Elephant Sanctuary Small Group Tour in Phuket
5
Elephant Sanctuary Small Group Tour in Phuket
By My Phuket Holiday
What is Travellers’ Choice?
Tripadvisor gives a Travellers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travellers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.
About
Visit The Lake Phuket Elephant Nursery, a forest home for elephants in northern Phuket. Enjoy watching rescued elephants as they forage and bathe in natural surroundings.
Highlights
1. Take an Elephant Care Class
2. Stroll through the forest with the elephants
3. Enjoy a Thai cooking class and lunch
4. Learn about the elephants and their behavior.
Lowest price guaranteeReserve now & pay laterFree cancellation
Ages 0-99, max of 20 per group
Duration: 4h 30m
Start time: Check availability
Mobile ticket
Meets animal welfare guidelines
Live guide: English
More
- Air-conditioned vehicle
- Coffee and/or Tea
- Lunch
- Cooking Class
- Start:Multiple pickup locations offered.Pickup details
- Hotel pickup will be start from 7.30AM ( Activities start 9AM) and 11.30AM ( Activities start 1PM) Once booked, Tour operator will be email to you for the exactly pickup time.
Hotel pickup offeredDuring checkout you will be able to select from the list of included hotels.End:This activity ends back at the meeting point. - Near public transportation
- Not wheelchair accessible
If you have questions about accessibility, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 9592P230- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
- No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
- Most travellers can participate
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s cancelled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 20 travellers
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
- If you have questions about this tour or need help making your booking, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 9592P230
From
HK$856.77
per adult
Select date and travellers
Similar experiences
Buy it with
Top rated
About the operator
Don’t take it from us – here’s what people have to say about this operator:
- D5784UBadrianc0 contributionsHalf day Phuket private tourGreat afternoon with Danny our driver . Realky friendly , helpful knowledgeable local guy . Everything was spot on time and could not have gone betterWritten 14 March 2025
- Ado740 contributionsFantastic! Highly recommendFantastic day in luxurious air conditioned van even though we where only two people.. water,wet towels after every stop was a lovelytouch. Built our own literary (realised we where over ambitious in all we wanted to see in the 6 hours lol) so with the help of our driver Denni we where able to do what was most important to us and i cut out the least important. Our driver Denni was a true gentleman, very calm nature, explained local history and different things about where we were heading to etc and had nice genuine conversations throughout the trip. When I asked his recommendations for best beach on our root he truly delivered to meet our spec and brought us to a truly authentic beach.. nothing was too much and had no problem stopping for me to run into a 7 11 to get cigarettes lol.. this tour is brilliant for 1st timers to get to see phuket and get your bearings for the island in comfortable surroundings without the hassle of driving around and finding parking etc. Would 100% recommend.. from moment of booking to been left back to our accommodation it was hassle free.Written 6 March 2025
- Relax457721833700 contributionsAVOID / IT’S A SCAMNot worth the money or time. Go to the actual viewpoint where it only costs 90baht to be driven up to see the view, not to this smarmy, cheesy, soulless place. Skywalk charges 700 Baht (20 Euros!) and then tacks on a tired, gross-looking “complimentary”buffet. No one wants that. Jazz-adjacent elevator music is piped throughout, making you feel like you’ve lost at life. AVOID the SKYWALK! We landed there by mistake and were pressed for time - find the real one and avoid this deserted sleaze-hole trying to look fancy.Written 4 March 2025
- O2119NImichaelb0 contributionsWalk the beach and relaxThe best walking beach in Thailand, long flat and hard - easy walking. Plenty of little bars/shops along the way if a stop is required. HH is much quieter than other resort towns, much better for families especially those with little children. It is a bit of a Golfing mecca but there are many more attractions a short drive from town. A huge range of hotels from 5 star to Backpacker. We stayed, this time, at the Wora Bura Resort/spa. More than adequate, excellent pool right on the beach. Breakfast choices very extensive. Built along old colonial lines, great staff.Written 26 February 2025
