Frequently Asked Questions — Chiang Mai's Elephant Home Sanctuary

We recommend that you spend the night in Chiang Mai city before your visit to the Sanctuary 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 Sanctuary 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 Sanctuary is situated in Mae Win, approximately 1 hour by road to the south of Chiang Mai. The transfer takes approximately 1 hour, 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 Sanctuary and join one of our tours. A reservation is 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 Sanctuary on time as specified in your booking, as you will be joining other visitors.

All tours at Chiang Mai's Elephant Home Sanctuary 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.

No. You do not pay online or in advance. Send a booking request, we confirm it by WhatsApp or email, and you pay the full amount in cash (Thai Baht) at the sanctuary on the day.

No. Payment is in cash (Thai Baht) at the sanctuary on the day of your tour; credit cards are not accepted.

Adult (9+), child (4–9) and under-3 prices are listed on each program page; under 3 is free. See the programs page for all prices.

No, if the Infant does not occupy a seat on the vehicle to/from the Sanctuary. 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 Sanctuary, 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 keep the experience personal by limiting each group to a maximum of 10 visitors.

Yes, elephants absolutely adore the rain. At Chiang Mai's Elephant Home Sanctuary, 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 Sanctuary operates 365 days per year.

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.