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Is It Ethical to Swim with Elephants in Thailand?
As an animal lover, one of my all-time favorite bucket list moments was feeding elephants and giving them a mud bath — truly a dream come true! 🐘✨
We chose to book a tour with Green Elephant Sanctuary Park in Phuket, Thailand. I felt confident in this experience because Thailand has passed strict elephant protection laws, banning unethical practices like riding, chaining, or forcing elephants to perform tricks.
If you’re planning a trip to Thailand, check out my 2-Day Itinerary in Thailand to make the most of your visit!
Green Elephant Sanctuary is often rated as one of the most ethical elephant sanctuaries in Phuket. They rescue elephants, allow them to roam freely, and focus on their well-being. No exploitation — just genuine care.
Booking Info & Price 💸
- Price: Around $100 CAD per person
- How to book: Green Elephant Sanctuary Park Tour Program
Our Elephant Sanctuary Tour Experience
Meet & Greet with the Elephants
We were picked up from our hotel in the afternoon and headed straight to the jungle sanctuary. As we arrived, we were introduced to about eight gentle giants, each with their own story. The guide told us their names, ages, and personalities — some were shyer than others.
Every elephant had a dedicated mahout (elephant caretaker), and you could really feel the bond between them. Fun fact: each mahout lives on-site with their family and devotes their life to caring for their elephant. 🥹
We fed the elephants, hugged them, and honestly, it was emotional. They looked happy and at peace.
Mud Spa, Water Bath & XXL Elephant Shower 🧼💦
Next up was the cutest part — the Elephant Mud Spa! We slathered them in mud (apparently full of antioxidants!), which helps protect their skin. After that, we all jumped into a large water pool to rinse off the mud.
And just when you think it can’t get any more magical — we escorted them to the XXL outdoor elephant shower. We helped scrub them down and gave them a little spa treatment. Their skin was glowing! 😂
The Aftermath: Clean Up & Lunch
After the mud bath madness, we used their outdoor bamboo showers, which were clean and refreshing. Then came lunch time — they served a delicious Thai buffet, which was a nice surprise!
They dropped us back off at our hotel after the experience. I left feeling at peace, knowing these elephants were cared for in a loving, ethical environment.
Is This Really an Ethical Elephant Experience?
In Thailand, finding a 100% ethical elephant sanctuary can be difficult — but this felt as close as it gets. There were no signs of abuse, the animals seemed relaxed and well-fed, and the staff truly cared.
It’s an experience I’ll never forget — and I’d do it again in a heartbeat.
Interesting Fact 🐘
Did you know? Thai warriors used elephants instead of horses in battle. It’s kinda sad, but also badass.
Planning a Trip to Thailand?
If you’re heading to Thailand soon (or already been!), I’d love to hear about your elephant experience. Did you visit a different sanctuary? What made it special? Drop a comment or question below — let’s chat!
Until the next adventure, adios! 💕
