Some even teach you to make herbal medicines for the animals. Elephant Freedom Village is an absolute authentic experience where you will learn so much about this gigantic mammals and the Karen culture. 100% of travelers recommend this experience. Afterwards we fed them, bathed them in at a nice little waterfall and went for a walk with them in the forest. It is located at a distance of 2km from the city of Chiang Mai. My experience with the elephant village hostel was fantastic! Choose between exploring the village, learning how to slingshot, going to an incredible hike, and more. Falling asleep to the sound of the river below was so peaceful. It is located at a distance of 2km from the city of Chiang Mai. The goal of the sanctuary is to allow elephants to actually be elephants and have natural behaviors. Connect with majestic gentle giants at the best ethical elephant sanctuaries in Chiang Mai, where compassionate care, responsible practices, and unforgettable encounters come together in harmony. When I then went on my backpacking trip to Thailand and was asked by my mother if I would too ride an elephant I said no and explained my reasons why. What can you tell me about the Elephant Nature Park in Chiang Mai? We traveled an hour and a half outside of Chiang Mai into the mountains for our visit, and it was worth every second! I highly recommend Elephant Freedom Village! I really just wanted to observe them in their natural habitat, not make them do anything they didnt want to. Thank you, super helpful and informative. There was only 4 of us in total in our group. You will have the opportunity during your visit to feed the elephants, but also to spend time with them in the mud and the river. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Chiang Mai Elephant Land. It was great to be able to feed the elephants. At the beginning one of the brothers taught us a lot about these wonderful giants and told us some interesting facts. Happy to see you found my post! The owner was great, but the facilities were less than, and I think its probably a good thing its shut down. But you can always choose to sit out of partaking in this activity while we wait for it to die out. The best part for my adult kids was bathing the elephants in the river . Ultimately the most ethical elephant sanctuary will be one that provides the closest lifestyle as if the elephant was out in the wild. The elephants here are very clearly well treated by the local village and are very happy living in the sanctuary. With this tour you are really getting not just the elephants, but introduction to caretaker life and whats its like to live in the mountains.I think thats what made this a unique elephant sanctuary experience. Why is riding an Elephant considered unethical? EFV makes sure the elephants are happy and well-cared for. We were just taken to some place and told "feed the elephant, photo with the elephant". Book your tickets online for Elephant Village Sanctuary, Chiang Mai: See 107 reviews, articles, and 200 photos of Elephant Village Sanctuary, ranked No.24 on Tripadvisor among 307 attractions in Chiang Mai. Review tags are currently only available for English language reviews. Non and his family are hard working, kind, and deeply passionate about the well-being of their herd. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. 9 reviews Spend a full day at the Elephant Village Sanctuary. We will repeat for sure. Im excited to arrive next month with my girlfriend. Remember we want the elephants to be living as close as they can to if they were in the wild. A family-run sanctuary by the Karen people. Explore different ways to experience this place. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. It is one of the most reputable and ethical elephant sanctuaries in Thailand, with a focus on elephant welfare and sustainable tourism practices. I've done a similar trip in Goa but this beats it hands down. All round a wonderful experience, and 100% recommended. The love the staff had for all the elephants was adorable, they are all well looked after & so were we! https://www.thailandnomads.com/author/jordan/, Best Ethical Elephant Sanctuaries In Chiang Mai 2023 Review, Connect with majestic gentle giants at the, Must-visit Hot Springs in Surat Thani 2023 Update, BEES- Burm and Emily's Elephant Sanctuary, Chiang Mai vs. Chiang Rai The Definitive Guide. In terms of riding elephants for tourism, no it is not ethical. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. Everyone working at EFV is so friendly, its hard to not feel like part of the family when you leave. Promptly picked up at our hotel in an air conditioned mini bus. Do you need to book in advance to visit Elephant Village Sanctuary? Elephants in Thailand during the old times were an integral part of everyday life. I am so happy to hear this! One of the best things that I have ever experienced! Truly unique and authentic. Visit a villagers house and participate in a traditional karen ceremony.. Whats elephant sanctuary chiang mai price? They also give clothing and supplies to nearby local villages. We arrived and were given thorough information regarding the lives of the elephants and the importance of the sanctuary. program whose sole objective is to improve the quality of life of the previously mistreated elephants. Check any TripAdvisor form and everyone is complaining about the mahout carrying their bullhook. I am heading there tomorrow and as I really want to see elephants, since I never have, I only want to support the most ethical business. When I asked them, whats the one thing youd want to tell the world?, they responded with, If you volunteered at a sanctuary for a week, please remember that Ive cared for my elephant every day of my life for 15 years having