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Wildlife Holidays in the Azores

Few people know much about this far-flung archipelago in the middle of the Atlantic - yet few places in Europe offer better cetacean watching! If that wasn't tantalising enough, the Azores offer both delicious local cuisines (the soft Pico cheese, served with honey, being a particular favourite) and wines - all of which we will have plenty of opportunity to enjoy during our time here!

The Azores archipelago consists of nine volcanic islands, and stretches for more than 600 kilometres midway between Europe and North America. Its highest point is Mount Pico at just over 2,350 metres. It has a mild oceanic climate and the surrounding seas are warmed by the Gulf Stream.

The islands shelve steeply into the sea, creating an underwater topography that is perfect for attracting deep-diving whales.

These are friendly, attractive and unspoilt Atlantic islands which combine a relaxed atmosphere with an interesting natural history and geology. 

Speak with our Azores specialist

Featured Tours to The Azores

Whales & Dolphins of the Azores

Great Whales of the Azores (São Miguel)

Tailormade Holidays in the Azores

Our Azores Specialist Recommends

"For a first time visit to the Azores, I highly recommend our ‘ Whales & Dolphins of the Azores ’ tour, where we go in search of Sperm Whales and host of other cetacean species around the spectacular island of Pico. If you're keen to spend most of the time focussing on the 'Great Whales', then we also offer dedicated tours on both Pico and São Miguel  for you to get your fix!"

Naturetrek Tours to the Azores

We offer three holidays to the Azores: two dedicated whale and dolphin watching tours on Pico (May and August), and one dedicated whale and dolphin watching tour in Sao Miguel.

What’s special about the wildlife?

Islands often harbour unusual wildlife and the Azores are no exception. While the islands are home to some interesting bird and plant-life, some of their marine-life – in particular the whale and dolphin-watching – is world-class. 27 species of cetacean (whales, dolphins and porpoises) have been recorded in the waters around the Azores, including Sperm Whales, Blue Whales, many dolphin species and some of the elusive beaked whales. 

When should I visit?

Our tours depart in May and August - the weather can be variable in May; however, this time of the year represents your best chance of seeing baleen whales such as Blue, Fin and Sei Whales as they pass through Azorean waters on their annual migration. Sperm Whales and several dolphin species are present throughout the year. Spring and autumn are the best months for seeing passage birds. August typically offers more settled weather, with temperatures reaching highs of about 25ºC, and at this time of year Sperm Whale mothers and calves are present, as well as many dolphins, beaked whales and other marine-life such as flying fish, turtles and Blue Sharks. Cory’s Shearwaters may be seen on nests.

What wildlife might I see?

• On our May whale watching breaks, we search for Blue, Fin, Sei and Sperm Whales, plus beaked whales & dolphins such as Striped, Risso’s & Common Dolphins • On our August whale & dolphin watching holiday in Pico, we’ll have the privilege of watching family groups of Sperm Whales with their calves, and an abundance of dolphin species - typically: Atlantic Spotted, Short-beaked Common, Bottlenose, Risso's, and Striped Dolphins.

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Have questions or ready to book? Reach out and let’s start planning your unforgettable journey to the Azores!

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With its deep green valleys, dramatic volcanic lakes, breathtaking waterfalls, and hypnotizing ocean rich in biodiversity, the Azores have all you can dream of for a memorable holiday.

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Immerse yourself in pioneering Azorean whales & dolphins research and scientific discoveries

• Dolphins' Species
• - Atlantic Spotted Dolphin
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• - Common Dolphin
• - False Killer Whale
• - Risso's Dolphin
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• - Blainville's Beaked Whale
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Jeep Tour Sete Cidades & Lagoa do Fogo

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A One-Stop Company in the Azores

We are the only one-stop company in the Azores, owning the supply chain, having amazing partnerships in the Archipelago and taking care of every single detail, allowing us to create amazing memories with authentic experiences in the pristine Azores nature!

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98% success rate on Whale Watching. Tours until seen

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9 islands that enchant the world.

Hiking Criação Velha Vineyards

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Pico Island Volcanoes and Lakes

Van Tour Pico Wine Culture

Golden shores and hidden treasures

Esta ilha dourada se estende sob o sol, com águas cristalinas e praias de açúcar branco que adicionam uma aura serena ao cenário pitoresco.

Com um rico património e inúmeras atrações, se procura sossego, privacidade e aventura, este é o local perfeito para desfrutar de momentos descontraídos.

Stand-up Paddle Rental in Sete Cidades

Jeep Tour to Sete Cidades & Lakes

Be a Marine Biologist for a Day

Whale Watching & Jeep Tour Sete Cidades

Kayak, SUP & Bike Self Guided tour in Sete Cidades

Buzzing with wonders of earth and sea.

You will be surrounded by stunning landscapes, blooming in color hues from Lilacs and hydrangeas flowers.

Ancient cities brimming with renaissance history, rich in traditions, and cultural rhythms. You will soon see why this is one of the best islands in the Azores.

What people think about

More than 5500 reviews.

Intense in knowledge transmission. They excel in animal tracking with non-intrusive methods. I had an amazing, unexpected experience. Wonderful. They teach the importance of caring for and respecting our seas and oceans, which is crucial.

Exciting excursion, friendly and knowledgeable staff, not too crowded catamaran. We saw two different species of dolphins and a sperm whale with its calf. Thanks for the wonderful experience!

A magical moment! We were able to easily see and interact with the dolphins. There was only our boat with 8 swimmers in total, making it even more enjoyable – a special time with the dolphins. Very clear explanations and a guide who listened and was very pleasant. We will be back 👍

During our vacation, we enjoyed both stand-up paddle and kayaking, resulting in an unforgettable experience. The staff were all incredibly friendly. They recommended restaurants after the activity with a personal touch. 100% recommended.

An outstanding experience. The marine biologist and the driver were both incredibly passionate. We saw 2 dolphins and 2 sperm whales that dived. An unforgettable memory under perfect weather. Thank you for all these unforgettable moments.

It’s impressive that we haven’t found anybody during our walking tour. It was amazing the communion with nature. It feels that nature is still untouched.

Furnas: Geothermal Marvels and Lush Biodiversity

Where Mother Nature shows its magic. Furnas is the entrance to another world full of geological mysteries. A peaceful shelter for locals to get away

Nordeste: Verdant Cliffs and Coastal Splendor

Nordeste is where Mother Nature shows its magic. Furnas is the entrance to another world full of geological mysteries. A peaceful shelter for locals to

Vila Franca do Campo: Cradle of Azorean Heritage

Count this village of an unequalled beauty in your itinerary of São Miguel. It has something exceptional, desired in the summer: its islet. It is

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The iron-rich water of this spa at open air is naturally warm at any time. This green jungle classified as Natural Regional Monument will transport you to another planet. Enjoy the unique scenery straight out of a Jurassic Park movie.

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Whale Watching & Islet Boat Tour

Join an exciting Marine Wildlife tour, to see and learn more about Whales, Dolphins, Turtles, Fish, Birds, and the season's marine biodiversity of the Azores Islands!

• Duration: 3 Hours (approx.)

Around The Islet Boat Tour [Apr-Oct] NEW!

Circle by boat around the Islet of Vila Franca do Campo, see and learn with a biologist or naturalist about the beautiful submerged volcano’s geology and living habitat!

• Duration: 45 Minutes (approx.)

Lagoa do Fogo Volcano Geo Tour [Oct-Jun]

Learn about volcanoes and see eruption evidence, enjoy magnificent island views, bathe at warm hotsprings or chill waterfall!

• Duration: 4 Hours (approx.)

Azorean Whalers Heritage Tour [Oct-Jun]

Taking you back to how ancient Azorean whaling traditions were, and how they transitioned to nowadays wildlife observation & research, and even to a unique sport!

Swim with Dolphins Atlantic Experience [Oct-Apr]

From October to April it’s Dolphin Swimming Season in Azores Islands - a fantastic and unique Wildlife experience in the warm waters of the Atlantic!

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Wildlife Group Tours in Azores

Sperm Whales & Bottlenose Dolphins

Venture to the Azores to admire the wealth of cetaceans found here, including sperm whales and bottlenose dolphins. Arguably Europe’s premier whale watching destination, approximately one third of the world's known whale and dolphin species have been observed in the deep, azure waters. Find out more about Sperm Whales & Bottlenose Dolphins

• Price (inc. flights) : 6-10 days from £1,595
• Trip type : Group Tour

Whales & Dolphins of the Azores

Situated in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, the islands of the Azores are the finest location in Europe for whale and dolphin watching. During the spring months an astonishing 28 species of cetacean can be encountered here including some of the largest on Earth, such as fin, sei and blue whale. Find out more about Whales & Dolphins of the Azores

