Chiang Mai: 2-Day Good Morning Elephant & Overnight Homestay

Chiang Mai, the enchanting northern Thai city, beckons travelers with its captivating charm. The 2-Day Good Morning Elephant & Overnight Homestay experience promises an unforgettable journey, where visitors can enjoy the gentle company of elephants and the warmth of local culture. From feeding and bathing the majestic creatures to savoring a home-cooked meal and exploring the serene Mae Wang River, this tour offers a unique opportunity to forge a deeper connection with nature and the vibrant traditions that make Chiang Mai a truly remarkable destination. But the real question is, what secrets does this experience hold for those who dare to venture forth?

Key Points

• A 2-day experience in Chiang Mai, Thailand, that includes a visit to the Pol Elephant sanctuary for elephant care activities and an overnight stay in a local homestay.
• Activities involve feeding, bathing, and observing elephants, as well as a bamboo rafting excursion on the Mae Wang River.
• The package includes hotel pickup/drop-off, round-trip transportation, an English-speaking guide, and all meals, with a limited group size of 8 for an intimate experience.
• Strict guidelines prohibit the use of pets, alcohol, drugs, and riding animals to ensure the ethical treatment of elephants and a safe environment for guests.
• The experience has received high customer reviews, with praise for the attentiveness of the guides and the immersive cultural activities, such as cooking with the host family.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Overview and Pricing

The Chiang Mai Elephant Homestay offers a 2-day experience exploring the Mae Wang Valley, which is priced from $135.80 per person.

The experience includes a visit to the Pol Elephant sanctuary, where participants can engage in elephant care activities like feeding, bathing, and observing. Guests will also get to visit the Mae Wang Waterfall for a refreshing swim.

The package includes a private room stay in a local homestay, where travelers can enjoy the community and witness jungle elephants.

Cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance, and a reservation with a pay later option is available.

With a limited group size of 8, this intimate experience promises a memorable encounter with nature and the local culture.

Itinerary Details

The 2-day itinerary of the Chiang Mai Elephant Homestay experience starts with a 1.5-hour drive from Chiang Mai to the Mae Wang Valley, where you will be welcomed at the Pol Elephant sanctuary.

Here, they’ll learn about elephants and mahouts, then engage in hands-on elephant care activities like feeding, bathing, and observing.

After visiting the Mae Wang Waterfall for a swim, guests will arrive at their homestay, where they’ll explore the area and see jungle elephants.

In the evening, they’ll help prepare dinner with the host family before an overnight stay in a private room.

The next day begins with the elephants’ morning call, followed by a 40-50 minute bamboo rafting excursion on the Mae Wang River before returning to Chiang Mai.

Day 1: Arrival and Elephant Care

Upon arrival at the Mae Wang Valley, participants are welcomed at the Pol Elephant sanctuary, where they’ll learn about elephants and mahouts.

The group then engages in caring for the elephants, including:

• Feeding the gentle giants their favorite snacks

• Bathing the elephants in the refreshing waters of the sanctuary

• Observing the elephants’ behaviors and interactions with their mahouts.

After the elephant experience, the group visits the stunning Mae Wang Waterfall, where they can take a refreshing swim.

As the day winds down, they arrive at their homestay, exploring the surrounding area and getting a glimpse of the jungle elephants before enjoying a delicious dinner prepared by the host family.

Day 2: Bamboo Rafting and Departure

Waking up to the elephants’ morning call, guests enjoy a hearty breakfast on the terrace before embarking on the next adventure – bamboo rafting down the scenic Mae Wang River.

The 40-50 minute journey provides a tranquil experience, allowing visitors to enjoy the serene natural surroundings. Gliding along the calm waters, they’ll marvel at the lush jungle landscapes on the riverbanks.

After the rafting excursion, it’s time to bid farewell to the Mae Wang Valley and return to Chiang Mai. The comfortable van ride back to the city marks the end of this immersive 2-day experience, leaving guests with cherished memories of their encounter with elephants and the local culture.

