Best Elephant Sanctuaries in Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is one of the best places in the world to experience ethical elephant tourism. With dozens of rescue centers and sanctuaries dedicated to rehabilitation, education, and conservation, it’s important to choose a place that truly cares for elephants.

This 2025 guide covers only ethical, no-riding, no-chains, and no-performances elephant sanctuaries in Chiang Mai — ensuring your visit supports responsible tourism.

Perfect for families, couples, solo travelers, and anyone who wants a meaningful and compassionate encounter with elephants.

1. Ethical Elephant Rescue Park (Full-Day or Half-Day)

A forest-based rescue center where elephants roam freely.The program focuses on learning, caring, and understanding elephant behavior.

Activities include:• Feeding elephants fresh fruits• Walking through the forest trails• Mud spa therapy• Bathing together in the river• Learning about elephant history and rehabilitation

Perfect for: families with kids, first-time travelers, and animal lovers.

2. Jungle Elephant Care Experience

This sanctuary is located deeper in the forest, offering a quiet, natural habitat for the elephants.

What you’ll experience:• Trekking alongside elephants• Natural mud spa• River bathing• Jungle picnic• Observing elephants in their natural habitat

Perfect for: adventurous travelers and photographers.

3. Elephant Family Village – Small Group Program

Designed for travelers who prefer intimate experiences with fewer people.

Program highlights:• Small groups (6–12 people)• Hands-on activities• Gentle interaction with elephants• Homemade local lunch included

Perfect for: couples and families wanting a peaceful experience.

4. Elephant Retirement Home

This sanctuary houses older elephants who can no longer perform labor-intensive work.

Activities include:• Feeding• Gentle walks• River relaxation• Health check demonstrations

Perfect for: senior-friendly tours, calm experiences, and meaningful travel.

5. Half-Day Elephant Care + Sticky Waterfall Combo

One of the most popular Chiang Mai tours — combining two iconic experiences in one day.

Includes:• Ethical elephant activities• Mud bath + River bath• Lunch• Sticky Waterfall climb (fun for all ages)

Perfect for: travelers with limited time who want maximum experience.

What You’ll Learn from an Ethical Elephant Tour

Most sanctuaries include an educational session where you learn:

• Elephant body language• The impact of illegal logging• Why riding harms elephants• The importance of conservation• Sustainable tourism practices

This makes your visit more meaningful and responsible.

Tips Before Visiting an Elephant Sanctuary

• Wear clothes that can get dirty• Bring swimwear for river activities• Don’t wear perfume (elephants dislike strong scents)• Wear non-slip shoes• Bring a dry bag for phone/camera• Respect the elephants — don’t push or shout

Who Should Join an Ethical Elephant Sanctuary Tour?

These tours are perfect for:

• First-time travelers • Families with children • Couples on vacation • Solo travelers • Seniors (most programs are gentle) • Anyone who loves animals and nature

Sample Itinerary for a Half-Day Elephant Tour

• Pickup from hotel • Arrive at sanctuary & safety briefing • Feed the elephants • Learn about rescue stories • Walk with elephants • Mud spa • River bath • Shower & change clothes • Return to Chiang Mai

Length: 3–5 hoursAvailable: Morning / Afternoon sessions

Sample Itinerary for a Full-Day Elephant Tour

• Pickup from hotel • Market stop to buy fruits for elephants • Feeding session • Forest trekking with elephants • Lunch in the jungle • Mud bath • River bathing • Free time with elephants • Return to Chiang Mai

Length: 6–7 hours