Elephant Observation & Cultural Activities | Chiang Mai

— What You Can Expect —
Discover an Unforgettable Elephant Adventure! Embark on a unique journey with our Elephant Observation program! Dive into hands-on experiences by preparing and feeding elephants, and gain insights into their fascinating behaviors. Explore the rich culture of the northern Karen Hill Tribe, known for their special connection with these majestic animals. There are many activities that involved in the program such as observing and understanding the daily lives of elephants, feeding and caring for these gentle giants, and creating memorable Thai crafts. Complete your adventure with a visit to a stunning waterfall, adding a breathtaking natural touch to your experience. Grab this chance to connect with nature and culture on Over The Planet.


— Important Info —

• A free transfer service to/from all places of accommodation within a 5 k.m. radius of Chiang Mai’s Old City. 
• Transport from locations outside this area will incur a surcharge. 
• Customers will travel in a 12-seater, air-conditioned van, switching to a roofed 4×4 truck for the last 10 minutes to reach the sanctuary.
  
  

— Itinerary —

Half Day Elephant Observation & Cultural Activities [Morning Session]

• 06.30 - 07.00 : Pick up from your hotel or accommodation in Chiang Mai
• 07.00 - 08.30 : Drive through a beautiful rural area where you can catch sight of flowing mountain rivers, rice fields, corn fields, and banana plantations.
• 08.30 : Upon arrival at the sanctuary, you will be greeted and welcomed
  - Change into traditional Karen clothing and receive a briefing about the sanctuary and the Elephants by our tour guides
  - Participate in preparing food and snacks for the elephants
  - Enjoy feeding the elephants while maintaining a safe distance, as you learn about their history and understand their behavior
  - Drink freshly harvested herbal tea from the village while observing the elephants in their natural habitat
  - Watch the elephants' daily routine, which might involve observing them as they look for food in the jungle, bathe with the mahouts, or relax in the mud as they bond within the herd (subject to the natural behavior and preferences of the elephants on the day of the visit)
  - Take a refreshing break at the waterfall
  - Craft your own Thai cultural handmade souvenir to take back home
• 11.30 : Enjoy a delicious local meal and say goodbye to the Elephants
• 12.00 : Leave Joy Elephant Sanctuary
• 13.30 : Arrive at your accommodation

Half Day Elephant Observation & Cultural Activities [Afternoon Session]

•  12.00 - 12.30 : Pick up from your hotel or accommodation in Chiang Mai
• 12.30 - 14.00 : Drive through a beautiful rural area where you can catch sight of flowing mountain rivers, rice fields, corn fields, and banana plantations.
• 14.00 : Upon arrival at the sanctuary, you will be greeted and welcomed
  - Change into traditional Karen clothing and receive a briefing about the sanctuary and the Elephants by our tour guides
  - Participate in preparing food and snacks for the elephants
  - Enjoy feeding the elephants while maintaining a safe distance, as you learn about their history and understand their behavior
  - Drink freshly harvested herbal tea from the village while observing the elephants in their natural habitat
  - Watch the elephants' daily routine, which might involve observing them as they look for food in the jungle, bathe with the mahouts, or relax in the mud as they bond within the herd (subject to the natural behavior and preferences of the elephants on the day of the visit)
  - Take a refreshing break at the waterfall
  - Craft your own Thai cultural handmade souvenir to take back home
• 17.00 : Enjoy a delicious local meal and say goodbye to the Elephants
• 17.30 : Leave Joy Elephant Sanctuary
• 19.00 : Arrive at your accommodation

Full Day Elephant Observation & Cultural Activities

• 8.00 - 8.30 : Pick up from your hotel or accommodation in Chiang Mai
• 8.30 - 10.00 : Drive through a beautiful rural area where you can catch sight of flowing mountain rivers, rice fields, corn fields, and banana plantations.
• 10.00 : Upon arrival at the sanctuary, you will be greeted and welcomed
  - Change into traditional Karen clothing and receive a briefing about the sanctuary and the Elephants by our tour guides
  - Participate in preparing food and snacks for the elephants
  - Enjoy feeding the elephants while maintaining a safe distance, as you learn about their history and understand their behavior
• 12.30 : Enjoy a delicious local meal
• 13.00 : Watch the elephants' daily routine, which might involve observing them as they look for food in the jungle, bathe with the mahouts, or relax in the mud as they bond within the herd (subject to the natural behavior and preferences of the elephants on the day of the visit)
  - Participate alongside the mahouts in planting seedlings or cutting grass, Involving yourself in the role of a caretaker.
  - Drink freshly harvested herbal tea from the village while observing the elephants in their natural habitat
  - Make herbal medicine balls which are good for the elephant's digestive system
  - Assist the mahouts in checking the elephants' physical health, ensuring their well-being
  - Take a refreshing break at the waterfall
  - Craft your own Thai cultural handmade souvenir to take back home
• 15.30 : Leave Joy Elephant Sanctuary
• 17.00 : Arrive at your accommodation