Animal exploitation in tourism is not a new issue. Across the world, experiences once marketed as “once-in-a-lifetime” have come under scrutiny—from elephant riding in Thailand, to holding sea turtles in the Cayman Islands, to “walking with lions” in South Africa.

As travelers, we are naturally drawn to these experiences but too often, tourism continues to operate in ways that come at a cost—to wildlife, to working animals, and to local communities. Behind the curated experiences and iconic landmarks, there can be a very different reality.

One traveler, Michiko, had spent years planning their trip to Egypt and Jordan. Like many, they saw it as a highlight—an opportunity to experience one of the world’s most ancient and revered civilisations, home to globally recognised UNESCO World Heritage sites.

But after learning more about the treatment of working animals in the nation, Michiko made the difficult decision to cancel the trip.

“I finally began my deep research to finalize the itinerary, my dream quickly turned into a nightmare. I discovered countless accounts on traveler forums describing the exact same horror: the breathtaking monuments are overshadowed by the heartbreaking mistreatment of the animals forced to serve there. I saw evidence of horses and camels with mutilated, bleeding noses, animals so emaciated their ribs were visible under the scorching sun, signs of severe physical abuse and exotic creatures kept in dark, cramped confinement for 40 years. Most agonizingly, I learned of the “animal graveyards” behind the Pyramids—where these loyal beings, once exhausted and no longer “useful,” are simply left to die in the desert heat“.

What is being called “tradition” by locals is, in reality, a systemic exploitation of sentient beings for tourism profit. Often, people try to normalize this cruelty by blaming it on economic hardship. But hardship is never an excuse for abuse. Cruelty is not a symptom of poverty, just as kindness is not a luxury reserved for the rich. One can be wealthy and cruel, or struggling and compassionate. Kindness and compassion are choices we make, regardless of our circumstances.”

A core value of ethical travel is the conscious choice of where we go. Where our footprints land—and where we spend our money—can either reinforce harmful practices or help shift them. 

Michiko has chosen to make a stand: “I cannot, in good conscience, spend a single dollar that contributes to this suffering. I will not support an industry that mutilates and discards animals.”.

Michiko is not alone. Other travelers have shared similar experiences online after witnessing the exploitation of animals in Egypt and Jordan firsthand. 

Horses, Camels, Donkeys: 

Tripadvisor / Tripadvisor / Tripadvisor / Facebook / Facebook / SBC / Daily Mail / Reddit / Reddit 

Crocodile: 

Tripadvisor 1 / 2 

Many reflect that, had they done more research beforehand, they may have made different choices—avoiding destinations or experiences that contributed to the problem.

As individuals, we often underestimate the influence we hold. But collectively, our decisions carry weight. This is exactly what Michiko recognised—choosing not only to cancel the trip, but to act. Michiko also formally wrote to the Egyptian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities and the Egypt Tourism Promotion Authority, raising concerns about the treatment of working animals within the tourism industry.

Michiko’s actions also raise a broader question: how does a globally recognised status—such as UNESCO— coexist with ongoing ethical concerns such as prolific animal welfare?

So what can we do? 

Start with awareness. Do your own research before you travel—because what we don’t know, we can unintentionally support.

There are also active campaigns and non-profit organisations advocating for reform, including the Society for the Protection of Animal Rights in Egypt and People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals. These groups provide resources, from petitions to letter templates, making it easier for travelers to raise concerns and call for change.

If you do choose to visit Egypt, there are still ways to minimise harm and make more responsible choices. 

1. Avoid all animal rides, including horse-drawn carriages and camel rides at tourist sites. Instead, opt for experiences that do not rely on animals, such as guided cultural tours or low-impact desert exploration
2. Where possible, support ethical operators. If riding is something you seek, only engage with verified rescue organisations that prioritise animal welfare, such as Explore Cairo on Horseback.
3. You can also contribute directly by donating to charities working on the ground, including Egypt Equine Aid and Animal Care Egypt.

Encouragingly, there has been some progress. As of April 2026, Egypt’s Chamber of Tourism Establishments and Restaurants issued a directive banning the use of animals—both domestic and wild—in artistic and entertainment performances within hotel and tourism facilities. While this is a positive step, it also highlights how much further there is to go.

Image by Robert Holmes

Cancelling a trip of a lifetime is never a decision taken lightly. We all crave adventure—the opportunity to experience new cultures, landscapes, and ways of life. But the reality is, our planet offers countless destinations that not only welcome travelers, but actively protect their people, environment, and natural resources.

Ethical Traveler’s World’s Ten Best Ethical Destinations 2025 highlights countries in the developing world that are leading the way. Each year, nearly 150 nations are assessed based on their commitment to human rights, environmental protection, and social welfare, with ten destinations recognised for their progress and positive impact.

By choosing where we go—and how we spend—we have the ability to support best practices and encourage other countries to move in the same direction.