• Price (inc. flights) : 8 days from £2,795
• Trip type : Group Tour Tailor-made can be arranged

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Book Azores Wildlife Tours

Half-day Canyoning Tour at Ribeira dos Caldeirões

• You can cancel these tickets up to 48 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
• Satisfy the adventure junky within you with a half-day canyoning experience in Ribeira dos Caldeirões with professionals by your side.
• Explore Ribeira dos Caldeirões hidden pools and waterfalls while enjoying a great hike through nature.
• With gear like harnesses, helmets, and full thermal protection, you'll be ready for any adventure.
• Embark on an adventure through canyons and natural waterfalls and slide through the rocks formed by the stream's flow.
• Isothermal protection of participants
• Harness and technical equipment
• Material including ropes and transport bag
• Insurance (Personal Accidents and Civil Liability)
• Transportation
• Personal expenses
• Tip: It is recommended to have a light snack before this experience to give you just the energy you need.
• The tour is given in both English and Portuguese.
• This activity is not suited for wheelchair users, pram/stroller users, individuals with disabilities, or pregnant women.
• Individuals are recommended to wear comfortable shoes and clothing in order to fully enjoy the sport.

Full-Day Hike to Lagoa do Fogo

• Hop on a full-day hike tour to Lagoa da Fogo and soak in the beautiful landscape and ocean-blue water views.
• Indulge yourself in the panoramic view of the crater filled with an emerald lake and take in the stunning views of the surrounding landscape
• Take a break for lunch at Lagoa do Fogo mountain, and then stop to enjoy the most stunning views of the island and lake.
• Embark on the hike and discover several plant species indigenous to the island and learn about the creation of this lagoon.
• Guide from Picos de Aventura
• Insurance including Personal Accidents and Civil Liability
• Walking sticks
• Tip: Keep an eye out for the weather in this area and plan your hike in advance to be fully prepared.
• Except for individuals with medical exemptions, everyone must wear face masks.
• The tour is offered in English and Portuguese.
• Please arrive at the pick-up location 10 minutes before departure.

Half-Day Hike to Sete Cidades

• Experience the magnificence of Sete Cidades on a hiking trail with an expert, local guide, who will introduce you to its most breathtaking sights.
• Bask in the pristine vistas from the top of mountain Pico das Éguas, and delight in the sight of the twin crater lake as well as the Canário lake.
• Enhance your experience with a transportation service that will pick you up and drop you back at the hotel without any hassle.
• Commemorate your hike by taking picture-perfect selfies that capture the natural beauty of Sete Cidades and its surrounding landscape.
• English & Portuguese local guide from Picos de Aventura
• Hotel transfers
• Audio guide
• Canes, gaiters (winter), reusable water bottle
• Food and beverages
• Gratuities & personal expenses
• Tip: For the best experience, do the hike on a sunny day and carry along hiking poles to ease the walk.
• Wear comfortable shoes like sneakers on this hiking trip.
• Apply sunscreen and carry a hat, water bottle, etc. with you.
• This experience is not suitable for wheelchair users, pram/stroller users, differently-abled people, pregnant people, guests with limited mobility, guests with back/neck injuries, and guests with guide dogs.

Tour of Whale Watching at Azores Islands & Islet Boat Tour

• You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
• Get aboard an exciting Marine biodiversity tour with biologists and naturalistic guides.
• Discover more information about whales, dolphins, turtles, fish, birds, and the season's marine biodiversity.
• Spot this island’s sandy beaches, scenic coastline and the Princess Ring Islet of Vila Franca do Campo.
• Uncover the hidden secrets of sea life in the heart of the Atlantic.
• Don't pass up on the chance to spot the resident sperm whales and abundant biodiversity.
• Knowledgeable guide
• Islet round tour
• Experienced skipper
• Zodiac RIB Boat (12 or 28 people)
• Impearable full suit & life vest
• Hotel transfers (available at an extra charge)
• Meal inclusions
• Personal water supply
• The tour will primarily take place in English but is also available in Spanish, French, Italian, German, Portuguese, and Dutch. However, these languages cannot be guaranteed.
• It is advisable to wear warm clothing as weather conditions may alter during the tour.
• This tour is not recommended for pregnant women, persons with weak backs, or delicate health conditions.
• This tour is not wheelchair accessible.
• This tour is not available for children under the age of 4 years.