- 87martynh0 contributionsRelaxed Day in Koh SamuiA treat to visit Koh Samui at our own pace with a driver who was happy at all times to wait around, or move on at our pace. Beginning with a short walk to the end of the pier where our driver was waiting with a clear sign board, on time as arranged. He also made sure we returned at the time that suited us. Although Mr Ho was not a guide (as clearly stated), he was able to talk to us and offered information and points of interest as we travelled around in the large comfortable car. Koh Samui is beautiful and we felt we had seen a great representation of the island. We felt safe, looked after, and had an unhurried relaxing excursion. Recommended.Written 26 February 2025
- chrisrenrut0 contributionsGreat custom tour of PhuketGreat tour experience. We were able to see almost all of the big tourist sites in southern Phuket. Old Town, War Chalam, cashew factory, Big Buddha, Promthep Cape, and Karon point. The driver was great (Hanifee sp?)No way I would have wanted to navigate traffic on my own. Provided cold waters and towels for relief from the heat. Picked up and dropped off right at house our hotel. We chose the private 6 hour tour. It want much more than the group tour.Written 25 February 2025
- egdasilva0 contributionsGreat day in PhuketHad a great time with Dol during my tour in Phuket. I really enjoyed the experience, he is a very nice and understanding guide who taught me about the location and cared for my experience very much. We focused on sites that I wanted to see with no problem at all. It was great!Written 19 February 2025
- dr_ganlt0 contributionsThai Dinner with Cultural ShowOur final dinner in Chiang Mai ends with Thai Cultural Show with local dishes. It is a big restaursnt with traditional Thai architectual and set up. Spacious and comfortable leg room sitting on the floor with liw table. A series of traditiinal Northern Thai Cultural Shows well performed. Announcements are in Thai, English and Mandarine. Good food and nice ambience with entertaining shows gies well for the evening.Written 19 February 2025
- chrisyD91SS0 contributionsAmazing your on your own.The driver Ray, greeted me warmly and was able to understand what I wanted to see and made some additional suggestions as well. The ride was great and would definitely repeat.Written 9 February 2025
- John D0 contributionsWorth itWell worth the money. $80 USD for 4 hours of a private tour bus with aircon and crazy sound system to explore where ever you wish.Written 8 February 2025
- Edipreta0 contributionsVery accommodating tourOur driver, Superman, was very accommodating. We changed the start hour a couple of times due to a late night on Bangla Street. He took us to all the places we asked to go. And even switched the itinerary as we were getting tired. Very good driver, very good company, very on top of meeting and getting everything accomplished. Highly Recommended.Written 4 February 2025
- Nikki1804730 contributionsGreat tourFirst time in Thailand and decided to have a tour round Phuket. Our driver/tour guide was excellent. Had 6 hours and covered alot of places. Well worth itWritten 31 January 2025
- Darcy R0 contributionsExcellent knowledge and very friendly.Our driver was incredible. He got us around Phuket quickly and efficiently. Was on time very helpful. He took us to the Big Buddha, temples and old Phuket Town. We asked questions about the city and he was very knowledgeable. He had cold water waiting for us every time we got back into his van. His van was very spacious with four adults. He knew Little Shortcuts around the city to get us in and out of traffic and returned us back to the hotel on time.Written 27 January 2025
- CathieJoseph0 contributionsFabulous experiencePerfect trip. The staff were wonderful and very attentive. Nice clean boat and food was superb. Cannot fault them. The plankton is something to behold and the caves magnificent. Great value for money. Special shout out to Alfa and Malolm. What a great day.Written 26 January 2025
- sarahmQ6977NR0 contributions4 hour private tourGreat 4 hour private tour around Phuket beaches and Phuket Old Town. Knowledgeable and helpful guide “Tan”. Lots of different options to choose from on how to spend your 4 hours.Written 23 January 2025
These reviews are the subjective opinions of Tripadvisor members and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Contribute
Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
5.0
88 reviews
Excellent
83
Very good
2
Average
0
Poor
1
Terrible
2
These reviews have been automatically translated from their original language.
This service may contain translations provided by Google. Google disclaims all warranties, express or implied, with respect to translations, including any warranties of accuracy, reliability, and any implied warranties of merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose, and freedom from forgery.
Oli S
Majorca, Spain38 contributions
Feb 2025 • Couples
This tour was truly the highlight of our trip to Phuket! From start to finish, the experience was well-organized, informative, and heartwarming. The sanctuary is dedicated to rescuing and caring for elephants in a completely ethical way—no riding, just meaningful interactions where you can feed, bathe, and observe these magnificent animals in their natural environment.
