Thailand

Elephants are the primary ambassadors of Thai biodiversity. These gigantic animals stand out not only for their size but also for their intelligence and gentleness. During a trip to the Land of Smiles, swimming in their company will delight both young and old.

Swimming with elephants: a leisure activity to share with family

Discussing the Asian elephant as a tourist product is delicate. Private camps that host pachyderms are criticized for their breeding practices that go against animal welfare. However, there are wildlife sanctuaries that respect the Asian elephant and offer discovery activities based on a gentle approach to the animal. It is one of these sanctuaries that we encourage you to visit if you are traveling to Thailand. You can feed these iconic creatures and watch them bathe. Regardless of your destination—a cultural stroll in Chiang Mai, a road trip to Phuket or Krabi, or a tour of Bangkok's historic temples—you are guaranteed to encounter elephants.

The best sanctuaries for swimming with elephants in Thailand

Elephant Haven in Kanchanaburi

Established in 2015, this sanctuary aims to shelter orphaned, injured, or mistreated elephants. Riding on the elephants' backs, let alone watching circus acts, is out of the question. Previously, rides in baskets on the backs of the beasts were offered, but an ecological and ethical awakening prompted the camp management to ban this activity.

The visit allows you to observe the sanctuary's seven elephants in their natural environment and interact with the caregivers. They will share their passion for elephants by showing you how to prepare meals, feed the herd, and lead them to the watering hole at bath time. Swimming with elephants is the highlight of the visit. For privileged moments with the pachyderms, Elephant Haven awaits you in Sai Yok, near Kanchanaburi, a three-hour drive from the capital.

The Elephant Nature Park in Chiang Mai

With countless elephant camps scattered in its mountains, Chiang Mai, the famous city in northern Thailand, can be called the "kingdom of elephants." Elephant Nature Park has played a pioneering role in the fight against poaching and exploitation of elephants in Thailand. Wildlife enthusiasts on vacation in Chiang Mai will delight in it. On the agenda: interaction with elephant families, introduction to the caregiving staff, and participation in various maintenance tasks, ranging from food preparation and waste collection to pond cleaning, not to mention the enriching exchanges with the sanctuary's international volunteers… Elephant bathing takes place in the afternoon.

By talking to the volunteers, you will realize that protecting these giant herbivores is not only a pleasure but also a tough challenge in Thailand. Political and commercial interests still take precedence over the supreme interest in biodiversity. This is why the sanctuary conducts awareness campaigns for behavioral change. Apart from elephants, many dogs, cats, buffaloes, and other animals are eagerly awaiting cuddles and food. With its 75 elephants, the Elephant Sanctuary in Chiang Mai offers a range of fun and educational activities to entertain the whole family.

Khao Sok National Park

Looking for an outdoor adventure in Surat Thani? Head to Khao Sok National Park, a wildlife sanctuary where groups of hikers and mountaineers seeking thrills converge. The park is also one of the largest bastions of elephants in the Land of Smiles. Over 600 of these gigantic grazers roam freely, sharing territory with tigers and Malayan bears. You'll have the chance to witness a bathing session. As they head towards the mud pit, splash! The merry band sprays water and plays around. Sometimes, mother elephants carry their babies on their trunks and lovingly splash them with mud. The experience is sure to leave a lasting impression on visitors. Some travel agencies offer elephant rides in the park, but animal welfare advocates are against this activity.

Good to know

Don't forget to bring swimsuits and spare clothes if you want to wade into the water with the elephants. Some camps have changing rooms; others do not.