Traveling Kindly: Ethical Animal experiences Around the World

When we travel, we often seek connection—to culture, to landscapes, and yes, to animals. Whether it’s a dolphin encounter in the Caribbean or an elephant ride in Southeast Asia, animal experiences are everywhere. But as travelers, we also have the power to shape how animals are treated simply by the choices we make.

This isn’t about guilt or judgment. It’s about awareness. Many of us (myself included) have participated in activities in the past that we wouldn’t choose again now, simply because we didn’t know. So let’s talk about a few common experiences and the alternatives that let us enjoy the wonder of wildlife, ethically and respectfully.

Swimming with Dolphins: The Hidden Cost of Captivity

The idea of swimming with dolphins sounds magical. These intelligent, playful animals have long captured our imaginations. But in many popular destinations, dolphins in these attractions are born and raised in captivity, confined to small tanks or pens that bear no resemblance to the vast ocean they belong in.

Captive dolphins often show signs of stress and even depression. They’re trained through food deprivation and are unable to engage in their natural behaviors. What looks like a smile is simply the shape of their mouths—not an expression of happiness.

What to Do Instead: Look for wild dolphin tours run by ethical operators. Those that keep a respectful distance, avoid feeding, and limit group sizes. In places like Hawaii and New Zealand, there are regulated tours that allow you to see dolphins in their natural habitat, without disturbing them.

Riding Elephants in Thailand: A Tradition That’s Changing

For years, elephant rides were marketed as a must-do experience in Thailand and other parts of Asia. What many travelers didn’t see was the brutal training elephants often endure to become rideable—from separation from their mothers at a young age, to physical punishment that breaks their spirit.

Elephants used for rides often live in chains, work long hours, and suffer from injuries due to carrying heavy loads (including uncomfortable seats and multiple passengers).

What to Do Instead: Visit an ethical elephant sanctuary. In places like Chiang Mai, there are sanctuaries where you can observe and interact with elephants on their terms—feeding, walking alongside them, or just watching them play in the mud. Look for sanctuaries that don’t allow riding, use chains, or force interactions. A good sign: they’ll prioritize the elephants’ needs over photo ops.

Other common experiences, like tiger selfies, sloth cuddles, or camel rides, also raise important ethical questions. While each situation is different, the same principles apply: if it prioritizes tourist enjoyment over animal welfare, it’s worth a second look.

How to Spot Ethical Animal Experiences

Here are a few things to consider when evaluating animal encounters on your travels:

• Is the animal in captivity? If so, is it for conservation, rehabilitation, or entertainment?

• Can the animal leave or hide? Ethical wildlife experiences give animals the choice to engage, or not.

• Are you touching, feeding, or holding the animal? In most cases, direct contact isn’t appropriate unless you’re volunteering with a trained organization.

• Does the experience support conservation? Ethical operators usually partner with wildlife organizations or contribute to research and protection efforts.

It’s Not About Perfection—It’s About Progress

Every traveler is on a journey. If you’ve done things in the past that you wouldn’t do now, you’re not alone. What matters is what we do moving forward—with our voices, our support, and our choices. Not sure where to start? Check out resources like World Animal Protection or the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries to find certified ethical experiences.

When we choose experiences that respect animals, we’re helping shift the travel industry toward a more compassionate future—one where wildlife thrives in the wild, not in a cage or on a leash. So on your next adventure, take a moment to ask: Is this kind? Is this right for the animal? That one small question can change everything.

Every dollar we spend sends a message to the industry. Choosing ethical animal experiences tells tour operators that compassion matters more than convenience. Have you had an ethical animal encounter you loved, or one you regret? Let’s start a conversation. Share your story below or reach out, I’d love to hear from you!