Elephant Sanctuary + Waterfall hike + Bushcraft + Khun Poi Village Stay
Slow Travel
Leave the noise behind and journey into a world where life moves to the rhythm of the forest.
Hidden high in the mountains, far from crowded tourist attractions and busy city streets, Khun Poi is a traditional Karen village where emerald-green rice fields ripple in the breeze and mist drifts across the hills at sunrise. Here, you’ll stay in beautiful handcrafted bamboo bungalows built by local families, surrounded by nature and overlooking a landscape that has sustained the Indigenous Karen people for generations.
More than just a trek, this is an invitation to experience a different way of life.
Wake to the sound of birdsong instead of traffic. Share meals cooked over an open fire. Walk ancient jungle paths known only to local villagers. Swim beneath hidden waterfalls, learn traditional bushcraft skills, and spend your evenings under a sky filled with stars. Every moment offers a chance to slow down, breathe deeply, and reconnect with the natural world.
Along the way, you’ll also spend time with rescued elephants, learning about ethical elephant care and the deep relationship between elephants, forests, and local communities. Unlike crowded tourist attractions, these encounters are intimate, respectful, and focused on the wellbeing of the animals.
Your guide, Mr. Lah, is passionate about sharing his culture, stories, and home with visitors. Whether teaching jungle survival skills, explaining local traditions, or simply making you laugh around the campfire, he offers the kind of genuine connection that turns a trip into a lifelong memory.
4900 THB per person
Guests consistently describe this experience as the highlight of their time in Thailand—not because of luxury, but because of how it makes them feel. Peaceful. Grounded. Inspired. Connected.
By joining this trek, you are also supporting the Indigenous Karen community and helping create sustainable livelihoods that allow families to remain on their ancestral land while preserving their culture and protecting the forests they call home.
There are four charming bungalows, each accommodating up to three guests, nestled among rice terraces and mountain views. Available as a 2-day or 3-day adventure, this is a rare opportunity to step off the beaten path and discover the heart of Northern Thailand through the eyes of the people who know it best.
The journey leads to the beautiful Karen village of Khun Poi, where handcrafted bamboo bungalows overlook lush emerald-green rice fields stretching across the mountainside. Your stay directly supports the Indigenous Karen community, helping preserve traditional ways of life while creating sustainable income for local families.
Perfect for travelers seeking adventure, cultural immersion, and a deeper connection with nature, this off-the-beaten-path experience includes ethical elephant encounters, jungle trekking, hidden waterfalls, and life in a traditional mountain village. Along the way, you’ll swim in pristine natural pools, enjoy meals cooked in bamboo over an open fire, bamboo raft down the river, and learn about Karen culture from your local hosts.
Your guide and host, Mr. Lah, is a proud member of the village who speaks excellent English and is known for his warm hospitality and terrific sense of humor. He can teach guests jungle survival skills, bushcraft, and the rich traditions of Karen life. With countless trails to explore, you can choose hikes ranging from 1 to 5 hours each day, depending on your interests and fitness level.
Accommodation consists of four charming handcrafted bungalows, each sleeping up to three guests, surrounded by rice fields, forests, and mountain views. Available as either a 2-day or 3-day trek, this experience offers a rare opportunity to slow down, reconnect with nature, and support a community that has cared for these lands for generations.
Day 1 Itinerary
This trip includes pick up in downtown Chiang Mai Please note that pick up locations outside of Chiang Mai may have an additional charge. Transportation is a traditional Thai songteaw (covered pick-up truck)
The length and difficulty of the jungle hike can be adjusted to fit your ability. Just let us know! There are many trails you can choose to hike for 1 hour or up to 5 hours. On average, our guests prefer to hike 2-3 hours through the jungle, wild banana forest, and ricefields. Along the way, you will see a wide variety of animals and plants, and your guide will share their expert jungle survival knowledge!
This tour offers a waterfall picnic lunch. Your guide will pack a traditional vegetarian meal and fresh seasonal fruits, and you can enjoy your lunch next to a gorgeous jungle waterfall. Depending on the weather and season you can bbq over a fire. Please let us know beforehand if you have any dietary restrictions so we can accommodate them. Or go with the flow and try some new tastes!
Guests will have the opportunity to explore the traditional way of life in Khun Poi, a Pga k’ nyau/ Karen Hill Tribe village. See traditional Karen houses, and learn how local villagers raise animals, plant crops, and enjoy living sustainably in nature.
Mealtime brings everyone together around the fire, especially in the chilly winter months.
Fall asleep to the sounds of the jungle paradise.
This homestay has private showers with hot water and eco-friendly bamboo A frames. The homestay belongs to Lah’s family, so it’s a great way to support local people from underprivileged communities to have the opportunity to create a better future. These huts are 30 minutes away Chai Lai Orchid and there is no elephant room service. This is part of our community based travel project. Travel and give back.
Itinerary- Day 2
Wake up in a quiet Karen village and enjoy a traditional breakfast of and seasonal fruits from local farmers.
Hike through beautiful jungle that spills out onto sun-drenched rice paddies and Northern Thailand landscapes.
Make some elephant friends at our elephant camp! Feed them snacks, take selfies, and learn how to approach them and communicate using simple commands. Each elephant has their own mahout, who will show you how to speak to them, stay with you for the duration of your experience, and tell you about the personality of their beloved elephant. You will also get to take a walk with your elephant through the lush jungle.
After walking through the jungle, what’s better than cooling off in the river by giving your elephant a bath? Elephants love playing in the Mae Wang river, so be ready to get wet! They love splashing and swimming and you will share their happiness.
This tour offers a delicious riverside lunch. Enjoy a traditional vegetarian meal and fresh seasonal fruits as you take in the beautiful jungle scenery. Please let us know beforehand if you have any dietary restrictions so we can accommodate.
Finish off your day by cooling off in the lazy Mae Wang River on a traditional bamboo raft ride! Your guide will steer you around the winding river and small rapids as you relax. Drinks are allowed on the raft but PLEASE do not litter. Depending on the seasonal height of the river, rides can be from 40 min to 1 hour in duration. While most areas of the river are very shallow, life jackets are available upon request.
After changing into dry clothes, say one last goodbye to your elephant friends before heading back to Chiang Mai. Your transport will be waiting for you at Chai Lai Orchid elephant camp. This tour typically finishes around 5PM on day 2.
After changing into dry clothes, say one last goodbye to your elephant friends at Elephant Happy hour before heading back to Chiang Mai. Your transport will be waiting for you at Chai Lai Orchid. This jungle tour typically finishes around 5 PM on day 2.
This jungle tour is well organized but relaxed. In order to give you the best experience and maximum time doing your preferred activities, there’s no set schedule.
Included
- Good Karma- proceeds go to DaughtersRising.org
- English Speaking Pga k’ nyau Guide
- Pick-up and Drop-off
- Meals and Drinking Water
- Accident Insurance
Not Included
- Beer, Additional Beverages, and Snacks
- Optional Gratuities for the Guides or Mahouts
- Surplus Transportation Fee for Pickups Outside of Chiang Mai
The Packing List
- Comfortable Athletic Clothing
- Swimwear
- Trekking Shoes or Sandals
- Insect Repellant
- Sunblock
- Cash for Incidental Purchases
- Tooth Brush
Reviews
What an incredible experience! This place is really about one thing, the elephants and they didn't disappoint. The rooms are very basic but we're comfortable. The food and drinks at the restaurant were fantastic. The experience in the morning with the elephants was unbelievable, well worth every penny. Highly recommended.
想像以上に良かったです。
象との朝食ができるということで予約をしましたが、それ以上の体験ができました。
特に1日アクティビティでは、専属のガイドとシェフが１日同行してくれます。
移動中は、カレン族のガイドの方が、象や施設の説明、そして自分たちの歴史を丁寧に教えてくれます。
私は英語が得意ではなかったが、丁寧な英語で何度も教えてくれます。
アクティビティで非常に良い体験を経験しました。
ガイドのBOYさんとシェフのBAMBOOさん、
ありがとうございました！
また遊びに行きたいと思います。
It was even better than I expected.
I booked this because I wanted to have breakfast with the elephants, but the experience turned out to be so much more than that.
For the full-day activity, in particular, a dedicated guide and chef accompany you throughout the day.
During the transfers, the Karen guide kindly explained details about the elephants and the facility, as well as sharing the history of their people.
Although I am not very confident in English, they patiently explained things to me repeatedly using clear, polite English.
It was a truly wonderful experience.
A big thank you to our guide, Boy, and our chef, Bamboo!
I would love to visit again.
象との朝食ができるということで予約をしましたが、それ以上の体験ができました。
特に1日アクティビティでは、専属のガイドとシェフが１日同行してくれます。
移動中は、カレン族のガイドの方が、象や施設の説明、そして自分たちの歴史を丁寧に教えてくれます。
私は英語が得意ではなかったが、丁寧な英語で何度も教えてくれます。
アクティビティで非常に良い体験を経験しました。
ガイドのBOYさんとシェフのBAMBOOさん、
ありがとうございました！
また遊びに行きたいと思います。
It was even better than I expected.
I booked this because I wanted to have breakfast with the elephants, but the experience turned out to be so much more than that.
For the full-day activity, in particular, a dedicated guide and chef accompany you throughout the day.
During the transfers, the Karen guide kindly explained details about the elephants and the facility, as well as sharing the history of their people.
Although I am not very confident in English, they patiently explained things to me repeatedly using clear, polite English.
It was a truly wonderful experience.
A big thank you to our guide, Boy, and our chef, Bamboo!
I would love to visit again.
Dit was een topervaring op nooit meer te vergeten. BIbi was fantastisch. Iedereen heeft een eigen gids die de anderhalve dag bij hen blijft. Wij deden een hike naar olifanten van hun sanctiarium en waterval. De dag erna een bamboerafting en bezoek aan Karen village. De accommodatie in het groen is heel aangenaam
With Mr. Tip leading the way we had the most beautifull and exciting experience! Being able to feed and wash the elephants, showering in a waterfall and a romantic ride on the river with a bamboo raft. We had a wonderfull time! Mr. Tip’s knowledge about local wildlife and plants was very interesting!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Absolutely Incredible Experience – 10/10! 🐘🌿💦
This was by far one of the best experiences we’ve ever done and easily the highlight of our trip to Chiang Mai!
We had Sunny as our tour guide, and he was absolutely incredible. He was polite, friendly, knowledgeable and genuinely went above and beyond to make the experience special. You could tell how passionate he is about his home, the local community and, most importantly, the elephants.
We started by trekking through the jungle and rice fields, visiting local villages and stopping at some amazing hidden waterfalls along the way. We were able to jump in and cool down at the waterfalls, which was perfect after hiking in the heat! The scenery was absolutely beautiful.
The elephant experience was honestly unforgettable. We were able to feed the elephants and even help bathe them. What we really appreciated was that there was no pressure on the elephants at all. They were free to do their own thing and weren’t forced to interact with us. In fact, when we brought them some food, they were more than happy to come over and see us! 🐘❤️
Sunny explained how well the elephants are cared for and how much love they have for their handlers. They looked incredibly healthy, happy and playful, and it was amazing to see them behaving naturally. We were also told how donations help support the elephants and local women, which made the experience feel even more worthwhile.
We met some lovely Karen villagers along the way too. They make handmade gifts and crafts, so I’d definitely recommend bringing some cash if you’d like to support them and take something home.
Our overnight stay was another huge highlight. We stayed in a jungle hut right next to a private waterfall, where we could actually swim. There was no phone signal, which honestly made the experience even better! It really felt like we were completely off the grid and surrounded by nature. Falling asleep next to the sound of the waterfall, with the jungle and stars around us, was incredible.
The food was fantastic too. We were given loads of traditional homemade meals throughout the trip and everything was delicious. We even got to try some of Sunny’s sister’s homemade rice wine — absolutely amazing, although VERY strong! 😂
We also did bamboo rafting down the river, which was awesome and another really fun part of the adventure.
There was always plenty of food and water provided, and everything was well organised without ever feeling rushed or overly touristy. It felt like a genuine opportunity to experience the local way of life.
Sunny genuinely made the trip. He is clearly such a hardworking and dedicated man, and his personality, knowledge and kindness made the whole experience even better.
If you’re visiting Chiang Mai, I cannot recommend this experience enough. The combination of elephants, jungle trekking, waterfalls, local culture, traditional food, bamboo rafting and staying overnight in the jungle makes this an experience we’ll never forget.
10/10 — absolutely unforgettable. 🐘❤️🌿
This was by far one of the best experiences we’ve ever done and easily the highlight of our trip to Chiang Mai!
We had Sunny as our tour guide, and he was absolutely incredible. He was polite, friendly, knowledgeable and genuinely went above and beyond to make the experience special. You could tell how passionate he is about his home, the local community and, most importantly, the elephants.
We started by trekking through the jungle and rice fields, visiting local villages and stopping at some amazing hidden waterfalls along the way. We were able to jump in and cool down at the waterfalls, which was perfect after hiking in the heat! The scenery was absolutely beautiful.
