Ethical Wildlife Tourism at Phuket Elephant Sanctuary
On my first trip to Thailand, when I was a novice traveler, I really wanted to ride an elephant and bathe with them. We ended up booking an excursion at Amazing Bukit Safari. If you look them up, you will see they are now closedโand rightly so. They were entirely profit-driven, forcing the elephants to work continuously without breaks. At the end of the ride, I learned that one of the elephants had a broken leg. I was horrified, and two people were crying after the trek through the jungle because they felt so bad for the animals.
Once we got back to our hotel, we did a lot more research and decided to visit a reputable elephant attraction. My experience at the Amazing Bukit Safari truly broke my heart and led me to search for the best place to visit in Thailand, which is Phuket Elephant Sanctuary.
Located on the edge of Khao Phra Thaeo National Park, Phuket Elephant Sanctuary offers a new chapter in the lives of its inhabitantsโrescued elephants who have retired from the grueling work in the logging and tourism industries. As Phuket’s first ethical elephant sanctuary, endorsed by organizations like National Geographic and World Animal Protection, the sanctuary is not just a home for these beautiful creatures but a beacon of ethical animal tourism.
About Phuket Elephant Sanctuary
Elephant sanctuaries are remarkable places to visit if you’re passionate about ethical elephant tourism. This sanctuary is definitely ethical, with no bathing or riding of the elephants.
- As the first ethical elephant sanctuary in Phuket, it stands out for its commitment to the well-being of elephants. These gentle giants have often endured years of labor in the logging and tourism industries. At the sanctuary, they find a final home where they can live freely and naturally.
- National Geographic and World Animal Protection endorse Phuket Elephant Sanctuary. This recognition underscores its dedication to ethical practices and the welfare of the elephants.
- The sanctuary provides a 30-acre lush tropical land where the elephants can roam, forage, bathe, and socialize. They are no longer bound by chains or forced to perform.
- For a unique experience, explore Thailand’s longest canopy walkway within the sanctuary. This 600-meter-long and 6-meter-tall walkway allows you to observe the elephants from above as they go about their natural activities in the jungle below.
- By visiting Phuket Elephant Sanctuary, you not only support their work but also gain insight into the lives of these majestic animals. Witness their freedom, happiness, and rehabilitation as they transition from a life of labor to one of tranquility.
So, if you’re in Phuket, consider spending time at this sanctuary. It’s an opportunity to connect with elephants in a responsible and compassionate way.
FAQ About Phuket Elephant Sanctuary
- Registration Requirements:
- Bring a copy of your passport (printed or digital).
- Have your booking confirmation ready (printed or digital).
- Booking in Advance:
- Book at least one week in advance, or two weeks during high season (Dec – April).
- Driving to the Sanctuary:
- Public access is not allowed. Meet at the office in Paklok for transport to the sanctuary.
- Arrive at the Paklok office between 9:00-9:15 for morning tours or 13:00-13:15 for afternoon tours.
- Year-Round Operations:
- The sanctuary is open daily, regardless of weather.
- Luggage Storage:
- Lockers available at the sanctuary and office for larger items.
- No drop-ins allowed; guests must join during scheduled tour times.
- Weather Conditions:
- Open in all weather, with provisions like umbrellas and raincoats provided.
- Footwear:
- Boots provided if it’s been raining; otherwise, no special boots needed.
- Climate Preparedness:
- Bring a hat, sunscreen, and long-sleeved shirts for protection. Chilled water is provided.
- Children and Infants:
- All ages welcome, with facilities and support for young children and infants.
- Accessibility:
- Wheelchair-friendly tours available, with electric golf cars for accessibility.
- Lunch:
- Thai vegetarian/vegan buffet served; notify staff of dietary requirements.
Boots & umbrella that the sanctuary provides
Can you bath with the elephants?
The sanctuary doesn’t offer elephant bathing or mud bathing to avoid stressing the animals and to allow them to exhibit natural behaviors. Instead, visitors can observe the elephants from an Observation Sala, ensuring the elephants’ privacy while still offering an educational and interactive experience through a feeding program.
Top 5 Ethical Elephant Sanctuary in Thailand
