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Located on the Caribbean coast with its white sands, cenotes (underground chambers or caves filled with water), spectacular landscapes, archaeological sites and Mayan architecture, it’s no wonder Tulum, Mexico is a popular tourist destination.
We’re still in the midst of a pandemic, for now IN Washington Post reported that there are 100 flights from the United States to Quintana Roo – the state where Cancun and Tulum are located –every single day… Tourist influx to the region during this unpredictable time could contribute to an increase in COVID-19 cases in the area, endangering local residents, resort workers and their families, and animals. While Tulum’s gorgeous beaches, yoga spots and magical cenotes are enough for visitors to enjoy, bogus “sanctuaries” and other grubby animal displays target tourists, encouraging them to empty their wallets and get Instagram likes.
Sancho the Drunken Donkey
At the Zulum Hotel in Tulum, tourists laughed as they recorded how they treated a delicate donkey named Sancho to beer and other alcoholic beverages.
Someone even started an Instagram account in his name. After the video went viral, the local authorities went to the hotel and were told that Sancho had returned to the ranch he had come from.
Crocodile Panchito
Influential man Sebastian Trip, who runs a travel agency, recorded people swimming with a crocodile he named Panchito, and the video went viral on his social media accounts.
Sebastian claims to love animals, but by promoting this video and commenting on what he enjoyed most about his trip was his contact with Panchito – perpetuating the false idea that wild animals are here to entertain us – he reveals that doesn’t really care about animals, but likes to use them to get attention. Thanks to his videos, many tourists went to the cenote to take a selfie with Panchito, turning this sensitive creature into a tourist attraction and profit from Sebastian’s travel agency.
Thanks to Sebastian, Panchito became famous, although fame will not do the best for this vulnerable reptile.
Akumal monkey ‘Sanctuary’
Hoping to lure unsuspecting tourists, the annex near Tulum calls itself a “haven,” but the monkeys and parrots here are scrutinized daily by visitors who take selfies with them.
No legal exotic animal sanctuary allows for any kind of practical interaction, including photographing with animals. Animals used as props for photography and in public places are taken from their mothers in infancy, which is extremely traumatic for both. They will never be able to hunt, forage, raise their families, or engage in any of the types of natural behaviors that give meaning to their lives.
In reputable sanctuaries, animals are provided with safe and comfortable living conditions that provide them with a natural existence, as far as captivity allows.
Dolphinarium Tulum
Located inside the Gran Bahia Principe Tulum, Dolphinaris Tulum allows an endless stream of tourists to interact with dolphins, including swimming, kissing and stroking them, and subjecting them to “kicks”, “ride on the back” or “belly ride” … … “The” Coach for a Day “program lasts eight hours…
In nature, dolphins swim in family herds up to 60 miles a day. They have different cultures and they help sick or injured members of their group. And they use different vocalizations to communicate with each other. Humans are fascinated by these extremely intelligent marine mammals, but those used in swimming with dolphins are far from natural and important to them.
Tulum must stop being your typical tourist trap
The Tulum hospitality industry offers incredible amenities, including the possibility of living in rustic cottages and small establishments surrounded by lush nature. Calls from visitors to show disrespect for animals damage the reputation of this beautiful place.
Tulum officials must intervene when animals are in danger and ensure safety and respect while tourists enjoy the natural beauty of the site.
How to enjoy nature without causing harm
Don’t compromise on ethics while on vacation. Avoid swimming with dolphins, never pay to keep a tiger, never take selfies with birds or reptiles, and never ride a horse or carriage. As long as tourists spend money on such activities, the animals will suffer. We cannot use animals for fun, so be compassionate travelers and leave them alone.
Check Out These 7 Animal-Safe Destinations For Your Next Vacation
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