterion 6: Duplicates. Seven articles were removed as they were identified in previous searches and had already been included in the study.

(g)

Criterion 7: Relevance. Despite the presence of articles whose topics did not match the objectives of this study, none were excluded at this stage, as they had already been discarded through filters applied in previous stages. This decision was based on the premise that previous filters had been effective in eliminating studies that did not meet the criteria of interest, thus allowing for a broad selection of articles that could provide tangential or complementary information to the main objectives of the study.

2.5. List of Data

The two detailed searches in the search strategies, conducted in each of the six databases, resulted in a total of twelve different search outcomes. Each of the search codes is shown in Table 2.

It is worth highlighting that the application of the 7 criteria allowed filtering the initial 320 results to finally obtain 15 final results (see

Table 3. Initial and final search results.

Process	Search Results
	Total	A1	A2	B1	B2	C1	C2	D1	D2	E1	E2	F1	F2	G1	G2
Initial search results	320	90	1	39	0	2	1	42	3	34	0	10	0	38	60
Criterion 1: Temporality	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0
Partial search results	320	90	1	39	0	2	1	42	3	34	0	10	0	38	60
Criterion 2: Country of origin	220	81	0	34	0	1	0	42	2	33	0	10	0	13	4
Partial search results	101	9	1	6	0	1	1	0	1	1	0	0	0	25	56
Criterion 3: Language	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0
Partial search results	101	9	1	6	0	1	1	0	1	1	0	0	0	25	56
Criterion 4: Article type	66	0	0	2	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	15	49
Partial search results	35	9	1	4	0	1	1	0	1	1	0	0	0	10	7
Criterion 5: Accessibility	1	1	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0
Partial search results	34	8	1	4	0	1	1	0	1	1	0	0	0	10	7
Criterion 6: Duplicates	7	0	0	2	0	0	1	0	0	1	0	0	0	1	2
Partial search results	27	8	1	2	0	1	0	0	1	0	0	0	0	9	5
Criterion 7: Relevance	12	2	0	1	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	7	2
Final search results	15	6	1	1	0	1	0	0	1	0	0	0	0	2	3

). This underscores the effectiveness of the criteria established in the selection process, as they ensured the inclusion only of studies that met the previously defined requirements, contributing to the quality and relevance of the obtained results.

2.6. Assessment of Bias Risk in Individual Studies

Each researcher conducted the search in their assigned database individually, allowing for a comprehensive exploration of the available resources. After collecting the results, a meticulous process of comparing and matching the information obtained by each team member was carried out. This validation stage was established as a fundamental mechanism to ensure the coherence and reliability of the collected data, thereby helping to mitigate possible biases in the analysis.

The establishment of an additional contingency plan added an extra layer of robustness to the process. In case of discrepancies between the results obtained by the researchers, it was planned that an external and independent member would conduct the same search and apply the same filtering criteria. This measure was implemented with the aim of ensuring objectivity and consistency in the data selection process, reinforcing the reliability of the study’s findings. Although designed as a safeguard, the lack of need to resort to this instance underscores the coherence and agreement in the results obtained by the research team.

2.7. Synthesis Methods

A thorough review was conducted for each article identified as a final result, delving into aspects such as citation information, authors, year of publication, research title, journal where it was published, country where the study was conducted, methodology employed, and findings. This meticulous reading allowed capturing a wide range of details that were essential for data synthesis and analysis.

All collected data were meticulously recorded in Microsoft Excel, ensuring effective and accessible organization. Each team member contributed to the data entry, facilitating significant comparison and consolidation of records.

Finally, to provide a clear visualization of the data selection and analysis process, the PRISMA flow diagram was included in Figure 1, providing a visual representation of the stages followed in the systematic review.

3. Results

3.1. Identification of the Scientific Articles Detailing Tourism Entrepreneurship Experiences in the Context of COVID-19 in Latin America

According to

Table 4. Identification of the scientific articles detailing tourism entrepreneurship experiences in the context of COVID-19 in Latin America.

Code	Citation	Author	Year of Publication	Original Title [Translation if Needed]	Scientific Journal	Language
A 1-1	[76]	Ángel Acevedo, Romel Gonzalez, Alejandro Vega, Mirtha Fernández, Luiz Ovalles, Elena Cachicatari	2021	The Role of B Companies in Tourism towards Recovery from the Crisis COVID-19 Inculcating Social Values and Responsible Entrepreneurship in Latin America	Sustainability	English
A 1-2	[77]	Rossana Ledesma, Jimena Villarroel, Rodrigo Cardozo	2023	Estudio de factibilidad de un proyecto de senderismo. Sitio Arqueológico Terraza (Cafayate, Salta) [Feasibility study of a hiking project. Terraza Archaeological Site(Cafayate, Salta)]	Revista del Museo de Antropología	Spanish
A 1-3	[78]	Luz Moreno, Irma Martínez, Cynthia Apaza, Johanna Santa Cruz	2021	Ideas de negocio para reactivar el turismo en pandemia en “La Encantada”, Chulucanas, Perú [Business ideas to reactivate tourism during the pandemic in “La Encantada”, Chulucanas, Peru]	Revista Venezonala de Gerencia	Spanish
A 1-4	[79]	Elena Mojica, Ismael Rodríguez, Gonzalo Guzmán, José Marín	2021	Desempeño de las empresas turísticas en México: Orientación al mercado y emprendedora [Performance of tourism companies in Mexico: Market and entrepreneurial orientation]	Revista de Ciencias Sociales	Spanish
A 1-5	[80]	Aída Izquierdo, Lisenia Baque, Lyzbeth Álvarez	2021	Códigos QR para la promoción de establecimientos turísticos del cantón Quevedo [QR codes for the promotion of tourist establishments in the canton of Quevedo]	Revista Universidad y Sociedad	Spanish
A 1-6	[81]	Johanna Bermeo, Mónica Hinojosa, Angel Torres	2023	Analysis of Digital Communication Strategies in Community Tourism: Case Study San Pedro of Vilcabamba	Communication and Applied Technologies	English
A 2-1	[82]	Edwing Ticse, Cesar Valdivia, Roxana Ugarte, Johanna Briceño, Kelly Neyra, José Ortiz, Luisa Neyra	2022	Situación del Turismo en el Perú y el desarrollo del Turismo Rural Comunitario como emprendimiento sostenible [Tourism situation in Peru and the development of Rural Community Tourism as a sustainable enterprise]	20th LACCEI International Multi-Conference for Engineering, Education, and Technology	Spanish
B 1-1	[83]	Merlyn Cruz, Juan Ramírez	2021	Reflexiones sobre las perspectivas del turismo en Costa Rica ante la COVID19 [Reflections about perspectives of tourism in the light of COVID 19 in Costa Rica]	Geo UERJ	Spanish
C 1-1	[84]	María Palas, Virgilio Salcedo	2021	Emprendimiento en tiempo de crisis: una evaluación al impacto del COVID en las PYMES de la Provincia de El Oro, Ecuador [Entrepreneurship in Times of Crisis: An Assessment of the Impact of COVID-19 on SMEs in the Province of El Oro, Ecuador]	Revista Dilemas Contemporáneos: Educación, Política y Valores	Spanish
D 2-1	[85]	Mercedes Franco, Lourdes Cisneros	2023	Emprendimientos turísticos resilientes en el contexto de la COVID-19 [Resilient Tourism Entrepreneurship in the Context of COVID-19]	Economía y Desarrollo	Spanish
G 1-1	[86]	Paola López, Víctor Llugsha, Verónica Muñoz	2022	Efectos del COVID-19 en emprendimientos de turismo rural comunitario en la Reserva de Producción de Fauna Chimborazo [Effects of COVID-19 on rural community-based tourism entrepreneurships in the Chimborazo Fauna Production Reserve]	Kalpana-Revista de Investigación	Spanish
G 1-2	[87]	Jessiane Ribeiro, Denilson Pereira	2022	Análise e Mensuração da Inteligência Estratégica dos Gestores de Agências de Viagens da Cidade De Teresina—PI [Analysis and Measurement of Strategic Intelligence of Travel Agency Managers in the City of Teresina—PI]	Revista FSA	Portuguese
G 2-1	[88]	Mariciana Zorzi, Kristina Bula, Facundo Bianchi, Gabriela Campodónico, Gabriela Angelo	2022	Empresas y emprendimientos turísticos de la Región Este de Uruguay: una aproximación al estado de situación en el contexto del COVID-19 [Tourism businesses and enterprises in the Eastern Region of Uruguay: An overview of the situation in the context of COVID-19]	Cadernos de Comunicação	Spanish
G 2-2	[89]	Luis Gutiérrez	2023	Sistemas de calidad turística en Costa Rica: Accesibilidad y desafíos para su implementación en emprendimientos y PYMES turísticas en el contexto pandémico [Tourism quality systems in Costa Rica: Accessibility and challenges for its implementation in tourism enterprises and SMEs in the pandemic context]	Revista Espiga	Spanish
G 2-3	[90]	Maria Martins, Bárbara Rodrigues, Danielli Bitencourt, Lucyene Lopes	2022	Gestão de crise no turismo: reflexos da pandemia da COVID-19 nos meios de hospedagem do Município de Torres, Rio Grande do Sul—Brasil [Crisis Management in Tourism: Reflections of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Accommodation Establishments in the Municipality of Torres, Rio Grande do Sul—Brazil]	Turismo: Visão e Ação	Portuguese

, 15 records detailing sustainable tourism experiences in the context of COVID-19 were identified. These publications were presented in the years 2021 (six cases), 2022 (five cases), and 2023 (four cases); no research published in 2024 was identified.

For each study, not only is the original title presented (mostly in English), but also its translation into English to enhance visibility. Additionally, the scientific journals where they were published are listed, many of which are local journals with limited visibility due to their indexing in regional databases with restricted reach.

Regarding the language of publication, it is worth noting that the vast majority (11 cases) were published in Spanish, with 2 cases in Portuguese and 2 in English.

The distribution of languages and scientific journals in the identified articles highlights a key challenge in disseminating scientific knowledge in Latin America. While most studies on sustainable tourism experiences in the context of COVID-19 are valuable for their focus on local and regional issues, their global visibility is limited due to two main factors: language of publication, and local journals with limited indexing in international databases. Only two identified articles were written in English and indexed in the Scopus or Web of Science databases.

