If you can’t make it to northern Thailand during your time in the Land of Smiles, I’m here to give you all the deets for staying overnight or day tripping to an elephant sanctuary near Bangkok.
Thailand has long been associated with elephants–majestic creatures symbolizing strength, wisdom and deep cultural significance for the Thai people. Unfortunately, this iconic animal has also been subjected to exploitation, particularly within the tourism industry. Elephants have been used for rides (think fairs and local lure for tourists), performances (think circus) and other commercial purposes (such as completing work tasks). These animals often live in inhumane conditions.
Over the years, the rise in elephant sanctuaries in Thailand offers much needed rescuing for many of these gentle giants. These sanctuaries emphasize ethical tourism, conservation and the well-being of elephants. While the majority of elephant sanctuaries in Thailand are located in Northern Thailand (Chang Mai), there is a wonderful elephant sanctuary near Bangkok, providing the perfect stop for those with more limited time in the country.
What is an Elephant Sanctuary
Elephant sanctuaries are focused on conservation and ethical practices when it comes to elephants and other endangered animals. They dedicate their time and resources to rescuing, rehabilitating and caring for elephants that have been rescued from tourism, logging, and circus industries.
Unlike elephant “camps” or tourist attractions where elephants may be subjected to rides and performances, sanctuaries prioritize the well-being of the elephants, offering them a safe environment where they can live freely, interact with other elephants, and enjoy their natural behaviors without human exploitation.
How to Choose an Elephant Sanctuary
The key difference between an elephant sanctuary and a tourist camp is that sanctuaries do not allow elephants to be ridden or made to perform tricks. Instead, they offer a more peaceful, natural experience for visitors—allowing people to observe elephants in a more ethical setting. Be very mindful when choosing where to visit elephants in Thailand by not participating in or visiting any location that offers elephant rides or performances.
A Visit to Wildlife Friends Foundation Thailand (WFFT) Elephant Sanctuary Near Bangkok
We didn’t have time in our itinerary to spend in Chang Mai where a number of well known elephant sanctuaries are; however, I could not visit Thailand and skip spending time with the elephants so a visit to an elephant sanctuary was a must.
After extensive searching for somewhere we could visit from Bangkok, I found the Wildlife Friends Foundations Thailand Elephant Sanctuary near Bangkok. At 2.5 hours away, this is an option for a long day trip or an overnight. For anyone basing themselves in Bangkok for a few days without time to venture further north, this is an awesome option to add to your itinerary.
The WFFT runs four different projects, including an Elephant Refuge, Wildlife Rescue Center, Wildlife Hospital and a dog and cat spay clinic. They are very dedicated to rescuing animals and providing them high quality care.
Full Day Trip – Wildlife Friends Foundation Elephant Sanctuary
If you opt for a day trip to the Wildlife Friends Foundation Elephant Sanctuary you’ll get picked up early in the morning from your hotel or accommodations. From there, you’ll be transported three hours away to Phetchaburi, Thailand where the Wildlife Friends Foundation Elephant Sanctuary is located. Here you’ll meet your guide who will then show you around the grounds and introduce you to all the different rescued animals on-site (this sanctuary is unique in that they also rescue other animals in addition to the elephants).
After your morning tour, you’ll enjoy a traditional Thai buffet lunch overlooking the animal enclosures. Following lunch you’ll head out via safari buses to see the elephants where you will get to walk with them and feed them, help the volunteers with tasks and hear the stories of many elephants who have been rescued. Day trips end around 3:30 p.m. when you will then be transported back to Bangkok. This is no doubt a long day but well worth it. Use the below link to book a full day tour with Get Your Guide.
Tip: The sanctuary limits the number of people that can visit each day so be sure to book tickets well in advance.
Staying Overnight – I Love Phants Eco-Lodge
Staying overnight at the sanctuary was what made this experience extremely magical. After spending the day with the elephants (and everyone visiting), we were able to experience the empty sanctuary and really feel like we had personal time with the animals in their natural environment.
The I Love Phants Eco-Lodge has wonderful accommodations with some rooms connecting right to the edge of the elephant forest enclosure so you can sit on your balcony and watch the elephants wander. The lodge includes amenities such as a pool, garden, bar and restaurant for you to enjoy. But my favorite amenity was the constant access to the elephants while we were there. We woke up around sunrise the next morning to elephants roaming and eating right outside our room. I’ve never experienced anything quite like it and it was truly amazing to feel like we had the elephants all to ourselves. My biggest regret was not spending more than one night!
Tip: If you can, consider spending more time here or even choosing a longer term volunteer stay if you’re into that kind of thing. Find more information about volunteering here.
How to Book if Staying Overnight
If you’re choosing to spend the night, you can book your tour and transportation directly through WFFT then book your room at the I Love Phants Eco-Lodge separately:
Step 1: Book Transportation and Tour through WFFT
WFFT can directly arrange a half-day or full-day tour for you. The adult pricing for a half day tour costs 1,100 THB (Approx. $35 USD) and the full day tour cost 1,600 THB (Approx $50).
Additionally, WFFT can arrange your transportation to/from the sanctuary. This is a great option for those wanting to stay overnight but don’t want to rent a car and drive yourself. A round trip transport from Bangkok to the sanctuary will cost between $100-$150 for a car or minivan. Fill out the booking form here to get this process started.
Step 2: Book I Love Plants Lodge through Booking.com
After you confirm your tour and transportation through WFFT, you can book your I Love Phants Lodge through Booking.com. Choose between mountain and garden view rooms. A few rooms (family room and three bedroom villa) are also available for larger groups. Pick a garden view room for the best locations closest to the elephants.
How to Contribute to Elephant Conservation
As a visitor, there are several ways you can contribute to the well-being of elephants in Thailand:
1. Choose Ethical Sanctuaries
Always research sanctuaries thoroughly. Choose ethical sanctuaries that prioritize the wellbeing of the elephants. Never visit somewhere offering elephant rides or performances.
2. Support Conservation Efforts
Many sanctuaries offer the ability to sponsor an elephant or make donations. Consider offering financial support which can do a long way in helping to provide food, medical care and shelter for elephants in need.
3. Spread Awareness
One of the most powerful tools in the fight for elephant conservation is awareness. Many people are unaware of the exploitation of elephants around the world and don’t realize that participating in elephant rides or performances contributes to the ongoing struggle. By sharing information with others about ethical sanctuaries and the issues around elephant exploitation, you can help others make more informed choices about their travel and support for elephant welfare.
4. Advocate for Ethical Tourism
Encourage friends and family to adopt ethical travel practices such as choosing tours and activities that support wildlife conservation rather than exploiting animals for entertainment.
Where to Stay in Bangkok Before/After
- Kritthai Residence – $ (Where we stayed)
- GM Estate Hotel Sukhumvit – $$
- Grande Centre Point Sukhumvit – $$
- The Sukhothai Bangkok – $$$$
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