Published on Jun, 2024
Visiting this conservatory was an incredible highlight of our time in Thailand and of our lives. Firstly, the staff evidently take excellent care of the animals. The elephants are free to roam under the care and protection of their individually designated mahouts (caretakers). It is easy to see the elephants are very happy living here, and develop deep bonds with their mahouts and with each other in their scenic and well-maintained environment. Conversations with our tour guide, the mahouts, and the owner solidified the mutual relationships formed between staff and the elephants at the conservatory, who are passionate about providing a peaceful, caring, and nonexploitative home for these animals to thrive in (all very important considerations for us when selecting a sanctuary to visit in Chiang Mai). Additionally, I cannot recommend doing a full day tour enough. We had a much smaller group allowing for one-on-one time with the elephants and we appreciated the relaxed layout of the day, as it allowed us with enough time and energy to enjoy every part of the experience while also resting and taking breaks from the sun. My last note would be the amazing photographs we left with. As we booked the full day tour, multiple staff acted as our personal photographers and took so many incredible photos/videos of the entire day’s experience! We were so appreciative for the incredible funds of knowledge and expertise shared with us during the tour. Bring sunscreen, LOTS of bug spray, a fully charged phone, cash to tip your tour guide and get ready to enjoy an educational and once-in-a-lifetime experience!