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cmgt.Chiang Mai Go Tours

Half Day Elephant Ethical Tour at Maerim Elephant Sanctuary

4.9(1,284)Read reviewsChiang Mai, Thailand
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Highlights

  • Changing into traditional mahout clothing

  • Feeding the elephants and learning about their unique stories

  • Playing and interacting with the elephantsr

  • Enjoying a mud spa with the elephants

  • Bathing with the elephants in a natural setting

About this experience

Step into a world of compassion at Maerim Elephant Sanctuary, where elephants who have been rescued from difficult pasts are given a chance to heal and live in peace. Founded by Busabong "Pui" Kuetkong, the sanctuary focuses on offering an ethical, sustainable experience for visitors who wish to learn about these majestic creatures. At Maerim, there are no rides or exploitation—just pure, respectful interaction that allows you to connect with elephants in their natural environment.

Your experience includes dressing in traditional mahout clothing, feeding the elephants, and learning about their individual personalities and histories. You’ll enjoy unique activities like a fun mud spa with the elephants and bathing them in a peaceful setting. After your time with these amazing animals, relax by the pool before heading back to your hotel, knowing that your visit has supported elephant conservation efforts and the sanctuary’s mission for a brighter future.

Your hotel in Chiang Mai City. Additional charges apply for outside pickup areas.

At Maerim Elephant Sanctuary, your experience is all about meaningful interaction with the elephants in a respectful, ethical environment. You'll start your journey by changing into traditional mahout clothing, immersing yourself in the role of an elephant caretaker. You’ll have the opportunity to feed the elephants, learning about their individual personalities and the challenges they’ve faced. Spend time bonding with these gentle giants as you play and observe their behavior. Then, enjoy a fun and relaxing mud spa before bathing with the elephants in their natural habitat. Throughout the day, a local guide will share fascinating insights, enhancing your understanding of elephant conservation and the sanctuary’s mission.

Itinerary

8 stops

  1. 07:00 - 07:30 or 13:30 - 14:00

    Pick-up from Hotel

    You’ll be picked up from your hotel in Chiang Mai city and drive approximately 45 minutes to the Maerim Elephant Sanctuary, where your unforgettable elephant experience begins.

  2. Arrival and Mahout Clothing

    Upon arrival, you’ll change into traditional mahout clothing, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the authentic elephant caretaker experience.

What's included

Included

  • Round-trip service from your hotel
  • Food for the elephants
  • Drinking water
  • Local tour guide experience
  • Insurance

Not included

  • Lunch
  • Personal expenses

Know before you go

What to bring

  • Comfortable clothes
  • Swimwear
  • Sandals or water shoes
  • Hat and sunglasses
  • Sunscreen
  • Insect repellent

Location & pickup

Maerim Elephant Sanctuary

Free hotel pickup in the Old City and most central Chiang Mai hotels. The map pin shows the activity location.

Pickup window confirmed on WhatsApp the evening before

Cancellation policy

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before

Cancel for any reason up to 24 hours before your tour start time — full refund of your deposit, no questions asked. After that the deposit is non-refundable, but the cash balance is never charged if you cannot make it.

Guest reviews

4.91,284 reviews

  • Patchara InthaJanuary 2025
    5.0· Verified guest

    Took the family on tour, staff replied very quickly and gave great recommendations.

  • Ciaran SandsJanuary 2025
    5.0· Verified guest

    Such an amazing tour can't recommend enough!

  • Alberto PardoJanuary 2025
    5.0· Verified guest

    Awesome experience, will be back soon

  • Apisara WongkhatJanuary 2025
    5.0· Verified guest

    This was really nice. Done a Doi Inthanon trip with this agency, really enjoyed it.

  • Jane BrettDecember 2024
    5.0· Verified guest

    We loved our elephant sanctuary trip with Chiang Mai Go Tours. Great family day out and amazing experience to see the elephants so well looked after.

  • Marcus ClimpsonDecember 2024
    5.0· Verified guest

    Chiang Mai is beautiful and with the help of Go Tours it was an even more pleasant experience. Would recommend!

Frequently asked questions

  • Is lunch/dinner included in the tour?

    The tour includes food for the elephants, but meals for guests are not provided. We recommend eating before or after the tour.

  • Are the elephants treated humanely at the sanctuary?

    Absolutely. The sanctuary is dedicated to ethical practices, where elephants are not exploited for entertainment. All activities are designed to promote their well-being and conservation.

  • Are there any age restrictions for the tour?

    The tour is open to all ages, but children must be accompanied by an adult at all times. There are no specific age restrictions for participation, but the activities are designed to be enjoyable for all visitors.

  • Will there be a guide during the tour?

    Yes, a local guide will be with you throughout the tour, providing valuable information about the elephants and their conservation, as well as answering any questions you may have.

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