Chai Lai Orchid FAQ’s

What’s included in my room rate?
Your stay is designed to be more than just accommodation — it’s an experience you wake up inside.

Your room includes a memorable breakfast with the elephants delivered directly to your balcony between 7:30 AM and 10:00 AM.

You’ll also enjoy our signature Elephant Room Service. During breakfast, elephant caretakers bring a basket of bananas so you can safely feed the elephants from your balcony. When the bananas are finished, the elephants will naturally wander back into the forest or river. Additional banana baskets are available if you would like to spend more time with them.
What is Elephant Happy Hour?
Every afternoon between 3:00 PM and 5:00 PM, guests can purchase elephant food at a special rate — buy two baskets of bananas and receive one free.

The café also offers buy one, get one free cocktails during this time, perfect for relaxing riverside after a day of adventure.
When is the café open?
Our jungle café is open daily from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM.

• Kitchen last order: 8:30 PM
• Final shuttle between properties: 9:00 PM

While the properties are within walking distance, paths can be steep and dark at night. Complimentary shuttle service is recommended.
Can I book activities during my stay?
Yes! Activities can be booked anytime at reception or in the evening at the café.

Some tours include complimentary transportation back to Chiang Mai city with scheduled departures at 1:00 PM and 4:30 PM.
How many nights should I stay?
Most guests stay one to two nights to experience elephants, jungle trekking, waterfalls, and cultural activities. Guests seeking a deeper adventure often stay longer to fully explore village life and nature.
How long are the treks?
Treks typically range from 1.5 to 6 hours. Private treks can be customized to your fitness level and interests.
Can I swim in the river or waterfalls?
Yes! Many guests enjoy cooling off in the mountain river or waterfalls, especially after trekking.
How do I get to Chai Lai Orchid?
We are located about 1 hour and 15 minutes from Chiang Mai city. We recommend arranging transportation with our team. Private songtaew or sedan transfers are available, including airport pickup.
Can I drive myself?
It is possible, but roads are steep and winding. Four-wheel drive and mountain driving experience are strongly recommended.
What should I wear?
Wear comfortable adventure clothing, including:
• Hiking or athletic shoes
• Lightweight breathable clothing
• Sun protection

Cool season evenings may require warm layers.
Do you offer vegetarian or vegan meals?
Yes. We offer vegetarian and vegan options. Please notify us in advance of dietary preferences or allergies.
Can Asian elephants be released into the wild?
Most cannot survive independently due to domestication and habitat loss. Our goal is to provide a safe and enriched environment.
Do you buy or sell elephants?
No. We strongly oppose elephant trading and instead work through responsible partnerships that support welfare and local livelihoods.