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Ethical Wildlife Tourism: A Path to Conservation, Not Exploitation

Writer's picture: Ekjot OberoiEkjot Oberoi

Wildlife tourism, one of the fastest-growing sectors of global travel, is a gateway to unforgettable encounters with the natural world. For many, it is a chance to witness animals in their natural habitats, from the vast African savannahs to the dense rainforests of South America. However, beneath the allure of wildlife tourism lies a complex reality of a need for ethical practices that prioritise animal welfare, conservation and sustainability.

 

The Dark Side of Wildlife Tourism

 

At the initial glance, wildlife tourism might seem inherently beneficial. It connects people to nature, educates them about conservation, and generates funding for protecting endangered species. However, there is another side to this coin, a rather darker one, that often remains hidden. Animal cruelty and harassment are widespread issues- from elephant rides in Thailand to captive tiger petting in plenty of tourist places, many wildlife experiences involve exploitation and abuse.

 

Take, for example, India’s tiger reserves. While they attract millions of tourists annually, the demand for up-close encounters has triggered practices that disrupt the animals’ natural behaviour. Animals used for carrying heavy loads are often subjected to mistreatment, such as being drugged, or beaten when they are tired, as their rest is seen as a loss of valuable time. In whale and dolphin shows, animals are removed from their natural habitats and are forced to live in confinement- a stark violation of their basic needs.

 

The adage “live and let live” is a noble idea but often fails to hold true when humans interact with animals. The relationship tends to be one-sided, with humans exploiting animals for entertainment, monetisation, or even just an Instagram-worthy photo.

 

A balanced ecosystem in a frame, WIX 2025
A balanced ecosystem in a frame, WIX 2025

Why Ethical Wildlife Tourism Matters

 

Ethical wildlife tourism plays a pivotal role in ensuring the well-being of animals, safeguarding ecosystems, and supporting local communities. So, when tourism prioritises ethical practices, it creates a ripple effect of positive outcomes:

  1. For Animals: Ethical tourism practices allow animals to thrive in their natural habitat without interference, cruelty or exploitation. Observing them in the wild, where they are free to express their natural behaviours, offers a truly authentic experience.

  2. For Ecosystems: Healthy and undisturbed wildlife populations maintain the delicate balance of ecosystems, supporting biodiversity.

  3.  For Local Communities: Responsible tourism engages local guides and operators, providing sustainable livelihoods and diminishing economic reliance on harmful practices including poaching or illegal trading.

 

A guiding framework for ethical practices is the “Five Freedoms”- freedom from hunger and thirst, discomfort, pain, fear and the ability to exhibit natural behaviours. These principles not only safeguard animal welfare but also uphold the authenticity and sustainability of wildlife encounters. By adhering to these standards, operators can foster trust and mediate a more meaningful, respectful connection between travellers and nature.

 


Picture by: Thoroughly Travel "Let’s Talk About Ethical Wildlife Tourism", 2025
Picture by: Thoroughly Travel "Let’s Talk About Ethical Wildlife Tourism", 2025

As travel journalist Melissa Cristina Márquez explains, “Ethical wildlife tourism is not just about conservation but also about respect- respect for animals, their habitats, and the communities that depend on them.”


The Warning Signs


To make informed decisions, travellers must recognise how animals are exploited or mistreated in tourism. Some of the common red flags to watch out for:

  • Performing Animals: Activities like monkey shows, snake charmers or dolphin performances typically involve harsh training methods and force animals to engage in unnatural behaviours. These spectacles prioritise entertainment over welfare, often hiding the physical and psychological toll on the animals.

  •  Close Encounters: Experiences such as tiger petting or selfie opportunities with sedated animals are unethical and can endanger both animals and tourists. Sedation and confinement strip animals of their freedom and dignity, turning them into props for profit.

  •  Overcrowding: With large crowds flocking around animals in reserves or zoos, animals tend to get immensely stressed, disrupting their natural behaviours. This is especially problematic in popular destinations like India’s Ranthambore National Park or Kenya’s Maasai Mara, where poorly managed tourism has had an obvious effect on local wildlife in the past.

 

As noted in Ethical Globe’s blog on responsible tourism, “Superficial claims of being ‘eco-friendly’ or ‘sustainable’ often mask ethical practices. Travellers must look deeper, ensuring their choices truly align with their values.” Travellers should seek out credible certifications that guarantee adherence to animal welfare, environmental sustainability, and ethical tourism standards.

 

Case Studies

 

India, with its rich biodiversity, offers numerous wildlife tourism opportunities. Yet, among the challenges it faces in Rajasthan, for instance, the use of elephants for rides at Amber Fort has long been criticised for the animal’s poor living conditions and rigorous training methods. Similarly, in Kerala, snake charmers and captive wildlife displays often overshadow the state’s otherwise commendable tourism initiatives.

 

Beyond India, countries like Thailand, Indonesia and South Africa have grappled with similar examples. But elephant sanctuaries in Thailand, for example, have evolved in recent years to focus more on rehabilitation and less on tourist entertainment. In South Africa, responsible safaris have emerged as alternatives to exploitative hunting practices.

 

As noted in Thoroughly Travel’s guide on ethical wildlife tourism, “Travellers have the power to shape the future of wildlife tourism. By choosing ethical experiences, they can support local communities, ensuring animals remain undisturbed in their natural habitats.”

 

The Role of Responsible Tourism

 

The concept of responsible tourism goes beyond minimizing harm; it is about making a positive impact. Ecotourism, a subset of responsible tourism, emphasises low-impact travel that benefits local communities and prioritises conservation.

 

As an Indian travel writer, I’ve encountered several examples of responsible tourism. In Madhya Pradesh’s Pench National Park, local guides are trained in conservation principles and actively educate tourists about the importance of preserving tiger habitats. Similarly, in the Andaman Islands, diving operators have adopted strict codes to prevent coral damage and marine pollution.

 

For travellers who seek immersive experiences with nature, adopting responsible tourism is crucial. Not only does it enhance the travel experience, it also ensures that future generations can enjoy these wonders.


Alpacas in a farm in Up Nately in England, May 2023
Alpacas in a farm in Up Nately in England, May 2023

Steps Towards Ethical Wildlife Tourism

 

Travellers can make a significant difference by choosing ethical options. Here are some actionable tips:

  1. Research Operators: Use platforms like TripAdvisor or Google to find operators committed to ethical practices

  2. Avoid Harmful Activities: Steer clear of elephant rides, tiger petting and dolphin/ whale shows

  3. Support Certified Businesses: Look for certifications like Blue Flag, Fair Trade Tourism, or Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC)

  4. Educate Yourself: Resources like World Animal Protection and Ethical Globe offer invaluable insights into making ethical travel decisions.

  5. Spread Awareness: Share your experiences and encourage others to practise ethical tourism

 

 

A Brighter Future

 

Ethical wildlife tourism is a movement that demands collective action. By making informed choices, travellers can contribute to a world where humans coexist with animals in harmony. Whether it’s watching tigers roam freely in national parks or witnessing whales breach in the wild, the most rewarding experiences come from respecting the natural world rather than dominating it.

 

As you plan your next adventure, remember that your choices matter. Ethical wildlife tourism is not just about doing less harm but also about creating a lasting positive impact on animals, ecosystems, and communities worldwide. Let’s make travel a force for good.

 

1 Comment


Shashank Shekhar
Shashank Shekhar
Jan 29

Ethical wildlife tourism is an important step towards sustainablility and wildlife protection. Very informative article.

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© 2024 by Ekjot Oberoi

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