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Throughout the years, it has been a privilege to have the opportunity to get up close and personal with many animals in the wild. In the process I have been attacked by lions, bitten by meerkats, mesmerised by sea turtles, spat at by marine iguanas, run over by penguins, manhandled by baboons and hypnotised by mountain gorillas! Click on any of the links to learn more.
What I can say for sure is that there’s something deeply transformative about connecting with wildlife. Whether it’s admiring majestic elephants in their natural habitat or sitting alongside sea turtles as they nest, wildlife travel can inspire awe, wonder, and a newfound sense of purpose.
With World Wildlife Day (March 3rd) approaching, I thought it would be the perfect time to explore some of the most powerful wildlife travel experiences you can embark on and discuss how to ensure your adventure is ethical and impactful. For more, check out the blog post about my favourite wildlife encounters HERE.
Why Wildlife Travel?
Midlife is a time of reflection and rediscovery. Wildlife adventures allow you to step out of your comfort zone, immerse yourself in nature, and reconnect with your sense of curiosity. In addition, these experiences provide a chance to contribute to conservation efforts and support sustainable tourism.
Unforgettable Wildlife Experiences to Consider:
African Safari: The Big Five and Beyond Spotting lions in Kenya’s Maasai Mara, elephants in Botswana’s Okavango Delta, or rhinos in South Africa’s Kruger National Park are all unbeatable experiences. Witnessing wildlife in their natural habitats reminds us of the interconnectedness of life and our role in protecting it.
Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda or Uganda Hiking through misty mountain forests to spend an hour with endangered mountain gorillas is a deeply intimate experience which leaves most travellers in awe of these gentle giants and their family bonds. For me, sitting in the mountains in Rwanda, staring into the eyes of a massive silverback was an unforgettable experience and felt like such a privilege.
Rainforest Adventures From tarantulas in the Amazon, orangutans in Borneo, or sloths in Costa Rica’s cloud forests, the biodiversity of rainforests will inspire you to appreciate and protect these fragile ecosystems.
Snorkelling or Diving with Marine Life Whether it’s swimming with manta rays in Hawaii, snorkelling with sea turtles in the Galápagos Islands, or diving with whale sharks in the Philippines, the underwater world is a vibrant reminder of nature’s beauty and fragility.
Polar Bear Watching in the Arctic Why not observe polar bears in Churchill, Canada, or on go an Arctic expedition cruise? Experiencing these majestic creatures in their icy habitat emphasizes the urgency of combating climate change. This one remains on my list for a future adventure.
As does…
Penguins and Whales in Antarctica Kayak among icebergs, watch humpback whales breach, and visit penguin colonies. Antarctica’s raw, untouched beauty offers a sense of serenity and wonder unlike anywhere else. I can’t wait for the day that I finally hit my seventh continent!
How to Choose an Ethical Wildlife Experience When it comes to wildlife travel, ensuring your adventure is ethical is essential. I’m not proud to say that I have inadvertently found myself supporting some dubious wildlife outfits on my travels in the past. I have learned from my mistakes & believe I am a lot more vigilant as a result. To help you avoid doing the same, here’s how to choose responsibly:
Research the Provider’s Values Look for tour operators and lodges that prioritise sustainability, conservation, and the well-being of wildlife. Read reviews, check their website for clear conservation policies, and ask questions if you’re unsure.
Avoid Any Form of Animal Exploitation Some experiences may look appealing but are harmful to animals. Always seek out experiences where animals are free to roam in their natural habitats. A few red flags include:
- Riding elephants. I originally had this on my Life List but removed it after researching how cruelly the elephants are treated to train them for the encounter.
- Visiting tiger or lion “sanctuaries” that allow petting or cub handling.
- Dolphinariums and swimming with captive dolphins.
- Holding or feeding wild animals for photo opportunities. Full disclosure: I have several photos of me feeding & holding animals during my time volunteering at a sanctuary in Namibia (as above). All the animals here were injured or orphaned, so no longer able to survive in the wild. We were always under strict instructions that we were never allowed to approach the wildlife to pet or hold them. Those that came, did so of their own accord. The baboons in particular seemed to enjoy grooming me…or launching themselves off my head! You can read more about my experiences at the sanctuary HERE.
Check Certifications
Look for operators certified by organizations like:
- Travelife: Focused on sustainability in tourism.
- The Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC): Sets international sustainability standards.
- World Animal Protection: Provides resources on ethical animal tourism.
Know the Rules of Responsible Wildlife Viewing:
- Maintain a safe distance. In the Galápagos Islands they say to stay at least two metres from any wildlife at all times…unfortunately they don’t tell the animals this!
- Avoid loud noises or sudden movements.
- Don’t feed or touch animals. Any tour that offers feeding as part of the attraction should be avoided.
- Follow the guidance of your tour guide. Unless they suggest something you don’t feel comfortable with. Then call them out on it.
Wildlife travel can be one of the most rewarding experiences of your life—especially in midlife, when many of us are searching for something deeper. It’s a chance to connect with the world in a profound way, gain perspective, and create memories you’ll cherish forever. As a traveller, you have the power to make a difference. By choosing ethical providers and respecting wildlife, you’re contributing to conservation efforts and ensuring these incredible species thrive for future generations.
If you’re ready to embark on your wildlife adventure but don’t know where to start, I can help. As a travel coach, I specialize in helping women in midlife plan transformational travel experiences tailored to their passions and values. Let’s work together to make your dream trip a reality! Hit reply now and let’s chat!
So, {{ subscriber.first_name }}, where will your passion for wildlife take you? What has been your most exciting animal encounter so far? I’d love to know, hit reply to this email to let me know or connect via your social method of choice (Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Pinterest, Threads or LinkedIn) to give me all the details.
Were you able to join the LIVE session on 11th February where we discussed all things Life and Bucket List related? If not, don’t worry, I share it all with you in my latest video on YouTube. If you want to create a Life Bucket List that actually inspires you to take action, whether you dream of travelling the world or simply want to add more adventure to your everyday life, my latest webinar will help you design a bucket list of life that excites and motivates you.
In the session, we dive into the power of a Life List—not just a list of dreams, but a roadmap to experiencing more joy, adventure, and fulfilment. You’ll learn how to start small, dream big, and most importantly, turn those dreams into reality. From practical planning tips to overcoming fears, this webinar covers everything you need to stick to your Life List and start making memories today! Check it all out for yourself via THIS LINK.
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Until next time,
Safe Travels
Sue x
This newsletter may contain affiliate links. By using these, Sue Where Why What may receive a small commission for which I say thank you, but you will not pay any extra charges for this. My opinions remain my own.. By using these, Sue Where Why What may receive a small commission for which I say thank you, but you will not pay any extra charges for this. My opinions remain my own.
More of my Adventures…
Blog – Top 11 Wildlife Experiences in the World
Blog – How to Choose a Tour of The Galápagos Islands, Ecuador
Video – Life Bucket List – Where to Start & How to Stick to It!
🏠 For accommodation, I use Booking.com. They have their Genius loyalty scheme which is easy to progress through the levels for better discounts and inclusions.
🚍 For tours and activities, my preferred supplier is Get Your Guide.
🗺️ For multi day or week tours, check out G Adventures. I used them for trips in Costa Rica, Peru, and Galapagos.
🤞 I would never leave home without travel insurance. With Safety Wing you can take out an annual policy and pay monthly. This takes the hassle out of having to remember for us regular travellers.
🛫 For cheap flights, check out Skyscanner or join Jacks Flight Club which scans the internet for error fares (UK only).
🧳 For luggage storage on your travels, I recommend the service by Bounce.
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