Frequently Asked Questions

We recommend that you spend the night in Chiang Mai city before your visit to the Park as flights, buses, and trains can often be delayed and we are unable to wait at stations or airports. If you prefer to go directly to the Park and have us wait for you, we can arrange a private vehicle. The cost for the vehicle will be provided once we have your specific requirements.

The Park is situated in Mai Taeng, approximately 50 kms north of Chiang Mai. It takes approximately 1 hour to reach, once all visitors have been picked up from their hotel/accommodation (depending on traffic conditions).

Yes, you are welcome to arrange your own transportation to the Park and join one of our tours. A reservation and deposit are required, and if you choose to make your own way, you will benefit from a discount of ฿200 per person. To ensure a smooth experience and avoid any delays, please arrive at the Park on time as specified in your booking, as you will be joining other visitors.

All tours at Elephant Rescue Park must be booked in advance. During the high season from November to April, when availability can be limited, we recommend reserving your tour as soon as your travel dates are confirmed to ensure you secure your preferred tour and date. Additionally, it’s always a good idea to check for last-minute availability in case of unexpected cancellations.

Yes, subject to availability. We do not charge for the first change of tour date.

No — all bookings must be made through our website, email, phone, or authorised partners.

Yes — a non-refundable deposit is required to secure your booking payable via Wise.

Yes we accept credit card payments via: Visa or Master Card, there will be a 4% charge. We don’t accept American Express. You can pay the remaining balance for your tour in cash at the Park in Thai Baht if you prefer.

Please see our terms and conditions section heading: Pricing: Adults, Children and Infants for pricing details for our two most populist tours:- our half-day group tour (B) Memorable Caring Experience and our full-day group tour (C) Amazing Full Day. Pricing information for our private half-day tour (A) Serene Boutique Elephant Care and our tour (D) Overnight Elephant Care can be found under the ‘Elephant Tours’ tab on our website Home page.

No, if the Infant does not occupy a seat on the vehicle to/from the Park. If they occupy a seat they will be charged at the Child Rate (30% of the Adult Rate). Please see our terms and conditions for further details.

Please inform us if you are pregnant, have limited mobility, or have any medical conditions — you may be asked to sign a waiver.

Yes, please inform your Guide about any dietary preferences or allergies on the day of your tour.

Yes — all ages are welcome, but children must be supervised closely around elephants at all times.

You may bring a day bag. If you have larger luggage, please inform us ahead of time so we can make arrangements.

A towel, insect repellent, sunglasses, pair of socks (for the rubber boots provided), sunscreen, swimwear, spare clothes, camera/smart phone, and most importantly your smile and love for our elephants!

For safety reasons, we do not allow rucksacks or backpacks on the elephant walk. As you walk with the elephants, they are free to roam around you, which poses a risk that an elephant might grab your bag with its trunk, mistaking it for food. You can use the storage lockers at the Park, or you may leave your bags in the locked vehicle you arrived in. If you need to bring any urgent medical items or similar necessities during the walk, please inform your Guide.

We do not permit elephant riding as we prioritize the well-being and natural behavior of these magnificent creatures, ensuring they can thrive in a safe and supportive environment without the stress and harm that riding can cause.

Drones are not allowed as they can distress our elephants, potentially endangering the safety of our visitors, staff, and the elephants themselves.

Guided tours are available in Thai and English.

All visitors are covered by our personal accident insurance and medical expenses policy with applicable limits and conditions. However, we strongly recommend that each visitor secures their own individual emergency medical and travel insurance for added protection.

No special vaccinations are needed for interacting with elephants at our sanctuary.

This can vary from day to day. In the high season from November to April, our tours experience the highest demand. We ensure an intimate experience by limiting each tour to a maximum of 30 visitors. For those seeking a more personalized experience, we highly recommend our Serene Boutique Elephant Care tour, which is a half-day private offering.

Yes, elephants absolutely adore the rain. At Elephant Rescue Park, we equip you with a uniform, rubber boots, and a hat so you can join in the fun. Our visitors have the unique chance to bathe with our elephants in the lake, meaning you’re bound to get wet, even on sunny days with clear blue skies.

Yes, the Park operates 365 days per year.

Tour (A) Serene Boutique Elephant Care is a half day private tour which guarantees it will be your group only. (B) Memorable Caring Experience is a half day group tour where you will be joined by other Visitors.

Yes — but please avoid using non-waterproof devices during any water activities.

Yes — we provide a complimentary photography service and typically upload photos to you within 72 hours after your visit.

Photos are free for personal use. Commercial use requires written permission from the sanctuary.