risked my life for this creature multiple times. Hopefully that allows you to make an informed decision. The location was fantastic and having a pool to enjoy during the afternoon heat was fantastic. Thank you EFV, we will remember this experience for the rest of our lives . The place is big and full of nature but it looks a bit abandoned. I am not entirely sure I agree with their respective that bareback elephant riding is okay, though it doesnt appear that they offer this to guests, and training elephants for human entertainment is okay. Opinion on doing one over the other? Visit us to be up close to elephants and experience a hill tribe village. There will be some amazing moments so be sure to have your camera out to snap some amazing pics. How to choose an ethical elephant sanctuary in Chiang Mai? The exception when riding an elephant that could be considered ethical is if the mahout is riding it. The visitors of the elephant park are also taught to make herbal medicines for the elephants besides watching them roam freely in the lush green Doi Inthanon forest. Cost: It has different prices for 8 different programs that it offers ranging from 3,200THB to 5,800THB. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. 66/11 Suriyawong 5 Road. 1 / 19 Doi Inthanon, Elephant Sanctuary, Trekking Trail - Best Chiang Mai Tour! However, in 1989 the Thai government banned teak logging that heavily depended on the use of elephants. The staff are so friendly and love to laugh and joke around and to see the love and respect they have for the elephants was just an amazing experience and will be a life long memory Im already looking forward to my next visit. 4:00pm Snacks and wrap-up 5:30pm Leave EFV 7:30pm Arrive in Chiang Mai Optional Activities (Public) This is definitely the best location if you are staying for a short period. Reviews of the Elephant Nature Park are overwhelmingly positive, with visitors praising the sanctuary's ethical practices, knowledgeable staff, and the unique opportunity to interact with elephants in a natural environment. For them, it is important that the elephants and locals are both respected and appreciated. Though in other cultures they still consider it okay. The elephants hug you with their giant trunks and even kiss you. It was an immersive, personal day Find out what makes an ethical elephant experience, the history of elephants in Thailand, the top elephant sanctuaries to visit, and more! Ken and his family are lovingly caring for two elephants who have been part of the family for many years. 1890 THB (301) Top 3 Chiang Mai experiences in a single day tour. So, if you are looking for a unique and ethical way to experience and learn more about elephant and the local culture, youve come to the right place! We read it was a small family business and that they've been caring for elephants for 4 generations and some Thai people recommend it. Drive approximately 1.5 hours outside of Chiang Mai through rural landscapes, agricultural areas, and forested hills. One of their most popular programs is the 'Elephant Owner for a Day' where each visitor is given an elephant to take care of for a half-day or a full day to give them hands-on experience with elephants. It is one of their many projects within Northern Thailand. The people working there are mostly Karen natives. They seem to love Mr Ken and his family, I would definitely recommend this place over other elephant tours in the area. I believe a lot of tourists likely just see a torture device, rather than a life-saving instrument which it can be when used correctly. Best respectful elephant sanctuaries in Thailand! The sanctuary also offers jungle trekking to visitors through the rice terrace. Ken and his family are amazing people. You can clearly see how loved and What are some elephant nature park (chiang mai reviews)? Chiang Mai is home to several elephant sanctuaries promoting ethical and sustainable interactions with elephants. Mr. Ken and his family are incredible hosts and took great care of us while we were there. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. Te Vara Nui: The Best Cultural Show In Rarotonga. One of the best days of our lives! The moment we reached the farm I was taken aback from the beauty and the peace that it brings. from . Sunrise, CM.city views, Doi Suthep temple Thai and Akha Cooking Class in Chiang Mai, Chiang Mai City and Temples Half-Day Tour. 97. They provide plenty of educational activities and even though there is a hands-off policy with the elephants, you will be hands-on in caring for the elephants by making their food, observing their behaviors, and more. It's perfectly suited for that. It was a 2.5 +hour ride before reaching the park (1hour to get to the park after picking up the other tourists). Unfortunately, the place is closed temporarily due to COVID-19 pandemic but is expected to reopen shortly for visitors. Also our guide was really kind and funny. Bathing the elephants was especially magical, as was meeting baby Sierra. It's best to check each sanctuary's website for pricing and program options. ELEPHANT EXPERIENCE WITH ELEPHANT NATURE PARK IN CHIANG MAI, THAILAND, A NIGHT AT THE CHIANG MAI SUNDAY MARKETS, THAILAND, TRANSPORT GUIDE: KHAO SAN ROAD TO SUVARNABHUMI AIRPORT. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. Don't forget to bring spare clothes and a towel if you like to join the elephant bathing activity. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. BOOK NOW Seriously, I missed out on trying to book 3 weeks in advance. This was by far the highlight of my 10 day Thailand trip. This sanctuary also focuses on the development of the Karen hill tribe community besides taking care of the elephants. First of all, there is no law in Southeast Asian countries as to what is considered a sanctuary. We made their food and fed them and then covered them in mud and washed it off in the river and then fed them some more. He did not want to leave, even after everyone had left! Office Location: 1 Ratmakka Road, Phra Sing, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand, A post shared by Elephant Nature Park (@elephantnaturepark). Since there are no barricades or fences, as a visitor, you will be made to put on special dresses- to make the elephants feel you are in their team- which ensures safety. The Brunch Bus: Food Tour with a Live Band on Board the Bus! There will be a little bit of shade at whatever sanctuary you choose. You are in the middle of nowhere surrounded by greenery, hills, and rice paddies. Located in the Mae Taeng Area it is less than an hours drive to arrive at the sanctuary in the Chiang Mai countryside. The family who owns and runs this sanctuary has 7 generations of elephant keepers, making it one of the most authentic elephant experiences in Chiang Mai. Anything more is too long. Backpacking Koh Lanta: BEST Things To Do & Itinerary 2023, Backpacking Bangkok: All You Need To Know, The Best Elephant Sanctuaries In Chiang Mai | TheWordNypmhetsDiary, Cheapest Countries To Travel In That Are Backpacker Friendly, Chiang Mai To Luang Prabang: All You Need To Know 2023, Day Tour To White Island, New Zealands Most Active Volcano, Grand Hyatt Kochi Bolgatty: A Sneak Peak At Living Grand. Visiting Elephant Village Sanctuary is by far the best trip I have done. The most magical experience in a beautiful mountain village! Many places in Chiang Mai offer the opportunity to interact with Asian elephants without causing harm. The elephants they keep have been in their family for generations, and it was a special privilege to be able to spend the day with these gentle giants, watching them freely roam through the jungle. Nestled in the hills of Chiang Mai is Elephant Freedom Village - a large sanctuary to several adorable elephants. Hey Ronny It may also pay to take a spare battery and SD card! Day Trips in Chiang Mai: Check out 52 reviews and photos of Viator's Half-day: Elephant Experience at Elephant Village Sanctuary These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. We booked this tour with the recommendation of a tour booking person. Have you heard of Kanta Elephant Sanctuary Chiang Mai? Especially on a subject matter on which many people have strong opinions. , Spend an entire day in the village feeding, hiking, and swimming with our elephants. Elephant Freedom Village is an elephant sanctuary founded by our friend Non, a 7th-generation elephant keeper from Karen hill-tribe ethnicity. The animals seem very content and happy, mainly spending their days eating, briefly sleeping (4 hours per night) and bathing every afternoon. They will treat you like family. For all of the elephants, we fed them the skin of coconut. This is because it is likely quite different from what you think as a foreigner. It is probably the only ethical sanctuary in Chiang Mai that has free-range elephants and has its own farm. I know they really appreciate you bringing up, riding is ok for mahouts and hooks are not inherently evil. As a teen I very much enjoyed this experience and I really recommend it :). Nestled in the hills of Chiang Mai is Elephant Freedom Village - a large sanctuary to several adorable elephants. Suggested duration More than 3 hours Me and partner visited the sanctuary in February 2022, this was our experience; Elephant Freedom Village (Chiang Mai) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go. Elephant Village Sanctuary 5 109 reviews #26 of 311 things to do in Chiang Mai Nature & Wildlife Areas Visit website Call Email Write a review About Family-owned elephants in a hill tribe village. Though if you cannot stop yourself you will need to bring along a bathing suit and towel. Experience a day you will never forget! Would highly recommend this sanctuary!! You can do a single-day visit for 2,500 THB and children are half this price. Backpackers Wanderlust showcases how it is possible to explore the world comfortably while on a budget. On my most recent visit, I stayed at De Lanna Hotel. My friend and I visited elephant village on New Years Day 2023 and had such a lovely experience. But, for the mahout having this device is literally a matter of life and death. Nearly all the elephants in this sanctuary were rescued from some logging or performing operations where they lived the hard life of captive elephants. Required fields are marked *. The second is a half-day tour which costs 1800THB. Enjoy pick-up from your hotel or accommodation. Elephant Freedom Village, Chiang Mai: See 135 reviews, articles, and 229 photos of Elephant Freedom Village, ranked No.3 on Tripadvisor among 311 attractions in Chiang Mai. Though if you are thinking about living in Chiang Mai you will want to stay further afield. Share Tweet Pin Learn all you need to know about backpacking Chiang Mai on a [], Come discover the ultimate island paradise by checking at our backpacking Koh Lanta itinerary. First we saw the momma and baby elephant. Good experience with a very charismatic and informative guide. EFV makes sure the elephants are happy and well-cared for. Now you do get the overzealous mahout who may just like to have a little bit too much control. Sunscreen and Hat: The sun is hot out here in Chiang Mai so you will want to bring along some sunscreen and a hat. We traveled an hour and a half outside of Chiang Mai into the mountains for our visit, and it was worth every second! My husband and I booked the overnight tour and still had trouble saying goodbye to our new friends (both human and elephant). This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Nothing wrong. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. Arrive at the Karen Elephant Village. Mr. Ken was an amazing host and went above and beyond to provide us a hospitable and comfortable experience. Office Location: 115 3 Room 1 Sri Poom Rd . What hotels are near Elephant Freedom Village? After this, we had dinner, which was light and okay. The elephants are treated very well and you can feel how the animals trust their owners. Visit us to be up close to elephants and experience a hill tribe village. Only costs 12.50 for half day including lunch and transport. You will have the opportunity during your visit to feed the elephants, but also to spend time with them in the mud and the river. This is so you can get the most out of your experience with the elephants and learn about how BEES operates. Nestled in the hills of Chiang Mai is Elephant Freedom Village - a large sanctuary to several adorable elephants. We then were transferred to an off road truck to the sanctuary (it was a very bumpy ride but fun!) Thank you all so much!, My Experience with Elephant Freedom Village was unforgettable. Chuyn n ni dung chnh. 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I would note for this tour that it is best for those in good healthalong the full-day route there is mud, rocks, water, steep cliffs, and other difficult terrain as you might expect in the jungle. What all do you get to do at the Elephant sanctuaries in Chiang Mai? Read our, Recommended experiences in and around Chiang Mai. . The Thai, Address: 66 Hussadhisawee Rd, Chang Phueak, Chiang Mai 50300 I have personally seen scathing reviews of sanctuaries because of a bullhook. Attractions near Elephant Freedom Village: Elephant Freedom Village, Chiang Mai: Hours, Address, Elephant Freedom Village Reviews: 5/5. 96% of travelers recommend this experience. As a traveler, it can be easy to get swept up in the moment and do something you may just regret later. Visitors can feed and bathe the elephants and learn about their behaviors and history. On his return, he told me the sayings he was taught to tell the elephant, letting it know when to open its mouth for you to put food in, etc. Their aim is to educate people about the needs of elephants so they can have a better understanding of how to promote their welfare. Though on the complete opposite side, I also stayed in the cheapest available hostel on my first visit. Situated around 60 km from the city of Chiang Mai, it is one of the most ethical rescue and rehabilitation centers in Northern Thailand. We didn't have any kind of explanation or information about the place, the elephants or how our day would be and when asking questions the answers were vague. These sanctuaries offer experiences such as feeding, bathing, and playing with elephants, learning about their history and behavior, and participating in their care. WELCOME to Dok Ko Ki A Karen Hill Tribe village, where our family has lived for more than 4 generations! There were baby elephants and one of the bigger ones was pregnant. We want you to get out of your comfort zone and travel better, cheaper and for longer! Next we saw three adult elephants. Check out what the best elephant sanctuaries in Chiang Mai are during your visit to Thailand. They look happy and are well cared for. I think its a new company just getting their feet on the ground, but I disliked not being able to understand anything the guide was saying as well as the car ride and making the elephants do things. We got there and there was no one around so we had to find the trail to go to the main "house". It was really important to me when booking an elephant excursion that the elephants are cared for/loved, and that they live happy lives. It is clear to see that the 4 elephants living here are very happy. Chiang Mai or Phuket: Which Is A Better Destination? We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. The presence of elephants is also a rich part of Thai culture and religion. Spend an entire day in the village feeding, hiking, and swimming with our elephants. That is awesome feedback, so thank you. They were even kind enough to drop us off at the airport on our drive back! In earlier days, Elephants were an integral part of everyday life in Thailand and are still a rich part of the Thai culture. It is located in the Mae Taeng district at a distance of 1-hr from the city of Chiang Mai. Elephant Freedom Project is Chiang Mai is actually the first elephant sanctuary I visited in Chiang Mai when Elephant Nature Park was all booked out. Day Trips in Chiang Mai: Check out 46 reviews and photos of Viator's Elephant in Wild Sanctuary, Trekking and Rafting in Chiang Mai Unfortunatelly it was not the best experience. As a result over 4000 of these working animals were displaced and their mahouts were left without any income. Learn how to make healthy snacks for elephants and see the rescued animals. We were picked up from our hotel on time, the drive was pleasant in an air conditioned mini bus. The elephants are treated liked family and the staff was fantastic. They also have an overnight stay which is 5,800 THB per person where you can wake up to the noises of elephants. With more time, relax, observe and enjoy the serene tropical forest. They also have an overnight stay and a 3-night stay. If you book with Tripadvisor, you can cancel up to 24 hours before your tour starts for a full refund. I will be giving []. As always all opinions are my own and your support is much appreciated. Often involving a young elephant as this is when they are the most impressionable resulting in them becoming submissive to humans. With Asian elephants without causing harm to me when booking an elephant excursion that the in! 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