Full Day Elephant Observation

Activity Overview

Immerse yourself in nature and get up close with elephants on our Full-Day Elephant Watching, Waterfall Exploration, and Cultural Activities experience.

Slip into traditional Karen attire and discover the rich heritage and traditions of the Northern Karen Hill Tribe, celebrated for their special bond with elephants.

Take part in hands-on activities such as feeding the elephants safely and observing their daily behaviors and routines.

Join interactive caretaking experiences, including making herbal medicine balls that support the elephants’ digestion, planting seedlings that will grow into future food, and enjoying herbal tea while watching the elephants thrive in their natural environment.

Make sure to visit the stunning waterfall during your day and create your own Thai cultural souvenir to treasure the memories of your observation.

Click here to view the complete description

The Full-Day Observation begins with a convenient pick-up from your Chiang Mai accommodation, followed by a scenic 1.5-hour drive through picturesque rural landscapes featuring flowing mountain rivers, vibrant rice paddies, golden cornfields, and lush banana plantations.

Upon arrival at the sanctuary, enjoy a warm welcome and immerse yourself in local culture by changing into traditional Karen attire. Knowledgeable guides will give an engaging introduction to the sanctuary and its beloved elephants.

Participate in hands-on activities such as preparing nutritious food and snacks for the elephants, and feeding them safely while observing their natural behaviors. Learn about their history and daily routines, and develop a meaningful connection with these gentle giants.

Savor a delicious local meal in the tranquil surroundings, then watch the elephants forage in the jungle, enjoy playful mud baths, and bond with their herd. Take part in caretaker activities alongside the mahouts, including planting seedlings or cutting grass, helping support the elephants’ well-being. Refresh yourself with freshly brewed herbal tea while observing these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.

Discover the process of making herbal medicine balls that promote the elephants’ digestive health and assist the mahouts in monitoring the elephants’ physical condition.

Pause for a relaxing stop at the serene waterfall, then enjoy a cultural activity where you craft your own traditional Thai souvenir to commemorate your experience.

Conclude your day by saying farewell to the elephants at Chiang Mai Elephant Sanctuary before returning to Chiang Mai with unforgettable memories.

Travel plan

08.00 – 08.30

10.00

Upon reaching the sanctuary, you’ll receive a warm welcome from the team.
Change into traditional Karen attire and attend an informative introduction about the sanctuary and its elephants, led by experienced guides.
Take part in interactive activities by helping prepare nutritious food and treats for the elephants.
Enjoy the opportunity to feed the elephants responsibly from a safe distance while learning about their background and natural behaviors.

12.30

13.00

Observe the elephants’ daily activities, including foraging in the jungle, enjoying mud baths, or bonding with the herd—depending on their natural behavior on the day.
Join the mahouts in hands-on caretaker tasks such as planting seedlings or trimming grass.
Relax with freshly brewed herbal tea from the village while watching the elephants in their natural surroundings.
Learn to make herbal medicine balls that support the elephants’ digestive health.
Help the mahouts monitor the elephants’ physical condition, contributing to their overall well-being.
Take a refreshing pause at the waterfall (note: no elephant bathing here).
Create a traditional Thai handmade souvenir to take home as a memento of your experience.