How We Respect Wildlife on Our Tours

And How You Can Too 

Australia’s wildlife is iconic: kangaroos bound across open plains, sea lions sunbathe on secluded beaches, dingoes roam the outback, and koalas munch on eucalyptus leaves. But as travellers, we need to remember — these moments are a privilege, not a guarantee. Our choices have a direct impact on the wild places and creatures we encounter.  

At Untamed Escapes, we believe in experiencing wildlife without leaving a trace. That’s why we’ve launched our Wildlife Policy — a practical guide to responsible and respectful wildlife tourism in Australia. Developed using the World Animal Protection template and informed by global best practices, the policy reflects our commitment to aligning with leading standards in animal welfare. It also captures our core values and provides our guests with the tools to travel more consciously.

We’re clear on one thing: animals are not here for our entertainment. You won’t find wildlife shows, selfies with koalas, or petting zoos on our tours. Wild animals deserve to stay wild — free to roam, forage, retreat, and behave naturally. 

“Having a sea lion twist and twirl around you while you’re in the water is a magical experience, because it’s on their terms,” says our Owner, Hassie. “We never chase or lure. We let nature lead.”

Here’s how to enjoy Australia’s best wildlife experiences — the ethical way: 

📎 For more tips, download the complete Wildlife Policy PDF. 

On every Untamed Escapes tour, we put these principles into practice. You might witness a mob of kangaroos grazing at sunrise — but we’ll never get too close. Or you might swim or snorkel with sea lions or dolphins — but we’ll wait for them to initiate the encounter, not the other way around. 

We always remind travellers that we are guests in the animals’ habitat, not the other way around. We treat every wildlife encounter with the respect it deserves. Behind the scenes, we carefully select ethical suppliers and partners who share our values. We work with people who put animal welfare and non-intrusive practices first. 

We believe tourism businesses have a responsibility to lead by example, setting standards that prioritise the well-being of wildlife over profit or convenience. With increasing pressure on natural habitats, it’s more important than ever for the travel industry to take an active role in protecting vulnerable species and ecosystems. When we do the right thing, we help shift the industry toward more conscious, respectful, and lasting connections with the natural world. 

And when travellers experience the magic of wildlife in the wild — on the animals’ terms — we hope they leave inspired to make more mindful choices in their own lives, too. 

Ready to be a more conscious traveller? 

📎 Download our Wildlife Policy and join us in travelling back better. 

Want to take the perfect ethical wildlife photo? Use a zoom lens. Observe wildlife, don’t interfere. Learn more in the Ethical Nature Photography in Tasmania guide.