In a major victory for animal welfare, Marriott International has officially cut all ties with tour operations involving camel and horse rides at Egypt’s iconic Great Pyramids of Giza. The decision follows a damning investigation by PETA Asia and growing pressure from travelers and animal advocates worldwide.
According to PETA, Marriott’s decision comes after the group shared harrowing video footage and images showing animals at the historic site being violently abused, starved, and forced to work in dangerous heat without water, shade or rest. The company confirmed that these practices violate its global animal welfare policy.
A Hidden Cruelty in Plain Sight
Behind the postcard-perfect images of pyramid rides lies a much darker truth. PETA Asia’s undercover investigation uncovered daily violence against the animals used to haul tourists. Camels and horses were filmed being whipped and beaten into submission. Many of the animals were visibly exhausted, limping from injury or malnourished to the point of scavenging for scraps at garbage dumps.
Dead horses were reportedly seen discarded at trash sites outside Giza, while camels considered “unusable” were taken to slaughterhouses—some still fully conscious as they were killed. In one particularly disturbing video, a camel kicked and thrashed for minutes after having her throat slit.
Marriott Steps Up
In response, Marriott acknowledged that continuing to offer tours involving these animal rides would go against its commitment to ethical travel experiences.
“PETA thanks the growing list of companies that recognize that travelers are appalled by the violence inflicted on camels and horses at the Great Pyramids,” said PETA Executive Vice President Tracy Reiman. “PETA applauds Marriott for shunning these shameful rides and urges Egyptian authorities to find a moral compass and ban the blight of animal abuse at the pyramids.”
The company’s move reflects a growing shift in how companies are looking at animal tourism, joining 50 more companies in banning the promotion of camel and horse rides at the pyramids. Other companies include TCS World Travel, British Airways Holidays, Airbnb, Abercrombie and Kent Travel Group, Grand Circle Corporation and Exodus Adventure Travels to name a few.
The Bigger Picture
Marriott isn’t alone in taking a stand. As awareness spreads, more travel companies are removing animal-based attractions from their packages. Ethical tourism is no longer a niche—it’s the expectation. Guests don’t want to unknowingly support suffering, especially when it’s disguised as “cultural tradition.”
Camel and horse rides at the pyramids have long been a part of the Egyptian tourism industry, but activists argue that modern travel should not come at the expense of animal lives. Tourists are also becoming more aware of these harmful practices and deciding alternative pyramid tours are a better option. With alternatives like electric carts, bikes, All-terrain Vehicles (ATV) and walking tours available, many believe it’s time to retire these harmful practices for good.
What Travelers Can Do
Animal advocates are encouraging travelers to skip rides involving live animals and instead support humane experiences. If you’re visiting a landmark like the Great Pyramids, you can still enjoy the breathtaking view—without contributing to cruelty.
PETA urges visitors to do their research and choose tour companies that prioritize animal welfare. By refusing to support operations that exploit animals, tourists can help shift the industry toward kinder practices.
Because in the end, a memorable vacation shouldn’t come at the cost of another being’s suffering.