Azorean Whalers Heritage Tour

• Experience the Azorean whaleboat visit and learn about the whale culture at the place on this heritage tour.
• Engage in whale spotting and whale lookout during the tour with specialized binoculars.
• Have access to an introductory briefing about the experience and interact with locals to have access to more stories.
• See the original 1945 whaleboat "Senhora de Fátima”, the fully operational and sea-worthy evidence of the era in São Miguel.
• Visit "Vigia da Furada” and learn about ancient whale spotting techniques.
• See the Ponta Garça's 1957 Lighthouse for a lighthouse keeper-led tour that will provide you with intriguing information about the structure and its significance.
• Guided tour
• Azorean Whaling History Briefing
• Visit the 1945 Azorean Whaleboat
• Van Tour (air-conditioned)
• Whaler Lookout Tour & Role-play
• Hotel transfers (available separately)

Half-Day Guided Van Tour of Sete Cidades

• Set off from Ponta Delgada in a comfortable van to explore the breathtaking vistas of Lagoa de Santiago, Lagoa Verde, and Azul with an English/Portuguese-speaking guide.
• Visit a pineapple farm where you can observe the different stages of the fruit's growth and relish the taste of authentic pineapple liqueur.
• Proceed to Pico do Carvão where you can see both north and south coasts of the picturesque São Miguel island at the same time.
• Take Christmas cards and Insta-worthy pictures of Lagoa das Sete Cidades from the striking Vista do Rei viewpoint.
• Enjoy a brief stop on the tranquil shore of Lagoa das Sete Cidades for another dreamlike photo moment before your return to Ponta Delgada.
• English/Portuguese-speaking driver/guide
• Van transfers with a capacity of 8 guests
• Pineapple plantation visit with liqueur tasting
• Meal and any other drinks

Picos de Aventura / Meeting at the Hotel | Pineapple plantation | Viewpoint of Vista do Rei | Sete Cidades | Arrival in Ponta Delgada

• Tip: Check the weather forecast before your visit, as the view can sometimes be obscured by fog.

Guided Biking & Kayaking Tour at Furnas with Lunch

• You may get a good idea of what it's like to be inside a dormant volcano by spending a day paddling and biking through Furnas.
• Discover diverse landscapes as you scale calderas on a bicycle and wade into lagoons on a canoe.
• The trip provides transport, a meal cooked in a special way, safety equipment, and everything else you could need throughout the excursion.
• Your English and Portuguese-speaking guide will also provide historical context on Furnas, the largest civil parish in the Azores Islands!
• Expert English & Portuguese-speaking guide
• Helmet & first-aid kit
• Canoe (2 adults + 1 child) & paddles
• Safety vest
• Round-trip transfers from Picos de Aventura/Ponta Delgada
• Insurance (Personal Accidents & Civil Liability)
• Bicycle shoes & gloves
• Tip: Bring everything you might need for the day, including but not limited to swimwear, shoes that can get wet (like sandals), a waterproof bag to store electronics, biking shoes and gloves, a towel, a hat, sunscreen, a backpack, extra food and water, and a change of clothes to wear after the activity.
• This experience is suitable for beginners without a prior knowledge of swimming.
• This experience is not suitable for guests aged 5 and under.

Guided Half-Day Whale Watching Tour

• Take part in an unforgettable half-day whale-watching cruise on the magnificent Sea of Azorean, the top 10 whale-watching spots in the world.
• See whales and dolphins in their natural habitat, safely and respectfully, in the Azores in your chosen boats.
• Board Catamaran or Zodiac boat according to your preference and escape to the world of sea to discover some truths and facts behind whales with a professional instructor on board.
• Spot striped dolphins, sperm whales, bottlenose dolphins, sei whales, fin whales, common dolphins, pilot whales, minke whales, Atlantic spotted dolphins and Risso's dolphins on your half-day tour.
• Activity presentation
• Fiber boat or catamaran
• Life jackets
• Waterproof jackets
• Insurance (Including Personal Accident and Liability)

This ticket has the following options that you can choose from:

• Whale Watching Half-day - Catamaran
• Whale Watching Half-day - Zodiac Boat
• Tip: Keep your cameras ready as you will never know which marine animal you may spot on this tour!
• The experience is appropriate for pram/stroller users.
• For semi-rigid and fiber boats, life jackets are required.
• While riding the speed and fiber boats, riders must wear waterproof jackets.
• During the summer, it is recommended that you dress warmly and wear waterproof shoes or slippers.