The elephant experience was honestly unforgettable. We were able to feed the elephants and even help bathe them. What we really appreciated was that there was no pressure on the elephants at all. They were free to do their own thing and weren’t forced to interact with us. In fact, when we brought them some food, they were more than happy to come over and see us! 🐘❤️
Sunny explained how well the elephants are cared for and how much love they have for their handlers. They looked incredibly healthy, happy and playful, and it was amazing to see them behaving naturally. We were also told how donations help support the elephants and local women, which made the experience feel even more worthwhile.
We met some lovely Karen villagers along the way too. They make handmade gifts and crafts, so I’d definitely recommend bringing some cash if you’d like to support them and take something home.
Our overnight stay was another huge highlight. We stayed in a jungle hut right next to a private waterfall, where we could actually swim. There was no phone signal, which honestly made the experience even better! It really felt like we were completely off the grid and surrounded by nature. Falling asleep next to the sound of the waterfall, with the jungle and stars around us, was incredible.
The food was fantastic too. We were given loads of traditional homemade meals throughout the trip and everything was delicious. We even got to try some of Sunny’s sister’s homemade rice wine — absolutely amazing, although VERY strong! 😂
We also did bamboo rafting down the river, which was awesome and another really fun part of the adventure.
There was always plenty of food and water provided, and everything was well organised without ever feeling rushed or overly touristy. It felt like a genuine opportunity to experience the local way of life.
Sunny genuinely made the trip. He is clearly such a hardworking and dedicated man, and his personality, knowledge and kindness made the whole experience even better.
If you’re visiting Chiang Mai, I cannot recommend this experience enough. The combination of elephants, jungle trekking, waterfalls, local culture, traditional food, bamboo rafting and staying overnight in the jungle makes this an experience we’ll never forget.
10/10 — absolutely unforgettable. 🐘❤️🌿
The overall experience was one of a kind. Definitely worth visiting if you’re in Chiang Mai, there are also amazing waterfalls 40min walk approx to visit from the Eco Lodge. The night truly something else, with the night sky and rain drops falling on the roof. Definitely a very romantic scene. They also have happy hour in the “cafe/restaurant” where you can buy a basket of food to feed the elephant as you enjoy your drink and food.
Please make sure if you come here, contact Mr. Satit. He did an amazing job with the tour " Intro to Elephant Care " we learned and enjoyed the tour because of his knowledge and time he spent with us. Unforgettable experience.
Un resort increíble que bajo mi experiencia hace el viaje a Tailandia más mágica de lo que ya es. Los elefantes en libertad y rescatados es algo precioso de vivir y más con la atención que brinda el personal. Nosotras hicimos una excursión con los guías Satit y Pray y fueron encantadores, explicándonos todo lo que veíamos y resolviendo todas nuestras dudas y preguntas. Experiencia inolvidable en un hotel precioso. Además, está muy bien preparado con mosquiteras y muy limpio para ser cabañas. Todo increíble!
La mejor experiencia en tahilandia. Y lo mejor los guías que nos ofrecieron durante nuestra estancia . Gracias .. Napakun su hija kream y mi gran amigo phohop , los llevamos en el corazón 😘😘👏👏
We had the best time at Chai Lai, it was the perfect getaway in the jungle. The elephants were amazing and you got to spend so much time with them. We did the all day Tour, which was the best and so well planned out our tour guide was amazing. The food is exceptional. It’s incredibly beautiful. The elephants are taken care of and loved. My only complaint would be the dog fights at night. They kept us up. Rooms were clean and they were multiple fans to keep the rooms cool at night. Awesome experience once in a lifetime.
Todo excelente el
Recorrido y el
Co tacto con los elefantes muy bonito
El guia satit muy esmerado y pendiente de todo
Muy recomendado
Recorrido y el
Co tacto con los elefantes muy bonito
El guia satit muy esmerado y pendiente de todo
Muy recomendado
My family had an unforgettable day at Chai Lai Orchid. After researching elephant ethics, Chai Lai’s commitment to caring for rescued elephants and empowering local Karen tribe women made it an easy choice—and it delivered 100%.
Address the elephant care first: this is an eco-lodge rescue, not a 100% hands-off sanctuary. The interaction (feeding vitamin balls, river splashing) felt completely unforced and deeply respectful. The elephants are clearly loved, healthy, and happy—a total contrast to traditional exploitation camps.