The guides were incredibly knowledgeable and passionate, sharing insights about each elephant’s background and the importance of conservation. It was amazing to see the elephants roaming freely and enjoying their lives without chains or mistreatment.
The small group setting made it feel intimate and allowed for plenty of personal interaction with the elephants. The lunch provided was also delicious and thoughtfully prepared.
If you’re looking for an ethical and unforgettable elephant experience in Phuket, look no further. This tour is worth every penny, and I would highly recommend it to anyone visiting Thailand!
The guides were incredibly knowledgeable and passionate, sharing insights about each elephant’s background and the importance of conservation. It was amazing to see the elephants roaming freely and enjoying their lives without chains or mistreatment.
The small group setting made it feel intimate and allowed for plenty of personal interaction with the elephants. The lunch provided was also delicious and thoughtfully prepared.
If you’re looking for an ethical and unforgettable elephant experience in Phuket, look no further. This tour is worth every penny, and I would highly recommend it to anyone visiting Thailand!
Written 26 February 2025
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for your wonderful review! 🌿🐘 We're so happy to hear that your visit to the sanctuary was the highlight of your trip to Phuket. Providing a truly ethical and meaningful experience with our rescued elephants is our top priority, and it’s heartwarming to know that you appreciated the care and passion behind it.
It’s fantastic that you enjoyed the intimate group setting, the informative insights from our guides, and, of course, the delicious lunch! Your kind words and recommendation mean the world to us.
Thank you for supporting ethical elephant tourism—your visit helps make a real difference! We hope to welcome you back in the future. 💚🙏🐘
Written 1 March 2025
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Franz
3 contributions
Dec 2023 • Solo
You get to hug an Elephant! It's simply amazing to meet these creatures. First we prepared some food for the elephants, then we fed them, took a walk with them, and after that washed them in the lake. No cages, no hooks, no beating, the elephants roam free and live their best life - thats important to me. Our guide Mr Yu was very knowledgeable about the animals and would answer all the questions. And we also got a tasty lunch. The whole experience was very well organized, they even provide towels to take a shower after going to the lake with the elephants. So that was an amazing experience, for me a childhood dream come true, and I definitely recomend! 11/10!
Written 18 December 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
That sounds like an absolutely heartwarming experience! Getting the chance to interact with elephants in such a natural and respectful setting, feeding them, walking with them, and even washing them in the lake must have been truly incredible. It's wonderful that the sanctuary provides such a holistic and compassionate experience for both visitors and elephants. And it's fantastic that your guide, Mr. Yu, was knowledgeable and made the experience even more fulfilling. Thank you for sharing your wonderful encounter!
Written 18 December 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Lisa C
London, UK28 contributions
This was a try bucket list experience for my husband and I and it exceeded all expectations. The team were so friendly and Mr Yu so informative and helpful.
The elephants are shown such respect and you can see what a fantastic bond they have with all the team.
You are made to feel at one with the elephants in their own environment I learnt so much about them.
Being able to be with them in the lake was amazing they love it.
Highly recommend this experience
The elephants are shown such respect and you can see what a fantastic bond they have with all the team.
You are made to feel at one with the elephants in their own environment I learnt so much about them.
Being able to be with them in the lake was amazing they love it.
Highly recommend this experience
Written 23 January 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
It sounds like you had an incredible and memorable experience with the elephants! Interacting with these majestic animals in a respectful and responsible environment can indeed be a transformative and fulfilling experience. If you have any more details to share about your adventure or if there's anything specific you'd like to discuss, feel free to let me know. I'm here to chat!
Written 23 January 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Lajla J
1 contribution
Jan 2024 • Couples
The tour did not live up to the description. We had to feed elephants and bathe with them, not something I want to support. I had hoped to experience the elephants roaming freely, which was not the case. The elephants had to be fed twice a day and bathed with tourists, where they had to line up and be fed in a certain place and then go to the lake. After that they came to the barn at night, They did not live a free life in any way 🥲 Disappointing experience.

Written 7 January 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
chagat69
Immensee, Switzerland79 contributions
It was a thoroughly successful trip. There were only seven of us and the owner himself showed us around the facility. He told us a lot, including new things for me. After an introduction, we prepared food for the elephants. Then we walked over walkways to the three older elephants. It was incredible to be so close to these huge animals. We fed them and then walked to the "grandma", who prefers to be a little off to herself. After that, the elephants walked to the water, where we brushed them down and bathed with them. After that, we prepared a papaya salad and other dishes were served.
The owner is passionate about his elephants. He only lets small groups get that close to them. Larger groups only go to a group of young elephants for a short time.
We really enjoyed the trip and can highly recommend it.
The owner is passionate about his elephants. He only lets small groups get that close to them. Larger groups only go to a group of young elephants for a short time.
We really enjoyed the trip and can highly recommend it.

Written 18 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Es freut mich zu hören, dass Ihr Ausflug zu den Elefanten ein durch und durch gelungenes Erlebnis war. Die kleine Gruppengröße und die persönliche Führung durch den Besitzer klingen nach einer einzigartigen Erfahrung. Die Gelegenheit, die Elefanten aus der Nähe zu erleben, sie zu füttern, zu baden und mit ihnen Zeit zu verbringen, ist zweifellos etwas Besonderes.
Es ist lobenswert zu hören, dass der Besitzer mit so viel Hingabe und Herzblut bei seinen Elefanten ist und sich um das Wohl der Tiere kümmert. Solche Erfahrungen tragen dazu bei, das Bewusstsein für den Schutz dieser majestätischen Tiere zu schärfen.
Vielen Dank für das Teilen Ihrer Erfahrung, und wenn Sie in Zukunft weitere Abenteuer planen oder Fragen haben, stehe ich gerne zur Verfügung. Genießen Sie Ihre zukünftigen Reisen!
Written 19 October 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
steve a
9 contributions
Wow what can we say this experience was beautiful if not a little bit of a reality check, the experience at The Lake with these animals will be one I remember for ever! The care that is being given to the elephants after such traumatic starts in life is second to none and a very harsh reminder to us humans that these animals are fragile they are not borne for entertainment or for us to ride them as if it is “fun” The Lake really opened up a new respect thank you so much for the experience and should I also say the education
And to add to a heart warming afternoon lunch was amazing to
And to add to a heart warming afternoon lunch was amazing to
Written 5 February 2025
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for your heartfelt review! We're so glad that your experience at The Lake was both beautiful and eye-opening. The well-being of these rescued elephants is our top priority, and it means so much that their stories and care resonated with you. Your support and newfound respect for these incredible animals make a difference! We're also delighted you enjoyed the lunch. Hope to welcome you back one day for another unforgettable experience! 🐘💙
Written 7 February 2025
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Eric Y
4 contributions
Aug 2023 • Solo
The tour was excellent and it was obvious the elephants were happy and well cared for! I would highly recommend going as you are able to interact directly with the elephants. The guide also takes photos for you and texts you them for free! I got 100s of photos and I could just focus on having fun with the elephants the entire time.
Written 4 September 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
I'm glad to hear that you had an excellent experience on the tour and that the elephants were well cared for. It sounds like a wonderful opportunity to interact with these majestic creatures while also getting some great photos to remember the experience. If you have any more details or tips to share about the tour, feel free to do so. Your recommendation will be helpful to others considering a similar experience.
Written 5 September 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Tina T
San Diego, CA17 contributions
Dec 2022 • Solo
My day with the elephants was the highlight of my trip to Phuket. I booked this half day tour solo and was the only one there. To be honest, I was surprised they didn’t cancel my lone reservation. Mr. Daeng was my guide and spoke great English. We started off with a bit of education regarding the different types of elephants and then preparing lunch for the elephants consisting of sugarcane and bananas. Once that was done, Mr. Daeng and I made a short trek up the hill to meet mama elephant and her keeper. I was in awe and initially scared to come close. The keeper and Mr. Daeng reassured me that it was safe since the elephant’s keeper was there. I was able to feed mama elephant, touch her, and look at all the details about elephants Mr. Daeng taught me about earlier in the day. Later on, we got to meet with the other two smaller elephants to feed and interact with them. It was a delight watching their trunks go after the food I held and trying to sneak into my bag for more. We then finished up the elephant portion by bathing them in the nearby lake and scrubbing them. Once I showered and changed, Mr. Daeng gave me a lesson on how to make papaya salad and I ate an amazing lunch there.
Please note that it is a little bit of trekking through shrubbery on this tour. I wore outdoor sandals with a good grip that could also get wet during bathing. Bug spray and spf is also needed. Hats would be a good idea too. Lockers are provided for your convenience.
