Indonesia bans elephant riding in landmark welfare move
5 days ago
- #animal-welfare
- #ethical-tourism
- #wildlife-conservation
- Indonesia has officially ended elephant rides nationwide, marking a significant victory for animal welfare and ethical wildlife tourism.
- A government directive requires all conservation and tourist facilities to cease elephant riding activities by the end of 2025, shifting towards observation-based experiences.
- Facilities failing to comply risk losing their operating permits, with Mason Elephant Park in Bali already halting rides in early 2026.
- Elephant riding is harmful, involving painful training methods and causing long-term physical and psychological damage to elephants.
- The ban aligns with global trends towards responsible tourism, focusing on observation, education, and conservation rather than exploitation.
- Travellers are encouraged to avoid venues promoting animal exploitation and support ethical wildlife experiences that respect animal welfare.
- The decision is part of a broader movement to end cruelty in wildlife tourism, with hopes for similar bans on other exploitative practices.
- Advocacy efforts, including petitions and campaigns, played a crucial role in achieving this milestone for elephant welfare.