Chiang Mai Elephant Friends

Hours (Open/Closed) Monday 8:00 AM - 9:00 PM Tuesday 8:00 AM - 9:00 PM Wednesday 8:00 AM - 9:00 PM Thursday 8:00 AM - 9:00 PM Friday 8:00 AM - 9:00 PM Saturday 8:00 AM - 9:00 PM Sunday 8:00 AM - 9:00 PM

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About Chiang Mai Elephant Friends

The Chiang Mai Elephant Friends sanctuary offers an unforgettable experience for animal lovers and adventure seekers alike. The full-day package is a popular choice, providing a comprehensive experience that includes meeting and feeding the elephants, trekking alongside them, and even bathing them. The journey continues with bamboo rafting and a picnic at a picturesque waterfall, all with the convenience of pick-up and drop-off to Chiang Mai.

The sanctuary is known for its knowledgeable and passionate guides, like Daniel, who share their extensive understanding of the elephants and their care. The elephants are clearly well looked after, and the intimate group sizes make the experience feel extremely private. For those looking to extend their stay, the sanctuary offers accommodation in a bungalow with a private pool, boasting incredible views and a restaurant serving delicious, reasonably priced food.

The sanctuary prides itself on its humane treatment of the elephants. The animals are free to roam during the day, and no chains, whips, tasers, or ropes are used to guide or control them. Instead, the guides use verbal commands as they lead visitors through forests, hills, and streams. The elephants' happiness is evident, particularly during the bathing session in the river, where they revel in the cool water.

The sanctuary's commitment to a natural and friendly environment extends to the other activities on offer. After the elephant tour, visitors are led to a waterfall for a picnic lunch, served in traditional banana leaves. The bamboo river rafting that follows is a relaxing way to end the day, meandering down the calm river for about an hour.

For those who choose to stay overnight, the sanctuary offers bungalows nestled in the mountains, with some rooms facing the river. The location is just a 40-minute ride from the bustling city center of Chiang Mai, making it a peaceful retreat. The sanctuary also hosts special events, such as the local Songkran Festival, adding to the fun and excitement of the stay.

However, it's important to note that not all visitors have had positive experiences. Some have reported instances of animal mistreatment, including elephants being chained and hit. These reports are concerning and highlight the importance of ensuring that any animal tourism experience prioritizes the welfare and humane treatment of the animals involved.

Despite these concerns, many visitors have had positive experiences at the sanctuary. They praise the staff's hospitality and the cleanliness and size of the rooms. The staff's knowledge about the elephants and their care is also highly appreciated, enhancing the overall experience. The sanctuary is recommended for both couples and families looking for a unique and educational experience.

In conclusion, the Chiang Mai Elephant Friends sanctuary offers a unique opportunity to interact with elephants in a natural and humane environment. The full-day package provides a comprehensive experience, including feeding and bathing the elephants, trekking, bamboo rafting, and a picnic at a waterfall. The knowledgeable guides, intimate group sizes, and additional activities make it a memorable experience for all visitors. However, potential visitors should be aware of the reports of animal mistreatment and ensure they are comfortable with the sanctuary's practices before booking.