Guided Glass Bottom Boat Tour with Snorkeling in São Miguel

• Immerse yourself in a captivating 2-hour guided tour of the Azores Sea aboard a glass-bottom boat with an expert crew and guide.
• Get your journey underway at Vila Franca do Campo Marina with a briefing from a marine biologist, and discover the region's marine life, nature, and history.
• Observe unique sea creatures in the protected area, including seabirds, crustaceans, colorful fish, starfish, and volcanic activity beneath the water.
• Swim or snorkel with the wildlife for an unforgettable adventure experience, and witness the marine ecosystem up close.
• Access to 2 hour glass bottom boat tour in São Miguel
• English and Portuguese-speaking guides
• Snorkeling equipment
• Tip: Look out for the 'fishy kiss' - if you're lucky, you might get a gentle nibble on your finger from the curious fish when you dip it in the water.
• Facilities: Wheelchair Accessibility, Pram/Stroller Accessibility, Pets, Guide dogs allowed.
• Bring along your sunscreen.
• Outside food and drinks allowed, photography allowed.
• If you would like to do snorkeling we recommend bringing swimwear and a towel.

+351 916 947 485

Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of são miguel island, the team at azoresland tours.

At AzoresLand Tours, we are a group of passionate and experienced locals who are dedicated to giving you an authentic and memorable experience on São Miguel Island. Our local experts know the island like the back of their hand, and they can't wait to share their knowledge and love of the island with you.

• Local expertise
• Customized itineraries
• Exceptional service

See for yourself the island's captivating landscapes, rich culture, and diverse wildlife.

Feel the nature discover são miguel with our tours.

Sete Cidades

45€ / person.

Lagoa do Fogo

Furnas with lunch

75€ / person, worried because you have a big group,    .

We are glad to help you arrange everything even for bigger groups, dont hesitate to contact us!

Our Gallery

Take a visual tour of São Miguel Island through our photo gallery, featuring stunning images of the island's landscapes, wildlife, and traditional culture. From lush green forests to rugged coastlines, our gallery gives you a glimpse of the island's natural beauty and diversity, and will leave you wanting more.

Private Marine Wildlife

for groups, celebrations and private occasions!

Private Boat Tour Azores Sao Miguel

… great variety of birds at good distance for capturing quality photos on the rocky outcroppings offshore, as well as seabird colonies on the water.

One of the Best Places to watch Whales around the World

… passion, fascinating information, commitment to sustainability and the environment, always with a sense of humor! I loved every minute!

… couldn’t ask for a better experience enjoying nature and conservation efforts to protect and respect these ocean creatures. Will never forget this tour.

One of the 10 Best Whale Watching Destinations

Amazing trip. Well organised with Land based lookouts guiding the boat. Knowledgeable and lovely tour guide. Definitely a must do.

The team at Terra Azul are knowledgeable and expert in their field. Trips are well organised and value for money.

Certainly, an in-touch-with-nature experience, organised by a passionate-about-nature, warm & caring team. This was, undoubtedly, the best experience of our trip to the Azores.

Great experience!!! Very fair people who only go out when the chance is almost 100% for spotting animals.

With only 20 participants you get the feeling that you are on an adventure and not just another trip with the masses of tourists.

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Approximately 3 hours

Naturalist/biologist guide, custom-tailored, relationship builder, great for special occasions, for private events.

Personalized Zodiac boat tour with Skipper and Marine Wildlife Guide!

See Wildlife, cruise the island’s scenic coastline, discover hidden places and secluded beaches, snorkel the Atlantic’s sea bottom, or… It’s up to you!

The​ ​journey​ ​start​s on schedule with​ ​a short briefing​ ​introducing you to​ ​local​ marine species and their habitat, and safety onboard.

You will then follow your guide to your Zodiac boat, now free to enjoy a fun boat trip to see Whales, Dolphins, Birds and marine wildlife, to cruise the beautiful coastline, for better views to the island’s volcanoes, to discover hidden places, to explore secluded beaches, to snorkel the island’s coastal marine fauna and flora, or… Let us know what you’d like to do!

Marine Wildlife can be observed yearlong. Sperm Whales are resident with 3 additional cetacean species, and marine biodiversity is abundant. From March to June it is the passing of many species of the migratory Baleen Whale giants. Exclusively between June and September it is possible to swim with any of 4 different species of Dolphins!