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Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour package includes a range of services and amenities to ensure a comprehensive and enjoyable experience for participants. Included in the price are hotel pickup and drop-off, round-trip transportation in Chiang Mai, an English-speaking guide, all meals, one night’s accommodation, accident insurance, and visits to the elephant sanctuary and waterfall.

Plus, the package includes a 40-50 minute bamboo rafting experience on the Mae Wang River.

• Accident insurance coverage

• All meals and drinking water provided

• Visits to the Elephant Sanctuary and Mae Wang Waterfall

While the tour offers a wealth of activities and inclusions, there are a few exclusions participants should be aware of, such as personal medication, insect repellent, and not being suitable for individuals with certain medical conditions.

What to Bring

To ensure a comfortable and prepared experience, participants should bring a range of items, including comfortable shoes, sunglasses, swimwear, towel, sandals, camera, biodegradable sunscreen, rain gear, insect repellent, weather-appropriate clothing, cash, and a copy of their passport.

These items will help guests stay protected from the elements, capture memorable moments, and feel at ease throughout the tour.

It’s also important to note that pets, alcohol, drugs, electric wheelchairs, explosive substances, and riding animals aren’t allowed.

Plus, single travelers may need to share accommodations with another guest of the same gender.

Activity Restrictions

Participants can’t bring pets, alcohol, drugs, electric wheelchairs, explosive substances, or use any animals for riding during the Chiang Mai elephant homestay experience. The tour strictly prohibits these items and activities to maintain a safe and responsible environment for both guests and the elephants.

This ensures the well-being of all participants and the ethical treatment of the animals. The guidelines also help preserve the serene and natural setting of the homestay. Guests are encouraged to fully enjoy the authentic cultural experience while respecting the rules and guidelines set forth by the tour organizers.

These restrictions contribute to the overall success and enjoyment of the unique 2-day elephant encounter.

• No pets allowed

• No riding of animals

• No prohibited items (alcohol, drugs, etc.)

Customer Reviews and Experiences

Guests have praised the attentiveness and warmth of the guides, such as Avi, Chang, Mr. Boy, and Noi, during the Chiang Mai elephant homestay experience.

The ethical treatment of the elephants has been noted as a highlight, with visitors appreciating the opportunity to engage in their care and observe them in their natural habitat.

The immersive experiences, like cooking with the host family and exploring the lush nature, have left a lasting impression on participants.

The tour has been highly recommended for animal and nature enthusiasts looking for a memorable and authentic encounter.

With an impressive 5/5 rating based on 57 reviews, this elephant homestay offers a truly unforgettable adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food or Snacks to the Homestay?

Yes, guests are generally allowed to bring their own food and snacks to the homestay. However, it’s recommended to check with the host family ahead of time to ensure there are no restrictions or dietary considerations.

Is There Wifi Available at the Homestay or During the Tour?

The homestay likely doesn’t have Wi-Fi, and the tour doesn’t mention it being provided. However, guests can expect limited or no internet access during the experience as it focuses on immersing in the natural surroundings and local culture.

Can I Take Photographs or Videos of the Elephants?

Guests are generally permitted to take photographs and videos of the elephants during the experience, though they should avoid disturbing the animals. Specific guidelines may be provided by the tour guide to ensure the elephants’ comfort and safety.

What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for Participants?

The activity has no stated minimum age requirement. However, it may not be suitable for very young children, as the experience involves close interaction with large animals. Parents should consider their child’s maturity level and ability to follow safety guidelines.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour or Add Additional Activities?

Yes, the tour offers flexible options. Guests can extend their stay or add additional activities like hiking, cooking classes, or visiting local temples for an additional fee based on their preferences. The provider aims to customize the experience.

Recap

The Chiang Mai: 2-Day Good Morning Elephant & Overnight Homestay offers an immersive experience that allows travelers to connect with nature and local culture.

By engaging in ethical elephant care activities and exploring the serene Mae Wang River, participants can create cherished memories and deepen their appreciation for the region’s natural beauty.

With a focus on small group sizes and authentic experiences, this adventure promises an unforgettable journey for those seeking to explore the enchanting Chiang Mai.

You can check if your dates are available here: