Elephant Eco-Community Project
Real Elephants. Real People. Real Impact.
Travel that uplifts communities—on elephants’ terms
Your visit channels income back into Mae Taeng—funding elephant care, fair local jobs, and the upkeep of shared jungle trails. We’re strictly welfare-first: no riding, no shows, no forced contact. Small groups and low-impact practices (waste separation, plastic reduction, filtered drinking water).
Care for Elephants
A Mae Taeng camp focused on calm, respectful learning in the elephants’ own space. Activities are hosted by the partner’s team and experienced mahouts.
What to expect (≈3 hours)
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Elephant introduction: history, behavior, daily care
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Safe feeding (e.g., bananas/banana balls)
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Short jungle walk to observe natural behaviors
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Quiet river/stream observation (varies by the elephants’ mood and choice)
Note: Any water interaction happens only if elephants choose to—never forced.
Care for Elephants — Brief History
Established in 2015, the project was created to give retired elephants—many of them former trekking and previously logging elephants—a peaceful home. It transitioned fully to a Saddle Off model, prioritizing natural behaviors like foraging, forest walks, mud bathing, and herd time. Most residents are female elephants. Visits are intentionally quiet and small-group, allowing elephants to choose any interaction.
Smiles, snacks, and unforgettable memories. Our elephant feeding lets guests connect naturally with gentle giants—no chains, no riding.
Sunshine for Elephants
A concise 20–30 minute “Elephant Feeding” for guests who prefer a shorter, focused learning-and-feeding experience—always welfare-first.
Sunshine for Elephants — Brief History
Once a trekking camp, Sunshine for Elephants ended riding and shifted to a Saddle Off ethical model nearly a decade ago. Its mission is to transform a former riding camp into a sanctuary-style refuge where retired elephants can live on their own terms—roaming the forest, foraging, cooling off in the river, and socializing as they wish. Guest activities are short and respectful (e.g., feeding and calm observation) to minimize disturbance.
Our Transparency Promise
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Our River Tubing route passes along the boundary of Elephant Nature Park (ENP) for river views only. We do not enter ENP and are not affiliated with its operations. Sightings are not guaranteed and remain natural.
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Activities with Care for Elephants and Sunshine for Elephants are separate, partner-operated programs conducted at their respective sites under their welfare standards.
Visitor Etiquette
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Keep a respectful distance; let elephants initiate contact
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Follow guide/mahout instructions at all times
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No flash, no drones, keep voices low
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Feed only when permitted and only with staff-provided food
How to Join
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Book a program that includes Care for Elephants or Sunshine for Elephants
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Or choose Short River Tubing that ends near the camp for a smooth afternoon hand-off
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Suitable for most ages; non-swimmers are welcome (life jackets and attentive guides provided)
At a glance
Small groups | Welfare-first | Quiet, respectful encounters | Real community impact
Jack and team were fabulous. Would highly recommend all of them! All so welcoming and kind. Jack was so knowledgeable and chatted to us throughout the trek. He made us feel so comfortable and safe. We had such a memorable day trekking, seeing waterfalls, tubing on the river and the biggest highlight was interacting with the special elephants. Jack made it a special day. He is a lovely man. Thank you.
Our guide led us through the jungle superbly. Was in a good mood and highly motivated throughout. Afterwards the relaxed ride down the river.
It was great fun and everything was well organized 👍
Join the Movement
This project is more than a tour — it's a collaboration between nature, people, and purpose. Come curious. Leave inspired.
Support ethical elephants. Support ethical people.