To know in which places in Latin America these investigations were conducted and the type of tourism addressed.

3.2. Identification of Issues Related to Entrepreneurship in Tourism During COVID-19, Tourism Entrepreneurship Locations, and Types of Tourism

Table 5. Identification of issues related to entrepreneurship in tourism during COVID-19, tourism entrepreneurship locations, and types of tourism.

Code	Citation	Issues Related to Entrepreneurship in Tourism During COVID-19	Tourism Entrepreneurship Location	Type of Tourism
A1-1	[76]	The COVID-19 pandemic has caused an unprecedented global crisis, significantly impacting the tourism sector. Businesses have been forced to adapt and develop concrete responses to mitigate the effects of this crisis. In this context, the article examines how B corporations, with their focus on sustainability and social impact, can contribute to the sector’s recovery, fostering a more inclusive and regenerative economy.	Latin America	Responsible tourism and social entrepreneurship
A1-2	[77]	The COVID-19 pandemic necessitated lockdowns, leading the Terraza family to present a family tourism project. The project required a feasibility study to determine the carrying capacity of the archaeological site and the authenticity of the assets.	Argentina: Cafayate, Salta	Cultural and archaeological tourism
A1-3	[78]	The pandemic paralyzed the tourism sector and negatively affected artisans’ employment. The uncertainty generated by COVID-19 impacted the local economy and workers’ well-being.	Perú: Chulucanas,	Cultural and artisanal tourism
A1-4	[79]	The COVID-19 pandemic worsened the uncertainty faced by tourism businesses. Recovering competitiveness and achieving favorable economic outcomes require strategies to connect with consumers and capitalize on opportunities.	México: Aguascalientes	General tourism
A1-5	[80]	The global economic crisis caused by COVID-19 led to the closure and bankruptcy of tourism establishments in Quevedo, destabilizing the economy and causing unemployment. The aim is to provide visitors with access to tourism information.	Ecuador: Quevedo	General tourism
A1-6	[81]	The study focuses on the parish of San Pedro de Vilcabamba, Ecuador, analyzing the impact of COVID-19 on community tourism. The pandemic caused a significant decline in tourism activity, prompting the search for new strategies to reactivate the sector. In this context, the research investigates how digital communication strategies can promote community tourism and overcome the challenges posed by the health crisis.	Ecuador: San Pedro de Vilcabamba	Community tourism
A2-1	[82]	The COVID-19 pandemic has caused a crisis in the Peruvian tourism sector. Rural community tourism emerges as a sustainable and resilient alternative for the sector’s recovery.	Perú	Rural community tourism
B1-1	[83]	The COVID-19 pandemic has had negative impacts at all levels of Costa Rica’s tourism sector, from business challenges to unemployment. Uncertainty surrounds the outlook for tourism during the pandemic.	Costa Rica	General tourism
C1-1	[84]	Lockdown measures due to COVID-19 have affected SMEs in El Oro, Ecuador. The research evaluates the impact of these measures on the economy, employment, and companies’ ability to meet their financial obligations.	Ecuador: El Oro	General tourism
D2-1	[85]	The COVID-19 pandemic has triggered a global economic recession, affecting Cuba’s tourism sector. Tourism businesses face the need to adapt to the new reality to survive and contribute to the sector’s recovery.	Cuba	General tourism
G1-1	[86]	The COVID-19 pandemic affected community tourism in the reserve, necessitating new sustainability strategies. The research analyzes tourism operations, business management, and the effects of COVID-19 in the area.	Ecuador: Chimborazo	Rural community tourism
G1-2	[87]	The COVID-19 pandemic had a significant impact on the tourism sector, forcing travel agency managers to adapt to the new reality and develop strategic skills to lead their teams.	Brazil: Teresina	General tourism
G2-1	[88]	The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in the idleness of tourism supply and drastic changes in companies’ economic projections. The research focused on understanding the situation of tourism businesses and ventures in the region.	Uruguay: East Region	General tourism
G2-2	[89]	The COVID-19 pandemic has negatively impacted Costa Rica’s tourism sector, particularly SMEs. The research focuses on existing quality systems in Costa Rica and internationally that SMEs can implement.	Costa Rica	General tourism
G2-3	[90]	The COVID-19 pandemic has negatively impacted the tourism sector, causing a drastic drop in demand, economic difficulties, and reservation cancellations. The research focused on identifying the crisis management strategies implemented by lodging establishments.	Brazil: Rio Grande do Sul	Sun and beach tourism

shows how the impact of COVID-19 on entrepreneurship in the tourism sector across different locations in Latin America. Key issues identified include financial difficulties, the need for adaptation to new realities, and the shift toward more sustainable tourism models. The research spans several Latin American countries, including Argentina, Peru, Mexico, Ecuador, Costa Rica, Cuba, Brazil, and Uruguay. Some articles focus on specific regions within these countries, while others address broader national issues. One article even explores the situation across Latin America as a whole. The studies examine various types of tourism, such as responsible tourism, cultural, archaeological, community, rural community, general tourism, and sun and beach tourism.

