Following a report from World Animal Protection that labeled Bali the worst destination in the world for animal cruelty, Care2 has launched a petition asking TripAdvisor to add a warning on its Bali pages informing travelers of the report’s findings. The World Animal Protection study found that all 26 venues in Bali offering captive animal experiences failed to meet the basic welfare needs of wild animals in captivity.
“Tourists need information so they can better decide if they want to financially support an island that supports animal cruelty,” said Rebecca Gerber, senior director of engagement at Care2. “Care2 members believe TripAdvisor should help tourists make that decision.”
The Care2 petition points out that TripAdvisor, a widely used travel planning site, describes Bali as “a living postcard, an Indonesian paradise that feels like a fantasy.” Such glowing reviews help bring millions of tourism dollars to Bali, but they do not tell the whole story. If travelers knew the scale of mistreatment and suffering experienced by the island’s animals, many might reconsider their plans. Care2 argues that travel platforms like TripAdvisor have a responsibility to alert users about documented animal abuse before bookings are made.
When announcing the World Animal Protection findings, WAP CEO Steve McIvor emphasized that popular attractions such as elephant rides, dolphin swim encounters and orangutan photo opportunities often involve conditions that tourists do not see. He stressed that visitors should be made aware of the realities animals frequently endure so they can make informed choices about which activities to support.
The petition and the report together aim to increase transparency around tourist activities involving wild animals, encourage better welfare standards, and prompt travel companies to provide clear, accurate information. By bringing attention to welfare failures at animal venues, advocates hope to reduce demand for exploitative attractions and push operators toward humane alternatives, such as sanctuaries that prioritize animal health and natural behaviors.
Providing travelers with clear, factual information empowers them to choose activities that align with their values. When travel platforms highlight welfare concerns, tourists can avoid supporting establishments where animals are kept in poor conditions and instead seek experiences that protect wildlife and contribute positively to local conservation efforts.
Care2’s request to TripAdvisor focuses on adding warnings to Bali listings so potential visitors are aware of the report’s findings before planning or purchasing travel. Advocates say that such warnings would not only inform travelers but could also spur action among operators and local authorities to improve standards and end exploitative practices.