Our​ ​lookout​ ​high​ ​inland​ ​will​ ​assist the Skipper in finding wildlife and provide​ ​directions​ ​via​ ​VHF​ ​Radio. A knowledgeable Wildlife Guide is there to keep you informed, and ensure the best environmental and conservation standards on tour.

We recommend you to be at the specified time for registration and briefing. Eat light, and bring your personal water supply, swimsuit, towel, and warm clothing, sunscreen and chap-stick for the Sun. Light food is permitted, and a Camera is essential, specially for photography lovers – please protect any electronics and personal equipment.

This tour is inappropriate and inadvisable for anyone pregnant , with weak back, in wheelchair, in delicate health condition, or under the age of 4.

• [Oct 1st – Mar 31st]
• * Includes Wildlife Guide
• + Wetsuits, Snorkel Masks & Tubes
• Clean & Safe Certified
• Instant Confirmation
• Free Cancellations
• [Apr 1st – Sep 30th]

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Marina Vila Franca do Campo 4 9680-187 São Miguel Island Azores Islands – Portugal

Bookings: +351 913 453 030 (mobile) Tel: +351 296 581 361 (landline) Email: info@azoreswhalewatch.com

REG/VAT PT512070423 RNAAT 131/2015 MT 39/2009

• Whale Watching
• Swim with Dolphins
• Marine Birdwatching
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The complex ethics of wildlife tourism – and how to do it with a clear conscience

A polar bear somersaulting metres above my head isn’t something I’d ever imagined. In the wild it would be impossible – I wouldn’t live to share the tale. But within the confines of Winnipeg’s Assiniboine Park Zoo in Canada , the apex predator can be seen daily swimming through a water tunnel in the Journey to Churchill exhibit.

The facility prides itself on providing a home for orphans and delinquent bears beyond rehabilitation, found roaming through the Canadian Arctic frontier town Churchill on the edge of the Hudson Bay. Yet despite good intentions, solid scientific arguments and attempts to keep the environment as natural as possible, it still felt uncomfortably wrong. 

From zoos and aquariums to circus shows and petting farms, showcasing animals is increasingly perceived as exploitative rather than entertaining. Aristocratic menageries are – thankfully – an embarrassment belonging to the past. 

When troubled SeaWorld orca Tilikum dramatically carried the body of his trainer to a viewing window, a scandal which inspired the 2013 documentary Blackfish , public opinion of marine parks changed forever. 10 years later, the ripple effect continues. 

Last week, package tour operator easyJet Holidays announced a new animal welfare policy, dropping any captivity attractions including zoos, marine parks and animal performances from its itineraries. Virgin Holidays already has similar guidelines in place.

Some culprits of animal cruelty are obvious: elephant rides in Thailand, swimming with dolphins in Dubai, petting canned lions, bred in captivity, in South Africa. But the ethics of wildlife tourism are far more nuanced. Drawing a line between what’s right and wrong is not an easy task. 

Zoos and sanctuaries, for example, can play a vital role in conserving species and raising public awareness.

“Not all these experiences are 100 per cent negative,” explains Candice Buchan, Head of Rainbow Tours. “Sometimes the education on offer is valuable, and in some cases these organisations are doing important conservation or research work.”

Sir David Attenborough, a supporter of ZSL London Zoo, has a similar opinion.

“I justify zoos providing they are scientific, providing they are selective about what they keep and providing they keep them to the highest possible standards,” he has told reporters in the past.

Various zoological societies and institutions have played an important role in reviving species on the brink of extinction. Tanzania’s Grumeti Game Reserve, for example, has received black rhinos from San Diego Zoo and Port Lympne Safari Park in the UK. There’s an argument to suggest the northern white rhino, a species at the centre of a pioneering IVF scheme, would have disappeared years ago had a handful animals not been taken to zoos.

Some tour operators set the bar by distinguishing between activities that alter animal behaviour. 

“Wildlife experiences should happen in the wild – on the animals’ terms,” insists Rob Perkins from Responsible Travel.

But even on icy plateaus and rolling unfenced plains, few encounters are truly natural. Travel brochures might trick you into thinking otherwise, but every animal on safari is conditioned to the sound of engines. 

The best example of habituation is mountain gorillas in Rwanda and Uganda. While conservationists such as Dian Fossey were hesitant to accept tourism, it’s undoubtedly had a positive impact: since 1998, numbers of the species have risen from 620 to 1,063.

