The Chiang Mai Elephant Care Morning Program offers an immersive experience for those looking to connect with these gentle giants. Priced at just $51.06 per person, the half-day adventure includes hotel pickup, a comprehensive briefing, and hands-on activities like feeding and bathing the elephants. With a 4.9-star rating, this program promises an informative and memorable interaction that’s sure to leave a lasting impression. But what exactly can participants expect to discover during this unique encounter?
Good To Know
- A 5-hour morning program that includes hotel pickup, introductory briefing, and 2 hours of hands-on elephant activities like feeding, making herbal medicine balls, observing, and walking with elephants.
- Participants bathe and brush elephants in the river before enjoying a homemade lunch.
- The program is priced at $51.06 per person and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
- The experience is highly rated by past participants, with the guide, transportation, and value for money receiving positive reviews.
- Comfortable outdoor clothing and insect repellent are recommended, and following the guide’s instructions is crucial for safety and enjoyment.
Program Overview
The Chiang Mai Elephant Care Program offers a morning half-day experience where participants can interact with and care for elephants. Priced from $51.06 per person, the 5-hour program includes hotel pickup, an introductory briefing, and 2 hours of hands-on elephant activities like feeding, making herbal medicine balls, observing, and walking with the animals.
Participants also get to bathe and brush the elephants in the river before enjoying a homemade lunch. The program provides free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option.
Guests praise the informative guides and value for money.
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Itinerary and Activities
After being picked up from their hotel in Chiang Mai, participants embark on a 1.5-hour van ride to the Elephant Camp. Upon arrival, they change into provided uniforms and attend an introductory briefing. The next two hours are spent interacting with the elephants – feeding them, making herbal medicine balls, observing, and walking alongside them. Participants then bathe and brush the elephants in the river, followed by a home-cooked lunch. Finally, they return to their hotel, having enjoyed a fulfilling morning caring for these majestic creatures.
| Activity | Duration |
| — | — |
| Hotel Pickup | – |
| Van Ride to Elephant Camp | 1.5 hours |
| Uniform Change & Briefing | – |
| Elephant Interaction | 2 hours |
| Bathing & Brushing Elephants | – |
| Lunch | – |
| Hotel Drop-off | – |
Included Services
The Chiang Mai Elephant Care program includes an array of services to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience for participants.
The package includes:
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Entry ticket to the Chiang Mai Elephant Care facility
English-speaking tour guide
Food for the elephants
Uniform for the interactive activities
Day tour insurance
A homemade lunch, drinks, fruit, and a towel
These comprehensive inclusions allow travelers to fully enjoy the elephant care experience without having to worry about logistics or additional costs.
The program is designed to provide a memorable and hassle-free encounter with these majestic creatures.
Customer Reviews and Ratings
Travelers have overwhelmingly praised the Chiang Mai Elephant Care program, awarding it an impressive 4.9 out of 5-star rating based on 43 reviews. Highlights of the customer feedback include:
| Criteria | Rating |
|———-|——–|
| Guide | 5/5 |
| Transportation | 5/5 |
| Value for Money | 4.8/5 |
| Overall Experience | 4.9/5 |
Reviewers emphasized the informative and attentive guides, the well-organized transportation, and the exceptional value for money. The elephant care activities, including feeding, bathing, and walking with the animals, were universally enjoyed by past participants.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyImportant Information and Recommendations
To make the most of the Chiang Mai Elephant Care program, it’s recommended to bring a hat and insect repellent, and wear comfortable outdoor clothing.
Prepare for the Chiang Mai Elephant Care program by bringing a hat, insect repellent, and wearing comfortable outdoor clothing.
Here are some additional tips:
Check availability for preferred starting times as this program is popular.
Be prepared to get wet during the elephant bathing activity.
Bring a camera to capture the memorable moments with the gentle giants.
Familiarize yourself with the provided itinerary to make the most of the 5-hour experience.
Follow the guide’s instructions carefully to ensure the safety of both you and the elephants.
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Pickup and Transportation
Pickup from your hotel in Chiang Mai marks the start of this unforgettable Elephant Care experience.
A 1.5-hour van ride takes you to the Elephant Camp nestled in the lush countryside. Get to know your friendly, English-speaking guide who’ll provide an introductory briefing.
Outfitted in provided uniforms, you’re ready to spend quality time with the gentle giants. The camp’s location offers convenient access, allowing you to learn about the elephant care activities without lengthy travel times.
Sit back and enjoy the scenic countryside drive – your Chiang Mai Elephant Care adventure is about to begin.
Elephant Interaction and Care
Once outfitted in the provided uniforms, guests spend 2 hours interacting with the elephants. They can:
Feed the gentle giants, hand-delivering nutritious snacks.
Prepare herbal medicine balls to support the elephants’ health.
Observe the majestic creatures in their natural environment.
Take a serene walk alongside the elephants through the lush surroundings.
Bathe and brush the elephants in the refreshing river.
After the enriching elephant activities, guests savor a homemade, local lunch to refuel before the journey back to Chiang Mai.
Lunch and Return to Hotel
After the enriching elephant activities, guests savor a homemade, local lunch to refuel before the journey back to Chiang Mai.
The provided meal features authentic Thai dishes, freshly prepared at the camp. Guests can expect a satisfying spread of rice, curries, and seasonal vegetables. Refreshing drinks and fresh fruit are also served.
Once lunch is finished, the group boards the van for the 1.5-hour drive back to their Chiang Mai hotels.
The return trip provides an opportunity to reflect on the memorable elephant encounter and cherish the unique cultural experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Group Size or Maximum Number of Participants?
The program doesn’t specify a maximum group size. However, it’s likely a small group to ensure a personal elephant care experience. Travelers should check with the provider for details on group size prior to booking.
Are the Elephants Rescued or Domesticated?
The elephants are domesticated, as the program takes place at an elephant camp. The animals are cared for by experienced handlers and provide an opportunity for visitors to interact with them in a responsible manner.
Are There Any Age or Physical Fitness Requirements?
There are no age or physical fitness requirements for this program. Participants of all ages and fitness levels can participate, as the activities are designed to be accessible and enjoyable for everyone.
Can I Take Photos or Videos During the Activities?
Participants are allowed to take photos and videos during the activities. The program encourages capturing memorable moments with the elephants, though visitors should be mindful not to disturb the animals or disrupt the experience for others.
Is Gratuity Expected for the Guide and Staff?
Gratuity is not mandatory but appreciated by the guide and staff. Many travelers choose to tip around 10-15% of the tour price to show their satisfaction with the experience and level of service provided.
The Sum Up
The Chiang Mai Elephant Care Morning Program offers an exceptional opportunity to connect with these magnificent creatures. Participants will enjoy hands-on activities, a delicious lunch, and informative guidance, all while supporting ethical elephant conservation. With convenient hotel pickup and a highly-rated experience, this program is a must-do for anyone visiting Chiang Mai who wants to create lasting memories with the gentle giants.
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