Chiang Mai Guide

Chiang Mai Elephant Tours

Experience ethical elephant encounters in Chiang Mai, from elephant sanctuaries to jungle walks, discovering responsible elephant tourism

22+ tours
From $90
Half day to full day
Chiang Mai Elephant Tours

Chiang Mai offers ethical elephant experiences, where elephant sanctuaries, responsible tourism, and elephant encounters create meaningful experiences that make elephant tours perfect for animal lovers! Elephant tours take you to ethical elephant facilities, from visiting elephant sanctuaries to learning about elephant conservation, from feeding elephants to understanding responsible tourism, and from seeing elephants in natural settings to discovering why ethical elephant tourism is important. Experience the meaningful encounters that define ethical elephant tourism, see why responsible sanctuaries matter, learn about elephant behavior and conservation, and discover why elephant tours offer educational journeys through elephant care and protection. Whether you're seeking sanctuary visits, feeding experiences, jungle walks, or comprehensive elephant exploration, elephant tours provide responsible ways to experience these gentle giants that make Chiang Mai special. From feeding to bathing, from sanctuaries to education, elephant tours ensure you experience ethical elephant encounters that define responsible tourism!

Featured Elephant Tours Tours

Discover our top picks for elephant tours in Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai Elephant Sanctuary, Bamboo Rafting and Waterfall Tour
From $58.67
Free CancellationNew

Experience a day of fun and adventure in Chiang Mai with a tour that includes a waterfall, an ethical elephant sanctuary, and bamboo rafting. Your day begins at Bau Tong Waterfall where it allows visitors to climb barefoot—an exciting and rare experiences. Take in the serene natural surroundings, breathtaking views, and refreshing mountain air. Next, visit Elephant Sanctuary, a sanctuary where elephants roam freely in a natural forest environment. Here, you’ll quietly observe these gentle giants as they go about their daily routines in peace. We respect their freedom by avoiding any riding or direct interaction, choosing instead to walk alongside them and witness their lives in a natural and ethical setting. The final, enjoy a scenic bamboo rafting experience as you float down the river, surrounded by lush landscapes and tranquil beauty.

5.0(781)
8h
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Half-Day Elephant Experience at Rantong
From $58.67
Free Cancellation

Ran-Tong is devoted to rescuing abused elephants from all over Thailand and surrounding countries. Every elephant rescued is brought to the sanctuary in Chiang Mai and cared for with great passion and enthusiasm. Our mission is not only geared towards the protection and prevention of abused Elephants in Thailand but also to educate the public about their long history within Thai culture. Founded in 2009, Ran-Tong has rescued over 40 elephants to date with the help of public generosity, support, and private donation they can continue their ongoing vital work. Our priority is animal welfare. At Ran-Tong Save & Rescue Elephant Centre, you will completely get to learn a lot about elephants and have a memorable experience with them.

4.8(617)
5h
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Chiang Mai Half Day Elephant Sanctuary Observation and Waterfall
From $58.67
Free Cancellation

• Start your journey to the ethical Adventures in Joy Elephant Sanctuary: Dive into our responsible tourism with Elephant Observation programs! • Fun Interactions: Change into traditional Karen clothing, Learn, prepare elephants food and observe our gentle giants on their completely natural behavior while maintaining safe distance. • Elephant Paradise: Refresh yourself with herbal tea and take a break at the waterfall. All this in paradise located in lush forests and surrounded by serene rivers, our sanctuary ensures elephants thrive with a year-round food supply. • Engaging to the core of the culture: Learn how to craft your own Thai cultural handmade souvenir as a memorable gift.

