Cooperation in rural tourism routes: Evidence and insights

Cooperation serves as an effective strategy for fostering economic development in underdeveloped regions through tourism routes. The objective of this study is to identify the key components of cooperation process in rural tourism routes, drawing upon existing literature. A systematic review was conducted following the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis) protocol. Two databases were utilized, resulting in the selection of 18 relevant studies. This study identifies the key components (factors, elements, and instruments) necessary for fostering cooperation in rural tourism routes. Additionally, it underscores their significance in generating synergies to benefit destinations, promote sustainable development, and enhance the experiences of tourists. The identified factors encompass tourist attractions (36%), tourist services (30%), public services (15%), basic infrastructure (6%), management (8%), brand image (2%), and price (2%). The pivotal elements for cooperation include stakeholder interaction, active community participation, support from the public sector, trust, shared goals, planning, structuring, financing, product development, mutual benefits, communication, learning, and self-assessment. Moreover, various instruments support cooperation, including agreements, projects, plans, partnerships, programs, inter-cooperation, associations, sub-projects, regulations, letters of intent, alliances, mission statements, bylaws, and barter. These instruments facilitate the formalization and enhancement of cooperative arrangements within rural tourism routes, ensuring long-term sustainability and promoting effective implementation. Furthermore, the study indicates the necessity of conducting further in-depth exploration into the essential elements for cooperation in rural tourism routes.