Code of Conduct and Guidelines

for Wildlife Observation & Sanctuary Visits

Friday Trip Co., Ltd.

Scope of Activities

This Code of Conduct applies to visits involving:

  • Wildlife Friends Foundation Thailand (WFFT)
  • Wildlife conservation learning activities
  • Observation of animals in shelters and rescue centers

These activities are strictly educational and conservation-based and are non-consumptive and non-extractive in nature.

 

Core Principles

  • Animal welfare comes first
  • Natural animal behavior must not be disturbed
  • Support conservation, rehabilitation, and education
  • Comply with Thai law and international animal welfare standards

 

Visitor Guidelines by Animal Type

To protect animal welfare and ensure visitor safety, the company establishes the following specific rules for each type of animal encounter.

Elephant Visits

Do

  • Observe elephants from a safe distance as instructed by staff
  • Follow mahout and guide instructions strictly
  • Move slowly and speak quietly

Do Not

  • Do not touch, ride, or control elephants
  • Do not feed without permission
  • Do not block elephant walking paths

 

Bird Observation

Do

  • Use binoculars instead of approaching
  • Observe from designated areas

Do Not

  • Do not use flash photography
  • Do not shout or chase birds
  • Do not disturb nests

 

Monkey Observation

Do

  • Keep a safe distance
  • Secure personal belongings

Do Not

  • Do not feed monkeys
  • Do not touch or attempt to play with them
  • Do not display threatening gestures

 

Safari Animals (Giraffes, Zebras, Deer)

Do

  • Observe from a safe distance
  • Stay on designated paths

Do Not

  • Do not chase animals or approach too closely
  • Do not feed animals without authorization

 

Predators (Tigers, Lions)

Do

  • Remain under staff supervision at all times
  • Follow all safety instructions

Do Not

  • Do not attempt to touch or provoke animals
  • Do not shout or bang on enclosures

 

Aquatic Animals (Fish, Turtles, Dolphins, etc.)

Do

  • Use environmentally friendly equipment
  • Observe from an appropriate distance

Do Not

  • Do not capture or chase animals
  • Do not step on coral
  • Do not litter in the water

 

Reptiles (Crocodiles, Snakes, etc.)

Do

  • Stay behind safety barriers
  • Follow staff instructions

Do Not

  • Do not extend hands or objects toward animals
  • Do not provoke animals

 

Universal Rules for All Animals

  • Animals are not props for photography or entertainment
  • Observation must prioritize learning, not disturbance
  • Animal and visitor safety always come first

 

Role of the Tour Guide

  • Explain the conservation purpose before the activity begins
  • Educate visitors on animal welfare and responsible wildlife tourism
  • Ensure visitor behavior complies with this Code of Conduct
  • Report any violations or unusual incidents immediately

 

Role of Friday Trip Co., Ltd.

  • Select only genuine rescue and rehabilitation centers — not entertainment animal shows
  • Communicate this Code of Conduct to visitors, guides, and partners
  • Suspend or cancel activities if animal welfare is compromised
  • Use this Code as part of partner evaluation and selection

 

Non-Compliance

If this Code of Conduct is violated, the company reserves the right to:

  • Issue warnings or terminate participation
  • Suspend cooperation with partners in serious cases
  • Report illegal actions to authorities

 

Review and Updates

This Code of Conduct will be periodically reviewed to align with:

  • Travelife standards
  • Thai law
  • Current animal welfare best practices