6 Tourist Experiences We Avoid (and Why You Should Too)
We believe that travel should leave a positive impact. Not harm the animals, people, or nature that make this island so special. 🌴🐘
Sadly, some popular tourist attractions in Sri Lanka continue to exploit wildlife in the name of “entertainment.” That’s why we choose not to include them in our tours — and we think you shouldn’t either.
💚Here’s what we say no to — and why it matters:
🙅♀️ Elephant Riding – Anywhere, at Any Time
Elephants used for riding are often taken from the wild, chained, and subjected to harsh training (torture). It's a cruel practice that causes lifelong physical and emotional harm to these gentle giants. 🐘💔
Even when they appear calm, their spirits have been broken. That’s why you’ll never find elephant riding on any of our itineraries.
🙅♀️ Dehiwala Zoo
This old zoo in Colombo is sadly known for small enclosures and poor animal welfare. Many animals live in isolation, far from their natural habitats. 🦁🦜
We believe wild creatures deserve more than cages.
If you want to experience Sri Lanka’s wildlife, we’ll guide you to national parks and natural habitats — where animals roam free.
🙅♀️Pinnawala Elephant “Orphanage”
Despite its heartwarming name, this is not a true sanctuary. Many elephants here are chained for long hours and forced into unnatural tourist interactions under the label of “rescue.” 😢 A real sanctuary never allows direct contact, feeding, or bathing with elephants. That’s why we skip Pinnawala and instead promote ethical wildlife experiences that protect, not perform.
👉 read more about what we can recomend HERE (coming soon)
🙅♀️Whale Watching Tours
Sri Lanka was once famous for its blue whale sightings — but irresponsible whale watching has taken a heavy toll. 🐋 Many tour boats chase whales too aggressively, getting dangerously close and causing stress or even injury. Some operators even offer snorkeling with whales — an activity that’s dangerous, unethical, and illegal in Sri Lanka.
Irresponsible whale watching, with boats chasing and surrounding the animals, has led to increased stress, disrupted migration patterns, and sadly, fewer whales in our waters. 🐋💔What used to be a magical encounter is now often a harmful one.
Until stricter regulations are enforced, we choose not to include whale watching in our tours.
Image: Canva pro, published with permission.
🙅♀️Animal Performances, Feeding, or Selfies with Wild Animals
Wild animals are not photo props!
Behind many “cute” animal selfies are stories of sedation, abuse, or captivity. 🦥📸
We don’t support shows, feeding sessions, or any activity that turns wildlife into entertainment. Let’s admire them where they belong — wild and free. 🌿
👉 read more about what we can recomend HERE (coming soon)
Why We Take a Stand 💚
Tourism has incredible power — it can either harm or help. By saying no to harmful wildlife attractions, we’re saying yes to:
✅ Respect for animals and marine life
✅ Eco-friendly and sustainable travel choices
✅ Local partners who follow ethical guidelines
✅ Nature experiences that are meaningful — and mindful
Because travel should never come at the expense of animal welfare or the environment. 🌱
Ready to explore Sri Lanka responsibly? 🌿✨
Our travel experts can design a private, tailor-made tour that lets you see wildlife in the wild — not in cages.
👉 Get a Free Custom Tour Proposal!
