Be Conscious
Our standards for responsible wildlife experiences
A journey offers more than a beautiful landscape. It is a rare opportunity to witness wildlife thriving in natural habitats and understand its vital role in our global ecosystem. Every traveller can contribute to the health of our planet.
To keep these experiences responsible, we use standards covering ethical interactions, animal-welfare conditions and active conservation. They provide the transparency travellers need to make better-informed choices.
During wildlife interactions
No touching
Animals must remain free from handling or physical contact.
No feeding
Interactions must respect animals and their natural diets.
No forced or unnatural behaviour
Wildlife must not be manipulated or trained for entertainment.
No disturbance or harassment
Keep a respectful distance and behave in ways that minimise stress to wildlife.
Group size limits
Wildlife observation should avoid crowding or putting pressure on animals.
Where captivity is involved
Access to appropriate food and water
Animals should receive appropriate diets and continuous access to water.
Appropriate space and environment
Animals need sufficient space, shelter, shade and appropriate enrichment.
Disease prevention and veterinary care
Veterinary care, hygiene and health monitoring are required.
Qualified staff
Animal care and any necessary handling must be performed by trained staff.
Rehabilitation and release programme
Where appropriate and feasible, support rehabilitation and release into the wild.
Conservation
Monitoring and impact management
Monitor wildlife populations and manage impacts on their habitats.
Conservation investment
A share of revenue should support local conservation and protection efforts.
Transparency on conservation efforts
Provide clear information about conservation projects, partners and outcomes.
No wildlife products or souvenirs
Do not sell, buy or promote products made from wildlife or that harm wildlife.
Visitor education
Help visitors understand wildlife and encourage responsible behaviour.
Sustainability certifications
Certifications can help travellers identify operators committed to more responsible tourism. This selection highlights wildlife-tourism initiatives that can support better-informed decisions.
Fair Trade Tourism
Tour operators and accommodation providers in Africa. Focuses on ethical practices, community benefits and positive impact.
Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC)
Hotels, tour operators, events and attractions. Sustainable tourism criteria, including animal welfare.
Travelife
Accommodation providers and tour operators. Annual sustainability evaluation aligned with ABTA guidelines.
Wildlife Friendly Enterprise Network (WFEN)
Tourism businesses and operators. Species-specific programmes.
World Animal Protection
Initiatives, labels and reports.
World Wildlife Fund (WWF)
Specific initiatives such as HQWW and WWF Arctic.