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Mae Taeng

Visitors consistently praise Elephant Nature Park for its ethical treatment of elephants, knowledgeable guides, and immersive experiences. The park's commitment to animal welfare and education is highly appreciated.

Elephant Nature Park: A Compassionate Sanctuary in Chiang Mai Thailand 

Nestled in the lush jungles of Mae Taeng, Chiang Mai, Elephant Nature Park is a sanctuary like no other — a haven dedicated to the rescue and rehabilitation of over 100 elephants, alongside hundreds of rescued dogs and cats. Known for its ethical approach, this park offers visitors an authentic, heartwarming experience that goes beyond typical tourist attractions. Here, you can witness the playful antics of baby elephants, learn touching stories of survival, and feel the deep bond between humans and animals fostered by a passionate team of caretakers.

Experience the Magic of Ethical Wildlife Interaction

Unlike many tourist spots, Elephant Nature Park prioritizes animal welfare above all. Visitors are warmly welcomed to feed elephants with corn and bananas, accompany them on jungle walks, and assist in their river bathing routines — all while respecting strict no-touch policies that protect the animals’ comfort and dignity. The park’s knowledgeable guides share heartfelt stories about each elephant’s journey to recovery, offering a deep understanding of conservation efforts in Thailand.

 is an unforgettable journey. A week-long volunteer program balances rewarding tasks like food preparation, habitat clean-up, and caring for disabled dogs, with guided cultural lessons about Thai traditions and mahout history. This immersive experience enriches your visit, offering meaningful ways to contribute and connect deeply with the sanctuary’s mission.

The park offers a vegan-friendly buffet that delights visitors with a variety of flavorful dishes made from fresh, local ingredients. This thoughtful addition enhances the overall experience, allowing guests to enjoy wholesome meals after a day of adventure and animal encounters.

What activities can visitors participate in at Elephant Nature Park?

 Visitors can feed elephants, accompany them on jungle walks, assist in river bathing, and participate in volunteer programs.

Is the food at Elephant Nature Park suitable for vegans?

 Yes, the park offers a vegan-friendly buffet with a variety of dishes.

How can I book a visit to Elephant Nature Park?

 Bookings can be made through the official website or authorized tour operators.

Community Sentiment and Conservation Commitment

Visitors consistently praise Elephant Nature Park for its heartfelt dedication to animal welfare and conservation. The sanctuary's ethical policies, professional guides, and immersive experiences leave guests deeply moved and inspired. Many highlight the genuine care for elephants and other rescued animals, emphasizing the park’s role not just as a tourist destination, but as a vital sanctuary fostering respect and compassion for wildlife.

Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a compassionate traveler, or someone seeking a meaningful escape in northern Thailand, Elephant Nature Park offers an unforgettable journey into the heart of ethical animal rescue and conservation.

Asia

Thailand

Nestled in the lush landscapes of Mae Taeng, Thailand, the Elephant Nature Park is not just a sanctuary; it's a heartfelt mission dedicated to the rescue and rehabilitation of elephants. Visitors are greeted by the gentle sounds of nature and the playful trumpets of elephants, creating an atmosphere that is both serene and uplifting. This ethical sanctuary is home to over 100 elephants, many of whom have been rescued from abusive situations, and it offers a unique opportunity to observe these magnificent creatures in a safe and loving environment.

At the Elephant Nature Park, dining is an experience that reflects the sanctuary's commitment to sustainability and compassion. Guests are treated to a delightful vegetarian buffet that features fresh, local ingredients. One standout dish is the aromatic Thai green curry, bursting with flavors of fresh basil and coconut milk, served alongside perfectly steamed jasmine rice. Another favorite is the refreshing papaya salad, which balances the sweetness of the fruit with a tangy lime dressing, making it a perfect complement to the hearty meals.

One of the most memorable experiences at the Elephant Nature Park is the opportunity to feed the elephants. Visitors can offer corn and bananas to these gentle giants while learning about their individual stories and the challenges they have overcome. The park also features a skywalk, providing a unique vantage point to observe the elephants in their natural habitat, allowing for unforgettable views and photo opportunities.

The park was founded by Lek Chailert, a passionate advocate for elephant welfare. Her dedication to rescuing elephants from abusive situations has transformed the lives of countless animals. A fun fact about the park is that it also provides a home for over 700 dogs and 2,000 cats, making it a true sanctuary for all animals in need. Visitors often leave with a profound sense of connection to the animals and a deeper understanding of the importance of conservation.

What is the Elephant Nature Park known for?

The park is renowned for its ethical approach to elephant care, providing a safe haven for rescued elephants and promoting conservation efforts.

Visiting the park provides an opportunity to learn about elephant conservation, support ethical animal care, and experience unforgettable moments with these gentle giants.

Expect a day filled with compassion, learning, and unforgettable interactions with elephants, along with delicious vegetarian meals.

Join us at the Elephant Nature Park for an unforgettable experience that combines compassion with adventure. Whether you’re feeding elephants, enjoying a delicious vegetarian meal, or simply soaking in the beauty of nature, your visit will leave a lasting impact on both you and the animals. Book your experience now and be part of a movement that champions ethical animal care and conservation.

Elephant rescue & rehabilitation center with volunteer opportunities, jungle tours & rafting.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNfX0xhRzlBRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJj21Ja6g62jARFSuw0w8gLNs/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNfX0xhRzlBRRAB

The best experience of my life! Cried leaving! Lek and her team are so welcoming and absolutely amazing with the animals. Watching baby elephants play is such a special experience. We did the overnight trip and the rooms were spotless with a nice hot shower! The dogs that run free are also adorable and we fell in love with Bandit! We had Pealie as our guide and she was so friendly. We fed the elephants corn and bananas but it is strictly NO touching.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUR2X2JLWkxREAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJj21Ja6g62jARFSuw0w8gLNs/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUR2X2JLWkxREAE

Elephant Nature Park is an absolute must-visit if you’re in Chiang Mai and want to support efforts to conserve and protect animals. The entire experience was seamless and well-organized. The hotel pick-up was punctual, and both the driver and our guide, Ms. Gun, were incredibly professional. Hearing the heartfelt stories behind each elephant rescue and learning about their unique journeys was deeply moving. The park doesn’t just focus on elephants—it also provides a sanctuary for rescued cats and dogs, which was such a heartwarming surprise. Seeing them roam freely and cared for made us miss our own cats at home so much. To top it all off, the vegetarian lunch provided was absolutely delicious and added even more value to the experience. It’s a day filled with compassion and unforgettable moments that will stay with us long after we leave.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURmNXVxelRBEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJj21Ja6g62jARFSuw0w8gLNs/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURmNXVxelRBEAE

I’ve been to a few and this one definitely is most ethical I have found. No feeding , no bathing (this is a good thing for people who don’t know) & they have rescued around 100 elephants some young are there. Nice to watch them. Other places I’ve been to felt like it’s been abit of a show and are forced to go to areas for tourists wants and not the elephants best interests

Definitely recommend this one for sure! -Please do not go to any where you ride them , chain them or use the sticks they whack them with!!! -

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNfdi12WmxBRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJj21Ja6g62jARFSuw0w8gLNs/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNfdi12WmxBRRAB

Unforgettable experience. The skywalk tour is a lengthy 15-foot elevated pathway giving a great vantage to watch these magnificent creatures. You learn their rehabilitation story and their individual personalities. I could watch them feeding for hours - which we did. After a buffet lunch we were right in the paddock with them, watching them get bathed and fed, learning so many intriguing facts, walking for hours amidst several family groups. Hotel pickup in an 8-person can was convenient and it took 90 minutes to get there.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUR2bExyT3NnRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJj21Ja6g62jARFSuw0w8gLNs/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUR2bExyT3NnRRAB

I recently had the privilege of volunteering at an Elephant Nature Park, and I can't recommend it enough. The sanctuary is home to over 100 elephants, 700 dogs, and 2,000 cats, and it was incredible to witness the care and respect given to each of these animals. One of the most important aspects of this sanctuary is that visitors do not ride the elephants. Instead, the focus is on providing them with a safe, peaceful environment where they can thrive.

The volunteer program was one week long, with accommodations and meals included. The schedule struck an excellent balance between work, downtime, and guided walks around the park. The tasks we were assigned were varied but always rewarding. We unloaded food trucks, picked up poop, helped with flood clean up, and even made an elephant cake as a special elephant treat! Additional, helping with the many dogs at the park was an optional task. Including getting to walk the disabled dogs. While the work was physically demanding at times, it was also deeply fulfilling to know we were contributing to the wellbeing of these magnificent creatures.

