How to Plan Your Chiang Mai: Elephant Sanctuary & Waterfall Group Tour

If you’re traveling to Chiang Mai, you won’t want to miss visiting the Elephant Sanctuary and Waterfall. This ethical experience allows visitors to care for rescued elephants, enjoy a waterfall in the jungle, and have lunch with traditional Thai flavors. Here’s everything you need to know to plan your Chiang Mai: Elephant Sanctuary & Waterfall Group Tour.

Experience

On this tour, you’ll have the chance to prepare food and learn how to care for rescued elephants in an ethical way. You’ll walk with elephants and watch them forage in natural surroundings, then enjoy bathing with them in the nature pool in the river stream. After your adventures with the elephants, you’ll sit down for a traditional lunch comprised of fresh Thai flavors and fruit. You’ll also visit Mae Wang Waterfall and have the opportunity to take a refreshing swim. This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience to connect with the beautiful nature of Chiang Mai.

Highlights

– Prepare food and learn how to care for rescued elephants – Walk with the elephants and watch them forage in natural surroundings – Bathe with the elephants in the nature pool in the river stream – Sit down to a traditional lunch comprised of fresh Thai flavors and fruit – Swim at Mae Wang Waterfall

Tour Description

Your tour will start with a convenient pick-up from your hotel in the city center of Chiang Mai. You’ll take a drive to Pon Elephant Thailand, where your day of adventure will begin. Upon arrival, you will have an English-speaking guide and access to drinking water. First, you’ll head to the Elephant Sanctuary, where you’ll meet the rescued elephants and have the opportunity to make healthy snacks for them. You’ll walk with the elephants and watch them forage in their natural surroundings. Then, it’s time to enjoy bathing with the elephants in the nature pool in the river stream. After spending time with the elephants, you’ll sit down for a traditional lunch of fresh Thai flavors and fruit. Next, you’ll visit Mae Wang Waterfall and have the opportunity to take a refreshing swim. Finally, your tour will end with a drop-off back at your hotel in the city center of Chiang Mai.

Includes

– Hotel transfers to and from Chiang Mai city center only – English guide – Drinking water and lunch – Food for feeding elephants – Towel and a change of clothes

Not Suitable For

– Children under 2 years – Pregnant women – People with back problems – People with mobility impairments – People with heart problems – Wheelchair users

How to Book the Tour

Ready to book your Chiang Mai: Elephant Sanctuary & Waterfall Group Tour? Click here to book the tour and make sure to have a memorable and ethical experience with the rescued elephants and beautiful nature of Chiang Mai.

Frequently Asked Questions about Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is the largest city in northern Thailand and is known for its rich culture, beautiful temples, and delicious food. If you’re planning a visit, you may have some questions about the city. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about Chiang Mai.

1. Where is Chiang Mai located?

Chiang Mai is located in northern Thailand, about 435 miles (700 kilometers) north of Bangkok. The city is situated in a valley surrounded by mountains and is home to over 130,000 people.

2. What is the weather like in Chiang Mai?

Chiang Mai has a tropical climate with three distinct seasons: hot, cool, and rainy. The hot season runs from March to May, with temperatures averaging around 95°F (35°C). The cool season runs from November to February, with temperatures averaging around 70°F (20°C). The rainy season runs from June to October, with frequent afternoon thunderstorms.

3. What are some must-see attractions in Chiang Mai?

Chiang Mai is home to many beautiful temples and cultural attractions. Some of the must-see attractions include: – Doi Suthep Temple: A beautiful temple located on a mountain overlooking the city. – Old City: The historic walled city of Chiang Mai, which is home to many temples and ancient buildings. – Night Bazaar: A bustling night market where you can buy everything from clothing to food to handicrafts. – Elephant Nature Park: An elephant sanctuary where you can spend the day feeding and bathing elephants.

4. What is the food like in Chiang Mai?

Chiang Mai is known for its delicious cuisine, which is a mix of Thai, Burmese, and Chinese flavors. Some of the must-try dishes include: – Khao Soi: A curry soup made with coconut milk, chicken, and egg noodles. – Som Tam: A spicy salad made with green papaya, tomatoes, and chili. – Sai Oua: A spicy sausage made with pork and herbs.

5. What are some outdoor activities to do in Chiang Mai?

Chiang Mai is home to many outdoor activities, including: – Trekking: You can trek through the mountains surrounding Chiang Mai and visit hill tribe villages. – Zip-lining: You can zip-line through the jungle and see the city from above. – White-water rafting: You can white-water raft on the Mae Taeng River. – Cycling: You can rent a bike and explore the city and surrounding countryside.