During all of the interactions, each keeper was present with their elephant to ensure safety, and Mr. Daeng was there to help answer questions and took photos to capture the moment which he sent to me right after. I felt safe and comfortable with the team and had a great day. The elephants here are retired working elephants and you can tell they’re being treated well and cared for here. It was an amazing experience and I would do it again next time I’m back in Phuket. Thank you Mr. Daeng and your team for a wonderful day and for allowing me to be apart of it.
Please note that it is a little bit of trekking through shrubbery on this tour. I wore outdoor sandals with a good grip that could also get wet during bathing. Bug spray and spf is also needed. Hats would be a good idea too. Lockers are provided for your convenience.
During all of the interactions, each keeper was present with their elephant to ensure safety, and Mr. Daeng was there to help answer questions and took photos to capture the moment which he sent to me right after. I felt safe and comfortable with the team and had a great day. The elephants here are retired working elephants and you can tell they’re being treated well and cared for here. It was an amazing experience and I would do it again next time I’m back in Phuket. Thank you Mr. Daeng and your team for a wonderful day and for allowing me to be apart of it.
Written 11 January 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
It sounds like you had an incredible experience with the elephants in Phuket! It's great to hear that your guide Mr. Daeng was so knowledgeable and made you feel comfortable throughout the tour. It's also wonderful that the elephants are being treated well and cared for in their retirement. Thank you for sharing your experience and highlighting the need for bug spray, spf, and hats during the tour. It's great to know that lockers are provided for convenience as well. It sounds like a truly unforgettable experience.
Written 15 April 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
reecegriffiths
Holywell, UK6 contributions
Dec 2022 • Friends
We had an amazing time on this excursion. There was two of us with another couple and their 18 month old.
The sanctuary has 3 elephants that are well taken care of. We found that we got so much time with each elephant due to it being such a small group, from feeding and walking with them to washing and playing with them. All of the guides and staff were so friendly and helpful. As soon as we arrived we felt comfortable enough to leave our things at the table knowing they would be safe (though lockers are available if you wish).
If you choose to you can take your phone and camera with you for pictures, but if you choose not to the guides are on hand to take pictures of their own, which are then sent to you at the end of the day.
We would highly recommend this place to anybody visiting the island that wishes to have a 10/10
experience with elephants in a happy and lighthearted manner. Thank you very much!
The sanctuary has 3 elephants that are well taken care of. We found that we got so much time with each elephant due to it being such a small group, from feeding and walking with them to washing and playing with them. All of the guides and staff were so friendly and helpful. As soon as we arrived we felt comfortable enough to leave our things at the table knowing they would be safe (though lockers are available if you wish).
If you choose to you can take your phone and camera with you for pictures, but if you choose not to the guides are on hand to take pictures of their own, which are then sent to you at the end of the day.
We would highly recommend this place to anybody visiting the island that wishes to have a 10/10
experience with elephants in a happy and lighthearted manner. Thank you very much!
Written 10 December 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
That sounds like a truly wonderful experience! It's great to hear that the sanctuary takes good care of their elephants and that you were able to have a hands-on experience with them. Being in a small group definitely sounds like it allowed for a more intimate and personal experience. Would you recommend this excursion to others?
Written 15 April 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Rodalita B
Francisco I. Madero Municipality, Mexico3,920 contributions
Phuket Elephant Santuary small group tour -- Difinitely the elephants . Its awesome. Its a funny and friendly Animals. It well taken care.. Amazing experience. The kids young were getting foods to feed an elehant so very very clise to the staff. Also foods at this restaurant so delicioys food....
Written 8 December 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
It sounds like you had an amazing time at the Phuket Elephant Sanctuary! Being close to the elephants and seeing the care they receive must have been truly special. Plus, enjoying delicious food added to the overall experience. Thanks for sharing your fantastic day!
Written 9 December 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
If we miss the pick-up time at the hotel, would it be possible to meet the group at the elephant sanctuary? I'm trying to see options in case my flight gets delayed.
Written 5 September 2023
Hi what time does the 7.30am tour finish? I have a flight at 4pm to Bangkok so want to make sure I can make the flight
Written 8 May 2023
Showing results 1-2 of 2
*Likely to sell out: Based on Viator’s booking data and information from the provider from the past 30 days, it seems likely this experience will sell out through Viator, a Tripadvisor company.