The guides, Art, Joe, and Sumo, were outstanding. They were incredibly knowledgeable about the elephants and their individual needs, background and behaviors. They made sure to keep us informed, organized, and, most importantly, safe when around the free-roaming animals. Their passion for the work was evident in everything they did, and they were always patient and supportive. Beyond their expertise with the animals, they also gave us valuable insights into Thai and mahout culture. One of the highlights was a special Thai culture lesson, where they shared traditions, customs, and even some basic language skills that enriched our overall experience.

What truly made this experience unforgettable was the sense of community and the opportunity to directly support such a meaningful cause. My heart has never felt so full. Being part of this project, even in a small way, was incredibly fulfilling, and I am proud to have contributed to their ongoing efforts to provide a loving, respectful environment for the elephants, dogs, cats and many other animals in their care.

Note to future volunteers:
- Bring your own gloves
- You can get your laundry done
- You might get the chance to visit a local school, if so, you need a long sleeve shirt and pants (there's likely ones you can buy at the gift store)
- Additional bug spray and sunscreen (and other small store items) can be purchased at the little shop outside of the main park
- There are mud boots that you can borrow
- The café is great! Bring some smaller bills for them.
- Bring close toe shoes, like sneakers to prevent injuries
- Remember to stretch! :)

Enjoy!!

Visit Elephant Nature Park in Mae Taeng, Chiang Mai: Ethical Animal Sanctuary

Established in 1998 by Sangduen 'Lek' Chailert, Elephant Nature Park has grown from a small rescue center to a leading sanctuary for elephants in Thailand.

The History of Elephant Nature Park in Chiang Mai, Thailand.

Nestled in the lush greenery of Chiang Mai, the Elephant Nature Park stands as a beacon of hope and compassion for elephants and other animals. Founded in 1998 by the passionate and dedicated Sangduen 'Lek' Chailert, this sanctuary has become a safe haven for over 200 elephants who have been rescued from the perils of exploitation.

Elephant Nature Park established by Sangduen 'Lek' Chailert.

PETA campaigns against elephant exploitation in Thailand, highlighting the park's efforts.

Over 200 elephants rescued and rehabilitated by the park.

The Elephant Nature Park is not just about rescuing elephants; it’s a testament to the power of compassion and the need for awareness regarding animal welfare. By providing these magnificent creatures with a sanctuary free from harm, the park has become a crucial part of conservation efforts in Thailand. It serves as an educational hub, raising awareness about the plight of elephants and promoting responsible tourism.

The park champions ethical treatment of elephants, advocating against practices such as riding and chaining. Through volunteer opportunities and jungle tours, visitors can actively participate in the ongoing efforts to care for these animals, gaining firsthand experience while contributing to the community and animal welfare initiatives.

Volunteer Opportunities

Jungle Tours

Rafting

Elephant Nature Park is a sanctuary in Thailand dedicated to the rescue and rehabilitation of elephants. Visitors can engage in volunteer opportunities, jungle tours, and rafting while learning about wildlife conservation and animal ethics.

Elephant Nature Park

A selection of traditional Thai vegetarian dishes prepared fresh daily.

Vegetarian Buffet

Discover the Vegetarian Buffet at Elephant Nature Park

Nestled in the heart of Mae Taeng, Chiang Mai, the Elephant Nature Park offers visitors not only an unforgettable wildlife experience but also a delectable culinary delight through its exclusive vegetarian buffet. Perfectly complementing a day of compassionate animal encounters, this buffet presents a vibrant array of Asian and international vegetarian dishes, crafted with fresh, wholesome ingredients.

Begin your meal with fresh fruits and crisp vegetables that showcase the park’s commitment to natural and healthy choices. Each bite is a refreshing start, preparing your palate for the rich flavors to come.

 is the expertly prepared rice and noodle dishes, infused with vibrant spices and complemented by tender tofu and seasonal vegetables. This harmonious blend offers a nourishing and flavorsome meal suitable for all palates.

End your dining experience on a naturally sweet note with an assortment of fresh fruits, carefully selected to refresh and delight. These seasonal selections provide a perfect balance, rounding out the meal with light yet satisfying flavors.

While the menu focuses on the vegetarian buffet, visitors can enjoy a variety of beverages at the park's café, complementing the fresh and wholesome food offerings. Whether you prefer herbal teas or refreshing juices, there’s something to complement every meal.

 The buffet emphasizes sustainability by using locally sourced vegetables and organic produce.

 Enjoy a blend of traditional Thai flavors with international vegetarian cuisine, creating a diverse and exciting menu.

