A sanctuary, not a zoo
We only work with sanctuaries that respect WFFT (Wildlife Friends Foundation Thailand) standards: no riding, no chains, no shows, no circuses. Elephants eat, sleep and bathe at their own pace. You come to them — they don't work for you.
The program in practice
- Medium group: 8-15 visitors, for 4-8 elephants
- Mahout (Thai guardian) per elephant, permanently present
- Toilets, changing rooms, shower on site
- Meals: snacks and fruit included in A/B. Full Thai lunch included in the full day C program.
Choose the right formula
- Program A (4h) — ideal if you already have another plan for the day. Full but compact half day.
- Program B (5h) — more immersive: you prepare the food before giving it, you learn to make natural remedies (tamarind balls for their digestion).
- Program C (day) — the complete adventure. After the elephants, the team takes you to Emerald Pool (natural turquoise pool) then to the thermal springs. It’s the best experience/price ratio.
Our advice
In high season (November-April), reserve at least 48 hours in advance. Good sanctuaries intentionally limit the number of visitors — that’s what makes for a great experience.
We direct you to the sanctuary that matches your profile (family with young children, couple on honeymoon, solo travelers, etc.). All partners are audited annually by the team.
Detailed programme
7h30
Hotel pick-up
Air-conditioned minibus to the sanctuary (40-60 min drive depending on departure hotel).
8h30
Welcome and briefing
Welcome tea, presentation of the history of each elephant (origin, age, character), safety instructions.
8h45
Meeting and walking in the forest
Walk with the elephants at their own pace, in the shaded forest.
9h30
Hand feeding
Bananas, sugar canes, watermelons — direct distribution, under supervision.
10h00
Mud bath
The elephants roll in the mud (protection against insects and the sun) — you spray them with them.
10h45
River bath and shower
Rinsing with clean water, souvenir photos, shower for visitors.
11h30
Return to hotel
Return journey by minibus.
Included / Not included
Included
- Return transfer from Ao Nang, Krabi Town, Klong Muang, Tup Kaek hotels
- Around 1h30 of direct contact with the elephants
- Walking in the forest, hand feeding (bananas, sugar cane)
- Mud bath with elephants
- River bath/final shower
- Fruits, water, welcome tea
- English-speaking guide (French-speaking on request, +800 THB / group)
- Locker rooms and showers after the activity
Not included
- Meals (included only in Program C — full day THB 4,000)
- Transfer from Railay (300 THB extra)
- Tips
- Sunscreen, personal towel
Before you go
Good to know
Prone to seasickness?
Take a tablet ~30 min before departure, sit mid-boat, keep your eyes on the horizon and avoid heading out on an empty stomach.
Beat the crowds
Iconic spots like Maya Bay are far calmer early in the day. Our morning departures get you there before the midday ferry rush.
National park fees
Some sites sit inside a national park, so an entrance fee may apply. Check the “Not included” list above so there are no surprises.
Sun & reef care
The tropical sun is strong — bring a hat, sunglasses and plenty of water. Reef-safe sunscreen is required in Thai marine parks.
What to pack
Swimwear under your clothes, a towel, a dry bag for your phone, and a change of clothes for the trip back.