Your guide to witnessing and protecting endangered wildlife on your travels

15 May 2025

Every year, Endangered Species Day reminds us how vital it is to protect the incredible species that share our planet. While time is running out for many, more responsible travel gives us an opportunity not just to see these majestic creatures but to play a tangible role in their survival. By choosing ethical operators, supporting conservation-focused programmes, and understanding the challenges animals face, we can create a ripple of positive change for generations to come. From lush jungles and sprawling savannahs to crystal-clear oceans, here’s how you can witness the beauty of some of the world’s most endangered species in ways that actively support their conservation.

Your guide to witnessing and protecting endangered wildlife on your travels

Swing into action – Bornean orangutans

Deep in the rainforests of Malaysian Borneo, the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre is a beacon of hope for the critically endangered Bornean orangutan. This world-class sanctuary rescues and rehabilitates orangutans orphaned by deforestation and poaching, returning them to the wild when ready.

Paying a visit during a trip to Borneo allows you to observe these fascinating primates in semi-wild environments while directly supporting the centre’s vital work. The funds from your visit go toward conservation projects, food, and care. It’s an experience filled with wonder and a stark reminder of the fragility of our ecosystems.

Step into the wild – black rhinos

In the heart of Kenya, Lewa Safari Camp offers a remarkable gateway to witness the awe-inspiring conservation efforts for one of the planet’s most threatened species, the black rhino. Nestled within the sprawling 65,000-acre Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, this sanctuary has had a significant impact on rhino populations, protecting more than 100 black rhinos and hosting 14% of Kenya’s rhino population.

Visitors can partake in immersive experiences like bush walks and game drives, all while supporting education, healthcare, and micro-enterprise programmes that benefit thousands of nearby residents.

A journey to the highlands – mountain gorillas

Few experiences rival the wonder of trekking through Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park, where you can encounter the majestic mountain gorilla. Once on the brink of extinction, the species is slowly recovering thanks to conservation efforts supported by more responsible tourism.

Programmes like those by Sense of Africa ensure your visit directly impacts their survival. Gorilla permits not only control visitor numbers to reduce disturbance but also fund the park’s protection efforts and community programmes for local populations. Imagine standing mere metres from a silverback while knowing your presence contributes to their continued existence.

Protecting hatchlings – green turtles

On the shores of Costa Rica, conservation initiatives by groups like Tortugas de Osa are working tirelessly to protect endangered green turtles. From patrolling beaches to safeguarding nesting sites and releasing hatchlings safely into the ocean, these programmes provide hope for a brighter future.

Guests can volunteer or take guided tours that leave no footprints on the turtles’ habitats but contribute directly to their safety. Visiting here offers the chance to catch a glimpse of female turtles nesting or hatchlings scrambling toward the tide, a truly magical and unforgettable experience.

Wander into the woods – Marsican brown bears

Italy’s Apennine Mountains serve as a haven for the critically endangered Marsican brown bear. With only 60 left in the wild, there’s an inspiring rewilding initiative by one of our travel partners, Exodus, in partnership with Rewilding Apennines to help maintain and potentially increase these numbers.

Travellers on Exodus’ guided tours become part of this conservation story. Explorers can visit Bear-Smart Corridors, engage with local communities where some of the excellent conservation work has already been done, and take part in thrilling wildlife tracking. Joining these efforts doesn’t just support the Marsican brown bear but also leaves adventurers with a profound appreciation for the delicate balance of life in these ancient landscapes.

If you would like to incorporate a responsible wildlife experience into your next trip, contact your Travel Counsellor.

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