The main challenges identified are as follows: (1) Economic Crisis—businesses facing closures, bankruptcies, and unemployment; (2) Adaptation and Recovery—the development of strategies to regain competitiveness, attract tourists, and comply with new health measures; (3) Digital and Strategic Innovation—a focus on digital communication strategies and leadership skills to navigate the post-pandemic tourism landscape; and (4) Sustainability—a push towards more sustainable and resilient tourism models, including rural and community-based tourism.

3.3. Identification of Methodological Approach and Key Findings on Entrepreneurship in Tourism During COVID-19

Table 6. Identification of methodological approach and key findings on entrepreneurship in tourism during COVID-19.

Code	Citation	Methodological Approach	Key Findings
A1-1	[76]	A grounded theory approach combined with data analysis from 3500 B corporations registered in the B System of Latin America, with a focus on 57 companies dedicated to social tourism. Atlas.ti software, version 8 was used for qualitative data analysis, enabling categorization and the identification of patterns in the discourses of B company representatives.	1. B corporations dedicated to tourism through responsible entrepreneurship develop a more inclusive, sustainable, and environmentally respectful economy for the benefit of society. 2. B corporations go beyond the concept of CSR and move away from traditional business models, combining social development and economic growth. 3. A relationship is observed between the companies’ past experiences and their current performance as B corporations.
A1-2	[77]	An analysis of the carrying capacity of the archaeological site was conducted, considering the physical characteristics of the visiting space and visitor behavior. Previous studies on carrying capacity in archaeological sites were taken into account.	1. The hiking project is feasible with the recommendations and suggested routes. 2. It is necessary to monitor and adjust the carrying capacity once visits begin. 3. The project is framed within a transfer plan related to responsible tourism and cultural heritage conservation.
A1-3	[78]	An action research was conducted with interviews with 12 artisans specializing in ceramics, using the macro and micro filter method to prioritize business ideas.	1. Artisans from “La Encantada” have valuable business ideas in the tourism sector. 2. The construction and management of restaurants, hotels, recreational centers, and museums are viable ideas. 3. “La Encantada” is a potential setting where business plans can be funded and implemented.
A1-4	[79]	A survey was applied to 285 managers/owners of formally established tourism businesses, with data analyzed using simple linear regression technique.	1. Market orientation explains 15.4% of the variations in economic performance. 2. Entrepreneurial orientation explains 4.7% of changes in this variable. 3. It is necessary for businesses to better connect with consumers, identify, and capitalize on business opportunities.
A1-5	[80]	A mixed methodology was employed, including inductive and deductive theoretical analysis, descriptive analysis, and mathematical statistical methods. Surveys were conducted to gather necessary information for promoting tourist sites.	1. Digital marketing is a crucial tool for tourism promotion. 2. QR codes can facilitate access to tourist information for visitors. 3. It is important to establish strategies and resources for implementing digital marketing.
A1-6	[81]	A case study with a mixed approach was carried out. Interviews were conducted with various stakeholders involved in community tourism in the parish, including the parish council president, a tour guide, a communications professor, tourism entrepreneurs, and a community tourist. A survey was applied to 163 tourists to gather their preferences and opinions. Finally, a focus group was conducted with entrepreneurs, a public relations officer, a social communicator from Conagopare-Loja, and the local guide.	1. It was identified that the parish uses digital communication strategies, although there is a lack of knowledge about their application. 2. The lack of trained personnel in digital communication limits the effectiveness of the strategies implemented. 3. Cooperation between tour operators and the parish council is vital for the reactivation of tourism.
A2-1	[82]	A descriptive study was conducted using bibliographic management tools and digital tools for source categorization. Structured interviews were applied to two tourism managers.	1. Rural community tourism is a sustainable and resilient activity to face the crisis caused by COVID-19. 2. Community tourism brings benefits to local communities. 3. Diversifying the tourism offer is crucial for the sector’s recovery.
B1-1	[83]	Data on the effects of COVID-19 on the global and Costa Rican tourism sectors were analyzed, considering the perspectives of tourism in Costa Rica during the pandemic, factors influencing people’s travel decisions, and key travel priorities.	1. The pandemic is causing drastic changes in both supply and demand in tourism. 2. Tourism must be resilient, and this situation represents an opportunity for the sector to reinvent itself. 3. The regeneration of tourist destinations is a key strategy for recovery.
C1-1	[84]	A descriptive quantitative study was carried out. A survey was applied to a representative sample of SMEs from the Province of El Oro.	1. SMEs in El Oro have been affected by confinement measures. 2. The capacity of companies to meet their financial obligations has been compromised. 3. Innovation and adaptation are key to the survival of SMEs.
D2-1	[85]	A mixed-method research was developed, with a qualitative phase for context characterization and a quantitative phase with a cross-sectional non-experimental design. A questionnaire with open and closed questions and techniques such as the Likert scale was employed.	1. The COVID-19 pandemic has negatively impacted the Cuban tourism sector. 2. Organizational resilience is crucial for the survival of tourism ventures. 3. Adaptation, innovation, risk management, and collaboration are key factors for resilience.
G1-1	[86]	An exploratory non-experimental qualitative study was conducted. Semi-structured interviews were applied to three business leaders, and secondary data sources were analyzed.	1. The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted community tourism in the Reserve. 2. Activity diversification and collaboration are key strategies for adapting to the new reality. 3. Environmental conservation and community well-being are fundamental pillars for recovery.
G1-2	[87]	An exploratory-descriptive quantitative study was carried out. A questionnaire was applied to 45 travel agency managers in Teresina, Piauí.	1. The strategic intelligence index of managers is average. 2. The leadership factor received a poor result. 3. The factors of strategic competence, entrepreneurship, knowledge, and behavior received average results.
G2-1	[88]	A quantitative study was conducted using a digital survey for tourism businesses and ventures in June 2020.	1. Most businesses ceased operations due to the health emergency. 2. A large portion of businesses did not access official containment and reactivation measures. 3. Domestic tourism will be crucial for reactivating activities.
G2-2	[89]	An exploratory study based on a review of scientific and academic literature on the subject was carried out. Experts related to the research problem were also consulted.	1. Total quality is a vital element of competitiveness in the tourism sector. 2. There are various quality systems that can be implemented by tourism SMEs. 3. SMEs face limitations and challenges in accessing resources to implement quality models.
G2-3	[90]	A structured interview was applied to 19 lodging establishment managers in August 2021. Data from the Cadastro de Prestadores de Serviços Turísticos (CADASTUR) of Torres (RS) were used.	1. The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the hospitality sector. 2. Most businesses do not implement crisis management plans. 3. The most common coping strategies were marketing management and expense retention.