4.9(79)
6h
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Elephant care program at CHIANGMAI ELEPHANT CARE
From $52
Free Cancellation

We are committed to raising awareness about conservation and ethical elephant tourism, a key part of our elephant care philosophy. Since 2017, we have dedicated ourselves to working with elephants as tour guides at our elephant care facility. This journey has provided us with invaluable experience and knowledge about these magnificent creatures. Our mission at Chiangmai Elephant Care is to create a better future for elephants and ensure their happiness. At Chiangmai Elephant Care, we have seen firsthand the challenges elephants face, such as habitat loss, poaching, and human conflict. Our work in elephant care has taught us how to improve their well-being. With our experience at Chiangmai Elephant Care, we understand the physical, emotional, and social needs of elephants. By studying their behavior and instincts, we create environments where they can thrive. We are passionate about improving their lives through elephant care because we believe they deserve joy, comfort, and freedom.

5.0(267)
6h
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Experience Elephant Sanctuary + Sticky Waterfall
From $94.11
Free Cancellation🔥Likely to Sell Out

The Elephant Sanctuary Camp where you can see the Elephant live freely in their nature environment. 08.00 Pick up from your hotel to DooDoi Elephant Sanctuary. Get up close to the hugh sacred animal of Thailand who was rescue from the riding camp and forest timber logging industries. Watching the Elephant live freely as their nature environment, no chine, no hook, no pushing them doing something. Volunteer helping Mahout to findout the food for Elephant by cutting the Nepia Grass, chop pumpkin, sugarcane, and banana. Relax at the Sticky Waterfall, climbing up-down and swimming. Note: The activities is a private transfer, when you're at the sanctuary you have to join with another customers (group size 6-9 people)

4.9(84)
6h
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Care Pride Elephants: Full-Day Tour Experience
💸Special Offer
$91.26From $82.14
Free CancellationSkip The Line

Have you ever desired to have a magical trip with thailand most revered animals and witness them in their home deep in the jungle Well,Then this it our trip elephant pride sanctuary full day trip for you an elephants have an average life of 60-80 years which is very similar to people, so we wish to provide them a comfortable place to live in nature. Our goal is to allow people to experience the amazing elephants while maintaining the honor and pride of these incredible animals. Tourists guide English language and Japan language (we have Japanese language guide but will not available on Saturday and Sunday )

5.0(654)
8h
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Elephant Experience and Hidden Jungle Waterfall Chiang Mai
From $52.15
Free CancellationNew

Engage with rescued elephants at E-Co Adventure Elephant Camp and explore a hidden jungle waterfall in Chiang Mai. This eco-adventure offers a chance to hand-feed gentle giants and walk alongside them in their natural habitat. After enjoying a delicious Thai lunch, dive into a secluded waterfall for a refreshing swim or glide down natural rock slides shaped by the flowing water. With round-trip transport included, this tour promises a unique blend of wildlife encounters and fun in nature without compromising ethical standards. - Discover rescued elephants in an ethical, no-riding camp - Hand-feed and walk with elephants amidst lush jungle trails - Swim and unwind at a hidden waterfall, exclusive to locals -Enjoy a delicious Thai lunch or dinner with a vegetarian option available, supporting a local village restaurant.

4.9(60)
6h
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Chiang Mai Chapulin Elephant Care and Sticky Waterfall
From $39.11
Free Cancellation

Located just 30 minutes from downtown Chiang Mai, Chapulin Elephant Sanctuary is set amidst vast rice fields and lush greenery. It offers a peaceful refuge where elephants roam freely in their natural habitat. Visitors can enjoy a close, ethical encounter with these majestic animals away from the crowds. Activities at Chapulin Elephant Sanctuary: • Enjoy a welcome drink & take photos in Chiang Phluen's scenic countryside. • Learn about elephants from an English-speaking guide. • Dress in Karen-style outfits & prepare elephant food. • Feed, interact with, and take photos with elephants, then walk together in the jungle. • Bathe and play with the elephants in the water, followed by a rinse. • Enjoy a Thai lunch & drinks (morning) or Afternoon Tea Set (afternoon) at the café. Optional Full-Day Tour: Combine your visit with a trip to the famous Sticky Waterfall (Bua Tong Waterfall) for an adventurous day out!

