Chiang Mai: Ethical Half Day Elephant Sanctuary & Waterfall

Exploring Chiang Mai’s ethical elephant sanctuary offers a unique chance to connect with these majestic creatures responsibly. Visitors can enjoy the gentle world of the Joy Elephant Sanctuary, where they’ll witness the elephants’ daily routines and even lend a hand in their care. But the experience goes beyond just observing – it’s an opportunity to understand the importance of ethical tourism and conservation efforts in this captivating region.

Good To Know

• This ethical elephant sanctuary tour in Mae Wang District offers a 3-hour guided experience to observe and responsibly interact with elephants in their natural habitat.
• The tour includes a 1.5-hour van ride from Chiang Mai, a 30-minute lunch break, and an opportunity to relax by a scenic waterfall after the elephant activities.
• The sanctuary emphasizes elephant welfare and promotes conservation through an educational and immersive experience that avoids unethical practices like elephant bathing or performance tricks.
• Guests can feed the elephants with bananas and sugarcane and walk alongside them as they forage in the natural forest landscape.
• The tour is priced at $54.06 per person, includes hotel pickup and drop-off, and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Activity Overview

The tour, titled "Ethical Half Day Elephant Sanctuary & Waterfall," offers visitors a chance to explore an elephant sanctuary in Mae Wang District, located about 1.5 hours from Chiang Mai’s Old City.

Priced from $54.06 per person, the 7-hour tour includes English-speaking guides, hotel pickup and drop-off within a 5km radius of Chiang Mai’s Old City, and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Highlights include feeding and observing elephants in their natural habitat, relaxing by a waterfall, crafting a Thai souvenir, and walking alongside the elephants as they forage in the jungle.

Itinerary

The tour begins with pickup from your accommodation within a 5km radius of Chiang Mai’s Old City.

You’ll travel about 1.5 hours by van to Mae Wang District, where the real adventure begins:

1. 3 hours of guided tour and wildlife viewing at the Joy Elephant Sanctuary

2. 30-minute lunch break

3. Return 1.5 hours by van to Chiang Mai

4. Note that itineraries are subject to change.

The entire experience lasts approximately 7 hours, giving you ample time to learn about the ethical treatment of these magnificent creatures and the surrounding natural beauty.

Ethical Focus at Joy Elephant Sanctuary

Although the Joy Elephant Sanctuary’s primary focus is on ethical tourism, it also places importance on providing a natural, enriching environment for the elephants in its care.

Guests won’t find elephants bathing or performing tricks. Instead, they’ll observe the majestic creatures foraging in the jungle, interacting with each other, and enjoying their habitat.

The sanctuary emphasizes responsible interaction, with visitors feeding the elephants and walking alongside them as they explore. This approach ensures the elephants’ well-being while offering an immersive, educational experience that promotes conservation and sustainable tourism.

Elephant Feeding and Observation

After arriving at the sanctuary, guests can immediately begin feeding the elephants. The experience provides a chance to closely observe these gentle giants in their natural habitat:

• Guests are given large bunches of bananas and sugarcane to offer the elephants. As the elephants approach, visitors can see their trunks gently take the food from their hands.

• During feeding, the guide shares information about the elephants’ behavior and diet.

• Visitors can watch the elephants forage for vegetation and move freely around the verdant forest landscape.

• At the end of the feeding, guests have the opportunity to walk alongside the elephants as they continue grazing.

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Relaxation by the Waterfall

After the exhilarating elephant feeding and observation, visitors can now unwind by the serene waterfall.

They’ll enjoy a traditional herbal tea as they take in the stunning natural scenery. The sights and sounds of the cascading water are sure to soothe the senses.

This tranquil setting provides a perfect opportunity to reflect on the incredible elephant encounters. Though swimming isn’t allowed, guests can dip their feet in the cool refreshing pool.

This peaceful respite allows them to fully enjoy the beauty of the natural environment.

Cultural Engagement: Crafting a Thai Souvenir

Visitors now have the opportunity to craft their own unique Thai souvenir. As part of the tour, guests are invited to engage in a cultural experience by making a handmade Thai-inspired keepsake.

The process includes:

1. Selection of materials – guests can choose from a variety of local fabrics, beads, and accessories.

2. Guidance from an experienced artisan – step-by-step instructions are provided to ensure a successful craft.

3. Personalization – guests can customize their souvenir with their own design or personal touches.

4. Take-home memento – the finished product becomes a cherished reminder of the day’s ethical elephant encounter.

Inclusions and Services

The tour package includes a comprehensive set of services to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience.

Pickup and drop-off from accommodations within a 5km radius of Chiang Mai’s Old City are provided. A knowledgeable guide leads the tour, and lunch is included. Travelers will be equipped with water, elephant food, and a towel. Insurance coverage is also part of the package.

Guests are advised to bring comfortable shoes, swimwear, a change of clothes, sandals, sunscreen, and insect repellent. The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, and pets and explosive substances aren’t allowed.

Important Considerations

Guests should be aware of the tour’s limitations. This experience isn’t suitable for wheelchair users. Plus, pets and explosive substances aren’t allowed on the tour.

It’s important to bring along any necessary allergy medication, as well as comfortable shoes, swimwear, a change of clothes, sandals, sunscreen, and insect repellent.

The tour also recommends the following:

1. Wear proper footwear for hiking and walking alongside the elephants.

2. Bring a towel to use at the waterfall.

3. Prepare for potential encounters with insects and other wildlife in the natural habitat.

4. Respect the elephants and follow the guide’s instructions to ensure a safe and ethical experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Photos Allowed During the Elephant Interaction?

Photos are allowed during the elephant interaction. Guests can take pictures and videos, but they’re advised to follow the guide’s instructions and not disturb the elephants.

What Is the Policy on Carrying Personal Belongings?

Participants can bring personal belongings like cameras, sunscreen, and insect repellent. However, they’re advised to leave valuables behind and bring only essentials. Bags and belongings should be kept secure during the tour.

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for Participation?

There’s no minimum age requirement for this activity, making it suitable for all ages. Children must be accompanied by an adult and supervised throughout the experience.

Can Vegetarian or Special Dietary Needs Be Accommodated?

Yes, the tour can accommodate vegetarian or other special dietary needs. The operator asks that guests inform them of any dietary restrictions when booking so they can ensure appropriate meals are provided.

Are There Any Restrictions on Recording Video During the Tour?

The tour allows participants to record video throughout the experience, with the exception of areas where it may disturb the elephants. Visitors are advised to be respectful and follow the guide’s instructions when filming.

The Sum Up

This ethical tour offers a unique chance to engage with elephants responsibly. Visitors can feed and observe the animals at the Joy Elephant Sanctuary, then unwind at a peaceful waterfall. The experience emphasizes conservation and culture, making it an enriching way to explore Chiang Mai’s natural wonders. With convenient hotel transfers, this half-day adventure provides a well-rounded and sustainable wildlife encounter.

You can check if your dates are available here: