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Plan your visit to Elephant Sanctuary Chiang Mai

A day with gentle giants at Chiang Mai Elephant Sanctuary

Step into the heart of northern Thailand at the Elephant Sanctuary Chiang Mai, where rescued elephants roam freely in a peaceful, natural setting. Whether you’re planning a short visit or a full-day experience, this guide covers everything you need to know — from timings and the best season to visit, to insider tips that make your day truly memorable.

What are the opening hours at Elephant Sanctuary Chiang Mai?

Tour guide explaining Doi Inthanon National Park to travelers in Chiang Mai.

Open daily from 6:30am to 4pm. You can choose from morning or afternoon tour timings.

  • Feed Me (without transfers): Available between 9am – 4pm. Choose any convenient 1-hour slot.
  • Watch Me (with hotel transfers): Two slots — 6:30am and 11:30am Each session runs for 6 hours, including travel time.
  • Half-Day Tour (with transfers): Starts at 8:30am or 1:30pm, running approximately 6 hours.
  • Full-Day Tour (with transfers): Begins at 8am and lasts around 9 hours, including lunch and return transfers.
  • Feed & Shower: Offered at 9am and 1pm, each lasting 2 hours.
  • For experiences that combine your elephant visit with other attractions: such as Waterfall Treks, Doi Inthanon National Park, or Mama Noi Cooking Class; pickups start from 6:30am onwards, depending on your chosen itinerary.

What is the best time to visit Elephant Sanctuary Chiang Mai?

Hikers on a wooden trail with mountain views at Doi Inthanon, Chiangmai, Thailand.

The best time to visit is from November to February, when the weather is cooler, making it more comfortable for both you and the elephants. If you prefer fewer crowds, consider visiting on a weekday morning.

The rainy season (June-October) can still be enjoyable—just be prepared for some muddy fun! The sanctuary provides reusable raincoats, so don’t worry too much about the rain.

Where is Elephant Sanctuary Chiang Mai located?

  • Address: 119/10 Tha Phae Road, Chang Khlan, Mueang Chiang Mai, Chiang Mai 50100, Thailand.
  • Located about an hour’s drive from Chiang Mai city center, the sanctuary is situated in the scenic countryside. Private transport options are available, but most tours include transfers.
  • Return transfers: Round-trip transfers are available within a 5 km radius of Chiang Mai’s Old City, making travel easy and convenient.

How to get to Elephant Sanctuary Chiang Mai?

By Car

You can drive to the sanctuary or hire a private car, but most travellers prefer the convenience of round-trip hotel transfers offered with the tours. It’s comfortable, reliable, and lets you sit back and enjoy the scenic ride through Chiang Mai’s countryside.

By tour transport

When you book a guided tour, hotel pick-up and drop-off are usually included. Your driver will collect you from your accommodation in Chiang Mai and bring you straight to the sanctuary — no navigation, no stress, just a smooth start and end to your day with the elephants.

Know before you go

Lockers in a changing room with people using padlocks.
  • Restrooms: Clean and accessible, located near the main reception area.
  • Lockers: You can secure your belongings before heading off to meet the elephants.
  • Gift Shop: Pick up a unique souvenir to remember your day. Note: cash payments only.
  • Free Photos: Guides will take photos for you throughout the day, and you can download them later online.
Casual shoes worn by people sitting on a bench in an orchard.

The sanctuary is committed to being accessible for all visitors. However, the terrain can be uneven and muddy in parts, especially during the rainy season, so sturdy shoes are essential. For those with mobility issues, certain activities might require additional assistance from guides, who are more than happy to help.

No smoking sign at Jardin Majorelle, Marrakech.

Respect the Elephants:

  • Do not feed them without guide supervision.
  • Avoid touching their sensitive ears or trunks without guidance.
  • Always approach them calmly—they are gentle but large animals.

Respect the environment:

  • Please dispose of litter properly and keep the sanctuary clean.
  • Stick to the designated trails to minimize environmental impact.
Pad Thai with garnishes in Thai cooking class at Mama Noi Organic Garden.
  • Most Elephant Jungle Sanctuary tours include a freshly prepared traditional Thai lunch, often served in a scenic, open-air setting near the sanctuary. Expect simple, hearty dishes made with local ingredients — like stir-fried vegetables, curries, rice, and seasonal fruit.
  • Vegetarian and vegan options are available on request, so be sure to mention your dietary preferences when booking. For full-day and overnight visitors, light refreshments or additional meals may also be provided, depending on the package.
Forest shrine with elephant statues and offerings at Doi Inthanon National Park, Chiang Mai.
  • Wat Phra That Doi Suthep – Chiang Mai’s most sacred temple perched on Doi Suthep mountain, offering panoramic city views and a 300-step naga staircase.
  • Doi Inthanon National Park – Home to Thailand’s highest peak, cascading waterfalls, and the Twin Royal Pagodas (Noppamethanedon & Nopphonphusiri).
  • Mae Wang & Buatong Sticky Waterfalls – Perfect for a short hike and refreshing swim; Buatong’s mineral surface lets you walk up the waterfall.
  • Long Neck Karen Village – Discover the unique culture of the Karen tribe and their traditional handicrafts.
  • Wang River Bamboo Rafting – Glide through lush jungle scenery on a serene bamboo raft led by local guides.
  • Pongyang Jungle Coaster & Zipline – An adrenaline-filled experience close to the sanctuary, combining mountain views with forest thrills.
  • Yi Peng Lantern Festival (Seasonal) – If you’re visiting in November, witness thousands of lanterns illuminating Chiang Mai’s night sky during this iconic celebration.

Frequently asked questions about Elephant Sanctuary Chiang Mai

What should I wear to the Elephant Sanctuary?

Get ready to get muddy! Wear comfortable clothes you don’t mind getting dirty, and bring a swimsuit if you plan to join the elephants in the water. A towel, sunscreen, and insect repellent will also come in handy.

Can I book a half-day tour?

Yes! The sanctuary offers both morning and afternoon half-day tours.

Is the sanctuary ethical?

Absolutely. Elephant Sanctuary Chiang Mai is dedicated to the welfare of elephants—there is no riding, and all interactions are based on mutual respect for the animals.

Can I swim with the elephants?

Yes! You’ll join the elephants in the river for a playful splash and cool-down session.

What’s the best time of year to visit?

November to February offers cooler weather, making it an ideal time to visit.

Is transportation included in the tour price?

Yes, round-trip transfers are included in your tour package.

Can I feed the elephants?

Absolutely! Feeding the elephants is one of the highlights of the experience.

What should I bring for the tour?

Bring sunscreen, a hat, sturdy shoes, a change of clothes, and a towel.

Are photos included?

Yes, guides will take photos during the tour, and you can download them for free later.

Is this experience family-friendly?

Yes! Kids absolutely love feeding and playing with the elephants. It’s safe, supervised, and fun for all ages. Just keep an eye on toddlers around the big, excited elephants.

Where does the experience begin? How do I get to the boarding point?

The sanctuary offers hotel pick-up and drop-off from Chiang Mai city center. Your exact pickup time will be confirmed after booking. But for some transfers are not available and you have to reach by your own at 119/10 Tha Phae Road, Chang Khlan, Mueang Chiang Mai, Chiang Mai 50100, Thailand.

Is food provided during the tour?

Some experiences include a delicious Thai buffet lunch. Overnight stays come with dinner and breakfast too. Vegetarian options are available—just let them know in advance.

Are there lockers or a place to keep my stuff?

Yes. There are lockers at the camp where you can safely store valuables, shoes, and extra clothes while you splash around with the elephants.