At ESCAPE JOURNEYS, we’re not here to judge anyone’s past travel choices. If you’ve attended dolphin shows or similar attractions before, know that you’re not alone—I’ve been there too. But over time, both personally and for my business as well as through education and reasearch, I’ve chosen to no longer support these kinds of experiences because they don’t align with the values we hold dear.

🐾 Respect for Animal Welfare
Animals held in captivity for entertainment are often taken from their natural habitats and confined in environments that restrict their natural behaviours, leading to stress and harm. We stand by the principle that wildlife deserves to live freely and with dignity.

Photo by Loïc Fürhoff on Unsplash

🌊 Genuine Connection in the Wild

There’s truly nothing like witnessing these incredible creatures in their natural environment. Imagine an afternoon scenic sailboat cruise where dolphins swim alongside your boat, playful and free. Or picture a sunset cruise that becomes an impromptu whale-watching adventure as you come across a pod of majestic humpback whales breaching and diving—a magical experience that stays with you long after the journey ends. Or watching a herd of elephants casually walk past your camp in the Okavango Delta, a humbling and unforgettable reminder of nature’s grace and spirit.

⚠️ Beware of “Sanctuaries”

It’s also important to be mindful of places calling themselves sanctuaries. While ethical sanctuaries exist and focus on caring for animals without using them for entertainment, not all sanctuaries operate this way. True sanctuaries do not train animals to do tricks to entertain the audiences or use them for selfies. We’re here to help you find genuine sanctuaries that respect and protect their inhabitants.

🚫 Not Genuine Education

Attractions where animals perform for tourists are often marketed as educational, but in reality, they do not provide authentic understanding of the animals’ natural behaviours or the environmental challenges they face. Using animals for entertainment is not education—it is commodification.

💡 The Power of Choice

These attractions exist because there is demand—people visit, watch, and support them. By choosing not to sell or attend these experiences, we’re making a conscious decision to speak through our actions and our wallets. It’s a meaningful way to encourage more ethical and sustainable tourism by directing support toward responsible wildlife encounters.

💡 Standing by Our Principles

We don’t judge your travel history—we simply choose, for ESCAPE JOURNEYS and our travellers, to promote only experiences that reflect compassion, respect, and sustainability.

Having experienced both animals as part of the entertainment tourism industry and witnessing them in the wild, I can say there is absolutely no comparison. The freedom, beauty, and authenticity of seeing wildlife in their natural habitat is simply unmatched.

Your journey with us begins with a promise to honour the world’s incredible wildlife in a way that truly speaks to your soul. Ready to experience nature’s wonders in the wild, respectfully and meaningfully? Let’s chat.

— Heather Folkins - Owner Specializing in Responsible Travel,  Escape Journeys.