Elephant riding in Phuket

The best elephant farms in Phuket

There are more than ten elephant farms on the island, but only a few are worth visiting. Thailand Horizon has carefully selected only the best elephant farms in Phuket, each of which offers something special.

• Camp Chang Kalim is a gem among elephant sanctuaries. It is located on Kalim Beach, just north of Patong. Here, the routes run along the ridges of the hills, offering breathtaking views of the Andaman Sea. This is not just an elephant tour through the jungle, but a real adventure at the top of the island.
• Prayai Changthai Elephant – the choice for those who want to combine two vivid experiences: elephant riding and visiting the famous Big Buddha statue. The elephant excursion in Phuket takes place in a picturesque area, and the opportunity to take photos against the backdrop of this iconic symbol is a significant bonus.
• Kok Chang Safari is Phuket's oldest elephant farm. Founded in 1993, the sanctuary is renowned for its ethical treatment of animals. The trail leads through the rainforest to the Karon viewing platform. This is perhaps the best safari in Phuket if you want to enjoy nature, interact with animals, and experience tranquility.
• MalaiPink ATV & UTV Adventure – for thrill seekers. This camp is located in the jungle in the south of the island, between Nai Harn and Kata. Elephant riding here is accompanied by an exciting program: the routes lead through dense thickets and steep slopes. Guests are also offered quad biking. Thrills guaranteed!

Bathing with elephants

If riding is thrilling, then swimming with elephants in Phuket is pure bliss. Just imagine: you enter the water with an elephant, it splashes you, and then lets you clean its back, play, and hug it with its trunk. It is a sincere, warm, almost childlike pleasure.

At Lucky Beach, you can take a rare photo—an elephant and the sea, alone with nature. Here, you are allowed to take photos of elephants in the water, right at the water's edge. Kalim Elephant Care offers a full range of activities: bathing in a special pool, feeding, and friendly interaction with animals under the supervision of specialists.

How to choose an ethical elephant tour

Responsible tourism starts with making the right choice. Yes, an elephant tour in Phuket is a dream come true for many. But it is important that this dream does not harm the animals. How can you tell where elephants are cared for and where they are simply exploited?

• Housing conditions: spacious areas, shade, freedom of movement. Elephants should not be chained.
• No shows or tricks: no bike riding or dancing. This violates the nature of animals.
• Learning element: The best tour will tell you about the life, past, and present of each elephant. For example, at Phuket Elephant Sanctuary, you will hear stories of animal rescue and rehabilitation.
• Non-violent interaction: At farms such as The Lake Elephant Nursery and Kerchor Elephant Family, elephants do not participate in shows. Here, you can feed them, observe them, learn about their care, and even participate in it.

The cost of the tour depends on its duration, location, and included activities. Many programs include transportation, meals, insurance, and photo and video shooting. Thailand Horizon offers only trusted service providers at reasonable prices. We assure you that you will not only experience excitement, but also create memories that will last a lifetime!