I couldn't be more ecstatic for the experience with the elephants in this sanctuary and together with the staff that made it all possible. Paul, the major tour guide, that's his adoptive name, has an incredible sense of humour and that really made the journey relaxing, funny and heart based. They really understand the elephants individually. Each of the five elephants has their own guardian who takes responsibility for caring, disciplining and feeding. They work together as a team and that is very important for the safety of everyone.
The whole event once you arrive is well organized from feeding the elephants, bananas and pineapple, to feeding them grass, sitting with them for photos and to just feel comfort and safe with them. That was followed with taking a walk with them continuing to feed them bananas. So then the elephants led us into the natural forested area, and we were perfectly free to take photos and continue to engage with the elephants. Most of us agreed, it felt so good to see them more in their natural environment of the forest.
And from there the mud bath...so much fun, getting mud all over you, sinking into it up to the hips. This part of the event was the highlight of the whole affair for me because who would ever think we would get an opportunity to share a mud pool with a elephant, two only, under the strict and the watchful eye and guidance of the trainers, of course! And they made it fun, getting us wet, so we could get over ourselves. Believe me, this part of the event is something that only comes once in a lifetime. The staff are so playful, conscious to include each person on the tour and taking photos of each person as well. From there we went to another pool and threw water on the elephants to wash them off and wash some of the mud off ourselves. After showering we finalized with a wonderful delicious meal.
It warms my heart to know there are conscious initiatives happening in the world that look after nurturing our animal's spirits and well being, rather than breaking it. Thank you to the creator of this sanctuary, the elephants and the staff. Clearly I would refer others to come. You will love your experience! It is unique, fun and safe. Many...
   Read moreMy visit to the Elephant Jungle Sanctuary Pattaya was an okay experience, with some highs and lows. The sanctuaryâs commitment to ethical elephant care stood outâno riding, no chains, just rescued elephants roaming in a natural setting. Feeding them bananas and sugar cane was a highlight, and the staff shared interesting facts about the elephantsâ pasts, which made me appreciate their rescue stories. The half-day program included preparing food supplements and observing the elephants in a mud spa, which was fun but less interactive than I expected. The traditional Thai buffet lunch was decent, though nothing extraordinary.
However, the experience didnât fully live up to the hype. The sanctuary felt a bit commercialized, and the area for the elephants seemed smaller than advertised, which made me question how much freedom they really have. I also heard concerns about inconsistent animal care, which left me uneasy. The location, about 30 minutes from central Pattaya, was easy to reach with their free shuttle, but the overall vibe didnât feel as immersive as Iâd hoped. Iâve attached photos of the elephants and the feeding area to show what itâs like. Itâs a decent stop if youâre in Pattaya and care about ethical tourism, but itâs not a must-do unless youâre passionate...
   Read moreThis was an ethical and amazing elephant sanctuary in Pattaya!
We were picked up by their designated driver in a cool van! Just me, my friend and another guy. So it can be considered private! We chose the earliest slot which started at 6:30am when we got picked up. Then 30-minute-ish drive.
The caretakers are taking care of elephants when their previous owners couldnât due to financial difficulties and non-ethical approaches. No elephant-riding activity which is excellent! The activities offered were great and interactive! Feed the elephants, made paper out of elephant poop, make vitamins for elephant digestive, make tie-dye, mud bath the elephants, scrub them and then lunch. Lunch served was amazing!! They even offered halal and vegetarian options upon request. No additional fees for toilets, outerwear to protect your outfit from muds when we were bathing with the elephants and the photos professionally taken. Photographer and caretakers are all experienced and I can see that they love their job. I love it.
Well done! Hopefully can see you guys again!...
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