I want to share my experience with you all on Elephant Nature Park, a sanctuary and rescue center for not only elephants but also dogs. Let’s face it though, you’re coming specifically for the elephants. Many people assume that because elephants weigh a ton, it’s no problem to fit a few humans on their back for trekking in the jungle. What people don’t realize is that elephants’ backs are frail and not meant for people to ride them. Even if I can influence just 1 person to trade in the elephant trek for a more rewarding day trip to an elephant sanctuary, I’ll be happy.
Elephant Nature Park Schedule:
8:00a – Pick up from hotel in central Chiang Mai neighborhood. We had about 2 other hotel stops and the total amount of people in our group was around 10 people. We just happened to be in the group with a really fun British family! En route to the park, we watched a short video on what we can expect there and how the animals were all saved from past harmful practices.
8:45a – Arrive at Elephant Nature Park
9:00a – Feeding time! We were given a bucket of fruit and veggies to feed the elephants. This was only Part 1 of feeding. Apparently, elephants require 1/3 of their body weight in food. Watermelon were there favorite (not so much the veggies). You can grab a drink of your choice at the “bar” area. I opted for a Singha beer which was refreshing.
10:00a – After feeding, wash up at the bathrooms, and regroup with your guide at the tables. Then head to view elephants up close. We were able to feed them and pet them closer up. I decided to wear a jumper/romper suit with pants because I didn’t want any creepy crawlies in my shorts. #ParanoidPeopleProblems
While feeding them, we were introduced to some of the elephants (there’s a total of about ~70 onsite). They are all female. The males are kept in a different area so they can control the population. For those still interested in elephant treks after reading this, I’d encourage you to look at this next photo. This is a photo of an elephant who will forever have a limp due to daily treks she was forced to take tourists on.
12:00p – We breaked for lunch around this time. Food was served buffet style and was 100% vegetarian. Different types of soup was offered, curry, rice, fresh fruit and veggies. They also had a few Western favorites tailored to kids such as French Fries and cookies.
1:00p – After lunch, the group headed down to the river and bathed the elephants.
Afterwards, we met with more elephants and got to learn about their stories. Where they came from, how they were rescued, etc. Then, the park workers bathed the elephants (think our bath with them was just for funsies). It was odd to me how right after their bath they immediately go and put on more dirt but apparently that helps their skin.
3:00p – We got to see a baby nursing with the Mama. Babies were so cute. We weren’t allowed to touch the little ones. I’m just thankful that they were born there and will never experience what it’s like to be abused and mistreated. It was then play time and the elephants were playing with tires.
4:00p – Sweet snacks were served and we departed for hotels
Elephant Nature Park made for a wonderful day trip and I highly recommend. Here is a link to their website and if you have any questions about this tour feel free to email me: cassandra@accent-on-travel.net.
