Ethical tourism practices entail adopting measures that favor the well-being of animals in their habitat as well as promoting the welfare and conservation of animals, while also respecting their natural habitats and behaviors.
Unfortunately, tourism may seem glamorous, but that is not the case sometimes.
Rogue acts that involve exploiting animals for human entertainment, such as riding elephants, taking pictures with sedated tigers, or intruding on an animal's personal space cause physical and psychological torture to animals.
Here is how one can steer clear of these menaces and practice ethical tourism:
Littering in the park: This can create an unsightly environment, which can be unpleasant for park visitors as well as pose a risk to wildlife. Animals can unknowingly mistake litter for food. Grazing animals can consume plastic paper which may affect their health negatively.
Choose accommodations and tour operators that have policies and practices that prioritize the welfare of animals. When driving in the park the tour operators should entirely refrain from hooting since this action causes disturbance to the wildlife.
Respect the natural habitats and behaviors of animals by observing them from a safe distance and avoiding activities that disturb them.
Learn about the local wildlife and ecosystems before visiting and be mindful of the impact your visit may have on the animals and their habitats.
Wild animals are adapted to a particular diet, and feeding them food that is not a part of their natural diet can lead to health problems or even results to death due to digestive problems.
As a responsible traveler, one should refrain from purchasing animal products such as ivory, tortoiseshell, and other items that have been blacklisted.
