Chai Lai Elephant Sanctuary Chiang Mai
Ethical Elephant Sanctuary in Chiang Mai, Thailand
Meet the Chai Lai Elephants
Walk alongside elephants, feed them, observe their natural behaviors and learn about their care from experienced local caretakers. Our approach focuses on respectful interaction rather than entertainment. We support local Karen families who care for them so that each visit gives back to the local indigenous community.
Choose Your Experience
Half-Day Elephant Experience
For travelers who want an ethical elephant experience without spending the whole day in the jungle.
1-Day Elephant Adventures
Elephants + jungle trekking + waterfalls + Indigenous culture.
2-Day Elephant Adventures
Stay overnight and experience more of the jungle, elephants and community.
Why Chai Lai Orchid?
Elephants — Care, food, veterinary support and respectful interaction with majestic elephants.
Community Based Travel — Work with local Indigenous families and guides.
Empowerment — Your visit helps create educational, and employment opportunities for Indigenous youth through DaughtersRising.org VISIT DAUGHTERS RISING
Nature — Stay and explore in the mountains, forest and rice fields of Mae Wang district.
What Does “Ethical Elephant Tourism” Mean?
The word “Sanctuary” isn’t automatically synonymous with ethical treatment. Travelers should consider elephant welfare, freedom to express natural behaviors, veterinary care, training methods and how visitors interact with the animals. Read more
How to Choose an Ethical Elephant Sanctuary in Chiang Mai →
Save Elephants. Travel With Purpose.
Our most popular day trip!
Spend a day deep in the jungle bonding with rescued elephants, hiking to hidden waterfalls, and floating down the Mae Wang River on a traditional bamboo raft. This unforgettable adventure blends wildlife, culture, and nature into one epic day in the mountains of Chiang Mai.
✔ Spend real time with rescued elephants and baby elephants
✔ Small groups with local Karen guides
✔ Swim with elephants in the Mae Wang River
✔ Jungle waterfall hike + bamboo rafting