Our Story
Discover. Investigate. Inspire change.
The Ethical Explorer is a grassroots initiative dedicated to uncovering the truth behind the wildlife tourism industry. We believe that travel can be a powerful force for good, but only when it’s responsible, respectful, and rooted in compassion for animals and local communities.
Founded by Pete Garside a passionate wildlife conservationist and photographer, The Ethical Explorer Project journeys to wildlife tourism destinations around the world to ask the hard questions:
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Are the animals truly being cared for?
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Is conservation just a word on a sign, or a real mission?
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Where do your donations really go?
Through in-depth reviews, on-the-ground investigations, interviews with staff and volunteers, and visual storytelling, we bring transparency to an industry that too often hides behind feel-good marketing.
We don't just critique, we uplift. We shine a spotlight on ethical sanctuaries, genuine rescue efforts, and organisations making a positive difference for wildlife.
Our Mission
To discover, investigate and inspire change. To shine a light on the wildlife tourism industry, exposing the unethical practices until all wildlife is safe.
Whether you're a traveler looking to make better choices, a volunteer seeking meaningful opportunities, looking to support a worthy cause, or someone who simply cares about animals, you're welcome here.
Together, we can change the way the world experiences wildlife.
Our Vision
To create a world where every wildlife tourism experience supports conservation, respects animal welfare, and empowers local communities so that travel becomes a force for protecting, not exploiting, the natural world.
Our Founder
Pete Garside is a wildlife conservationist, environmentalist, and published children’s author with over a decade of experience working across various sectors of wildlife protection. Originally from Manchester, UK, Pete holds a degree in Wildlife Conservation and Zoo Biology, and has dedicated his life to safeguarding the natural world. From childhood days spent exploring forests and ponds to global conservation projects, Pete’s passion for animals has only grown deeper. After personally witnessing the dark side of wildlife tourism, including being misled by false conservation claims, he founded the Ethical Explorer Project. His mission is clear: to expose unethical practices, uplift truly ethical organisations, and inspire others to travel with compassion and awareness. Pete now devotes himself fully to this cause, using his voice, experience, and camera to advocate for the animals he loves.