As for the bad reviews: most stem from overnight room accommodations (we did a day trip, but it is an eco-lodge, so manage your expectations!) or people wanting zero contact.
Highlight of the day: I dropped my phone off a bridge straight into the river, and our guide jumped in without hesitation and somehow retrieved it! That level of care defined our whole day.
If you want a hands-off observation site, look elsewhere. If you want a respectful, close encounter supporting a fantastic cause, book here!
Address the elephant care first: this is an eco-lodge rescue, not a 100% hands-off sanctuary. The interaction (feeding vitamin balls, river splashing) felt completely unforced and deeply respectful. The elephants are clearly loved, healthy, and happy—a total contrast to traditional exploitation camps.
As for the bad reviews: most stem from overnight room accommodations (we did a day trip, but it is an eco-lodge, so manage your expectations!) or people wanting zero contact.
Highlight of the day: I dropped my phone off a bridge straight into the river, and our guide jumped in without hesitation and somehow retrieved it! That level of care defined our whole day.
If you want a hands-off observation site, look elsewhere. If you want a respectful, close encounter supporting a fantastic cause, book here!
Great experience. Very nice person and I really loved it a lot with the elephants. I recommend it 100%.
special day at the Chai Lai Orchid farm. Our guide, Artid, was absolutely perfect. We arrived for the Elephant Expedition day with 7 adults and a one-year-old baby, and he did his absolute best to tailor the day to all of us (meeting the elephants, hiking, bathing in the river, lunch, and bamboo rafting)The place is truly special, the way they treat the elephants is pleasant and calm, and the lunch by the rushing river was just wonderful—everything was amazing!! Thank you, Artid, for a wonderful experience!!"
We spent two nights in Chai Lai Orchid and we had a fantastic, unforgettable experience!
The scenery was amazing, the food was tasty, the people in the establishment was hospitable and friendly and the opportunity to spend time with the elephants is truly one of a kind.
The highlight of the trip was the activities with guide Wit, who is the best guide ever!
Friendly, cool guy, amazing cook with ingredients you can find in the nature and offering us sugar canes for dessert!
Absolutely recommend visiting the sanctuary 🩷
The scenery was amazing, the food was tasty, the people in the establishment was hospitable and friendly and the opportunity to spend time with the elephants is truly one of a kind.
The highlight of the trip was the activities with guide Wit, who is the best guide ever!
Friendly, cool guy, amazing cook with ingredients you can find in the nature and offering us sugar canes for dessert!
Absolutely recommend visiting the sanctuary 🩷
The trip was really great and we had so much fun! It was especially nice to see that the elephants were treated with so much respect and care. At no point did we feel like the animals were being forced to do anything.
The guides were also very polite, friendly, and just really cool. They explained everything to us very well and created a relaxed atmosphere throughout the experience. Our guide Soan was especially friendly and polite.
Overall, a really great experience – absolutely recommend it!
The guides were also very polite, friendly, and just really cool. They explained everything to us very well and created a relaxed atmosphere throughout the experience. Our guide Soan was especially friendly and polite.
Overall, a really great experience – absolutely recommend it!
This was such a special experience, and if you're in the Chiang Mai area, I cannot recommend it enough! We spent the day with our guide, Napaku (from the Karen tribe) and he was so knowledgeable and made sure we were having a good time. You can tell they really care about their elephants and treat them extremely well!
I spent the night at the homestay with a friend and we had an amazing time. We went on a hike with beautiful views, ate fantastic food and had lots of fun with the elefants. Our guide, dach, was such a kind and funny person to be around. We will definitely go back there again.
I stayed at Chai Lai for my birthday and absolutely loved the experience. I was honestly surprised by some of the negative reviews, because many of the complaints seem to come from expectations that I don't think are quite appropriate for a place like this.
Yes, there are insects, the roads are difficult, and getting there is not easy — but this is a place in the middle of nature, not a city hotel or an Airbnb. There were mosquito nets and insect repellent in the room, as well as a shower, toiletries, towels, a hairdryer, and everything I needed after spending the day outdoors. I personally had no issue with getting dirty or encountering insects — that's part of being in nature, and I actually enjoyed it.
The food was fine and, overall, tasty. We also had a traditional meal prepared in the mountains over a fire. It was intentionally very simple, without the salt and spices we are used to, and I saw it as part of the cultural experience rather than something to judge as “bad food.”
