Elephant Sanctuary Day
Rescued elephants, no riding, no performances. A day with animals living at their own pace — and the history of how they got here.
About this tour
Thailand's domesticated elephants have had a difficult century — used in warfare, then logging, then tourism, not all of it kind to them. The best sanctuaries are working to change that, giving rescued and retired elephants space to live at their own pace. On this day you feed them, walk alongside them and spend time simply watching them be elephants. No riding. No performances. No hooks. Monika explains the full history of elephants in Thailand on the way there and back — it makes the day considerably more than a photo opportunity.
Tour Highlights
- Feeding and walking alongside rescued elephants at a verified ethical sanctuary — no riding, no shows, no exceptions
- Learning each elephant's individual rescue story from the mahouts who care for them
- Monika's account of the Thai elephant's history — from royal symbol to logging animal to the crossroads the industry stands at today
- Understanding the difference between an ethical sanctuary and an exploitation venue — and why it matters which one you choose
Itinerary
Tour runs approx. 10hHotel Pickup
An early start — your guide meets you at 7 AM for the drive to the sanctuary.
Arrival and Introduction
The sanctuary team introduces each elephant — their name, history and how they came to be here. Monika adds the broader cultural and historical context of domesticated elephants in Thailand.
Feeding Time
Prepare and offer food directly — cut fruit, sugarcane and bananas. The elephants decide when and whether to approach. Monika explains what each animal prefers and what the feeding routine means for their daily wellbeing.
Walking with the Elephants
Follow the elephants through the sanctuary grounds at their pace. No staging, no route — they lead, you follow. Monika explains what you are watching as you walk.
Bathing and Mud Time
Depending on the season and each elephant's mood, the afternoon may include watching or participating in the bathing routine. The elephants choose.
Hotel Drop-off
The drive back to Bangkok.
Hotel Pickup
Complimentary Hotel Pickup
Any hotel in Bangkok, Thailand
Included
- Private hotel pickup and drop-off (Bangkok)
- Expert local English-speaking guide
- All private transport to and from the sanctuary
- Full sanctuary day programme
- Bottled water and cold towels
Excluded
- Gratuities (optional)
- Alcoholic beverages
- Personal purchases
What to Bring
- Old comfortable clothes — mud, water and fruit are part of the day
- Comfortable closed-toe shoes
- Change of clothes
- Sunscreen & sunglasses
- Camera or smartphone
- Insect repellent
Hi, I'm Monika!
TAT Certified Guide · Thai Native & Food Lover
“Born in Chiang Mai and based in Bangkok, I started 'Hi Monika' to show travellers the authentic side of my country — the places my friends and family actually hang out. I love sharing our food, our culture, and the hidden stories of our neighbourhoods.”
Guest Reviews
“Monika was incredible! We saw parts of Bangkok we never would have found on our own. The street food was amazing and we felt completely safe the entire time.”
“Perfectly organised and so much more personal than a group tour. Monika knew exactly when to go to each spot to avoid the crowds.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Will we have the tour to ourselves?
Can I change the date after booking?
What happens if it rains?
Do I need to pay anything on the day?
Note: many local vendors and restaurants do not accept credit cards — cash is always the safest option.
Is this tour suitable for children?
Know before you go
Cancellation Policy
Cancel up to 12 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations made less than 12 hours before the tour start time are non-refundable.
for your whole group!
only ~$128/person
$160 first person · $96 each additional
Private Tour · Air-conditioned Transport · Hotel Pickup
Supports Bamboo School
Questions? WhatsApp Monika
$256
TOTAL
for your whole group!
only ~$128/person
$160 first person · $96 each additional
Private Tour · Air-conditioned Transport · Hotel Pickup
Supports Bamboo School
Questions? WhatsApp Monika
Terms & Policies
CANCELLATION
- 12h+Full refund*
- Under 12hNo refund · Credit on request
- No-showNo refund
*Refunds do not include payment processing fees.
RESCHEDULING
- More than 12hFree (subject to availability)
- Under 12hNot available
One free reschedule per booking. Additional reschedules are subject to a THB 1,500 fee.
CHILDREN
- Age 0–4Free
- Age 5+Counts as full guest
GOOD TO KNOW
- •Wheelchair access not guaranteed on all tours
- •Vegan options may not always be available
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