Wildlife Heritage Areas

Responsible wildlife-watching destinations

Introducing Wildlife Heritage Areas, a global initiative by World Animal Protection and the World Cetacean Alliance, dedicated to promoting responsible wildlife tourism that prioritises animal welfare, sustainability, and conservation. Our mission is to create destinations where wildlife and communities coexist harmoniously, free from exploitation.

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Ending biodiversity loss

Biodiversity loss is a pressing global concern, often exacerbated by the exploitation of wildlife for entertainment. We believe that empowering communities to reconnect with and protect nature is key to reversing this trend. Wildlife Heritage Areas set a new global standard for responsible wildlife tourism, supporting local efforts to achieve better outcomes for animals and people.

Our vision

Our vision is to create a world where global destinations are celebrated for their responsible wildlife-watching tourism, upholding the highest standards of animal welfare, sustainability, and nature conservation. In these places, wildlife, ecosystems, and communities can thrive in harmony.

How to become a Wildlife Heritage Area

To be recognised as a Wildlife Heritage Area, a site must meet the following criteria:

Respectful Human-Wildlife Coexistence: The community has established and continually improves a framework for harmonious interactions between people and wildlife.
Cultural Significance: The species or habitat holds exceptional cultural importance and is integral to the community's identity.
Responsible Wildlife Tourism: Tourism practices prioritize the well-being of wildlife over commercial interests, supported by collaborative management and ongoing research.
Governance: An active steering committee represents the community, making and implementing decisions that uphold these criteria through a comprehensive management plan.

Global benchmark for responsible tourism

Each Wildlife Heritage Area undergoes a rigorous application process developed by the Wildlife Heritage Network, comprising NGOs, wildlife experts, responsible tourism companies, and local communities. This collaborative approach establishes a global benchmark for responsible wildlife tourism, guiding both the travel industry and tourists toward destinations that uphold high standards of animal welfare, biodiversity conservation, and community well-being.

Join the movement. Become a Wildlife Heritage Area.

Applications are now open for communities that respect and protect wildlife while supporting local development. By becoming a Wildlife Heritage Area, you join a global community dedicated to turning the tide on wildlife suffering and biodiversity loss.

For more information and to apply, visit our official website.