Chiang Mai: Elephant Sanctuary, Waterfall & Bamboo Rafting

Chamonix



Explore a full day adventure with a waterfall trekking experience and an ethical elephant sanctuary. Interact with rescued elephants and enjoy bamboo rafting in the jungle.

Elephant Sanctuary and Bamboo Rafting near Chiang Mai

This ethical elephant sanctuary experience outside Chiang Mai suits animal lovers and nature enthusiasts looking for responsible wildlife interaction.

Highlights

  • Spend time with rescued elephants in their natural habitat
  • Relax on a bamboo rafting trip along the Mae Wang River
  • Swim with elephants in natural river pools
  • Feed bananas and interact with the elephants
  • Cool off and climb waterfalls

Description

Begin with hotel pickup in downtown Chiang Mai and a scenic drive southwest past farms, hill tribe villages, and rice fields. Visit the Mae Wang Waterfalls for a refreshing swim before arriving at Pon Elephant Thailand sanctuary deep in the jungle.

Your guide will introduce you to the sanctuary's mission and the background of the rescued Asian elephants. Meet the friendly elephants and feed them bananas before walking with them through the forest, observing natural foraging and social behaviour.

Enjoy bathing with the elephants in the river, then return to the sanctuary sanatorium to say goodbye. End the experience with a bamboo rafting trip down the Mae Wang River before your return transfer to Chiang Mai.

Includes

  • Hotel pickup and drop-off (if option selected)
  • Guide
  • Lunch
  • Fruits
  • Drinking water

Excludes

  • Towel
  • Tips

Important Information

  • Itinerary may change due to weather or force majeure; heavy rain cancels waterfall and bamboo activities, replaced by a Khao Soi cooking class
  • Opening hours subject to change
  • Elephants are not forced to perform any activities
  • Check your voucher for your usual pick-up time

Cancellation Policy

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Booking Tips

Wear comfortable clothing and bring swimwear and a towel. The best time to visit is during the dry season for optimal river and waterfall activities.

Frequently Asked Questions

You can spend time with rescued elephants in their natural habitat, feed them bananas, and swim in natural river pools with the elephants.
The bamboo rafting trip takes place along the Mae Wang River near Chiang Mai.
The experience includes hotel pickup from downtown Chiang Mai followed by a scenic drive southwest past farms and hill tribe villages.
Yes, the sanctuary focuses on ethical interaction with rescued elephants, prioritizing their natural behavior and welfare.
Yes, the tour includes opportunities to swim with elephants in natural river pools.
No prior experience is needed; the bamboo rafting trip along the Mae Wang River is suitable for beginners.
Check the website for current hours and seasonal availability related to weather and sanctuary operations.
Meal and refreshment details vary, so check the specific tour website for information.
You will enjoy views of rice fields, hill tribe villages, the Mae Wang River, and climb waterfalls near Chiang Mai.
Yes, the activity is family-friendly, providing safe, interactive experiences with elephants and nature.

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