From Bangkok: Living Green Elephant Sanctuary Day Trip

Planning a visit to Thailand and want to see elephants in a setting that respects their well-being? This full-day excursion from Bangkok offers a chance to get close to elephants in a sanctuary where animal welfare is the priority. For $55 per person, you’ll spend between 3 to 7.5 hours exploring, feeding, trekking, and bathing with these gentle giants, all within a lush 100-rai landscape in Chonburi Province, just 1.5 hours from Bangkok.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the guides are highly praised for their knowledge and friendliness — from explaining each elephant’s story to answering questions about conservation. Second, the scenic backdrop of 180° mountain views combined with engaging activities creates a memorable, authentic encounter.

A possible consideration is the transportation duration, which can be up to two hours depending on your hotel location and traffic. That’s a fair tradeoff for the chance to visit a sanctuary that truly cares about the animals.

This trip is ideal for travelers seeking an ethical, hands-on experience with elephants while enjoying beautiful countryside scenery. It’s especially suited for those interested in learning about conservation and animal welfare, rather than just riding or petting circus-style elephants.

Key Points

• Ethical focus on animal welfare, no forced activities or mistreatment.
• Highly knowledgeable guides enhance understanding of elephants and conservation.
• Scenic landscape offers stunning mountain views and a peaceful setting.
• Interactive activities include feeding, trekking, and bathing elephants.
• Value for money includes a local meal, transportation, and meaningful activities.
• Suitable for families (with considerations) and travelers wanting authentic engagement.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Experience

The Living Green Elephant Sanctuary in Chonburi is a genuine effort to provide elephants with a natural, comfortable environment. Unlike some tourist venues that prioritize entertainment over animal care, this sanctuary emphasizes animal welfare, ensuring that elephants are not forced to perform activities they’re uncomfortable with. As one reviewer noted, “All activities of elephants are based on animal welfare. No force elephants.” That’s a comforting assurance for anyone concerned about ethical tourism.

The Itinerary: What to Expect and Why It Matters

Your day begins with a hotel pickup in Bangkok, which can vary between 7:00 AM to 2:30 PM depending on your package and location. For those meeting at Ekkamai Bus Station or directly at the sanctuary, timings are more fixed, typically from 7:30 AM or 10:00 AM. Expect about a 1.5-hour van ride through busy roads, which might feel long but is part of the journey into Thailand’s countryside.

Once at the sanctuary, you’re greeted with a local meal and a briefing about the elephants’ stories and conservation efforts. This context sets the tone — your visit isn’t just about selfies but understanding the importance of these majestic creatures’ well-being.

Feeding and Interacting with Elephants

The highlight of many reviews is the chance to feed the elephants, which you’ll do with sugarcane provided on-site. As one visitor shared, “They kept checking my pockets with their trunks to see if I had more,” illustrating how friendly and curious the elephants are. The guides are eager to share stories about each elephant’s background, rescue history, and personality, making the experience more meaningful.

Trekking and Bathing

Next comes a small trek with the elephants, where you’ll walk alongside them in their habitat, observing their natural behaviors. The terrain is scenic and peaceful, giving a sense of connection to the environment. In a second review, someone mentioned that the elephants roam freely, which is a reassuring sign of proper care.

Bathing with the elephants is another favorite activity. You’ll change into swimwear, and if weather permits, the elephants will enter the water voluntarily. One reviewer noted, “If it’s too cold, they won’t force the elephants into the river,” reaffirming the sanctuary’s ethical stance. You’ll use provided towels and even get a chance to interact directly with these gentle creatures in the water, a truly refreshing experience.

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The Scenery and Atmosphere

Throughout the day, you’ll enjoy breathtaking mountain vistas and lush greenery. The sanctuary spans 100 rai, offering plenty of space for the elephants to roam and behave naturally. Reviewers frequently mention the stunning views and how peaceful the surroundings are, making it easier to relax and connect with the environment and animals.

The The Sum Up of Your Visit

After a few hours of activity, you’ll say goodbye to the elephants — a moment often described as bittersweet but respectful. The return journey to Bangkok can take about 1.5 hours, and the trip ends back at your hotel or designated meeting point.

Overall Value

At $55, the price covers transport, local meals, and all activities, including feeding, trekking, and bathing. Given the high praise for the guides’ knowledge, the sanctuary’s ethical standards, and the quality of the experience, most reviewers agree this offers excellent value. It’s an immersive, respectful way to see elephants in their habitat without feeling like you’re contributing to cruelty or exploitation.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is best suited for travellers interested in ethical tourism who want more than just a photo op. If you’re curious about conservation efforts and want to support sanctuaries that truly care for their animals, this is a great choice. Families with children over 2 years old can enjoy the gentle nature of the activities, but pregnant women or those with back problems should consider their comfort level.

Travelers who appreciate scenic landscapes, meaningful interactions, and learning about elephants’ stories will find this experience both fun and educational. It’s also perfect for those who want to avoid the more commercialized elephant rides and instead focus on authentic, compassionate encounters.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included? Yes, depending on your package, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, typically with a van transfer from Bangkok.

How long is the whole trip? The total duration is about 3 to 7.5 hours, which includes transportation time, activities, and meals.

What should I bring? You’ll need a change of clothes, towel, water, comfortable clothes, and sandals. A sunhat and insect repellent are also recommended.

Can I see elephants in action? Yes, you will feed, trek with, and bathe the elephants — all activities that let you observe their natural behaviors respectfully.

Are the activities suitable for children? Most activities are family-friendly, but children under 2 or pregnant women should consult their health provider before participating.

Is this tour ethical? Absolutely, all activities are based on animal welfare, with no forcing or mistreating the elephants.

What about the weather? The sanctuary’s activities are weather-dependent; cold weather may prevent elephants from bathing, but guides will not force them.

What is the food like? The included meal is a simple, authentic Thai dish, appreciated by reviewers for its freshness and flavor.

How many people are in a group? Tour sizes vary but are generally small, enhancing the personal experience and interaction with elephants.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for your travel plans.

Final Thoughts

This day trip to Living Green Elephant Sanctuary from Bangkok offers a special window into the world of elephants cared for ethically and respectfully. It’s a chance to see these majestic animals in a natural setting, learn their stories, and enjoy scenic views away from the busy city. The guides’ friendliness and knowledge elevate the experience, making it both fun and educational.

While the travel time is a consideration, the value for the price and the quality of the activities make this a worthwhile investment for anyone seeking authentic, responsible wildlife experiences. It’s especially suitable for conservation-minded travelers, families, and anyone eager to connect with elephants without the guilt of supporting exploitative tourism.

If your goal is a meaningful encounter, combined with beautiful scenery and good food, this sanctuary trip ticks all those boxes. It’s an opportunity to contribute to supporting ethical sanctuaries while creating memories that will last long after you leave Thailand.

You can check availability for your dates here: