Want to take a trip to Thailand? Want to get close to those lovely elephants? Even want to swim with elephants during your journey? Here is our ultimate guide to the top 10 places swimming with elephants in Thailand. Imagine that you swim with the elephants under the warm sunshine and play with them in the water, it's really an amazing thing, isn't it? So now, just see the best places to swim with elephants in Thailand in the following and feel free to contact us to tailor your private Elephant Park & Tour Packages.
Table of Contents
1. 10 Best Places to Swim with Elephants Thailand
2. Elephant Tour Thailand: 8-Day Itinerary to Swim with Elephants Phuket
3. FAQs about Swimming with the Elephants
4. Best Elephant Sanctuary in Thailand for More Experiences
1. 10 Best Places to Swim with Elephants Thailand
Where can you swim with elephants in Thailand? We have reviewed and picked out the top 10 places for elephant swimming Thailand, and just see whether they are near you or not.
#1. Tri Trang Beach
Location: Phuket
Tri Trang Beach is close enough to take a short bus ride from Patong Beach while it's away from the hassle. The elephants here are really well looked after rather than being taught to do tricks and have fun. The trainers clearly love the animals by showering them, feeding them, and keeping them well-watered. No scars, signs of abuse, or chains on these elephants. There are overall six elephants.
If you would like to know where can you ride elephants in the water, The Tri Trang Beach Elephants program here provides the best Thailand elephant experience that you cannot get from any other elephant sanctuaries – walking with those lovely giants on the beach, swimming with elephants in the sea, and climbing their bareback to take photos. It might be thought against the no-riding principle. Actually, the major weight is saddlery rather than human, and the poor living environment exacerbates health problems. To a certain extent, bareback riding is acceptable.
If you want a memory of a lifetime by enjoying the Phuket Thailand swim with elephants, you can take part in the following tours:
●Option 1: Karon Viewpoint + Big Buddha + Wat Chalong + Swimming with Elephant in Tri Trang Beach
●Option 2: Swimming with the elephants in Tri Trang Beach
●Tour Package Includes Phuket Swim with Elephants>>> 8-Day Thailand Family Fun & Swim with the Elephant
P.S. There are some stones in the water. Remember to bring water sandals. Charge for an extra 500 baht to take photos. The activities of Tri Trang Beach swimming with elephants might be changed to Paradise Beach which is nearby.
★A friendly note about Phuket Thailand swim with elephants from Umetravel: Personally, we would say it is a very local service. They cannot guarantee service on a fixed date. To swim with the elephants, your trip mainly depends on the high tide/low tide. If you want to join in the swimming part only, the tour time is also very short: 1 pax play with one elephant for 15-20 minutes or 2 pax with 2 elephants playing with them for 20 - 25 minutes. You have to prepare clothes for changing, towels and sandals, etc.
Local people might not agree to let the elephants do this activity, especially in the sea. After all, elephants are jungle animals. Their skin might be hurt by salty seawater. They are not ocean animals. So, maybe an elephant ride on the beach, not in the seawater, is much better, or you can consider the Thailand elephant swimming in the proper area like Elephant Sanctuary or Khao Sok National Park which has a freshwater lake.
#2. Elephant Jungle Sanctuary Chiang Mai
Location: Chiang Mai
There are a lot of elephant reserves around the dense jungle of Chiang Mai, Elephant Jungle Sanctuary Chiang Mai is among the pioneers of the new ethical elephant attractions that have swept Thailand. These mild giants have been rescued from unpleasant logging and tourism. In cooperation with the nearby Karen Hill and Chiang Mai locals, this sanctuary set up an elephant welfare program to protect the elephants and promote local development at the same time. More than 30 elephants have long lived in the quiet and comfortable protected area, about 60 km away from Chiang Mai.
There are no tricks, no hooks, and absolutely no horse riding because it can hurt the surprisingly weak back of these powerful creatures. You can choose between a half-day or a full day at the sanctuary. It takes about 1.5 hours to get to elephant park. Your half-day interaction includes preparing the elephant's diet, feeding and playing together, as well as mud and a bathtub in the river. A full-day program starts in the morning or at noon, depending on your preference. The activities are almost the same but more leisure time in each step and more time to observe their natural behaviors. If you want to a maximum amount of time with the elephants, there's also an overnight tour and/or a full-week program, with on-site accommodation provided.
Option 1: Half-day Elephant Jungle Sanctuary with Karen Clothing (Starts at 6 am in the morning or 11:30 am at noon)
Option 2: Full-day Elephant Jungle Sanctuary with Karen Clothing & Doi Suthep Mountain
>>>Contact our travel advisor to tailor your private itinerary for overnight programs or all-inclusive Thailand tours that include this sanctuary.
#3. Blue Tao Elephant Village
Location: Chiang Mai
This sanctuary offers ethical elephant experiences and combined activities in Chiang Mai. You will take care of these huge animals, make them healthy food and feed them by hand, stroll through the beautiful jungle, play together in rivers and waterfalls, observe their free life, and take great pictures when they throw dust and soil.
Option 1: Full-day Blue Tao Elephant Villages & Water Hikes
Enjoy the best full-day elephant tour in Chiang Mai Thailand ethical elephant sanctuary & trek to the waterfall at Blue Tao Elephant Village. Cuddle baby elephants, healthy treats cooking, feeding, lush forest hikes (No riding), fun elephant bathing in the S Frame Waterfall, see elephants throwing dirt, foraging foods & scratching on trees. Picnic lunch near the waterfall. Lunch included.
Option 2: Full Day Blue Tao Elephant Villages & water hikes, bamboo rafting & Doi Suthep Temple
Chiang Mai best elephant waterfall hikes and Doi Suthep Temple with a rafting full-day tour, ethical elephant sanctuary Chiang Mai & care for at Blue Tao Elephant Village, cuddling baby elephants, cooking healthy treats & feeding, lush forest walking (No riding), fun elephant bathe in the waterfall, Relaxing on bamboo rafting, visit the famous Doi Suthep Temple in the afternoon. Lunch included.
>>>Contact us to book an eco-tour to Blue Tao Elephant Village or an all-inclusive Thailand tour.
#4. Elephant Nature Park
Location: Chiang Mai
The Elephant Natural Park is the most popular protection camp for Western tourists. This is most perfect animal protection camp in Chiang Mai, and it has its own foundation, perfect publicity system, and firm protection concept to support the entire park from 2003 till now.
Founded in 1995, Elephant Nature Park was created by Sangduen 'Lek' Chailert, giving new lives to these magnificent animals. There's no trick, hook, fence, elephant paintings, and especially NO RIDING. By 2016, more than 200 elephants were rescued by its staff.
Half Day and Full Day tours are available. Also, it offers programs to take care of dogs here. If you want to make a difference and help the elephants in a little longer period, you can join in a seven-day program.
Since 2019, this sanctuary has suspended bathing activities. They believed that elephants would be very stressed if forced to do scheduled activities every day, although they liked playing with water. It will be good for elephants just to let them bathe themselves. While direct swimming with elephants isn't offered, you can observe and bathe elephants in their natural environment.
It is recommended to book a trip to Elephant Nature Park in advance. There are a limited number of tourists every day, and they usually sell out far ahead of time.
Option: Full Day Elephant Nature Park + Orchid and Butterfly Farm
>>>Book more trips to Elephant Nature Park here.
#5. Elephant Jungle Sanctuary Phuket
Location: Phuket
You will not regret to visit Elephant Jungle Sanctuary Phuket! It's the Phuket location of Chiang Mai Elephant Jungle Sanctuary. It inherits the very unique experience in Chiang Mai. You will wear Karon clothes and spend your day playing with the elephants and bathing them. If your itinerary happens to miss out on that in Chiang Mai, don't lose this one in Phuket.
>>>Book a visit to Elephant Jungle Sanctuary Phuket.
●Option 1: Half-day Elephant Jungle Sanctuary Phuket Tour with Karon Clothing
Pick up at 6:30 am for the morning visit and at 11:30 for the afternoon. It takes approximately 1 hour through scenic agricultural areas, hills, and beaches, before arriving at the Sanctuary.
After being allocated bananas and sugar cane to feed the elephants, you will walk with your guide through the Sanctuary, where you will find free-roaming elephants and hear their individual stories. You can touch, feed, photograph, and interact with the elephants at your leisure while you learn about their lifestyle and behaviors.
After feeding you will accompany them to a nearby mud spa. Get muddy with the elephants as you apply a healthy cosmetic mud treatment to their skin. Next, you will walk with the elephants to a nearby river and join them in the water for a refreshing bath. Take a Phuket swim with elephants and help bathe and brush them while they wade through and play in the water.
Finally, eat some snacks and seasonal fresh fruit, after you are done at the sanctuary, you can go to Naithon Beach for a hangout before enjoying once again the impressive rural scenery as you drive back to the hotel.
●Option 2: Full-Day Elephant Jungle Sanctuary Phuket Tour with Karon Clothing
You will do an activity the same as a half-day afternoon program. But you will have more time with the elephants in each process. You will learn more about elephants and their different behaviors. You will also assist in preparing the medicinal soil for their consumption. Of course, during the jounery, you can also enjoy swimming with elephants in Phuket Thailand and help them bathing and brushing while they are wading through and playing in the water. The full-day tour starts at 6:30 am and ends at 5:30 pm.
We also offer all-inclusive Eco-tours in Thailand that are meaningful and tailored to your interests. On your tour, you can pick what you like to visit and experience the Elephant Volunteer Program in Phuket.
#6. Elephant Jungle Sanctuary Pattaya
Location: Pattaya
Elephant Jungle Sanctuary in Patthaya is also another location of Elephant Jungle Sanctuary in Patthaya. If staying in Bangkok, it might be a good chance for a day tour from Bangkok and return on the same day.
●Option: Half-Day Pattaya Elephant Jungle Sanctuary from Bangkok
>>>Book an overall eco Thailand tour here.
#7. Phuket Elephant Sanctuary
Location: Phuket
The Phuket Elephant Sanctuary has a common goal: to have a sustainable and moral tour in which elephants can roam freely, and be taken care of rather than be forced to cruel work while supporting life for local people.
The sanctuary offers morning visits every day. You will see how those elephants were rescued and what effort the park had made to help promote their welfare.
Enjoy zero-distance contact – feeding, walking, and playing with elephants. Watch these beautiful giants as they forage, roam, and bathe. This park changed its philosophy now and does not allow volunteers to bathe with elephants together.
●Option: Half-Day Phuket Elephant Jungle Sanctuary Tour
>>>Reach out to us to tailor a Thailand eco-tour that includes Phuket Elephant Sanctuary
#8. Elephant World
Location: Kanchanaburi
Elephants World has over 20 elephants in Kanchanaburi, most come with a misery story of unemployed, elderly, or injured. They have all been in some way rescued and start their new life in the sanctuary.
You can embark on a day trip from Bangkok. You will be picked up and dropped off at your Bangkok hotel, but it would be a very long day. If possible, you can also stay at a Kanchanaburi hotel in this riverside town.
●Option: Elephant Day Care at Elephants World in Kanchanaburi from Bangkok
>>>Customize a Thailand eco-tour that includes Elephant World.
#9. RanTong Elephant Camp
Location: Chiang Mai
RanTong Elephant Camp is also a relatively old camp in Chiang Mai. Since 2009, Rantong has saved more than 40 elephants, and there are 22 elephants living in the camp now. In 2009, the founder of RanTong rescued an elephant named Boon Som, and he started his career to save elephants from that day.
#10. Mae Sa Elephant Camp
Location: Chiang Mai
Maesa Elephant Camp is Chiang Mai's largest elephant camp in Thailand. Also as the best elephant camp in Thailand, elephants here are trained, and they can perform a variety of programs to attract a large number of foreign tourists. The middle of March of every year is the famous elephant festival in Thailand.
With this top 10 list, do you have your mind on where to swim with elephants in Thailand. If you are not sure how to choose, just leave us you to craft an amazing itinerary tailored to your wishes!
2. Swimming with Elephants Thailand: 8 Days Itinerary Inspiration
-Days: 8 Days
-Cater for: Family with Kids
-Quick Access>>> 8 Days Bangkok - Phuket Thailand Tour (Swim with Elephants Thailand Phuket)
Embark on an unforgettable 8-day family adventure in Thailand, combining cultural exploration, thrilling activities, and unforgettable encounters with nature. From the majestic Grand Palace and iconic temples in Bangkok to the stunning beaches and unique experiences in Phuket, this itinerary offers a perfect blend of history, fun, and relaxation. Swim with elephants, explore exotic markets, and enjoy vibrant shows, all while creating lasting memories with your loved ones in the Land of Smiles.
●Day 1: Welcome to Bangkok!
-Arrive in Bangkok, greeted by your private guide at the airport.
-Transfer to your hotel for check-in.
-Relax and recover from your journey or explore nearby with guide recommendations.
●Day 2: Grand Palace & Temples Tour
-Visit Bangkok's iconic Grand Palace and the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew).
-Explore Wat Pho, home of the Reclining Buddha, and Wat Arun ("The Dawn Temple").
-Note: Dress modestly for temple visits. Rentals are available at the Grand Palace if needed.
●Day 3: Unique Markets & Bubble in the Forest Café
-Visit Maeklong Railway Market to watch vendors adjust for passing trains.
-Explore Damnoen Saduak Floating Market by long-tail boat.
-End your day at "The Bubble in the Forest Café" for scenic dining and relaxation.
●Day 4: Fly to Phuket
-Transfer to Bangkok Airport for your flight to Phuket.
-Check-in at your Phuket hotel.
●Day 5: James Bond Island Canoe Tour
-Cruise through Ao Phang Nga National Park.
-Snorkel, swim, and canoe around Panak and Hong Islands.
-Visit James Bond Island (from The Man with the Golden Gun) and relax on the beach.
●Day 6: Enjoy Swimming with the Elephants in Thailand & Carnival Magic
-Visit Karon Viewpoint for stunning beach views.
-Stop by Phuket's Big Buddha and Wat Chalong temple.
-Swim with elephants at Tri Trang Beach and take memorable photos.
-Enjoy an evening at Carnival Magic, a vibrant cultural park with dazzling shows.
●Day 7: Free Day
-Relax at your hotel or explore Phuket at your own pace.
●Day 8: Departure
-Enjoy your free time before your guide transfers you to the airport for your onward flight.
This 8-day Thailand adventure is the perfect way to experience the country's rich culture, stunning landscapes, and unforgettable wildlife encounters. Whether you're exploring ancient temples in Bangkok or swimming with elephants in Phuket, every moment is sure to leave you in awe. Ready to create memories that will last a lifetime from our elephant adventures? Book your Thailand Family Fun & Swim with the Elephant tour today and start your unforgettable journey!
3. FAQs about Swimming with Elephants
Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about swimming with elephants:
●Is it safe to swim with elephants?
Yes, swimming with elephants is generally safe when done in controlled environments, such as ethical sanctuaries or wildlife reserves that prioritize the well-being of the animals.
●Do the elephants enjoy swimming?
Many elephants enjoy the water, as they love to cool off and play. They are natural swimmers and often use the water for relaxation and socializing.
●What should I expect during swimming with elephants vacation?
You can expect a unique experience where you'll get to interact with the elephant in a safe and calm setting. The elephant may splash water, spray you with its trunk, or even let you ride on its back while swimming.
●How do I ensure the elephants are treated ethically during swimming with elephants near me?
Choose reputable sanctuaries or wildlife reserves that are committed to animal welfare and have a no-riding policy. Ensure that the elephants are not being forced to participate and that they have enough freedom to engage naturally in the water.
●Can I ride the elephant while swimming?
Many ethical organizations do not allow riding elephants at all, even in the water, as it can be stressful for the animals. Be sure to check out some more elephant swims reviews to verify the policy before booking your experience.
●What should I wear when swimming with elephants?
Comfortable, non-restrictive swimwear is recommended. Some places may also provide safety gear, such as water shoes or life jackets, depending on the experience.
●Where can I swim with elephants?
Swimming with elephants is typically available in Southeast Asia (such as Thailand, Sri Lanka, Laos, and Indonesia's Bali), but there are also opportunities in Africa and other regions with ethical elephant sanctuaries. Myrtle Beach safari swim with elephants in South Carolina (swimming with bubbles the elephant) is also a great choice. Tell us your budget and where you want to go, then we will make it fit to a tee.
●Are elephants at elephant sanctuaries well-treated?
Ethical elephant sanctuaries focus on the care and rehabilitation of elephants. It's important to research the sanctuary's practices and ensure they align with ethical standards, including no exploitation for entertainment.
●What are the benefits of swimming with elephants?
It offers a chance to connect with these majestic creatures in a natural, peaceful environment. It can also raise awareness about elephant conservation and promote ethical wildlife tourism.
●Can children swim with elephants?
Many places allow children to swim with elephants, but age restrictions may apply, and parents should always check for safety protocols.
●Are elephants good at swimming?
Elephants are very good, untiring swimmers. Their big body provides enough floatation while the trunk acts like a snorkel.
●Do they swim in the mud pool?
Yes, elephants like to cover their skin with mud. That will protect them from being bitten by mosquitoes and bugs.
●Why do they look "dirty" if they often wash themselves?
They also like to splash soil after bathing, which protects them from sunburn. So you might always see them as "dirty".
4. Best Ethical Elephant Sanctuary Thailand for More Experiences
Thailand is home to some of the world's most remarkable elephant sanctuaries, where these majestic creatures are treated with the care and respect they deserve. If you're an animal lover or a traveler seeking some meaningful experiences apart from swimming with the elephants, visiting an elephant sanctuary in Thailand is an unforgettable opportunity to learn about elephant welfare, conservation efforts, and the history of these gentle giants. Check out the best elephant sanctuary Thailand where you can connect with these magnificent animals while supporting ethical practices and conservation.
Wildlife Friends Foundation Thailand (Phetchaburi)
Address: 108, Tha Mai Ruak, Phetchaburi, 76130, Thailand
If you're passionate about animal welfare, the Wildlife Friends Foundation is a must-visit. This sanctuary offers a home to rescued elephants and other animals that have suffered from abuse and mistreatment. It's an incredible opportunity to learn about elephant welfare and conservation efforts while actively participating in the care of these majestic creatures. The experience is both educational and heartwarming.
Green Elephant Sanctuary Park (Chiang Mai)
Address: 4 Soi Cherngtalay 1, Choeng Thale, Thalang District, Phuket 83110, Thailand
A relatively new addition to the elephant sanctuary scene, the Green Elephant Sanctuary Park provides a peaceful, natural environment for rescued elephants. Here, you can take part in a hands-on experience—feeding, bathing, and even walking with the elephants. It's a perfect place for animal lovers who want to engage with elephants in a respectful, ethical manner.