presents the methodological approach and key findings related to entrepreneurship in the tourism sector, particularly during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. The methodologies employed range from qualitative approaches like grounded theory and action research to quantitative methods such as surveys and regression analysis.

Key findings indicate a common theme of resilience, adaptation, and innovation. For example, studies on B corporations (A1-1) highlight the importance of responsible entrepreneurship, focusing on sustainability, inclusivity, and environmental respect. Other studies (e.g., G1-1 and D2-1) emphasize the critical role of activity diversification, collaboration, and organizational resilience for overcoming the disruptions caused by COVID-19.

Digital marketing, particularly the use of QR codes and online communication strategies (A1-5, A1-6), emerge as a crucial tool for tourism promotion and reactivation. However, the lack of trained personnel and the need for better coordination between local authorities and tourism operators are also common barriers identified across several studies (e.g., A1-6).

Moreover, studies focusing on SMEs (C1-1) and rural community tourism (A2-1) suggest that these segments have faced significant challenges, including financial difficulties and the need to diversify offerings. However, they also reveal opportunities for recovery through innovation, adaptation, and the implementation of quality models (G2-2).

These findings suggest that while the pandemic has posed significant challenges to the tourism sector, it has also accelerated the adoption of new strategies and highlighted the importance of resilience, collaboration, and digital transformation.

4. Discussion

4.1. General Interpretation of the Results

Article coded A1-1 [76] examines the role of B Corporations in the post-COVID-19 recovery of tourism in Latin America. The pandemic has severely impacted the sector, driving the search for adaptation strategies. The study, based on grounded theory and data analysis from 3500 B corporations in the B System of Latin America, reveals that B corporations dedicated to tourism, through responsible entrepreneurship, promote a more inclusive, sustainable, and environmentally respectful economy. These companies go beyond traditional corporate social responsibility, combining social development and economic growth. Additionally, a relationship is observed between the companies’ past experiences and their current performance as B corporations.

The study coded A1-2 [77] assesses the feasibility of a hiking project at the Terraza archaeological site in Cafayate, Salta, Argentina. The pandemic prompted the Terraza family to develop this family tourism project. The methodology focuses on analyzing the carrying capacity of the site, considering the characteristics of the space and visitor behavior. The authors conclude that the project is feasible, as long as the recommendations and suggested routes are followed. The need to monitor and adjust the carrying capacity once visits begin is highlighted. The project is framed within a transfer plan promoting responsible tourism and cultural heritage conservation.

As for the code A1-3 [78], this work explores business ideas to reactivate tourism in “La Encantada”, Chulucanas, Peru, following the pandemic. The health crisis paralyzed tourism and negatively impacted the employment of local artisans. The research, based on interviews with 12 artisans, uses the macro and micro filter method to prioritize business ideas. The results demonstrate that the artisans have valuable ideas for tourism development. The construction and management of restaurants, hotels, recreational centers, and museums are viable options for sector reactivation. “La Encantada” is presented as a place with great potential for the implementation and funding of these projects.

Article A1-4 [79] investigates the performance of tourism businesses in Aguascalientes, Mexico, in the context of the pandemic. COVID-19 intensified uncertainty in the sector, making strategies to connect with consumers and seize opportunities crucial. The research, based on a survey of 285 managers/owners of tourism businesses, uses simple linear regression to analyze the data. It was found that market orientation explains 15.4% of variations in economic performance, while entrepreneurial orientation explains 4.7%. The authors emphasize the need for businesses to better connect with consumers, identify, and capitalize on business opportunities.

Research coded A1-5 [80] analyzes the use of QR codes to promote tourism establishments in Quevedo, Ecuador, after the global economic crisis caused by COVID-19. The pandemic led to the closure and bankruptcy of establishments, destabilizing the local economy and generating unemployment. The research, with both qualitative and quantitative approaches, employed inductive, deductive, descriptive, and statistical analysis. The authors conclude that digital marketing is crucial for tourism promotion, and QR codes facilitate access to information for visitors. The importance of establishing strategies and resources for implementing digital marketing is highlighted.

As for A1-6 [81], this work analyzes digital communication strategies in community tourism in the San Pedro de Vilcabamba parish, Ecuador, following the impact of COVID-19. The pandemic reduced tourism activity, driving the search for new reactivation strategies. The mixed-method case study included interviews with different community tourism stakeholders and a survey of 163 tourists. The use of digital communication strategies in the parish was identified, although there is a lack of knowledge about their application. The absence of trained personnel in digital communication limits the effectiveness of the strategies, and the importance of cooperation between tour operators and the parish council for tourism reactivation is emphasized.

A2-1 [82] explores the situation of tourism in Peru and the development of rural community tourism as sustainable entrepreneurship in response to the COVID-19 crisis. The pandemic caused a crisis in the sector, and rural community tourism is presented as a sustainable and resilient alternative. The descriptive research uses bibliographic management tools and digital tools for source categorization, as well as structured interviews with two tourism managers. The results indicate that rural community tourism is a sustainable and resilient activity to face the crisis and brings benefits to local communities, and that diversifying the tourism offer is crucial for the sector’s recovery.

B1-1 [83] reflects on the perspectives of tourism in Costa Rica in light of COVID-19. The pandemic has generated negative impacts at all levels of the sector, from business operations to unemployment. The study analyzes data on the effects of COVID-19 on global and Costa Rican tourism, considering the perspectives of tourism in Costa Rica during the pandemic and the factors influencing travel decisions. The authors conclude that the pandemic is causing drastic changes in both tourism supply and demand, that tourism must be resilient, and that the current situation presents an opportunity to reinvent the sector. The regeneration of tourist destinations is presented as a key strategy for recovery.

Research coded C1-1 [84] evaluates the impact of COVID-19 on SMEs in the El Oro Province, Ecuador. Confinement measures affected SMEs, and the study analyzes their impact on the economy, employment, and companies’ ability to meet their financial obligations. The descriptive quantitative research is based on a survey of a representative sample of SMEs in the province. The results reveal that SMEs in El Oro have been affected by confinement measures, that their ability to meet financial obligations has been compromised, and that innovation and adaptation are key to their survival.

As for D2-1 [85], this work analyzes resilient tourism ventures in Cuba in the context of COVID-19. The pandemic caused a global economic recession that impacted the Cuban tourism sector, and ventures face the need to adapt to the new reality to survive and contribute to the sector’s recovery. The mixed-method research includes a qualitative phase for context characterization and a quantitative phase with a cross-sectional non-experimental design. A questionnaire with open and closed questions and techniques such as the Likert scale were used. The authors conclude that the pandemic has negatively impacted Cuban tourism, that organizational resilience is crucial for tourism ventures’ survival, and that adaptation, innovation, risk management, and collaboration are key factors for resilience.

G1-1 [86] analyzes the effects of COVID-19 on rural community tourism ventures in the Chimborazo Wildlife Reserve, Ecuador. The pandemic affected community tourism, driving the search for new sustainability strategies. The study analyzes tourism operations, venture management, and the effects of COVID-19 on the area. The exploratory qualitative non-experimental research is based on semi-structured interviews with three venture leaders and secondary data analysis. The authors conclude that the pandemic has significantly affected community tourism in the Reserve, that activity diversification and collaboration are key strategies for adaptation, and that environmental conservation and community well-being are fundamental pillars for recovery.

Article code G1-2 [87] analyzes the strategic intelligence of travel agency managers in Teresina, Piauí, Brazil, in the context of the pandemic. COVID-19 forced managers to adapt to the new reality and use strategic competencies to lead their teams. The exploratory-descriptive quantitative research is based on a questionnaire applied to 45 travel agency managers. The results indicate that the strategic intelligence index of managers is average, that the leadership factor received a poor result, and that the factors of strategic competence, entrepreneurship, knowledge, and behavior received average results.

Meanwhile, G2-1 [88] analyzes the situation of tourism businesses and ventures in the Eastern Region of Uruguay in the context of COVID-19. The pandemic led to the idleness of tourism offerings and drastic changes in businesses’ economic projections. The study focuses on understanding the situation of these businesses and ventures. The quantitative research is based on a digital survey applied to tourism businesses and ventures in June 2020. The results indicate that most businesses ceased operations due to the health emergency, that many businesses did not access official containment and reactivation measures, and that domestic tourism will be relevant for reactivating activities.

