Scientific-educational tourism: a systematic literature review and proposal for an academic definition

This study defines Scientific-Educational Tourism (SET) through a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) of research on scientific tourism (ST) and educational tourism (ET). Using Kitchenham’s protocol, 41 peer-reviewed studies published between 2011 and 2021 were analyzed across five academic and international databases. The review shows that ST and ET share common foundations–experiential learning, scientific engagement, and community participation–yet remain conceptually fragmented. By synthesizing their intersections, this study proposes the first academic definition of SET and identifies six core characteristics, emphasizing its dual purpose (scientific and educational), active participation in research, expert guidance, context-based experiential learning, community-driven impacts, and methodological replicability. These findings position SET as a distinct and integrative form of tourism. They are important because they provide both a structured conceptual framework and practical guidance for the design of university-led field programs, conservation initiatives, and collaborative models that enhance knowledge exchange, sustainability, and local development.