This month we are highlighting the wildlife that enriches our world and are also an important component of most Discover Corps adventures. At Discover Corps, we pride ourselves on venturing to some of the furthest corners of Earth to experience the most unique nature and wildlife on the planet. Wildlife tourism is not just an opportunity for adventure; it is a crucial element in the preservation of our planet’s biodiversity. Our approach to wildlife tourism is educational, aligned with global ethical standards and often integrated with local organizations dedicated to preserving these magnificent creatures.
How Can Wildlife Tourism Help?
According to the World Travel & Tourism Council, responsible wildlife tourism can be a force for good if done responsibly. Responsible travel is essential in ensuring that future generations can experience the same wonders we do today.
- Support Conservation Efforts
Animal conservation is expensive, especially for endangered species, due to the costs of protection and creating ideal environments for their growth. Supporting reputable initiatives and responsible providers helps generate the necessary funds for ongoing conservation efforts.
A great example of conservation efforts with Discover Corps is our Uganda – Gorilla Conservation Adventure where we work alongside local guides and researchers on a gorilla trekking expedition in the Equatorial jungles of Uganda. There, our travelers not only get to be face-to-face with these amazing creatures in the wild, but they also get to support those that call Uganda home. Learn basket-weaving from women involved in a local charity project setup to empower women struggling with poverty, HIV and domestic violence. Visit a primary school getting to know the children and helping play educational games. Learn about gorilla health and welfare with a local veterinarian.
- Support The Local Economy
Consumer demand influences business and government investments. Increased traveler demand for conservation and responsible tourism encourages investment in the right areas. Thailand is a great case in point. Booming tourism led to significant investments in tourism infrastructure, as well as regulations benefiting wildlife and ecotourism industries.
Our Thailand adventures are a great example of demand creating local jobs for the economy. In each of our trips to Thailand, we support the majestic animals that are the symbol of Thai culture, elephants. That is especially apparent on our Thailand – The Elephant Experience adventure where we not only explore Northern Thailand but also help care for rescued and injured elephants affected by deforestation alongside their caretakers, also known as mahouts. The sanctuary that we volunteer at supports local mahouts, or elephant caretakers, and is family-run to create a place where elephants can thrive in their natural habitat. Join us and immerse in the beautiful atmosphere that houses these animals and learn why they are the symbol of Thailand!
- Educate Travelers
By sharing your responsible wildlife tourism experiences, you can help raise awareness and support for sustainable practices. More people investing in responsible tourism means more income for conservation efforts, protecting more wildlife. Even a simple social media post can make a big difference.
As a responsible traveler with Discover Corps we seek out partners that contribute to conservation and that treat animals humanely. This includes avoiding places that exploit animals, refraining from buying souvenirs made with animal parts and consider how the activity being offered affects the animal population and the individual animal’s wellbeing. Some of our partners include David Fleays Wildlife Sanctuary in Australia, the HERD Trust in South Africa and the Maa Trust in Kenya.
Check out more wildlife interactions with Discover Corps below!
Sea Turtles in Costa Rica and more
The sight of a sea turtle gliding through crystal-clear waters is a highlight for many of our travelers. On all of our trips featuring these magnificent creatures, we partner with conservation groups dedicated to protecting sea turtle as well as tortoise populations. Our travelers can participate in night patrols to protect nesting sites, assist in hatchling releases, and learn about the challenges these ancient mariners face due to climate change and human activity.
Join Discover Corps in helping these endangered animals on our:
- Costa Rica – The Sea Turtle Initiative
- Baja – Marine Wildlife Adventure
- Galapagos Islands – Family Volunteer Adventure
Llamas in Peru
In Peru, the Llama Pack Project, a local non-profit organization in the Sacred Valley, offers travelers the chance to hike alongside these iconic animals. Llamas have been integral to Andean culture for centuries, and this project supports local communities by helping to reintegrate llamas into daily life in the Andes. Travelers embark on a scenic hike alongside a pack of llamas and their caretakers, learn about the cultural significance of llamas and contribute to preserving this unique heritage.
Join Discover Corps on our high-end immersive journey to the heart of South America on our Peru – Wonders of the Sacred Valley adventure.
Australian Indigenous Wildlife
Australia’s diverse wildlife, including kangaroos, koalas and wallabies, captivates travelers from around the world. Our adventure in Australia on our Beachside Wildlife Adventure focuses on the conservation of these unique species and their habitats. We collaborate with a local wildlife sanctuary run by the Queensland Government as well as a group of conservationists to engage in educational experiences that highlight the importance of protecting Australia’s indigenous wildlife.
We’ll start the journey on Australia’s Gold Coast, an area blessed with miles of pristine beaches and crystal blue waters. Visit a World Surfing Reserve, head deep into the rainforest on the hunt for waterfalls & kangaroos, take a coastal walking tour with an indigenous guide and spend an afternoon at a koala conservation center. Then head north to Cairns to uncover the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest, the world’s oldest rainforest!
At Discover Corps, we are committed to wildlife conservation through responsible tourism. By integrating educational components and supporting local conservation efforts, we ensure that our trips benefit both travelers and the wildlife they encounter. Together, we can make a positive impact on the preservation of our planet’s extraordinary biodiversity.
Your journey with Discover Corps not only offers unforgettable experiences but also contributes to the ongoing efforts to protect and preserve our planet’s most treasured creatures.
But that’s not all! We have many more wildlife adventures at Discover Corps including safari treks and explore the diversity of marine wildlife.
Questions about any of our upcoming adventures? Give us a call during office hours at 9-6 PM PT or email us at info@discovercorps.com