Chiang Mai Elephant Village Sanctuary Visit With Waterfall!

Exploring the Chiang Mai Elephant Village Sanctuary offers a chance to take in the harmonious relationship between elephants and the local community. Visitors can look forward to interacting with these majestic creatures, learning about their care, and embarking on a scenic jungle trek to a refreshing waterfall. With a delectable local lunch and insight into the hill tribe lifestyle, this 6-hour adventure promises an unforgettable experience. But what else does this excursion entail? Let’s dive in and discover the details.

Key Points

• A guided tour and wildlife viewing experience at the Chiang Mai Elephant Village Sanctuary, including a jungle trek to a natural waterfall for swimming.
• The 6-hour activity is priced at $49.56 per person and includes a local lunch with a hill tribe.
• The tour begins at the Revolution Hostel in Chiang Mai’s Old Town, with transportation provided to and from the elephant village.
• Participants will have the opportunity to interact with 4 elephants and learn about traditional elephant care and medicines.
• The activity is suitable for those aged 18 and above, with guidelines in place to prioritize the elephants’ well-being during interactions.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Activity Overview

Visitors can experience a guided tour and wildlife viewing at the Chiang Mai Elephant Village Sanctuary, which offers a 6-hour activity priced from $49.56 per person.

The sanctuary visit includes a short jungle trek to a natural waterfall, where visitors can swim. A local lunch with a hill tribe is also part of the experience.

The activity is available in Thai and English, and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Participants must be at least 18 years old and can’t be in a wheelchair.

Beverages and souvenirs are available for purchase.

Itinerary and Highlights

The Chiang Mai Elephant Village Sanctuary visit begins at the Revolution Hostel in Chiang Mai’s Old Town, where a van transports visitors to the sanctuary.

The 2.5-hour guided tour offers a chance to:

1. Interact with 4 elephants, including a pregnant one.

2. Learn about traditional medicines and elephant care.

3. Experience the hill tribe’s lifestyle and their relationship with elephants.

4. Trek through the jungle to a natural waterfall and enjoy a refreshing swim.

After the sanctuary visit, guests savor a local lunch with the hill tribe before returning to Chiang Mai.

Transportation and Meeting Point

A van transports visitors to and from the Chiang Mai Elephant Village Sanctuary, which takes a total of 2.5 hours.

The meeting point is the large REVOLUTION HOSTELS spray-painted wall with an elephant driving a tuk tuk. Guests should look for this distinctive landmark in Chiang Mai’s Old Town to begin their adventure.

The sanctuary is located about 40 kilometers outside the city, so the van ride provides a scenic journey through the surrounding countryside. Travelers can sit back, relax, and anticipate the exciting activities awaiting them at the elephant village.

What to Bring

To prepare for the Chiang Mai Elephant Village Sanctuary visit, travelers should bring several essential items.

Prepare for the Chiang Mai Elephant Village Sanctuary visit by packing essential items like comfortable clothes and sturdy shoes.

These include:

• Comfortable, lightweight clothing that can get dirty during the activities.

• Sturdy, closed-toe shoes for the jungle trek.

• Swimwear and a towel for the waterfall swim.

• Biodegradable sunscreen and insect repellent to protect against the elements.

Plus, visitors may want to bring a camera to capture the memorable experience, as well as some cash for optional purchases like beverages and souvenirs.

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Customer Feedback and Considerations

Customers have shared their overall experience with the Chiang Mai Elephant Village Sanctuary visit, with the activity rating currently at 3.7 out of 5 based on 6 reviews.

While most customers enjoyed the opportunity to interact with the elephants and experience the local tribe’s lifestyle, some restrictions apply. The activity isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or children under 18 years old.

Plus, beverages other than water and souvenirs are available for purchase onsite.

Interacting With the Elephants

Though the Chiang Mai Elephant Village Sanctuary offers a unique opportunity to interact with elephants, visitors should be mindful of the guidelines and restrictions in place.

The sanctuary prioritizes the elephants’ well-being, and guests are encouraged to observe the following:

1. No riding or sitting on the elephants.

2. Avoid direct contact with the elephants, as they may feel threatened.

3. Follow the guides’ instructions and maintain a safe distance.

4. Refrain from feeding the elephants without permission.

Respecting these guidelines ensures a meaningful and responsible encounter with these magnificent creatures.

Exploring the Jungle and Waterfall

After observing the elephants with care, guests will embark on a short jungle trek to reach a natural waterfall.

The 30-minute hike winds through lush greenery, offering a glimpse into the sanctuary’s diverse ecosystem. Upon reaching the waterfall, visitors can swim in the refreshing waters and take in the serene surroundings.

This natural respite provides a welcome break from the elephant encounter and allows guests to enjoy the beauty of the Thai jungle.

Following the swim, you will enjoy a traditional local lunch with the hill tribe, further enriching their cultural experience.

Experiencing the Hill Tribe Lifestyle

Upon completing the waterfall experience, participants have the opportunity to enjoy the traditional lifestyle of the local hill tribe.

Participants can enjoy the traditional lifestyle of the local hill tribe after the waterfall experience.

They’re treated to a 30-minute local lunch, providing a glimpse into the tribe’s culinary customs.

The interaction allows visitors to:

1. Appreciate the tribe’s deep connection with the land and elephants.

2. Learn about traditional healing practices and remedies.

3. Understand the importance of elephants in the tribe’s culture and daily life.

4. Witness the simplicity and self-sufficiency that defines the hill tribe’s way of living.

This cultural exchange enriches the overall experience for visitors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Photos and Videos Allowed During the Activities?

Yes, photos and videos are allowed during the activities. Guests are encouraged to capture their experiences interacting with the elephants and exploring the waterfall area, though they should be mindful of not disturbing the animals.

Can I Interact With the Elephants in Any Way?

Yes, visitors can interact with the elephants. The tour includes the opportunity to interact with 4 elephants, including a pregnant one, and learn about traditional elephant care.

What if I Have Dietary Restrictions or Allergies?

Participants with dietary restrictions or allergies should notify the tour operator in advance. The tour can accommodate vegetarian, vegan, and other dietary needs if informed prior to the excursion.

Is There Any Special Clothing Required for the Activities?

Yes, the tour requires comfortable, lightweight clothing that can get dirty. Sturdy hiking shoes are recommended for the jungle trek. Swimwear is needed for the waterfall swimming activity.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks to the Sanctuary?

The sanctuary allows visitors to bring their own food and drinks, though beverages other than water and souvenirs are available for purchase on-site. Bringing a packed lunch is an option if desired.

Recap

The Chiang Mai Elephant Village Sanctuary offers a unique opportunity to connect with these magnificent creatures and take in the local culture. With a guided tour, jungle trek, and delicious local lunch, this 6-hour adventure provides an unforgettable experience at an affordable price. Visitors can look forward to a day filled with awe-inspiring moments and a deeper appreciation for the harmonious relationship between elephants and the Chiang Mai community.

You can check if your dates are available here: