Illegal wildlife trade in a tourism and biodiversity hotspot

There are clear connections between tourism, development, and sustainable use—particularly in biodiversity hotspots, where tourists may unknowingly purchase souvenirs made from protected wildlife. This issue is explicitly recognized in the Sustainable Development Goals, including SDG15, Life on Land, and SDG16, Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions. On the island of Bali, a premier tourist destination with a strong local Hindu culture, we assessed the trade in legally protected wildlife (2022–2025) with the aim of improving the effectiveness of protected species regulations. We recorded 1440 animals for sale (849 as body parts and 591 alive). Almost half the species (27/59) were globally threatened, from other biodiverse hotspots, with few links to Balinese culture or society. Tourism on the island appears to have a negative impact on the environment, and this has implications for the sustainable development of Balinese society. We advocate for promoting sustainable tourism, embedded in Balinese culture, respecting local legislation and traditions.