I must admit, I arrived at the Green Elephant Sanctuary Park in Phuket, Thailand with a mix of excitement and apprehension. This wasn’t my first time seeing or interacting with elephants, but I had lingering doubts. You see, I had my misgivings in the past, which explains my reservations on taking part in this activity. But for someone who has witnessed both heartwarming and heartbreaking interactions between humans and these majestic creatures, I was willing to give it another try.
My concerns about elephant tourism were rooted in a lack of understanding of the hardships many elephants endure. Some are subjected to cruelty, exploitation for entertainment, or grueling labor, all in the name of profit. However, as the day unfolded, I slowly began to understand that the Green Elephant Sanctuary Park is different. This place isn’t just about providing visitors with an Instagram-worthy experience. It’s deeply rooted in ethical practices designed to protect and care for its rescued elephants while educating guests on their plight.
The more I learned during our visit, the clearer it became that this sanctuary prioritizes the well-being of its elephants above all else. From observing the gentle bond between the mahouts (elephant caretakers) and the animals to witnessing firsthand the thoughtful way they allow human-elephant interaction, I realized that Green Elephant Sanctuary Park operates under principles that align with true conservation ethics.
It was refreshing to see a model where tourism doesn’t come at the expense of the very beings it aims to celebrate. By the end of the day, I felt not only gratitude for having spent meaningful time with these incredible creatures but also hope—hope that sanctuaries like this one can serve as a blueprint for others striving to balance education, preservation, and sustainable tourism.
Discovering the Heart of Green Elephant Sanctuary
Our group’s visit began with a warm welcome from the knowledgeable staff, who immediately set the tone by sharing the sanctuary’s mission and history. Green Elephant Sanctuary Park exists to provide a safe haven for these gentle giants. The staff emphasized the importance of understanding the role elephants play in Thai culture and ecosystems. Furthermore, they explained how centuries-old traditions involving mahouts are being reimagined today to prioritize animal welfare over exploitation.
Through their expertise, mahouts, coming from generations of elephant trainers, ensures they meet the elephants’ physical and emotional needs daily. Unlike traditional methods that relied heavily on commands and dominance, the mahouts here work through trust and mutual respect, fostering deep bonds with the elephants.
We learned that each elephant has its own personality, preferences, and even quirks, which made our interactions feel personal and authentic. Their stories—of hardship overcome and newfound freedom—resonated deeply, reminding us why sanctuaries like this are so vital.
What Sets Green Elephant Sanctuary Apart
NO RIDING. NO CHAINS. What truly distinguishes Green Elephant Sanctuary Park from other elephant experiences in Thailand is its unwavering commitment to ethical standards. Unlike many places that still offer rides or performances, this sanctuary strictly prohibits any activity that could harm or distress the elephants.
Instead, they focus on creating enriching environments where the animals can roam freely, socialize naturally, and engage in behaviors typical of wild elephants. The sanctuary also emphasizes transparency, allowing visitors to observe feeding routines, medical check-ups, and enrichment activities without staged shows or artificial interventions.
Every aspect of their operation—from nutrition plans tailored to individual health needs to spacious enclosures mimicking natural habitats—reflects a genuine dedication to improving the lives of elephants. Furthermore, the park actively collaborates with local communities and international organizations to promote awareness about elephant conservation, ensuring that their efforts extend beyond the boundaries of the sanctuary itself.
Immersive Activities: A Day Well Spent
Our visit included a series of hands-on activities that brought us closer to the elephants in respectful and memorable ways. Before diving in, we were instructed to wash our hands thoroughly and change into clothes we didn’t mind getting wet and muddy—a wise suggestion given what lay ahead! Lockers were provided to store valuables safely, leaving us free to fully immerse ourselves in the experience.
First up was feeding time, where we handed bundles of cucumbers and fruits directly to the eager trunks of our new friends. Next, we visited their sleeping area, marveling at the cozy spaces designed to provide them safety at night. Then came the highlight: a mud spa session where we slathered the elephants with cool, soothing clay—a surprisingly therapeutic task for both parties!
Afterward, we led them to a small pond for a rinse-off, followed by a grand finale beneath giant showers where everyone pitched in to scrub and clean the elephants until they gleamed. These moments weren’t just fun; they fostered a profound connection and appreciation for these intelligent, soulful creatures.
Practical Information for Future Visitors
To make the most of your visit, plan ahead using the following details:
- Address: No. 4 Soi Cherngtalay 1 Road Si Sunthon Choeng Thale, Phuket 83110 Thailand
- Website: https://www.green-elephantsanctuarypark.com/
- Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/greenelephantsanctuarypark
- Contact Numbers: +66 96 651 3888 (general inquiries); +66 64 398 27 28 (English-speaking assistance)
- Email: office@green-elephantsanctuarypark.com
The tour program cost THB 2.900 for adults and THB 1,900 for children aging 5-10 years (Infants aging 0-4 years are free). It includes round-trip transportation from hotels and a hearty meal after the activity prepared onsite. Additionally, guests get access to professional photographers who capture candid moments throughout the day. Photos are later uploaded to the sanctuary’s Facebook page, allowing you to relive the magic long after your visit. It may come at a cost, but the value lies in contributing to a cause that champions elephant welfare and sustainability.
The Future of Green Elephant Sanctuary
On April 1, 2025, the sanctuary announced via its Facebook page that it is up for sale. The post emphasized that the buyer must be a “real elephant lover,” underscoring the founders’ desire to ensure continuity in the sanctuary’s ethical approach. If ownership changes hands, it is crucial that the new stewards maintain the same high standards of care and prioritize the elephants’ protection and safety above profit.
Elephants are keystone species, playing a critical role in maintaining biodiversity and shaping ecosystems. They disperse seeds, create waterholes, and clear paths for smaller animals, making their survival essential for environmental balance. Sanctuaries like Green Elephant Sanctuary Park remind us that preserving these magnificent creatures isn’t just about protecting wildlife—it’s about safeguarding the planet’s future.
As visitors, advocates, and global citizens, we must support initiatives that honor elephants’ dignity and advocate for their rightful place in the wild—or, when necessary, in sanctuaries that mirror their natural world. Whether you’re seeking adventure, education, or simply a chance to connect with nature, this sanctuary offers an experience that’s as enriching for the soul as it is beneficial for the elephants.
Let’s hope its legacy continues to inspire change—for the elephants, for humanity, and for the Earth itself.
