Nature and Wildlife

Nature & Wildlife

Protecting the places that make adventure possible

For all brands within the World Expeditions Travel Group, the nature and wildlife are not just the backdrop to your adventures, they are central to why these experiences are so meaningful.

The landscapes we walk through, the ecosystems we witness and the wildlife we encounter all shape journeys that inspire curiosity, perspective and connection. Wild places also sustain livelihoods, cultural identity and ecological balance for communities around the world.

By designing trips that minimise impact and actively support conservation, we help safeguard biodiversity while strengthening the relationship between people and planet.



Animal Welfare

We believe wildlife should not exploited for entertainment.

You WILL NOT find these experiences on our trips:

  • No elephant rides. We do not support close-contact elephant interactions.
  • No lion exploitation. We reject cub petting, walking with lions and canned hunts.
  • No cruel performances. We avoid animal shows or attractions that involve cruelty.
  • No captive wildlife parks. We do not visit aquariums or marine parks holding large captive mammals.
  • No harmful souvenirs. We do not purchase or promote souvenirs that involve animal cruelty or endanger wildlife.
  • No forced encounters. We do not allow wildlife selfies or staged animal interactions.

You WILL find these experiences on our trips:

  • Observe, don’t interfere. We view wildlife only in their natural habitats.
  • Put welfare first. We use pack animals in line with the Five Domains framework.
  • Include animals responsibly. We thoughtfully include working or companion animals where welfare is assured.
  • Support true sanctuaries. We visit only genuine sanctuaries that meet World Animal Protection standards.
Bengal tiger |  Richard I'Anson

Animal Welfare in Action

Animals play a vital role in many of the environments and cultures we visit. We have a responsibility to ensure they are treated with respect, dignity and care across every trip that includes wildlife.


Our Commitment to Elephant-Friendly Travel

In 2014, we signed the World Animal Protection Elephant-Friendly Tourism Pledge. This led to a full audit of our itineraries, the removal of all elephant riding and entertainment activities, and the creation of our Animal Welfare Policy.

Today, we offer only elephant-friendly experiences that allow respectful observation in the wild or at genuine high-welfare sanctuaries.


 

Waste Management

  • Leave no trace. We apply the Seven Principles of Leave No Trace across all trips.
  • Cut single-use plastics. We actively reduce plastic waste through education and refill initiatives.
  • Pack it in, pack it out. We follow strict pack-in, pack-out policies on remote adventures.
  • Handle waste responsibly. Waste is sorted and processed with care.
  • Strengthen local systems. We work with communities to support or improve local waste infrastructure.
  • Invite action. Travellers are encouraged to take part in litter collection initiatives.
Druk Path Trek, Bhutan |  Lachlan Gardiner

Waste Management in Action

From high-altitude trails to coastal regions, we take a practical, on-the-ground approach to minimising waste and protecting natural environments.



Accommodations & Eco-Comfort Camps

  • Choose sites carefully. We select locations that avoid sensitive ecosystems.
  • Build lightly. We use non-permanent, low-impact structures.
  • Respect wildlife. Camp designs coexist with local fauna.
  • Use resources wisely. We prioritise renewable energy and water-efficient systems.
  • Manage waste responsibly. We use eco-toilets and responsible waste systems.
  • Educate travellers. We share knowledge on local ecology and conservation.
  • Leave no lasting mark. Camps are removed with minimal permanent impact.
Our clean amenities are sustainably sourced and operated |  Lachlan Gardiner

Sustainable Accommodation in Action

Our Eco-Comfort Camps around the world provide low-impact accommodation without compromising comfort. These camps support local communities while offering travellers a deeper connection to nature.

  • Eco-Comfort Camp at Ghat |  Lachlan Gardiner
  • Our exclusive Eco-Comfort Camps are located in spectacular locations |  <i>Luke Tscharke</i>
  • Sleep comfortably in our spacious tents on Flinders Island |  Lachlan Gardiner
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