What mattered most to me was the experience with the elephants. I spent a lot of time observing how the guides interacted with them. During the time I was there, I did not see any sticks, whips, hitting, or other obvious forms of abuse. The guides I observed used food, such as sugarcane and bananas, to interact with the elephants. The elephants were free to move around the park and I did not see them restrained by ropes or collars.
Of course, I cannot personally guarantee what happens outside the time I observed, so I don't want to make absolute claims about the ethics of the sanctuary. But based on what I personally saw, I did not witness anything that made me uncomfortable about the way the elephants were treated.
For me, Chai Lai was not about luxury or perfect roads and rooms. It was about spending time in nature and being able to observe elephants living, bathing, playing, scratching themselves on trees, covering themselves in mud, and simply being elephants. Actually, one of the sweetest moments was when a baby elephant got a banana from a tourist, couldn’t figure out how to peel it off, and then went straight to his guide, handed him the banana, and got a peeled one back, he immediately ate it, and I was absolutely delighted watching this!
Yes, there are insects, the roads are difficult, and getting there is not easy — but this is a place in the middle of nature, not a city hotel or an Airbnb. There were mosquito nets and insect repellent in the room, as well as a shower, toiletries, towels, a hairdryer, and everything I needed after spending the day outdoors. I personally had no issue with getting dirty or encountering insects — that's part of being in nature, and I actually enjoyed it.
The food was fine and, overall, tasty. We also had a traditional meal prepared in the mountains over a fire. It was intentionally very simple, without the salt and spices we are used to, and I saw it as part of the cultural experience rather than something to judge as “bad food.”
What mattered most to me was the experience with the elephants. I spent a lot of time observing how the guides interacted with them. During the time I was there, I did not see any sticks, whips, hitting, or other obvious forms of abuse. The guides I observed used food, such as sugarcane and bananas, to interact with the elephants. The elephants were free to move around the park and I did not see them restrained by ropes or collars.
Of course, I cannot personally guarantee what happens outside the time I observed, so I don't want to make absolute claims about the ethics of the sanctuary. But based on what I personally saw, I did not witness anything that made me uncomfortable about the way the elephants were treated.
For me, Chai Lai was not about luxury or perfect roads and rooms. It was about spending time in nature and being able to observe elephants living, bathing, playing, scratching themselves on trees, covering themselves in mud, and simply being elephants. Actually, one of the sweetest moments was when a baby elephant got a banana from a tourist, couldn’t figure out how to peel it off, and then went straight to his guide, handed him the banana, and got a peeled one back, he immediately ate it, and I was absolutely delighted watching this!
Nuestra estancia en Chai Lai Orchid Eco Lodge ha sido, sin duda, una de las experiencias más especiales de nuestro viaje. Pasamos una noche en el lodge y al día siguiente disfrutamos de una experiencia de medio día con los elefantes que fue simplemente maravillosa.
Pudimos darles de comer, compartir tiempo con ellos y bañarnos juntos en el río, además de alimentar también a los elefantes bebés. Estar tan cerca de estos increíbles animales y poder interactuar con ellos fue algo que difícilmente olvidaremos.
Queremos hacer una mención especial a nuestro guía, Satit, que fue fantástico. Muy amable, atento y cercano, nos explicó muchísimas cosas sobre los elefantes y consiguió que disfrutáramos todavía más de la experiencia.
El alojamiento también nos encantó. La cena fue excelente y el desayuno igualmente delicioso, pero uno de los momentos más mágicos fue poder dar el desayuno a los elefantes directamente desde nuestro bungalow. Despertarte y vivir algo así es difícil de describir con palabras.
Todo el conjunto —el entorno, los elefantes, el alojamiento, la comida y especialmente el trato recibido— hizo que nuestra estancia fuera realmente especial.
Una experiencia absolutamente recomendable y uno de esos recuerdos que nos llevaremos para siempre. Volveríamos sin dudarlo. 🐘❤️
Pudimos darles de comer, compartir tiempo con ellos y bañarnos juntos en el río, además de alimentar también a los elefantes bebés. Estar tan cerca de estos increíbles animales y poder interactuar con ellos fue algo que difícilmente olvidaremos.
Queremos hacer una mención especial a nuestro guía, Satit, que fue fantástico. Muy amable, atento y cercano, nos explicó muchísimas cosas sobre los elefantes y consiguió que disfrutáramos todavía más de la experiencia.