5.0(7)
7h
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Chiang Mai Elephant Sanctuary Observation and Bamboo Rafting
💸Special Offer
$65.19From $61.93
Free Cancellation

Perfect for nature lovers! Spend a peaceful day with the Joy Elephant Sanctuary & Bamboo Rafting Program: observe elephants in their natural behavior, gain insider knowledge and then listen to the river sounds while chilling on bamboo rafting on Serene Wang River. Dive into our responsible tourism with Elephant Observation programs! Fun Interactions: Change into traditional Karen clothing, Learn, prepare elephant food, and observe our gentle giants in their completely natural behavior. Elephant Paradise: Refresh yourself with herbal tea and take a break at the waterfall. All this in paradise located in lush forests and surrounded by serene rivers, our sanctuary ensures elephants thrive with a year-round food supply and visitor-helped planting. Engaging to the core of the culture: Learn how to craft your own Thai cultural handmade souvenir as a memorable gift. Hop on Chill ride: Experience the beauty of the jungle while Bamboo Rafting on the peaceful Wang River

4.9(41)
8h
View Details
Chiang Mai: Inthanon, Elephant Sanctuary Observation & Waterfall
From $81.49
Free Cancellation

Step into a wild adventure at Joy Elephant Sanctuary. Meet majestic elephants, conquer Doi Inthanon & Hike through lush forests, and immerse yourself in Thailand's natural beauty. It's a journey you won't want to miss! Dive into our responsible tourism with Elephant Observation programs! Fun Interactions: Change into traditional Karen clothing, Learn, prepare elephants food and observe the gentle giants on their completely natural behavior while maintaining safe distance. Elephant Paradise: Refresh yourself with herbal tea and take a break at the waterfall, surrounded by serene rivers. Engaging to the core of the culture by learning how to craft your own Thai cultural handmade souvenir. Pump your excitement with Inthanon hike: Experience the unforgettable beauty of the breeze and mist atop Thailand’s highest peak, visit the beautiful Twin Pagodas, followed by exploring the jungle and water fall in Pha Dok Siew.

5.0(30)
11h
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Elephant Sanctuary + Waterfall + Bamboo Rafting One Day Trip
💸Special Offer
$62.58From $59.45
Free Cancellation

3 experiences in Mae Wang district, Chiang Mai in a day. With unbeatable prices and 24/7 service. Roundtrip transfer in Chaing Mai City and lunch included. Travel by air-conditioned van. - Meet and interact with adorable elephants - Relax at Mae Wang Waterfall - Enjoy bamboo rafting along Mae Wang stream

4.4(21)
8h
View Details
Elephant Sanctuary, Wat Ban Den & Sticky Waterfall
From $58.67
Free Cancellation🔥Likely to Sell Out

Get ready for an unforgettable day in Chiang Mai, where you’ll learn about elephants, explore a dazzling temple, and climb a waterfall like never before! Your journey begins at an ethical elephant sanctuary, witness rescued elephants living freely in their natural habitat and watch them enjoying life on their own terms. Stand beside them as , watching their gentle curiosity and intelligence up close. This experience is all about respecting elephants as they truly are. Next, explore the most beautiful and stunning in the northern part of Thailand calls Ban Den Temple, a hidden gem with towering blue rooftops, golden pagodas, and intricate carvings. Wander through peaceful courtyards and admire shimmering Buddha statues in this awe-inspiring setting. Finally, climb the Sticky Waterfall ! Thanks to its unique limestone surface, you can walk up the cascading water without slipping. Cool off in the refreshing pools and soak in the lush jungle scenery. *Small group tour*

5.0(56)
9h 30m
View Details
Inthanon Heaven Trail(Living Green Elephant Sanctuary)
From $65.19
Free Cancellation

By choosing us you are supporting good habitat, medicine, and medical for elephants,Eco friendly tourism community education for kids in remote area. We have made selection for combination trip between Living Green elephant sanctuary&Foundation and Doi Inthanon National park(The highest mountain of Thailand.)Living Green is one of the best elephant sanctuary in Chiangmai.They provide good habitat, medicine and medical for elephants.They rescue more elephants every year. And Doi Inthanon is the highest mountain of Thailand. The average temperatures are 10-15.c,The trail for trekking is beautiful nature, waterfalls, and rare vegetations.We are sure of this combination trip will make you have a great day.