ChangChill Elephant Sanctuary (Chiang Mai)
Address:45/2 หมู่ 19 บ้านประตูเมือง Mae Win, Mae Wang District, Chiang Mai 50360, Thailand
For a truly peaceful experience, visit the ChangChill Elephant Sanctuary, where the focus is on offering elephants a calm and natural lifestyle. You'll have the chance to learn about the history of elephants in Thailand, and participate in activities like feeding and bathing them. It's an intimate experience, ideal for those seeking a deeper connection with these incredible animals.
Thai Elephant Conservation Center (Lampang)
Address:964R+QW9 272 หมู่ 6 Wiang Tan, Hang Chat District, Lampang 52190, Thailand
As Thailand's first government-sanctioned elephant sanctuary, the Thai Elephant Conservation Center combines rehabilitation, research, and educational programs. Here, you'll learn about the significance of elephants in Thai culture, and gain insight into their history and conservation efforts. This is an excellent destination if you're looking to enrich your travel experience with knowledge about elephants' role in Thai society.
Elephant Haven Thailand (Kanchanaburi)
Address: ทางหลวงชนบท กาญจนบุรี 4032 Lum Sum, Sai Yok District, Chang Wat Kanchanaburi 71150, Thailand
At Elephant Haven Thailand, the ethical treatment of elephants is at the heart of everything they do. The sanctuary focuses on rehabilitation and provides a safe, natural environment for rescued elephants. During your visit, you'll have the chance to interact with these incredible animals—feeding them, bathing them, and learning their personal stories. It's a meaningful experience that will stay with you long after your visit.
Hutsadin Elephant Foundation (Hua Hin)
Address: หมู่บ้านพลัมมีเรียหัวหิน 176 ซอย Hin Lek Fai, Hua Hin District, Prachuap Khiri Khan 77110, Thailand
Located in Hua Hin, the Hutsadin Elephant Foundation works tirelessly to rescue elephants from the tourism and logging industries. The foundation provides these elephants with a safe home and offers ethical interactions such as feeding and bathing. While you're there, you'll also have the chance to learn about the importance of elephant conservation. It's an enriching experience, both for you and the elephants.
Phang Nga Elephant Park (Phang Nga)
Address: 49 1, Thung Kha Ngok, Mueang Phang-nga District, Phang Nga 82000, Thailand
Nestled in the scenic Phang Nga province, this sanctuary offers a tranquil haven for rescued elephants. You'll get the chance to feed, walk, and bathe the elephants, all while learning about ethical conservation efforts and the importance of elephant welfare. With its stunning natural surroundings, this sanctuary is a peaceful retreat that combines animal interaction with breathtaking views.
Visiting any of these places where you can interact with elephants will not only give you the opportunity to connect with elephants in an ethical and meaningful way but also educate you on the importance of conservation. Each best Thailand elephant sanctuary offers something unique, so whichever you choose, you're sure to have an unforgettable experience!
■Check out our best elephant tours in Thailand which include elephant volunteer activities, or choose the best half-day or full-day elephant trips from our well-designed Thailand Elephant Tour Packages.
10 days Bangkok - Chiang Rai - Chiang Mai
10 days | From $ 2199
9 days Bangkok - Ayutthaya - Chiang Mai - Phuket
9 days | From $ 1959
What We'd Like to Say
Swimming with the elephants in Thailand offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to connect with these majestic creatures while exploring the country's breathtaking landscapes. By choosing ethical sanctuaries and eco-friendly experiences, you not only create unforgettable memories but also contribute to the welfare and conservation of elephants. Ready to make your dream adventure a reality? Start planning your private guided trip today and discover the magic of Thailand's elephant sanctuaries—where compassion meets adventure!
◆Related Travel Guides to Thailand Elephants:
>>>Everything You May Want to Know about Elephants in Thailand
>>>32 Interesting Facts about Thailand Elephants
>>>Shocking Truth of Riding Elephants in Thailand: Dos or Don'ts