While the guide is comprehensive in its assessment of animal interactions in the tourism industry, and is the first to pin its approach on a locally-born ethical framework, its utility peaks in an interactive tool (an easy-to-use decision tree) which will allow tourism bodies, tour operators and tourists to assess animal interaction operations, and make informed decisions to support ethically sound and responsible operators in South Africa (SA).

The research report is the result of a year of robust consultation with the wider tourism industry and relevant stakeholders. Nationwide public workshops and an examination of local, regional and international guidelines, research and best practice contributed to the development of the guide.

It tackles issues of canned hunting, trade in body parts, deceptive behavior or illegal operations. Primarily, the research outlines a ‘home-grown’ solution to a complex problem, one which draws a line – moving the SA tourism industry forward in terms of responsible and sustainable practices.