 Whether you are a vegetarian, vegan, or simply seeking healthy options, this buffet caters to a wide range of dietary preferences.

Experience the magic of Elephant Nature Park in Chiang Mai, Thailand! Get close to rescued elephants and immerse in nature. Book your visit today!

Visit Elephant Nature Park in Chiang Mai, Thailand

Mae Taeng District

Guided tours to observe and learn about rescued elephants in their natural habitat.

Elephant Tours

Opportunities to assist in daily care and rehabilitation of elephants.

Volunteer Programs

Experience the park overnight with evening activities and morning walks with elephants.

Overnight Stays

Elephant nature park chiang mai thailand sanctuary experience overview 

Nestled in the verdant landscapes of Mae Taeng, Chiang Mai, Elephant Nature Park is a truly inspiring sanctuary dedicated to the rescue and rehabilitation of over 100 elephants along with hundreds of dogs and cats. This ethically-driven park offers visitors a rare chance to experience wild animals in a compassionate, natural setting while supporting vital conservation efforts.

ethical elephant encounters and immersive activities

Unlike typical tourist attractions, Elephant Nature Park prioritizes the well-being and dignity of its majestic residents. Visitors are invited to engage in enriching experiences such as feeding the elephants fresh fruits and treats and accompanying them on peaceful jungle walks. These activities allow you to observe their natural behaviors up close without disturbing them.

 is another highlight—assist in gently bathing these gentle giants in the flowing river, an activity they adore and find refreshing. The park strictly prohibits riding or touching the elephants to ensure their comfort and safety.

For travelers who want to make a deeper impact, the park offers volunteer programs allowing participants to stay for a week or longer. Volunteers contribute to daily care tasks like preparing food, cleaning, and assisting with flood recovery efforts. This hands-on involvement offers a meaningful way to connect with the animals and the dedicated staff who nurture them.

The volunteer experience is balanced with educational Thai culture lessons and guided walks, enriching your understanding of local traditions and mahout heritage. Accommodations are comfortable and well-maintained, providing a restful retreat after fulfilling days in the sanctuary.

Guests consistently praise the park's warm hospitality, knowledgeable guides, and the touching stories behind each rescued elephant. The experience is often described as life-changing and deeply emotional, highlighting the authentic and ethical care provided here.

, like sneakers, to protect your feet when walking through uneven terrain.

 to stay comfortable during outdoor activities.

 that touching and riding elephants is not permitted to ensure their welfare.

 provided at the park for a delicious, locally inspired meal.

Elephant Nature Park is more than just a destination; it's a movement toward compassionate tourism. The sanctuary's commitment to providing a peaceful haven for elephants rescued from exploitation sets it apart as one of the most ethical wildlife experiences in Thailand. Visitors leave with not only unforgettable memories but also a greater awareness of animal welfare and conservation.

Whether you're a wildlife enthusiast, ethical traveler, or someone eager to connect with Thailand's natural heritage, Elephant Nature Park offers a rare opportunity to witness the beauty and resilience of elephants alongside dedicated caretakers who treat each animal like family.

Located at 289 1 Tambon Kuet Chang, Amphoe Mae Taeng in Chiang Mai, the park is accessible by a scenic 90-minute drive from Chiang Mai city. Organized hotel pickup and professional guides ensure your journey and stay are smooth and enjoyable. The park welcomes visitors year-round and encourages early booking due to its popularity among travelers seeking ethical elephant encounters.

 - Free activity to feed elephants fresh fruits and treats.

 - Accompany elephants through their natural jungle habitat.

 - Help bathe elephants in the river, a favorite pastime for them.

 - Extended stays to assist with animal care and park maintenance.

Chiang Mai Province

Visit Elephant Nature Park in Chiang Mai for ethical elephant conservation, volunteer programs, and jungle tours. Support rescued animals and enjoy a vegetarian buffet.

Elephant Nature Park Chiang Mai – Ethical Elephant Sanctuary & Volunteer Experience

Discover Elephant Nature Park in Chiang Mai for a humane eco-tour, wildlife observation, and cultural experiences. Support animal welfare and enjoy guided tours.

Explore Elephant Nature Park Chiang Mai – Animal Rescue & Rehabilitaion

Learn about Elephant Nature Park's history, mission, and community impact in Chiang Mai. Promoting ethical tourism and animal welfare since 1998.

Visit Elephant Nature Park in Mae Taeng, Chiang Mai: Ethical Animal Sanctuary

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