“Habituation of the great apes is essential for the species to thrive,” says Amos Wekesa, CEO of East African specialists Great Lakes Safaris. “Local communities need a reason to protect the species that are stealing their crops and stopping them from hunting in the forests.”

If not handled properly, however, tourism can be damaging. Over the years, I’ve witnessed some appalling behaviour on game drives in the Masai Mara as vehicles jostle for a position, disturbing cheetah hunts, chasing leopards and forcing several thousand migrating wildebeest to change course.  A solution lies in community-owned conservancies, where numbers of visitors are carefully controlled and stakeholders can attach a financial benefit to protecting the wildlife on their doorstep.

“In an ideal world, we’d like to see national parks and their attendant wildlife conserved because it’s the right thing to do; because we believe that we should leave the planet in a better state than when we found it,” says Chris McIntyre, Managing Director for Expert Africa. “However, in the real world, we understand that these areas, and their wildlife, usually need to pay for themselves to be conserved.”

Camps like the Mara’s House In The Wild and Angama Amboseli do an excellent job of making communities central to their story. Asilia and Kicheche are other good safari companies to consider.

When choosing any type of wildlife holiday, Jarrad Kyte from Steppes Travel recommends three key considerations: community, conservation and code of conduct. Terry Moohan, Head of Africa and Indian Ocean at cazenove+loyd, also warns tourists to manage their expectations and accept what nature provides. 

A window into an animal’s natural world is far more rewarding than a forced close encounter. But it’s important to remember that the concept of pure wilderness is a romantic fantasy when every inch of our planet has been impacted by humans. Any form of wildlife tourism is – at best - a compromise.

Five ethical ways to see animals

Musk oxen in norway.

Easily accessible by rail or road, Norway’s Dovrefjell National Park is the unlikely setting for an animal belonging to another era in time. Shaggy-haired musk oxen were introduced from Greenland between the 1930s and 1940s and have found a way to survive in the snowy valleys. Join a guided hike to view them on foot at a safe distance or watch from the comfort of the Viewpoint Snohetta, an architectural masterpiece of curved wood and glass. 

Do it : Day hikes are from £46. Take the train from Oslo or Trondheim to Oppdal. Visit oppdalsafari.no

Red knots in Norfolk

Observing any species in large numbers is a thrilling experience. But mass migrations happen in more places than just Africa. From late summer to early winter, thousands of red knots populate mudflats at the Wash in Norfolk, viewable from hides in the RSPB Snettisham Reserve. A rising tide forces birds into the sky where they swirl in flocks, performing an aerial display known as the Snettisham Spectacular. The RSPB website has a list of the key dates when tides when this will happen. 

Book it:  Entrance to the reserve is free, although parking costs £3. Visit rspb.org.uk

Red kites in Scotland

Once Britain’s most common bird of prey, red kites were persecuted by gamekeepers and almost wiped out by the 1900s. Reintroduced to central Scotland, several pairs took up roost on the family owned Argaty Estate. In partnership with the RSPB and Scottish Natural Heritage, couple Lynn and Niall Bowser established the area’s only official feeding station, where visitors can get a close look at the graceful raptors from hides. The family has two guest cottages within their grounds. 

Book it:  Three nights are from £375 (sleeping up to six). Day visits from £7. Visit argatyredkites.co.uk

Whales in the Azores

Given the number of marine mammals in our nearby waters, there’s no need to visit aquariums. Sightings of sperm, blue, fin, sei and humpback whales – along with Risso’s and common dolphins – make the Azores Europe’s premier cetacean spotting destination. Assist researchers with photographing species and collecting data on whale watching trips between March and May when many of the migrating giants pass through. 

Book it:  Wildlife Worldwide can arrange a six-day trip from £1,595pp, including flights. Visit  wildlifeworldwide.com

Gorillas in East Africa

The restoration of Rwanda’s Akagera National Park is a remarkable success story, due largely to the work of NGO African Parks. Learn about their anti-poaching measures and efforts to reduce human-wildlife conflict as part of a longer behind the scenes tailor-made tour of the country and neighbouring Uganda. Meet Batwa communities, once forcibly evicted from the forest, in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, and trek gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. 

Book it: A 10-night trip costs from £7,365, including flights. Various departures. Visit rainbowtours.co.uk

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