At Ecuatraveling, we LOVE animals and are committed to ensuring their well-being as best as we can. To preserve the beautiful wildlife of Ecuador, we work closely with our suppliers to guarantee that the internationally recognized Five Freedoms of animals are respected. Here are some of the main rules we implemented in our daily practices to protect the unique fauna of our amazing country:
- Supporting preservation centers
Ecuatraveling limits as much as possible the offering of captive animal attractions. The only programs including this type of activities aim to raise travelers’ awareness of the necessity to protect endangered species. Therefore, with us, you can visit centers that work actively for the conservation and rehabilitation of threatened species. For example, live meaningful experiences at amaZOOnico Rescue Animal Center or Zoorefugio Tarqui in the Amazon, visit a Giant Tortoise Breeding Center in Galapagos Islands, or observe the wonderful hummingbirds in dedicated sanctuaries in Mindo Cloud Forest. In addition to admiring those incredible animals, you will have the opportunity to learn more about those species and how the centers and sanctuaries ensure their physical and psychological well-being.
- Respecing the animal's natural habitats
Our guides make sure to protect the animals’ environments and to reduce as much as possible the human consequences of their visit. In this regard, the walks in natural environments are quiet, careful of the flora and fauna, do not result in any litter, and sudden movements are avoided. During the diving and snorkeling excursions in Galapagos Islands, local guides emphasize the importance of being careful around the corals and on the beaches. They also do an amazing job at sensibilizing travelers on the fragile ecosystems of the area and providing instructions to follow during every activity.
- Respecting the animals’ regular lifestyles
We value the animals’ private spaces and, therefore, keep safe and respectful distances when observing them in their natural habitat. In the Amazon and Galapagos Islands, among other destinations, our local guides have the expertise to stand at the perfect spot to admire the wonderful wildlife of the area without disturbing the course of their day. When snorkeling and diving, travelers are taught to keep reasonable distances from marine wildlife. Also, animals are never fed.
- Offering meaningful & responsible activities
Our local agency contributes to the efforts towards the protection of endangered species. For instance, in the Amazon, the watching of pink river dolphins helps funding important conservation projects. Those activities are carried out with the dolphins’ best interests in mind, with a safe distance maintained and no touching involved.
- Prohibiting meals that further threaten endangered species or cause animal suffering
Ecuatraveling ensures that every meal included in the tours do not offer options like whale or dolphin meat, shark-fin soup, crocodile, snakes, or any food that caused animal suffering during the preparation process. Endangered wildlife is a lot more enjoyable alive and healthy!
- Riding horses responsibly
Our Cotopaxi Horseback Riding excursion enables travelers to experience Cotopaxi National Park in a unique way with dynamic and healthy horses. In accordance with the international guidelines on animal riding, horses are not overloaded nor overworked, they are well-fed, they have adequate shelter and exercise, coats in good condition, enjoy appropriate resting times, and they have clear, alert, and bright eyes. Additionally, when booking this tour, you directly support the local community of the reserve economically.
Check out our Cotopaxi horseback riding excursion here!
- Banning unacceptable practices involving animals
It is fundamental to Ecuatraveling to not offer activities encouraging unacceptable practices involving animals, such as cultural and sports activities causing animal suffering, animals used for begging, trophy/game hunting of wildlife, cage diving, etc.
When booking with us, you can be sure to admire and learn about the fantastic Ecuadorian fauna the right way. So don’t miss out on the opportunity to live a meaningful and memorable experience and book one of our tours to contribute to their wellbeing!
Written By: Louise Cornilleau
