Chiang Mai Elephant Village Sanctuary Visit With Waterfall!

Nestled in the lush jungles of Chiang Mai, the Elephant Village Sanctuary offers a captivating experience that lets you get up close with these gentle giants. From feeding the elephants to swimming under a refreshing waterfall, this 6-hour adventure promises an unforgettable day immersed in the region’s natural wonders and vibrant local culture. While the sanctuary prioritizes the ethical treatment of its residents, there’s more to discover about their approach to sustainable tourism and animal welfare. Dive in to uncover the details.

Good To Know

• Six-hour experience visiting Chiang Mai Elephant Village Sanctuary, including transportation, feeding elephants, swimming at a waterfall, and a local hill tribe lunch.
• Guided tour and hike through the sanctuary, with opportunities to observe elephants in their natural habitat and learn about ethical elephant care.
• Chance to interact with elephants, including a pregnant elephant, and feed them traditional medicines.
• Short jungle trek to a nearby natural waterfall, with swimming in the refreshing pool at the base.
• Visit to a local hill tribe settlement, offering cultural insights, meal preparation experience, and the opportunity to purchase handmade crafts.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Experience Overview

Visitors to the Chiang Mai Elephant Village Sanctuary can expect a 6-hour experience that allows them to interact with 4 elephants, swim at a waterfall, and trek through the jungle.

The tour includes round-trip transportation from Revolution Hostel Chiang Mai – Old Town. Guests will have the opportunity to feed the elephants traditional medicine, learn about the sanctuary’s commitment to natural elephant care, and enjoy a local lunch with a nearby hill tribe.

The experience costs from Kč 1,142 per person and is available with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Itinerary Details

The tour starts from Revolution Hostel Chiang Mai – Old Town, with guests transported by van for an 80-minute journey to the Chiang Mai Elephant Village Sanctuary.

The tour departs from Revolution Hostel Chiang Mai – Old Town, with guests traveling by van for an 80-minute journey to the Chiang Mai Elephant Village Sanctuary.

There, visitors will embark on a guided tour and hike for 1 hour, followed by 1 hour of wildlife viewing at the sanctuary.

Guests will then have the opportunity to swim at a nearby waterfall for 30 minutes before enjoying a local lunch with the hill tribe for 30 minutes, learning about their lifestyle and elephant care.

Finally, the tour returns to the Revolution Hostel.

Sanctuary Tour and Elephant Interaction

Upon arrival at the Chiang Mai Elephant Village Sanctuary, guests embark on a guided tour and hike through the lush jungle surroundings.

During this experience, they’ll observe the elephants in their natural habitat, learn about the sanctuary’s commitment to ethical elephant care, and even get the chance to feed the elephants traditional medicines.

The highlight is the opportunity to interact with the majestic creatures, including a pregnant elephant.

Visitors can observe the elephants up close, touch them, and watch them bathe in the nearby watering hole, all while learning about the hill tribe’s role in caring for these gentle giants.

Waterfall Adventure

Next, the group embarks on a short jungle trek to a nearby natural waterfall. The trail winds through lush greenery, offering glimpses of the rushing water ahead.

Upon reaching the waterfall, guests are free to swim in the cool, refreshing pool at the base. Towels and time are provided to enjoy the tranquil setting before rejoining the group.

This natural respite provides a welcome break from the earlier elephant interactions, allowing visitors to enjoy the serene beauty of Chiang Mai’s wilderness.

The waterfall visit caps off an enriching day at the Elephant Village Sanctuary.

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Cultural Immersion With Hill Tribe

After the refreshing dip at the waterfall, the group heads to a local hill tribe settlement. This culture offers a glimpse into their traditional way of life:

1. The group sits around a communal fire pit, watching as the hill tribe members prepare a simple yet flavorful local meal.

2. They learn about the tribe’s connection to the elephants, including how they work together to care for the gentle giants.

3. Before departing, the visitors have the opportunity to purchase handmade crafts, supporting the hill tribe’s sustainable livelihood.

Feeding the Elephants

As the visit progresses, guests eagerly approach the enclosure where the elephants roam.

The guide explains the proper way to feed the elephants, ensuring safety for both the animals and visitors. Guests are provided with bundles of fresh fruits and vegetables, which they can offer to the gentle giants.

The elephants enthusiastically accept the treats, using their trunks to gently take the food from the outstretched hands. This interactive moment allows visitors to form a connection with the elephants and appreciate their intelligence and gentle nature.

The elephants eagerly take the treats with their trunks, allowing visitors to connect with their intelligence and gentle demeanor.

The experience leaves a lasting impression on everyone involved.

Sustainability and Natural Care

The sanctuary prides itself on its commitment to sustainable and natural elephant care.

Visitors can witness this firsthand through three key aspects:

1. Habitat Conservation: The sanctuary maintains a spacious, forested environment for the elephants to roam freely, mirroring their natural habitat.

2. Ethical Feeding: Elephants are provided with a varied, nutritious diet of fresh fruits, vegetables, and traditional herbal medicines, rather than being forced to perform for food.

3. Minimal Interaction: Visitors are guided to observe the elephants from a respectful distance, allowing the animals to engage in their natural behaviors without disturbance.

What to Expect and Prepare For

Visitors can expect a well-organized and engaging sanctuary experience. After an 80-minute van ride, they’ll embark on a guided tour and jungle trek to observe the elephants in their natural habitat.

At the sanctuary, guests can interact with the elephants, including a pregnant one, and even feed them traditional medicine. The highlight is a refreshing swim at a nearby waterfall.

Throughout the day, visitors will enjoy a local lunch and learn about the hill tribe’s lifestyle and elephant care. The experience offers an opportunity to appreciate the sanctuary’s commitment to natural elephant welfare.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Ride the Elephants During the Visit?

No, visitors cannot ride the elephants during the visit. The sanctuary focuses on natural elephant care and interaction without riding, prioritizing the wellbeing of the animals.

Are There Any Health Requirements for Participating?

There are no specific health requirements to participate in this activity. However, guests should be in reasonably good physical condition to handle the light hiking and swimming. Individuals with mobility issues may have difficulty with the trek.

What Is the Policy on Photography During the Visit?

Visitors are generally allowed to take photos throughout the experience, though they’re asked to respect the elephants’ privacy and avoid disrupting them. Photography guidelines are provided during the tour briefing to ensure an enjoyable visit for all.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Snacks to the Sanctuary?

You can bring your own snacks and drinks to the sanctuary, but it’s best to avoid bringing food that could distract or disturb the elephants. The tour includes a local lunch, so additional food may not be necessary.

Are There Any Additional Fees or Costs Involved?

The activity package includes round-trip transportation, entrance fees, local lunch, and supplies to feed the elephants. There are no additional fees or costs involved beyond the advertised price per person.

The Sum Up

The Chiang Mai Elephant Village Sanctuary offers an unforgettable adventure where you’ll get up close with gentle giants, explore a lush jungle, and learn about local culture. With a guided tour, waterfall swim, and hill tribe visit, this 6-hour experience promises an ethical, sustainable, and truly memorable encounter. Pack your swimsuit, camera, and sense of wonder for an exceptional day in the heart of Thailand.

You can check if your dates are available here: