How to Plan Your Small Group Ethical Elephant Sanctuary Tour in Chiang Mai

If you’re planning a trip to Chiang Mai and want to experience the beauty of elephants up close while also supporting ethical practices, then a visit to the Lanna Kingdom Elephant Sanctuary is a must. This sanctuary is located in the midst of a lush national park and is home to rescued elephants that can roam freely. Here’s how to plan your small group ethical elephant sanctuary tour in Chiang Mai.

Step 1: Book Your Tour

The first step to planning your ethical elephant sanctuary tour is to book your tour with a reputable company. We recommend using GetYourGuide’s Ethical Choice Half Day at Elephant Sanctuary in Chiang Mai tour. This tour offers hotel pick-up and drop-off, transportation by van, English-speaking guide, lunch and seasonal fruits, water, bananas and sugar cane to feed the elephants, and a uniform of big bamboo hat and boots. You can book the tour here: book the tour here.

Step 2: Prepare for Your Tour

When preparing for your tour, there are a few things to keep in mind. Wear comfortable clothing that you don’t mind getting dirty, and bring a change of clothes for afterward. Wear closed-toed shoes or the boots provided by the tour company. You can also wear the big bamboo hat provided by the tour company to protect yourself from the sun. Bring sunscreen, insect repellent, and a camera to capture your experience. And most importantly, bring an open mind and heart ready to learn and connect with these amazing animals.

Step 3: Connect with the Elephants

Once you arrive at the Lanna Kingdom Elephant Sanctuary, you’ll have the opportunity to connect with elephants up close and learn about the program to protect them. You’ll be able to watch an elephant mud bath and then bathe with them in the river. You’ll also learn how to make herbal vitamin balls and then feed them to the elephants. And best of all, you’ll be able to see elephants in natural surroundings in the middle of the national park.

Step 4: Enjoy a Freshly Cooked Thai Lunch

After spending time with the elephants, you’ll be treated to a freshly cooked Thai lunch while watching the elephants roam freely. The tour company makes homemade vegetarian food, so everyone can enjoy lunch together. You’ll also be served seasonal fruits to complete your meal.

Step 5: Return to Your Hotel

After a day of connecting with elephants and enjoying the beauty of the national park, you’ll be returned to your hotel with a newfound appreciation for these amazing animals and the importance of ethical practices.

In conclusion, planning your small group ethical elephant sanctuary tour in Chiang Mai is a simple process. Book your tour, prepare for your day with the elephants, connect with them up close, enjoy a freshly cooked Thai lunch, and return to your hotel with newfound knowledge and appreciation. Don’t forget to book your tour here: book the tour here.

The Top Frequently Asked Questions About Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is a beautiful city located in the northern part of Thailand. It is a popular tourist destination, known for its stunning temples, delicious street food, and beautiful scenery. Every year, millions of travelers visit Chiang Mai to enjoy the city’s unique mix of history and culture. If you’re planning a trip to Chiang Mai or are simply curious about this amazing city, you may have some questions about what to expect. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about Chiang Mai:

1. What is the best time to visit Chiang Mai?

The best time to visit Chiang Mai is from November to February, when the weather is cooler and drier. During these months, you can enjoy a comfortable temperature, with daytime temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C, and nighttime temperatures dropping to around 10°C. There is minimal rainfall during this time, which makes it the perfect opportunity to explore the outdoor attractions, such as the famous Doi Inthanon National Park. If you plan to visit during the summer months, from March to May, be prepared for temperatures that can sometimes reach 40°C. The rainy season, from June to October, can bring heavy rainfall and flash floods, which can sometimes make traveling difficult.

2. What are the must-visit attractions in Chiang Mai?

There are many must-visit attractions in Chiang Mai, including:

Wat Phra That Doi Suthep

Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is a stunning temple located on a hill just outside the city. It is one of the most iconic landmarks in Chiang Mai, known for its golden spire, intricate carvings, and breathtaking views of the city. The temple can be accessed by climbing a long staircase or taking a cable car.

Chiang Mai Night Bazaar

The Chiang Mai Night Bazaar is a bustling night market that offers a wide range of goods, from clothing and accessories to souvenirs and street food. It is a great place to experience the local culture, interact with the friendly vendors, and pick up some unique items.

Doi Inthanon National Park

Doi Inthanon National Park is a beautiful park located just an hour and a half outside of Chiang Mai. It boasts stunning waterfalls, lush forests, and breathtaking mountain views. It is a great place to explore the natural beauty of Thailand.

Chiang Mai Old City

Chiang Mai Old City is the historic heart of the city, with ancient temples, charming shops, and beautiful architecture. It is a great place to learn about the city’s rich history and experience the local way of life.

3. What is the currency in Chiang Mai?

The currency in Chiang Mai is the Thai baht (THB). You can exchange your currency at local banks or exchange centers throughout the city. ATMs are also widely available and accept most international debit and credit cards.

4. What is the cost of living in Chiang Mai?

Chiang Mai is an affordable city, with a low cost of living compared to many other cities in Asia. Food, transportation, and accommodation are all relatively inexpensive. Depending on your lifestyle, you can expect to spend around THB 20,000 to THB 50,000 per month on living expenses.

5. Is it safe to travel to Chiang Mai?

Chiang Mai is generally considered a safe city for travelers. It has a low crime rate, and violent crime is rare. However, it is always important to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings, especially when traveling alone at night.

6. What is the local language in Chiang Mai?

The local language in Chiang Mai is Thai. However, many locals also speak English, especially those who work in the tourism industry. It can be useful to learn some basic Thai phrases or carry a phrasebook with you to help with communication.

7. What is the food like in Chiang Mai?

The food in Chiang Mai is delicious and diverse, with a mix of traditional Thai dishes and unique northern specialties. Some of the must-try dishes include:

Khao Soi

Khao Soi is a popular northern Thai noodle soup made with coconut milk, curry, and crispy noodles. It is a hearty and flavorful dish that is perfect for colder days.

Sai Oua

Sai Oua is a popular northern Thai sausage made with pork, herbs, and spices. It has a spicy and savory flavor and is often served with sticky rice and fresh vegetables.

Sticky Rice

Sticky rice is a staple in northern Thai cuisine and is often served as a side dish or with grilled meat or vegetables. It has a unique texture that is soft and sticky, and it can be flavored with coconut milk or other ingredients.

Conclusion

Chiang Mai is a vibrant and exciting city that offers something for everyone. From its stunning temples and natural attractions to its delicious food and friendly people, it is a destination that should be on every traveler’s bucket list. We hope this guide has answered some of your questions about Chiang Mai and has inspired you to plan your next adventure in this amazing city.