El alojamiento también nos encantó. La cena fue excelente y el desayuno igualmente delicioso, pero uno de los momentos más mágicos fue poder dar el desayuno a los elefantes directamente desde nuestro bungalow. Despertarte y vivir algo así es difícil de describir con palabras.
Todo el conjunto —el entorno, los elefantes, el alojamiento, la comida y especialmente el trato recibido— hizo que nuestra estancia fuera realmente especial.
Una experiencia absolutamente recomendable y uno de esos recuerdos que nos llevaremos para siempre. Volveríamos sin dudarlo. 🐘❤️
Jungle treck 2 days trip
We had an absolutely wonderful two-day trek with Chai Lai Orchid, definitely one of the highlights of our trip to Thailand.
A huge part of what made the experience so special was our guide, Loni. He is a fantastic guide: warm, attentive, passionate, and incredibly knowledgeable about the region. Throughout the trek, he shared so much with us about the jungle, the plants, local life and the culture of the area. We learned a lot while simply enjoying the experience, which made the trek feel very authentic and personal.
One of our favorite moments was visiting Loni’s village and getting a glimpse of local life through someone who truly knows and loves this region. We also spent the night in an absolutely beautiful place in the middle of nature, right beside a mountain water fall. Waking up there was magical.
And of course, spending time with the elephants was an unforgettable part of the experience. 🐘🌿
The whole trek felt authentic, generous and very far from a standard tourist experience. We came back with wonderful memories and the feeling that we had discovered a very special side of northern Thailand.
If you have the chance to do this trek, ask for Loni. We couldn’t recommend him more highly. Thank you, Loni, for these two fantastic days!
We had an absolutely wonderful two-day trek with Chai Lai Orchid, definitely one of the highlights of our trip to Thailand.
A huge part of what made the experience so special was our guide, Loni. He is a fantastic guide: warm, attentive, passionate, and incredibly knowledgeable about the region. Throughout the trek, he shared so much with us about the jungle, the plants, local life and the culture of the area. We learned a lot while simply enjoying the experience, which made the trek feel very authentic and personal.
One of our favorite moments was visiting Loni’s village and getting a glimpse of local life through someone who truly knows and loves this region. We also spent the night in an absolutely beautiful place in the middle of nature, right beside a mountain water fall. Waking up there was magical.
And of course, spending time with the elephants was an unforgettable part of the experience. 🐘🌿
The whole trek felt authentic, generous and very far from a standard tourist experience. We came back with wonderful memories and the feeling that we had discovered a very special side of northern Thailand.
If you have the chance to do this trek, ask for Loni. We couldn’t recommend him more highly. Thank you, Loni, for these two fantastic days!
Una bella esperienza , immersi nella natura . Abbiamo dormito bene, a fianco al fiume . Buono il ristorante . Molto gentile lo staff .
What a wonderful experience! I would 10/10 recommend it to anyone! They take care of shuttle to and from the sanctuary and our tour guide Boy was amazing!! He was extremely knowledgeable and was actually one of the tour guides from the tribe! It was an awesome experience!
Took a private tour for the day from Chiang Mai and it was the best day yet! Got to get up close with so many elephants and saw some of the beautiful jungle and had a delicious lunch. Sorn was our guide and he was wonderful! So kind and sweet and knowledgeable about the elephants. He even carved us little bamboo cups at the end for a souvenir. Highly recommend both the tour and Sorn!
our Guide-Mr.Boy is very professional and good,he snap all the good moments when our family play with Elephants ,he also make lots bamboo handcraft for our family,he also told us about his village history and show us around,very good experience ,highly recommend 😀
We loved everything about our jungle experience
We took the 2 days 1 night experience package and it was worth every penny
Our guide LON was simply amazing - his teachings of the jungle and the way of life are precious and we enjoyed learning so much
We visited a sacred 700 years old temple, hiked inside the jungle, slept next to a waterfall and played with elephants in the water
Highly recommended experience
We took the 2 days 1 night experience package and it was worth every penny
Our guide LON was simply amazing - his teachings of the jungle and the way of life are precious and we enjoyed learning so much
We visited a sacred 700 years old temple, hiked inside the jungle, slept next to a waterfall and played with elephants in the water
Highly recommended experience
Destacar a nuestro guía Mi que ha sido amable, responsable y muy atento y agradable. Gracias a él hemos podido exprimir la experiencia al máximo.
