"Riding an elephant" is one of the most requested tourist activities — and one of the most controversial. The truth is that different facilities in Phuket operate very differently. Here is an honest look at what that difference means.
Why elephant riding became a problem
Elephants are not natural riding animals. Teaching one to carry tourists requires a conditioning process that often involves breaking the animal's will through harsh methods. International animal welfare organisations (WAP, World Animal Protection) have recommended against elephant riding since 2019. Major tour operators — Intrepid, G Adventures, TUI — have removed it from their programmes entirely.
What an ethical sanctuary looks like
A good sanctuary lets elephants live a semi-wild life in the jungle, does not force them to perform tricks for tourists and uses no metal hooks. What you can do: feed elephants fruit, observe them, swim nearby in the river (if the elephant chooses to), and learn each animal's individual story from the keeper.
"An elephant that walks up to you for a banana and then wanders back into the forest — that is an entirely different experience from a tired animal carrying tourists on its back."
What to choose in Phuket
In Phuket and the surrounding area there are several facilities that operate on an ethical model: elephants live in a semi-pasture environment, no riding, contact is through feeding and observation. Visit cost: from 1,800 to 2,500 THB (includes transfer, orientation, feeding, bathing nearby). We recommend specific facilities directly — message us on Telegram.
Red flags: how to spot a bad facility
Sitting on the elephant's neck or back. Metal hooks (bullhooks) in handlers' hands. Elephant chained in a small enclosure. Elephant performing "circus" tricks (painting, playing instruments). If you see any of these — leave.
FAQ
Is there a sanctuary where you can both observe and bathe near the elephants? Yes, several. That is the standard format at ethical facilities — the elephants enter the river themselves and you are nearby.
Suitable for children? Yes, from age 4–5. Children are usually thrilled by feeding elephants bananas.
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