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2D1N Inside a Real Elephant Sanctuary | No Riding, No Tricks
Engage with elephants & community at BEES.
5.0
|31 Reviews
Group size
Up to 12 guests
DURATION
2 days 1 night
Booking type
Join-in trip
MEET UP
Free pick-up
Group size
Up to 12 guests
- Experience highlights
- Itinerary
- Inclusions
- Accommodation
- Availability
- More Info
- Host
- Reviews
This Is What Ethical Elephant Travel Actually Looks Like
This is a once-in-a-lifetime chance to spend 2 days at one of Thailand’s most genuinely ethical elephant sanctuaries, guided by some of the country’s top elephant conservationists. While many places claim to be “ethical”, very few are recognised by World Animal Protection — and BEES is one of them. Here, there’s no riding, no bathing, and no forced interaction — just a rare behind-the-scenes look at how rescued elephants are actually cared for.Unlike many elephant experiences near Chiang Mai that can feel staged, this sanctuary lets elephants live freely in the forest — and you observe them on their terms. You’ll even hike alongside them in nature, learning about their rescue stories, behaviour, and the surrounding ecosystem directly from the conservation team.It’s peaceful, eye-opening, and for those who genuinely care about animal welfare. Your stay also supports community-led initiatives like tree planting, clean-ups, and education programmes — so your visit directly contributes to both conservation and the local village.This is perfect if you’re looking for something more grounded and meaningful. Whether you're an animal lover, a couple wanting to unplug, or a solo traveller who wants to go deeper — this is a very different way to experience elephants.A note on elephant conservation BEES is one of the few elephant sanctuaries in Thailand truly doing things properly. In an industry where many places claim to be “ethical”, this is one of the rare ones where elephants genuinely come first — no riding, no bathing, no staged interactions. It’s also recognised by World Animal Protection, which is rare — and reflects years of doing the hard work properly behind the scenes.What to ExpectMeet elephants in one of Thailand’s most ethical sanctuaries – no riding, no bathing, completely hands-offScenic drive from Chiang Mai with a stop at a local market and waterfallHelp prepare elephant treats and watch them return from the forestRelax in nature, meet rescued cats and dogs, and enjoy a cosy dinner with the teamJoin a full-day jungle hike observing elephants in their natural habitatEnjoy a picnic lunch in the forest followed by optional community activities like gardening or irrigationGood to KnowPick-up is from Chiang Mai Old Town between 8.30–9AM; expect to return around 7–8PM on Day 2All meals are covered at the sanctuary, but you'll need to bring cash for any meals outside of BEESBoots for jungle trekking are provided (only 8 pairs, limited size availability – bring your own if possible!)Accommodation is comfortable but simple – it’s part of the charmThis is a join-in trip with a small group, making it easy to meet others who care about conscious travelTravel and accident insurance not included – please arrange your ownFacilitiesSimple shared or private bedroom accommodationCommunal dining and relaxation areas with hammocksInteraction with rescued cats and dogs onsite
Experience highlights
What You’ll be Doing
Day 1:
Waterfall visit, mountain drive, meet rescue animals, prepare treats & dine at sanctuaryDay 2:
Thai breakfast, forest hike, picnic, community activities, depart in late afternoonShow Details
What’s Included
Day 1: Lunch and Dinner
Day 2: Breakfast and Lunch
Boots for jungle trekking (8 pairs available, but option for sizes are limited)
Accommodation
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Who you’re supporting
Community Champion
Wildlife Protector
Women-led Wonder
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Where You’ll Sleep
BEES Homestay
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BEES Homestay
Next Available Dates
Prices shown in USD
Select Time for 03 Apr 2026
Additional Information
Where we'll meet
Start Point
Free pick-up from Inside Chiang Mai Old City Square(Old City, Thailand)
- 08:30am
- Notes: BEES typically pickup their guests at a hotel within Chiang Mai's Old City Square. Guests who are living outside the square are advised to reach out to BEES for options and advice.
End Point
- End at Inside Chiang Mai Old City Square (Old City, Thailand)
+1 other option
Start & Ends
08:30AM on Day 1 - 07:00PM on Day
Suitability / Accessibility
- Vegetarian food available
- Child Friendly (Recommended Age: 10+)
Cancellation & other policies
- CancellationTo secure your spot, your host will turn away other guests. Because of this, cancellations aren't allowed.
- Minimum ParticipantsIf there are fewer than 2 participants, the host may reschedule or refund your booking.
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What to Pack
- A copy of your Travel & Accident Insurance
- Hat
- Insect Repellant
- Long Sleeve Shirts and Pants
- Sunscreen
- Toiletries (Body soap, shampoo and etc)
- Torchlight
- Towel
- Universal Adapters
- Water Bottle (refills are available on site)
From
฿6,180
/person5.0(31)
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Meet your host
Founded in 2011 by Burm Pornchai Rinkaew and Emily Rose McWilliam, BEES is one of the rare elephant sanctuaries in Thailand recognised by World Animal Protection for its truly ethical practices. It was an early pioneer of a fully hands-off approach — no riding, no bathing, no shows — allowing rescued elephants to roam, forage, socialise, and simply live on their own terms.
Emily’s journey began in 2009 after witnessing the mistreatment of elephants in tourist camps. Determined to do things differently, she and Burm relocated to Mae Chaem to build BEES from the ground up — combining Emily’s conservation focus with Burm’s deep local roots and commitment to supporting the community.
Since then, BEES has grown into a community-driven sanctuary. Beyond caring for elephants, the team works closely with the local village on initiatives like tree planting (over 10,000 trees since 2012), clean-ups, education programmes, irrigation projects, and post-disaster support — many of which guests can take part in during their stay.
This isn’t a polished attraction, but a long-term conservation project run by people who have dedicated their lives to doing things the right way — for both elephants and the community around them.
Speaks: Fluent English
Acceptance rate: 77%
Top Rated Host
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