La experiencia es un 10/10. Merece la pena cada minuto que pasas en este sitio, lo recomiendo 100%.
La experiencia es un 10/10. Merece la pena cada minuto que pasas en este sitio, lo recomiendo 100%.
Un luogo magico dove gli elefanti vengono recuperati e rispettati. Una giornata durante la quale si impara a nutrirli, lavarli e a passeggiare con loro nella giungla. Anche la discesa del fiume sulle zattere di bambù è un’esperienza imperdibile. Volendo si può anche dormire in bungalows sul fiume
Volví por segunda vez a Tailandia, en parte para hacer esta experiencia y puedo decir que superó todas las expectativas. Nada que ver con otros tours.
Tienes un guía solo para ti.
Nosotros tuvimos la suerte de que nos tocara Phop y solo tengo palabras buenas hacia él, nos hizo mil fotos, nos explicaba cosas y curiosidades de la cultura tailandesa, atento y ayudándonos en el treeking, a parte de buen guía se le veía muy buena persona, nos ha dado muchísima pena el despedirnos de él, 5 estrellas por Phop, por las actividades y el buen trato que tienen hacia los elefantes.
También especial mención al guía Dom que nos amenizó la noche con juegos tras la cena. Son unos cracks! Siempre lo recomendaré a toda la gente que viaje a Tailandia, es un antes y después del viaje.
Tienes un guía solo para ti.
Nosotros tuvimos la suerte de que nos tocara Phop y solo tengo palabras buenas hacia él, nos hizo mil fotos, nos explicaba cosas y curiosidades de la cultura tailandesa, atento y ayudándonos en el treeking, a parte de buen guía se le veía muy buena persona, nos ha dado muchísima pena el despedirnos de él, 5 estrellas por Phop, por las actividades y el buen trato que tienen hacia los elefantes.
También especial mención al guía Dom que nos amenizó la noche con juegos tras la cena. Son unos cracks! Siempre lo recomendaré a toda la gente que viaje a Tailandia, es un antes y después del viaje.
Experiencia inolvidable!
Todo al detalle, desde que te recogen en tu hotel en Chiang Mai, hasta los bonitos detalle en el desayuno.
Tuvimos como guía (porque la experiencia es individual, no en un grupo grande) a Phop, un chico encantador que estuvo siempre atento, detallista, nos enseñó juegos con plantas, nos construyó unos vasos con una caña de bambú, nos hizo millones de fotos preciosas, y mil cosas más. Phop te echaremos de menos!
La experiencia con elefantes no quiero dar muchos detalles para no hacer spoiler, pero es impresionante y única en la vida. Los elefantes se mueven sin cuerdas ni cadenas, únicamente siguiendo la voz del cuidador. Les dan de comer para intentar que puedas hacerte fotos con ellos, pero si el elefante se quiere dar media vuelta, la da y se acabó las fotos, como debe ser.
Vamos que solo tengo palabras buenas para el sueño que hemos vivido!
Todo al detalle, desde que te recogen en tu hotel en Chiang Mai, hasta los bonitos detalle en el desayuno.
Tuvimos como guía (porque la experiencia es individual, no en un grupo grande) a Phop, un chico encantador que estuvo siempre atento, detallista, nos enseñó juegos con plantas, nos construyó unos vasos con una caña de bambú, nos hizo millones de fotos preciosas, y mil cosas más. Phop te echaremos de menos!
La experiencia con elefantes no quiero dar muchos detalles para no hacer spoiler, pero es impresionante y única en la vida. Los elefantes se mueven sin cuerdas ni cadenas, únicamente siguiendo la voz del cuidador. Les dan de comer para intentar que puedas hacerte fotos con ellos, pero si el elefante se quiere dar media vuelta, la da y se acabó las fotos, como debe ser.
Vamos que solo tengo palabras buenas para el sueño que hemos vivido!
Meet your Host Family
Travel can be more than just a vacation—it can be a way to help preserve culture, create opportunity, and support Indigenous communities on their own terms.
When you stay in a Karen homestay, your visit directly supports local families who have cared for this land, their traditions, and their elephants for generations. Instead of profits leaving the community, your stay helps create sustainable livelihoods, fund education for children, and empower families to continue sharing their culture with pride.
Wake up to mountain views, learn traditional Karen customs, share meals made with ingredients from the village, and experience a slower, more meaningful way to travel.
The best souvenirs aren’t things—they’re the connections you make with the people who call this place home.