A sanctuary, not a zoo
The principle is simple: the elephants are at home, you come as a visitor. No chain, no stick, no show. The mahouts (Thai guardians) are present at all times and respect the animal.
What you will learn
- The individual story of each elephant — some lived 40 years in a circus, others were rescued from logging sites at 15 years old.
- The Thai diet — an adult elephant eats 150 kg of vegetation per day. Tamarind rice balls treat their digestion.
- Social behavior — hierarchy, friendships, body language.
What to bring
- Clothing that can get dirty (mud, water).
- Swimsuit.
- Towel.
- Replacement for the return (the sanctuary has showers).
- Sunscreen.
Our tip: combine with another spot on the same day — morning sanctuary + afternoon Big Buddha or Phuket Old Town. We can orchestrate the entire day.
Detailed programme
6h30
Hotel pick-up
Air-conditioned van to the sanctuary (45-60 min).
7h30
Welcome and briefing
Welcome coffee + tea, presentation of each elephant (history, provenance, character), rules of respect.
8h00
Food preparation
Cutting sugar cane, preparing rice balls with herbs for the elephants' digestion.
8h45
Elephant feeding
Distribution by hand, under supervision. You learn to recognize each individual.
9h45
Mud spa
The elephants roll in the mud (natural protection against insects and the sun). You participate by spraying them.
10h30
Swimming and showering
Rinse the elephants in the river or pond, then shower to change.
11h30
Thai meal
Traditional lunch at the sanctuary (curries, rice, salads).
12h30
Return to hotel
Van returns, photos shared by email the same evening.
Included / Not included
Included
- Return transfer from hotel (tourist areas)
- English-speaking guide
- Welcome coffee/tea
- 1 Thai meal
- Fresh water, fruit
- Adapted clothing provided (aprons, boots)
- Group photographer (photos offered)
Not included
- Personal towels
- Tipping mahouts (guards)
- Change of clothes for the return
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.