5 Wildlife Heritage Areas to add to your bucket list

If you're looking for a vacation that lets you connect with wildlife ethically and sustainably, consider visiting a Wildlife Heritage Area – where you'll witness animals thriving in their natural habitats while supporting vital conservation efforts.

Here are just five of the most amazing Wildlife Heritage Areas:

(Photo: Independent birds / Shutterstock)

1. LIFE Elephant Heritage Area 🐘

📍 Thailand / Myanmar

The LIFE Elephant Heritage Area is a lush 90,000-acre rainforest sanctuary dedicated to the well-being of rescued elephants. Nestled along the Thailand-Myanmar border, this unique eco-tourism project immerses visitors in the culture of the local community while supporting vital conservation efforts. Through guided wildlife walks and artistic retreats, LIFE offers a peaceful and transformative experience, showcasing the beauty of ethical wildlife tourism.

(Photo: Dominic Laniewicz / Shutterstock)

2. Santa Barbara Channel Whale Heritage Area 🐬

📍 California, United States

The Santa Barbara Channel Whale Heritage Area is a sanctuary where blue whales, dolphins and other marine life thrive. Known as the "Whale Superhighway," these biodiverse waters support over 27 cetacean species and play a crucial role in maintaining the marine ecosystem. Conservation efforts and community programs ensure these waters remain a sanctuary for whales, while eco-friendly boat tours and educational centers connect visitors to the region’s natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, fostering a deep appreciation for these magnificent creatures and their ocean home.

(Photo: Joe McDonald / Shutterstock)

3. Volcanoes National Park Gorilla Heritage Area 🦍

📍 Volcanoes National Park, Africa

Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park Gorilla Heritage Area is home to some of the world’s last remaining mountain gorillas, diverse ecosystems and rich cultural heritage. This globally significant wildlife sanctuary offers guided treks and citizen science projects for an immersive experience. You can witness firsthand the incredible recovery of mountain gorillas, whose numbers are now stable thanks to dedicated conservation efforts.

(Photo: Massimiliano Paolino / Shutterstock)

4. Apennines Marsican Bear Heritage Area 🐻

📍 Apennines, Italy

Italy’s Apennines Marsican Bear Heritage Area is the last refuge of the critically endangered Marsican brown bear. Only 60 of these unique bears remain, thriving in rewilded landscapes rich in biodiversity. Join bear-smart tours to learn about this rare species and support local conservation efforts that aim to ensure their survival while benefiting rural communities.

Photo: Shirley W images / Shutterstock

5. Whitsundays Whale Heritage Area 🐳

📍 The Whitsundays Islands, Australia

Located in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, the Whitsundays Whale Heritage Area is a must-visit calving ground for humpback whales from June to October. Snorkel, dive or explore this protected tropical paradise, where vibrant marine life and rich cultural heritage meet.

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Learn more about the amazing Wildlife Heritage Areas around the world.

Stay tuned for updates as new Wildlife Heritage Areas are developed!  

Help create a world where animals thrive

Wildlife Heritage Areas are innovative solutions to help address exploitation in wildlife tourism. Since its launch in 2023, we have successfully grown our list of partners to include 18 Wildlife Heritage Areas around the world. By supporting World Animal Protection and our Wildlife Heritage Areas program, you can help create a world where animals thrive.

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Banner image: Gunung Leuser Orangutan-Heritage-Area (Photo: alvarobueno / Shutterstock)