4.7(51)
10h
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Elephant Care & Bathing Chiang Rai
From $68.45
Free Cancellation

You’ll begin your journey with a hotel pickup and a scenic drive to the sanctuary. There you will get mahout closes for changing.Upon arrival, meet the elephants and learn about their rescue stories, behaviors, and care. Get up close and personal as you feed them fruit and sugarcane — a truly heartwarming moment. Then, join them in a mud spa to help protect their skin before heading to the river for a fun and refreshing bathing session. After the experience, relax and enjoy a delicious home-cooked Thai lunch surrounded by nature before, you change your clothes again and take a shower. Heading back to your hotel. If your hotel is not listed please contact phone number 0987982946. Tour includes Transport in car or minivan Drinking water Thai Lunch English speaking tour guide Insurance

5.0(9)
4h
View Details
Big Boy Elephant Sanctuary and Bamboo Rafting Experience
From $64.86
Free CancellationNew

Engage in a day of ethical elephant care and serene bamboo rafting at Big Boy Elephant Sanctuary. Prepare meals for gentle giants, participate in a hands-on vitamin ball workshop, and learn how to make authentic Pad Thai in a local cooking class. After spending quality time with the elephants, drift down the Mae Wang River, soaking in the jungle scenery and the chance to spot these majestic creatures from a distance. This full-day adventure emphasizes respect for wildlife and cultural immersion, making it ideal for animal lovers and those seeking unique local experiences. - Spend a full day observing elephants in their natural habitat - Participate in a Pad Thai cooking class and enjoy your meal - Bamboo rafting along the picturesque Mae Wang River - Includes transportation, meals, and a certified English-speaking guide

5.0(2)
9h
View Details

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Why Choose Elephant Tours in Chiang Mai?

Ethical Experiences

Support responsible elephant tourism!

Elephant Sanctuaries

Visit ethical elephant sanctuaries.

Conservation

Learn about elephant protection.

Meaningful Encounters

Experience elephants responsibly.

Types of Elephant Tours in Chiang Mai

Sanctuary Visits

Tours visiting ethical elephant sanctuaries.

SanctuariesEthicalResponsibleEducationalEssential

Feeding & Care Tours

Tours featuring elephant feeding and care.

FeedingCareHands-onEducationalInteractive

Jungle Walk Tours

Tours walking with elephants in natural settings.

Jungle walksNaturalPeacefulEthicalScenic

Comprehensive Elephant Tours

Full tours covering feeding, care, and jungle walks.

Multiple experiencesComplete overviewComprehensiveDiverseFull day

What to Expect on Your Elephant Tour

Duration

Elephant tours: Half day (4-5 hours) to full day (8-10 hours).

Elephant Encounters

Experience elephants in ethical settings.

Educational Experiences

Learn about elephant behavior and conservation.

Expert Guidance

Guides explain elephant care and protection.

Conservation Context

Understand elephant conservation efforts.

Photography

Excellent opportunities to photograph elephants.

Expert Tips for the Best Experience

1

Choose ethical sanctuaries that prioritize elephant welfare

2

Avoid facilities offering elephant riding

3

Sanctuary visits highlight responsible tourism

4

Support conservation-focused operators

5

Elephant tours essential for animal lovers

6

Elephant tours highlight ethical experiences

7

Elephant tours showcase conservation efforts

8

Elephant tours provide perfect ethical perspective

Frequently Asked Questions

Q:How do I choose an ethical elephant sanctuary in Chiang Mai?

