Elephant Encounters in Chiang Mai
Bite-sized trip
Day 1 – Arrival in Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai has a lot in common with Bangkok; concrete buildings, traffic and a bustling night life, but there’s also more to Chiang Mai. You’ll notice a more laid-back, reverential atmosphere, strongly influenced by the multitude of sacred temples and shrines. If you have time, it’s worth taking a walk in the balmy evening to the night market where you’ll find plenty of souvenirs. This market is of course largely geared towards tourists, so if you’d like a more authentic experience, we would recommend heading over to Warorot market where you’ll find an assortment of fruits, vegetables, dried fish and even pig heads! In the evening you can relax in your comfortable, central hotel opposite Chiang Mai gate.
Days 2-3 – Visit to elephant nature park & departure
You’ll spend today looking after Thailand’s most famous icon; the elephant. You’ll be collected from your hotel and head to Elephant Nature Park to hear the personal stories of rescued and orphaned elephants. During this trip you will learn all about the Asian Elephant and the threats they are currently facing. See the proud herd they have become and observe their natural behaviour as they roam freely in the lush green surroundings.
You will get the chance to watch these majestic animals from a viewing platform before walking around the sanctuary to learn about the elephant families. After a delicious buffet lunch, you will head down to the river at the border of the park to watch as these gentle giant bathe and observe them splashing in the river. Early evening you will say your goodbyes to your new friends and head back to Chiang Mai for another night. The following morning your adventure comes to an end and you’ll begin the journey to your next destination.
Meaningful travel
We offer this park as it aids the rehabilitation of the elephants whilst providing education to locals and tourists alike, as well as much needed income to keep these gentle giants in fruit. This park operates a no riding policy and the elephants are encouraged to live in a herd as they would in the wild. We have chosen to support Elephant Nature Park as our Thailand local project through Save Elephant Foundation. For more information about this great cause and how you can help please see our local project page.
Accommodation
For this bite-sized trip we offer the following options
Elephant Encounters in Chiang Mai - In Style accommodation
For this bite-sized trip we have an alternative option available for your accommodation. Our In-Style version is something a bit more special or unique but still with lots of local flavour! If you would like to upgrade your accommodation for this bite-size trip select our In Style option below.
Overnight at Elephant Nature Park
If you want to spend even more time with these gentle giants then why not add a night at the park itself? You will stay in a simple bamboo hut, close to the large elephant enclosure so you can drift off to sleep with the distant snores of the elephants and be greeted in the morning by the herd! You can spend time observing them from your room or the viewing platforms whilst soaking up the calming atmosphere of the park. You’ll return to Chiang Mai the following evening, just in time for sunset.
Street Food Tour
If you fancy trying some of the delicious local delicacies then this street food tour will give you the perfect opportunity. You’ll travel on foot and by songthaew (converted pick-up) with a guide to explore the bustling street food markets around the city. Not only will you have the opportunity to try some of Northern Thailand’s tastiest snacks but you’ll also learn you how to order in Thai.
Tuk tuk evening tour
What better way to explore Chiang Mai (or anywhere in Thailand, really) than on a tuk-tuk? At sunset, together with your English-speaking guide you’ll delve into the city’s most atmospheric corners. The intricately carved temples and the city walls are all lit up after dark, adding to the experience. After your tour you’ll be ready to explore Chiang Mai independently.
