Saiyok Elephant Park

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About Saiyok Elephant Park

The place in question is often referred to as an elephant sanctuary, but some visitors have expressed concerns about the conditions and treatment of the elephants. The area provided for the elephants is not expansive, and the animals are primarily used as attractions for tourists. Visitors are given the opportunity to feed and bathe the elephants, regardless of whether the animals need it or not. The elephants are also trained to perform small tricks such as spraying water or posing for pictures. However, there is little information provided about the actual work done in the sanctuary. Despite these concerns, some visitors have found the experience to be unique and memorable, especially when shared with family.

On the other hand, some visitors have had a fantastic time at the sanctuary. They spent an hour feeding the elephants before heading down to the river to wash them. Some even ended up swimming with the elephants. The experience of being so close to these majestic creatures, without any rides or tricks involved, was described as lovely. However, visitors are warned that if they plan to wash the elephants, they will likely end up in the river with them. Life jackets and showers with towels are provided, so it's recommended to bring a change of clothes. Despite getting soaked, visitors often leave with a huge smile on their faces.

For those who live in Thailand and have experienced many elephant treks and shows, this place stands out as one of the best due to its natural setting. There are no shows or games, just the opportunity to spend time in the river with an elephant, riding, swimming, and scrubbing them. This is described as a very nice experience.

However, not all experiences have been positive. Some visitors have expressed dissatisfaction with the treatment of the elephants. Upon arrival, visitors are quickly ushered to a bamboo platform to mount the elephants, leaving little time to observe the animals or their surroundings. Concerns have been raised about the methods used by the handlers to control the elephants, which include the use of a wooden stick with a metal end. After a trek, visitors are taken to bathe the elephants, where the animals appear happier but are still made to perform tricks on command. The elephants are made to walk the same route repeatedly throughout the day, and some visitors have noticed rusty barbed wire where the elephants stop for people to mount them. For animal lovers, these conditions have led to a decision not to support such practices in the future.