Phuket’s Hidden Forest Elephant Reserve offers a unique opportunity to observe and interact with rescued elephants in their natural habitat. This 3-hour guided tour includes convenient transportation, a delicious vegetarian meal, and the chance to feed the gentle giants. With a stellar reputation and a strong focus on ethical elephant care, this sanctuary promises an unforgettable experience for wildlife enthusiasts. What else does this hidden gem have in store for visitors?
Good To Know
- Ethical sanctuary in Hidden Forest Elephant Reserve, Phuket, offering a 3-hour tour to observe four rescued elephants in their natural habitat.
- Includes transportation from any area in Phuket, a 2.5-hour guided tour, and a vegetarian meal with locally sourced ingredients.
- Visitors can observe elephants roaming freely, socializing, and playing, but touching, riding, or bathing the elephants is prohibited.
- Co-founded by elephant specialists, the reserve maintains low visitor numbers to ensure ethical standards and the well-being of the elephants.
- The experience has an outstanding rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars from 128 reviews, with praise for the genuine care for the elephants and knowledgeable guides.
Overview and Pricing
The Hidden Forest Elephant Reserve in southern Phuket offers visitors an ethical sanctuary experience to meet and observe four rescued elephants.
Priced at $99.00 per person with up to 5% savings, the 3-hour to 1-day tour includes hotel pickup, a guided tour, and a vegetarian meal.
Visitors can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours in advance, and a reserve now, pay later option is available.
The ethical practices of the sanctuary, co-founded by elephant specialists, ensure the elephants roam freely and aren’t touched, ridden, or bathed by visitors.
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Itinerary and Activities
Pickup from any area in Phuket is included, with visitors providing their hotel name and address.
The 3-hour tour begins with a 30-minute transportation to the Hidden Forest Elephant Reserve. Guests then embark on a 2.5-hour guided tour, meeting and feeding the four rescued elephants.
The 3-hour tour includes a 30-minute transportation to the Hidden Forest Elephant Reserve and a 2.5-hour guided tour to meet and feed the four rescued elephants.
Visitors can observe the elephants roaming freely, socializing, and playing in the natural ponds and streams. The tour includes a scenic walk through the forest and access to observation huts for wildlife viewing.
A delicious vegetarian meal with locally sourced ingredients is provided during the visit. After the tour, guests are transported back to their Phuket accommodations.
Ethical Practices and Elephant Care
Co-founded by elephant specialists Mr. Kong and Louise Rogerson, the Hidden Forest Elephant Reserve prioritizes ethical practices in caring for its four rescued elephants. The elephants roam freely, socializing and playing in natural ponds and streams, with no touching, riding, or bathing allowed. Visitor numbers are kept low to ensure the highest ethical standards.
| Activity | Allowed |
|———|———|
| Meet and Feed Elephants | Yes |
| Scenic Walk Through Forest | Yes |
| Observe Elephants from Huts | Yes |
| Touch or Ride Elephants | No |
| Bathe Elephants | No |
This approach provides a genuine, educational wildlife experience for visitors seeking an ethical encounter with these majestic creatures.
Meals and Amenities
A delicious vegetarian meal with locally sourced ingredients is included during the visit. Guests can enjoy this meal in the observation area while watching the elephants.
The tour also provides an English-speaking guide, transportation by air-conditioned van, entrance ticket, water refills, and an educational introduction video.
However, the experience may not be suitable for individuals with serious health conditions or mobility impairments.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyCustomer Feedback and Ratings
According to customer reviews, the Hidden Forest Elephant Reserve has an outstanding overall rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars based on 128 reviews.
Visitors have consistently praised the genuine care for the elephants and the knowledgeable, friendly guides. Many highlighted the positive experiences with the ethical practices and the beautiful, natural surroundings.
The Reserve is highly recommended for elephant lovers and those seeking an authentic, ethical wildlife experience.
The combination of high-quality service, a commitment to animal welfare, and a stunning location has made this reserve a top choice for Phuket travelers.
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Sanctuary History and Vision
The Hidden Forest Elephant Reserve was co-founded by elephant specialists Mr. Kong and Louise Rogerson. Their vision was to create a sanctuary where rescued elephants could roam freely and live out their days in peace.
| Founders | Co-Founder Vision |
|———-|——————-|
| Mr. Kong | Provide a natural habitat |
| Louise Rogerson | Ethical treatment of elephants |
Through their dedication and expertise, the reserve aims to educate visitors on the importance of elephant conservation and welfare. By keeping visitor numbers low, the team ensures the highest standards of care and a tranquil environment for the elephants to thrive.
Phuket’s Natural Wonders
Nestled within the lush, verdant landscapes of southern Phuket lies a remarkable natural wonder – the Hidden Forest Elephant Reserve.
This ethical sanctuary is home to four rescued elephants, who roam freely and peacefully through the serene forest environment. Visitors can observe the elephants socializing, playing, and enjoying the natural ponds and streams.
The guided tour offers a chance to take in the tranquil beauty of the forest, with observation huts providing stunning views of the majestic animals.
This unique experience allows guests to appreciate Phuket’s natural splendor while supporting the ethical treatment of the elephants.
Planning Your Visit
Although the Hidden Forest Elephant Reserve is nestled within Phuket’s lush landscapes, planning a visit is straightforward.
The reserve offers convenient pickup from anywhere in Phuket, with the full experience lasting 3 hours to a full day. Visitors can expect a guided tour to meet and feed the rescued elephants, stroll through the scenic forest, and enjoy a delicious vegetarian meal.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option, booking is flexible. The ethical sanctuary keeps visitor numbers low, ensuring an immersive and responsible elephant encounter.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks to the Reserve?
Visitors can bring their own food and drinks to the reserve. However, a delicious vegetarian meal is included in the tour package, so there’s no need to pack your own. The reserve encourages guests to enjoy the provided meal.
What Should I Wear for the Visit?
Visitors should wear comfortable, breathable clothing and closed-toe shoes suitable for walking on uneven terrain. Lightweight, moisture-wicking fabrics are recommended to stay cool and dry during the outdoor activities at the elephant reserve.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?
There are no age restrictions for the tour. The experience is suitable for all ages, though young children may require adult supervision. Families with children are welcome to participate in the ethical elephant observation and activities.
Can I Take Photos or Videos of the Elephants?
Visitors are allowed to take photos and videos of the elephants during the tour, but close interactions or touching the animals are not permitted. The sanctuary enforces an observation-only policy to ensure the ethical treatment of the elephants.
Is There a Gift Shop or Souvenir Options Available?
There is no dedicated gift shop, but visitors can purchase a few souvenir options like reusable water bottles and eco-friendly merchandise at the reserve to support the elephants’ care and conservation efforts.
The Sum Up
The Phuket: Hidden Forest Elephant Reserve offers a memorable and ethical experience to observe rescued elephants in their natural habitat. With convenient transportation, a delicious vegetarian meal, and opportunities to interact with the gentle giants, this 3-hour guided tour provides wildlife enthusiasts an outstanding 4.9-star rated sanctuary that prioritizes elephant welfare. Explore Phuket’s natural wonders and learn about the enchanting world of these rescued elephants.
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