Maetang Elephant Park

Hours (Open/Closed) Monday 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM Tuesday 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM Wednesday 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM Thursday 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM Friday 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM Saturday 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM Sunday 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM

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About Maetang Elephant Park

The journey to this unique destination is well worth the effort. The experience offers a variety of activities such as bamboo rafting and ox cart rides, but the main attraction is the opportunity to learn about elephants. The entire village is dependent on these majestic creatures, providing them with veterinary care and a safe haven for the elderly. The financial support from visitors is crucial for the upkeep and feeding of the elephants, especially in the wake of the Covid pandemic. The project is not just about saving the animals, but also about supporting the local community that cares for them.

However, not all visitors have a positive experience. Some compare the place to a circus or a zoo, expressing discomfort at the sight of tourists applauding what they perceive as a performance. The use of hooks to guide the elephants is a point of contention, with some visitors finding it distressing.

The park has also been criticized for its treatment of the elephants. Some visitors have reported seeing distressed elephants chained to steel posts, showing aggression towards anyone who comes close. They argue that the park's narrative of being a clinic for sick elephants is misleading, and urge potential visitors to seek out a sanctuary instead.

Despite these criticisms, there are those who have enjoyed their visit, particularly families with children. The sight of elephants playing and performing tricks can be entertaining for young ones, and the park provides a clean environment without any unpleasant odors. The animals appear well cared for, and the experience can provide beautiful photo opportunities and lasting memories. However, some visitors express discomfort at the idea of caging or chaining wild animals, and are unsure if they would return.

For some, the visit to the elephant clinic is an eye-opening experience. The guides provide detailed explanations about the work they do for the elephants, many of which are rescued or placed with them for rehabilitation. Visitors have the opportunity to bathe and feed the elephants, providing a unique and intimate experience with these gentle giants.

For others, the trip to the park was the highlight of their journey. They appreciated the care and attention given to the elephants, noting that the animals seemed happy and showed no signs of mistreatment. The park also runs an elephant hospital, providing free treatment for all elephants in the region. The use of treats such as bananas to train the elephants is seen as a more humane approach. The overall experience at the park, from the activities to the interaction with the elephants, can make for a truly memorable day.

In conclusion, the experience at this destination can be a mixed bag. While some visitors find the treatment of the elephants distressing, others appreciate the care given to the animals and the efforts made to support the local community. It's a place that sparks debate and encourages visitors to think more deeply about the ethics of animal tourism.