A: Ethical sanctuaries: no elephant riding, elephants roam freely, focus on rescue and rehabilitation, education about conservation, and prioritize animal welfare over entertainment! Research sanctuaries carefully. Avoid riding facilities. Support rescue-focused operations. Ethical standards clear. Responsible sanctuaries prioritize welfare. Choose ethical operators!

Q:What activities are included in ethical elephant tours?

A: Ethical elephant tours include feeding elephants (preparing food, feeding by hand), observing elephants in natural settings, learning about elephant behavior and conservation, jungle walks with elephants (not riding), and various respectful experiences showcasing elephant care! Activities educational and ethical. Feeding interactive. Conservation focus important. Essential for responsible tourism. Must-experience - ethical encounters. Perfect conservation education!

Q:Can I bathe with elephants?

A: Some ethical sanctuaries offer supervised bathing experiences in natural water! Bathing experiences depend on sanctuary policies. Safety prioritized. Supervised interactions provided. Elephant comfort considered. Bathing possible but check sanctuary policies. Ethical bathing experiences available!

Q:Why should I avoid elephant riding?

A: Elephant riding harmful to elephants' spines and welfare, requires cruel training methods, and ethical sanctuaries avoid riding! Riding facilities prioritize tourism over welfare. Ethical operators focus on rescue and care. Conservation importance clear. Support welfare-focused sanctuaries. Avoid riding facilities!

Q:What is included in elephant tour prices?

A: Elephant tour prices include sanctuary entry, guide, educational programs, sometimes lunch, and conservation support fees! Educational content included. Guides knowledgeable about elephants. Conservation fees support welfare. Prices support ethical operations. Tour inclusions support conservation!

Q:Are elephant tours suitable for families?

A: Yes! Elephant tours family-friendly with educational experiences suitable for children! Children enjoy feeding elephants and learning about conservation. Educational for families. Ethical experiences meaningful. Many families visit sanctuaries. Perfect for families wanting animal experiences. Family-friendly with educational value!

Q:What should I bring for elephant tours?

A: Essential items: Comfortable clothing, camera, and change of clothes if bathing! Comfortable clothing for activities. Camera for elephant photos. Extra clothes for water activities. Prepare for outdoor conditions. Essential gear for elephant tours. Comfortable clothing most important!

Q:How long are typical elephant sanctuary visits?

A: Elephant sanctuary visits typically half day (4-5 hours) allowing feeding, learning, and interaction! Full day tours available with more experiences. Time allows meaningful encounters. Educational programs included. Visit duration adequate for experiences. Half day tours comprehensive!

Don't Miss the Perfect Chiang Mai Experience

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Why Visit Chiang Mai?

Over 300 Buddhist temples

Beautiful mountain scenery

Rich cultural heritage

Elephant sanctuaries

Traditional night markets

Perfect blend of culture and nature

Best Time to Visit

Weather

Chiang Mai has three seasons. Cool season (November-February) is pleasant, hot season (March-May) is very hot, and rainy season (June-October) brings monsoon rains.

Best Months

November to February offers the best weather with cooler temperatures.

Peak Season

November to February brings peak tourist season with ideal weather, larger crowds, and higher prices.

Off Season

June to October offers lower prices and fewer crowds, though with more rain.

Plan Your Chiang Mai Trip

Transportation Tips

Walking is perfect for exploring the Old City. Songthaews (shared taxis) and organized tours provide transportation to other areas.

Car Rental Deals in Chiang Mai

Rent a car for maximum flexibility and explore at your own pace on Expedia USA.

Where to Stay

Find the perfect accommodation for your Chiang Mai adventure. From luxury resorts to cozy hotels, we've got you covered.

Best Hotel Deals in Chiang Mai

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Discover the best tours and activities in Chiang Mai with AI-powered recommendations tailored just for you.