Elephant Retirement Park Phuket

Hours (Open/Closed) Monday 7:30 AM - 5:00 PM Tuesday 7:30 AM - 5:00 PM Wednesday 7:30 AM - 5:00 PM Thursday 7:30 AM - 5:00 PM Friday 7:30 AM - 5:00 PM Saturday 7:30 AM - 5:00 PM Sunday 7:30 AM - 5:00 PM

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About Elephant Retirement Park Phuket

The retirement park is a delightful destination for an afternoon visit. The journey from the hotel in Patong is a scenic 40-minute drive. Upon arrival, visitors are greeted by a group leader and other guests, making up a group of about 20 people. After storing personal belongings in lockers, the adventure begins with cutting cane to feed the elephants. For a small fee, visitors can also purchase bottles of milk to feed these gentle giants.

The experience continues with a leisurely stroll to meet and interact with other elephants. Visitors have the opportunity to walk with the elephants into the trees, observing them in their natural habitat as they munch on grass. The highlight of the visit is joining the elephants in a mud bath, followed by a refreshing dip in the water pool to bathe them. The day concludes with preparing a special mixture to apply to the elephants with brushes. Throughout the experience, visitors are encouraged to capture the memorable moments with their phones. A professional photographer is also available on-site.

The park provides a satisfying lunch with a variety of options, including halal for those who require it. The menu includes noodles, rice, chicken, and watermelon, with tea and coffee also available. The park also features a shop where visitors can purchase soft drinks, merchandise, and other snacks. Clean toilets and showers are available for visitors to freshen up before their return journey. The park ensures the safety of its visitors throughout the experience.

The Oasis Elephant Care Centre offers a unique opportunity to learn about and interact with these magnificent creatures. The park's staff is knowledgeable and passionate about the elephants, creating a welcoming and comfortable environment for visitors. The playful nature of the experience makes it suitable for children and adults alike. The cost of the visit goes entirely towards the upkeep of the sanctuary, making it a worthwhile investment.

While it can be heartbreaking to learn about the elephants' past lives, it is uplifting to see them recovering in a respectful and supportive environment. Visitors are encouraged to support the park through the purchase of add-ons, such as a USB stick with photos of their experience. The joy of scrubbing and bathing with the elephants creates priceless memories.

The park stands out for its simplicity and respect for the elephants. Unlike other tourist attractions, the elephants here are treated with dignity and seem to enjoy the activities with the visitors. The park provides a comprehensive overview and safety tips, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all, especially the little ones. The traditional buffet and engaging activities make it a hit with children.

However, some visitors may have reservations about the park's practices. While the elephants are well-treated and well-fed, there are concerns about the separation of baby elephants from their mothers and the conditions in which the elephants are kept at night. The park also encourages visitors to purchase photos and wear their tank tops, which some may find off-putting.

Despite these concerns, many visitors leave with a sense of satisfaction, feeling that they have contributed to the well-being of the elephants. The day is filled with smiles and laughter, with the elephants appearing relaxed and enjoying the interaction. The park offers a unique opportunity to pamper these magnificent creatures and witness their care and recovery firsthand.