My experience at the Best Phuket Elephant Sanctuary – Green Elephant Sanctuary Park
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Ethical?
As an animal lover, one of my favorite bucket list items I checked off was feeding and giving elephants a mud bath! A dream come true. We booked a tour with Green Elephant Sanctuary Park. We got picked up from our hotel in the afternoon to head over to the sanctuary. I felt more comfortable doing this tour especially because elephant protection laws were passed in Thailand making unethical acts for elephants illegal. So there were no chains, riding or tricks that they forced the elephants to do which I was happy about. Green Elephant Park is known to be one of the most ethical parks in Phuket and has a reputation for caring for rescued elephants, feeding them and letting them roam free.
Price
Around $100 CAD per person. Can book through GetYourGuide.com or their website: https://www.green-elephantsanctuarypark.com/tour-program/
Greetings
We first walked over to about 8 majestic elephants and the guide explained to us their names, age and who is more friendly. Each elephant had a mahout (elephant’s keeper) by their side. You can see the love/care they had for their elephants. Interestingly enough, each mahout had their own home at the sanctuary where they live with their family and dedicate their life to their elephant. We fed them, they seemed quite happy, got to hug them and show them love.
Mud Spa, Bath & XXL Shower
Then we gave them a “mud spa", which was so cute, and went in the water to release those antioxidants off their skin. They were glowing as they walked out hahaha. We then walked them over to a XXL shower to scrub off any access.
Aftermath
After the tour, we showered in their bamboo outdoor showers which were nice and clean. They served the most delicious lunch and took us back to our hotel. Overall, knowing that an elephant experience is 100% ethical in Thailand is unpredictable. However, I had a good feeling that these elephants were in good hands. It is an experience that you will remember forever and I think is totally worth it.
Interesting fact: Thai people used to use elephants instead of horses in the army. Kinda sad and badass at the same time.
Planning on going to Thailand? Been already? I would love to know your experience and what you did differently, or if you have any questions please let me know in the comments!
Until the next trip, adios! <3
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