6. What is the best time of year to visit Chiang Mai?

The best time to visit Chiang Mai is during the cool season, from November to February. During this time, the weather is mild and comfortable, and there are many festivals and events to enjoy. However, it is also the busiest time of year, so be prepared for crowds.

7. How do I get to Chiang Mai?

You can fly to Chiang Mai International Airport from many cities in Thailand and Southeast Asia. There are also trains and buses that run from Bangkok to Chiang Mai.

8. Is it safe to visit Chiang Mai?

Chiang Mai is a relatively safe city for tourists, with low levels of crime. However, like any city, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to keep your belongings safe.

9. What is the currency used in Chiang Mai?

The currency used in Thailand is the Thai baht. You can exchange currency at banks and exchange booths throughout the city, and ATMs are widely available.

10. What is the etiquette for visiting temples in Chiang Mai?

When visiting temples in Chiang Mai, it is important to dress modestly and remove your shoes before entering any buildings. It is also respectful to bow to the Buddha and other important statues, and to avoid pointing your feet towards them.

How to Spend your Time as a Tourist in Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is a northern city in Thailand that is well-known for its temples, ancient ruins, and museums. The city is a great place to explore traditional Thai culture, learn about local customs and visit stunning natural attractions. If you’re planning a trip to Chiang Mai, there are plenty of activities to fill up your itinerary. Here’s a guide to help you make the most of your visit.

1. Visit the Old City

Chiang Mai’s Old City is a maze of alleys and lanes that embodies the traditional Thai way of life. It’s an area surrounded by a moat reminiscent of ancient times, with many temples and historic sites to explore. A visit to the Old City is a must-do activity during your visit to Chiang Mai. Here are some of the notable sites worth visiting:

i. Wat Chedi Luang

A ruined Buddhist temple that was once the home of the Emerald Buddha statue. The temple was built during the 14th century and has a towering brick structure that dominates the skyline of the Old City.

ii. Wat Phra Singh

Wat Phra Singh is a beautiful temple that has an impressive architecture and artistic paintings. The temple is a religious and historical site that is worth exploring.

iii. Tha Pae Gate

Tha Pae Gate is the most well-known entrance to the Old City. It was once a bustling market area that served as an outpost for travelers in ancient times.

2. Explore Doi Suthep-Pui National Park

Doi Suthep-Pui National Park is a huge park located just outside of Chiang Mai city. The park is home to a vast range of natural attractions and activities for visitors. Here are some of the highlights:

i. Doi Suthep

One of Chiang Mai’s most iconic landmarks, Doi Suthep is a mountain located 15 kilometers away from the city. Visitors can admire stunning panoramic views of the city while exploring ancient temples along the mountain.

ii. Bhubing Palace

Bhubing Palace is located within the national park and is home to a magnificent garden that is open to visitors. Visitors can stroll through gardens filled with blooming flowers and trees or explore the palace grounds which are also open to the public.

3. Visit a Elephant Sanctuary

Elephant sanctuaries are places where visitors can interact with elephants and learn about their history, behavior and conservation in Thailand. There are many elephant sanctuaries in and around Chiang Mai, each offering a different experience with the elephants. Here are some of the renowned sanctuaries:

i. Elephant Nature Park

One of the most reputable and ethical elephant sanctuaries in the world, the Elephant Nature Park is a must-visit when in Chiang Mai. Visitors can learn about elephant conservation and get up close and personal with the gentle giants.

ii. Patara Elephant Farm

Patara Elephant Farm is a unique sanctuary that offers a full-day experience that includes interacting with elephants, feeding and bathing them. The sanctuary also conducts workshops that educate visitors about common elephant behaviors and conservation efforts in Thailand.

4. Shop at the Night Bazaar

Chiang Mai’s Night Bazaar is a great place to pick up souvenirs, clothing and other locally made products. The bazaar is open from dusk until midnight and is located in the center of the city. Here you can find a selection of Thai souvenirs such as handmade jewelry, traditional clothing, local art and other handicrafts.

5. Take a Thai Cooking Class

Cooking classes are a popular activity for many tourists in Chiang Mai. It is a great way to learn about Thai cuisine and the ingredients that go into it. Classes are held by many schools around the city and usually start with a market visit to select ingredients. Then you will get to cook and eat the dishes you prepare, and also receive a cookbook to continue cooking at home.

Book Your Tour Now

Chiang Mai is packed with natural beauty, historical and cultural significance, as well as unique experiences that make it a one-of-a-kind destination for tourists. From the ancient ruins of the Old City to the breathtaking views from Doi Suthep’s peak, there is so much to do and see. It is a place that will make you fall in love with Thailand’s rich culture and its people. Make sure to include these activities in your itinerary during your vacation in Chiang Mai, for a trip you will never forget.