Planning your next getaway? Whether you're island-hopping in the Caribbean or trekking through Southeast Asia, there’s one thing that should always be on your packing list: compassion.
Animal tourism might seem like a harmless—or even magical—way to experience the world, but the reality behind many “bucket list” activities is far from kind.
If you’re dreaming of a vacation that’s as kind as it is unforgettable, here’s what to avoid—and what to do instead—to keep your travels animal-friendly.
What to Avoid: The Animal Exploitation Traps
We get it—tourism ads make them look fun, safe, and even ethical. But these attractions come at a high cost for animals. Here are some exploitative attractions to steer clear of:
Swimming With Dolphins
Those perfectly staged photos? They hide a dark truth. Swimming with dolphin programs often have dolphins captured from the wild or bred in captivity, forced to live in tiny tanks with no room to roam. These highly intelligent beings suffer both mentally and physically in unnatural conditions just for a few moments of human entertainment.
Riding Elephants
It might feel like a “once in a lifetime” experience, but elephant rides are fueled by lifelong cruelty. Baby elephants are torn from their mothers and go through a violent training process called phajaan—which literally means “the crush.” It’s designed to break their spirit. No vacation is worth that.
Animal Performances
Whether it’s a dancing monkey, a marine mammal show, or a circus act, animals forced to perform are living in constant stress. They’re trained through fear, punishment, and deprivation, not love or reward. Behind every trick is a story of suffering.
Alligator Wrestling
This one might seem niche, but it’s no less harmful. Alligator wrestling exploits native wildlife for shock value. It's dangerous for the animal and the performer, and it's definitely not conservation.
Wild Animal Photo Ops
Snapping a selfie with a tiger, koala, or sloth might seem like a cute Instagram post, but these animals often endure sedation, chaining, and round-the-clock handling. Wild animals aren’t props. If it’s not something you’d do to your pet, don’t support it abroad.
Bathing Elephants
This one is sneakier. It’s often marketed as “ethical,” but if you're allowed to touch, bathe, or feed a wild animal, it’s not truly ethical. True sanctuaries limit human interaction for the animals’ well-being.
What to Do Instead: Ethical and Animal-Friendly Alternatives
Now that we’ve covered the red flags, let’s dive into the green flags. These experiences are not only unforgettable—they’re ethical and kind.
Visit Ethical Animal Sanctuaries
Looking to meet animals in a way that supports their well-being? Choose reputable sanctuaries that care for rescued wildlife or farmed animals. Do your research: legitimate sanctuaries don’t breed, buy, sell, or allow direct human interaction with wild animals. You’ll leave with a full heart—and a clear conscience.
Observe Animals from a Distance
Seeing animals in the wild is one of life’s greatest joys—if it’s done respectfully. Always keep a safe distance and avoid feeding or touching them. Whether you’re on safari or birdwatching in your own backyard, remember: wild means wild.
Explore Wildlife Heritage Areas
Nature is the best stage. Choose destinations, such as Wildlife Heritage Areas, known for protecting ecosystems, biodiversity, and supporting the local communities. These areas allow you to connect with wildlife in their natural habitats—without the cruelty.
Your Travel Dollars Have Power
Every ticket you buy, photo you snap, or activity you join sends a message. By choosing animal-friendly options, you’re helping reshape the tourism industry into one that values compassion over cruelty.
So go ahead—book that trip. Just make sure it’s kind to every species, not just your own.
Want to travel better? Share this guide with your travel buddy and visit World Animal Protection’s wildlife-friendly travel hub for more information!