Trek through the jungle on one of Thailand’s gentlest creatures, witnessing first hand their habits and behaviour in this safe haven for elephants.
While riding an elephant through the wilderness is a truly memorable adventure, Pattaya Elephant Village is much more than just a tourist attraction. This non-profit sanctuary takes care of former working elephants and provides them with a secure environment where they can live peacefully and without fear. By visiting this village, you are not only gaining a once-in-a-lifetime experience, but you are also contributing to the protection of these magnificent animals as all entry fees go towards feeding and taking care of these gentle giants.
To immerse yourself fully in the Elephant Village experience, choose the Combination Trekking package, a three-and-a-half-hour tour that runs twice a day. Saddle up and go for a ride on an elephant through a tropical Thai jungle. This guided trek is then followed by a quick boat excursion around a lake, after which you will be brought back to the village in traditional Thai style by ox and cart. Tummies will certainly be rumbling after all this activity, so tuck into the local fare and enjoy a mouth-watering lunch or dinner back at the village at the end of this tour.
If time is an issue, you can always opt for one of the shorter jungle treks. Accompanied by a guide, this hour-long tour takes you on an elephant ride through local farmlands to the nearby Silk House, where you can observe how silk is made. You’ll also receive a basket of complimentary seasonal fruit upon returning to the village.
One of the main highlights of this village is the afternoon elephant show. Marvel at demonstrations of the elephants’ training and forestry skills and watch how the sanctuary workers bathe and take care of them. Get involved yourself and let the elephants gobble up a banana straight from your hand!
You’ll find Pattaya Elephant Village in the Nong Prue district, just east of Pattaya city. Don’t worry about making your way here as most hotels and operators offer tours that will transport you to and from the village. The village is open every day and there is a small entry fee. Please note there is an additional cost for tours and shows.