Moreover, article coded G2-2 [89] explores tourism quality systems in Costa Rica and their accessibility for SMEs in the context of the pandemic. COVID-19 negatively impacted the Costa Rican tourism sector, particularly SMEs. The study focuses on quality systems in Costa Rica and internationally that can be implemented by SMEs. The exploratory research is based on a review of scientific and academic literature and consultations with experts related to the subject. The authors conclude that total quality is vital for competitiveness in the tourism sector, that various quality systems can be implemented by SMEs, and that SMEs face limitations and challenges in accessing resources to implement these systems.

Finally, study coded G2-3 [90] analyzes crisis management in lodging establishments in Torres, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, following the pandemic. COVID-19 negatively impacted the sector, causing a drop in demand, economic difficulties, and reservation cancellations. The research focuses on identifying crisis management strategies implemented by lodging establishments. A structured interview was applied to 19 lodging managers in August 2021, and data from the Cadastro de Prestadores de Serviços Turísticos (CADASTUR) of Torres (RS) were used. The authors conclude that the pandemic has had a significant impact on the hospitality sector, that most businesses do not implement crisis management plans, and that the most common coping strategies were marketing management and expense retention.

4.2. Thematic Analysis

4.2.1. Impact and Resilience of the Tourism Sector Post-COVID-19

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a devastating impact on the global tourism sector, affecting both business operations and employment [83]. The effects were evident in the massive closure of businesses, the drastic decline in demand, and a widespread economic crisis in the sector [82,85,88]. Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) were particularly hard-hit due to lockdown measures, which compromised their ability to meet basic financial obligations, such as paying wages and managing debts [84].

In this context, the adaptability and innovation of tourism businesses have become crucial elements for ensuring their survival in the post-pandemic stage. A strategic market orientation, along with the identification and exploitation of new business opportunities, are key factors for improving the sector’s economic performance [79]. Additionally, digital transformation has emerged as a critical component of recovery, with initiatives such as the use of QR codes to promote tourist establishments and facilitate secure and efficient access to information for visitors [80].

In the case of Cuba, organizational resilience stands out as an essential tool. This concept encompasses adaptability, continuous innovation, effective risk management, and fostering collaboration among sector stakeholders [85]. These strategies enable businesses not only to overcome immediate challenges but also to strengthen their ability to respond to future crises.

4.2.2. Community-Based Rural Tourism as a Sustainable Strategy

Community-based rural tourism emerges as a sustainable and resilient alternative for the recovery of the tourism sector. This approach not only contributes to the development of local communities but also diversifies the tourism offering, as demonstrated by successful experiences in countries like Peru. In the Chimborazo Wildlife Reserve in Ecuador, the importance of diversifying tourism activities and fostering collaboration among local stakeholders has been emphasized as key strategies for the sustainability and adaptability of community tourism [81,82,86].

4.2.3. Crisis Management in the Tourism Sector

Effective crisis management is identified as a critical need to ensure the survival and recovery of tourism businesses. However, the lack of adequate crisis management plans has exposed vulnerabilities within the sector. An example of this shortfall can be observed in Torres, Brazil, where many businesses lack specific strategies to address emergencies [90]. This situation highlights the urgency of strengthening planning and crisis response capabilities within the tourism sector.

4.2.4. Challenges and Opportunities for Recovery

Despite the relevance of adaptation, innovation, and crisis management, the implementation of these strategies faces various limitations. The lack of specialized knowledge, trained personnel, and sufficient resources to develop and implement quality systems are among the most prominent obstacles. These challenges underscore the importance of investing in training programs and capacity development within the tourism sector [81,90].

4.3. Limitations

There were some limitations that may have influenced the results obtained, which are as follows:

By only including articles from certain databases (Scopus, Web of Science, Scielo, EBSCO, Proquest, Gale Academic Onefile, and LA Referencia), the review may have missed relevant studies published in other databases or journals. This could limit the comprehensiveness of the findings, especially for niche or less widely indexed research. However, these databases index most journals where Latin American authors in the social sciences typically publish, so it is unlikely that any research has been omitted. Nevertheless, the inclusion of regional databases (which are not commonly used in global literature reviews), such as Scielo and LA Referencia, helped retrieve six included articles that might have been considered “grey literature” by other authors.

Although this study focused specifically on research conducted in Latin America, it would be valuable to complement these findings with studies from other parts of the world. This would provide a more complete understanding of how entrepreneurship in tourism influences different factors across regions, as each area may have its own unique experiences and perspectives based on cultural, economic, and political contexts. Looking at research from other regions would also open the door for comparing how these factors play out in different settings, offering a deeper, more well-rounded view of how entrepreneurship in tourism impacts things like local economies, sustainable development, and community involvement. This broader perspective could enrich the findings and make them more universally relevant.

The exclusion of articles written in languages other than Spanish, Portuguese, and English may have led to the omission of relevant studies published in other languages, particularly those in indigenous languages or French (spoken in the Caribbean), languages in which research could have been conducted. The authors believe that we have largely covered the main languages in which Latin American scientific literature is disseminated globally. However, future studies that include publications in less commonly used languages in the region could uncover additional literature.

The accessibility of academic resources may have posed a limitation to the findings of this systematic review. The articles included in the study were obtained using the institutional credentials provided by Universidad César Vallejo, which determined access to various databases and journals. As a result, certain articles or publications may not have been available due to subscription restrictions, paywalls, or database exclusions.

4.4. Implications

4.4.1. Theoretical Implications

This study highlights key theoretical implications in the field of tourism entrepreneurship, confirming the importance of resilience, adaptability, and innovation. The findings emphasize that adaptability to changing circumstances, the implementation of innovative strategies to develop novel solutions, and organizational resilience to overcome challenges are critical factors for ensuring the success and sustainability of tourism businesses, particularly during times of crisis. In this context, entrepreneurial bricolage becomes crucial, allowing businesses to think creatively and find innovative solutions with the resources they have at hand. It empowers them to adapt quickly to unexpected changes and navigate challenges in a way that turns limitations into opportunities for growth and resilience [91,92].

Additionally, this study underscores the growing significance of adopting a responsible and sustainable approach in tourism. Businesses that embrace sustainable practices and demonstrate a commitment to social impact not only contribute to more inclusive economic development but also promote environmental stewardship. This approach strengthens the tourism sector in the long term and delivers significant benefits to local communities. Bricolage plays a key role in driving the shift toward sustainability, helping tourism entrepreneurs make the most of the resources they already have. It encourages them to think outside the box, finding creative ways to incorporate environmentally friendly practices into their operations, even when resources are limited [93]. This innovative approach allows them to maintain sustainability without sacrificing growth, even in challenging times.

Finally, the research highlights the crucial role of digital transformation as an indispensable tool in the promotion, management, and recovery of tourism. Strategies such as digital marketing, the use of social media, and technologies like QR codes have facilitated interaction with tourists, optimized reservation management, and enhanced information dissemination, thereby bolstering competitiveness and innovation within the sector. In line with entrepreneurial bricolage, digital transformation in tourism allows businesses to repurpose existing technologies and platforms to adapt to new consumer behaviors and manage operations more efficiently, especially during disruptions [48]. Entrepreneurs embracing bricolage capitalize on these technological tools not only to maintain business continuity but to create new digital offerings that resonate with consumers in a post-pandemic world [94].

Moreover, Giddens’ duality of structure theory [41,42] offers an insightful way to understand how individuals and systems interact in tourism entrepreneurship. Structural factors, like government policies, health regulations, and socioeconomic conditions, create the framework within which tourism businesses must operate. However, the creativity and resourcefulness of entrepreneurs are what truly drive change. By embracing bricolage, entrepreneurs find ways to work within these limitations, turning challenges into opportunities and even reshaping the structures themselves. This dynamic relationship between individual actions and systemic structures highlights the importance of supporting entrepreneurs as they adapt and innovate. By doing so, we can foster a tourism industry that is not only resilient but also more sustainable and inclusive, ready to face future challenges with confidence.

4.4.2. Practical Implications

For tourism entrepreneurs, the ability to adapt to changing circumstances is essential. Developing flexible strategies is key to responding to market shifts, evolving tourist needs, and potential future crises. This involves diversifying tourism offerings to cater to various market segments, adopting sustainable practices that minimize environmental impact while supporting local communities, and strengthening crisis management skills to handle unexpected challenges effectively. Additionally, entrepreneurs should embrace digital tools to enhance promotion, improve management, and foster meaningful interactions with customers.

Collaboration within the tourism sector is another vital element for growth and sustainability. Partnerships between local authorities, tour operators, and communities create opportunities for joint strategies that address challenges cohesively and amplify the impact of actions. Building support networks allows stakeholders to exchange experiences, share resources, and gain access to critical information, such as financing options, training, and technical assistance. These collaborative efforts help reinforce the sector’s resilience and foster sustainable development.

Policymakers also play a crucial role in promoting responsible and sustainable tourism entrepreneurship. Public policies should prioritize digital infrastructure development to improve connectivity in tourist areas and support training in digital marketing and technology for industry stakeholders. Incentives for adopting sustainable practices can further motivate businesses to implement environmentally and socially responsible measures.

Equally important is ensuring access to financing and resources for tourism businesses, particularly small and medium enterprises (SMEs). This can be achieved by creating specialized credit lines tailored to the sector’s needs, simplifying administrative procedures to reduce bureaucratic hurdles, and encouraging investment in technological innovation to drive research and development in tourism applications. These measures collectively empower the tourism sector to thrive while fostering long-term sustainability and growth.

Ultimately, by aligning entrepreneurial innovation, collaborative efforts, and supportive policies, the tourism sector can build a more resilient and sustainable future for all stakeholders involved.

4.5. Final Conclusions

The COVID-19 pandemic, while posing significant challenges to the tourism sector in Latin America, has accelerated the adoption of new strategies and underscored the importance of resilience, collaboration, and digital transformation. This study highlights how the crisis has driven a reconfiguration of the sector, placing greater emphasis on sustainability, digitalization, and enhancing the tourist experience as fundamental pillars for recovery and growth.

Additionally, tourism entrepreneurship in the region emerges as a powerful engine for economic and social development. However, its success hinges on adopting responsible practices, leveraging digitalization opportunities, and strengthening collaboration among sector stakeholders. The study emphasizes the need for a comprehensive approach that integrates innovation, sustainability, and inclusion, ensuring a prosperous and resilient future for tourism in Latin America.