LIVING GREEN ELEPHANT SANCTUARY Chonburi

Living Green Elephant Sanctuary Chonburi: An Authentic Ethical Encounter with Thailand’s Gentle Giants

Traveling to Thailand and eager to connect with elephants in a responsible, caring environment? The Living Green Elephant Sanctuary in Chonburi offers just that—a place where elephants are truly loved, free to roam, and cared for with respect. This tour, praised for its attentive guides, scenic views, and genuine animal welfare practices, has earned a perfect 5-star rating from travelers who value ethical tourism.

One feature that many appreciate is the small group size and personalized experience—expect to feed, walk, and even bathe these majestic creatures in a setting that prioritizes their well-being. The only consideration? The tour runs for about 7 hours, including travel, so it’s best suited for those who enjoy a full, meaningful day out. If you’re looking for an immersive, responsible way to interact with elephants and learn about Thai conservation efforts, this tour could be an ideal choice.

Key Points

• Ethical elephant interactions are at the heart of this tour, emphasizing kindness and respect for the animals.
• Beautiful mountain views in Khao Kiew make for a stunning natural backdrop.
• Expert guides fluent in English and Chinese ensure educational, engaging commentary.
• Includes a delicious local lunch, along with all entrance fees and transportation.
• Pickup from Bangkok and Pattaya makes logistics easy and hassle-free.
• Perfect for travelers seeking authentic, responsible experiences with wildlife.

Discovering the Living Green Elephant Sanctuary

This tour introduces you to a small but vibrant sanctuary located about 1.5 hours from Bangkok, near Pattaya. Spanning 100-rai, the sanctuary is far from the crowded, commercialized elephant parks. Instead, it offers a serene environment where elephants are free to roam and forage naturally, which many visitors find refreshing. The views of rolling mountains and lush scenery provide a picturesque setting that makes the experience even more special.

From the moment you arrive, the focus is on ethical treatment and conservation. As you change into a traditional Mo Hom shirt—adding a touch of local culture—you’ll be introduced to the sanctuary’s mission and the stories of Thai elephants. This educational start sets the tone for an experience that’s both fun and meaningful.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Start with a Pickup & Drive
Your day begins with a convenient pickup from your hotel in Bangkok or Pattaya, with round-trip transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle. Most pickups occur between 7:45-8:45 am, making it a relaxed start to your day. The drive allows you to settle in and get excited about what’s ahead.

Arrival & Cultural Welcome
At around 9:30-10:00 am, you arrive at the sanctuary, where the first thing you’ll notice is the peaceful atmosphere. You’ll be welcomed by guides who are clearly passionate about elephants and their conservation. You’ll be handed a traditional Mo Hom shirt—an authentic touch that helps you feel part of the local culture.

Educational & Interactive Encounters
The guides passionately share stories about Thai elephants, explaining their history and the sanctuary’s conservation goals. These insights are complemented by hands-on activities, such as feeding the elephants with fresh sugarcane. Reviewers highlight guides like Adam and Lulu, who are praised for their friendly, knowledgeable approach.

Walking & Playing with Elephants
After the initial introduction, you’ll walk with the elephants, observing them as they forage and interact naturally. This is a rare opportunity—many visitors comment on how close and peaceful the experience is, with elephants free to wander and engage with their environment. This isn’t a staged circus show but a genuine connection with animals who are well cared for.

Bathing & Water Play
One of the most loved parts of the day is helping to bathe the elephants. You might be splashing water on their backs or sharing coconuts—these moments create lasting memories. Multiple reviews mention the joy of bathing and the affectionate nature of the elephants, with one reviewer saying, “Getting to walk among the elephants, feed them, and then hop in the water and splash them down,” was their favorite.

Lunch & Relaxation
Midday, you’ll enjoy the Sanctuary’s signature Ancient Pad Thai—a flavorful dish made from fresh ingredients, sometimes with extra servings of sticky rice or fruit, based on reviewer comments. The sit-down meal is a great way to relax and socialize before heading back.

Departure & Reflection
By 1:00 pm, it’s time to say goodbye to the elephants, leaving with plenty of photos and stories. Many reviewers note how much they learned about the elephants’ personalities and care routines. The return trip offers a chance to reflect on the importance of responsible tourism and conservation.

What Makes This Tour Special?

Ethical Treatment & Conservation Focus

Unlike some overcrowded elephant parks, this sanctuary is committed to animal welfare, allowing elephants to move freely and interact naturally. Reviewers consistently mention how the elephants are happy and well cared for, with guides like Lulu emphasizing their health and freedom.

Personal, Intimate Experience

The small group size—capped at 20 travelers—means you won’t be overwhelmed. Guides like Adam and Lulu go beyond the basic facts to share insider stories, making the entire trip more engaging and personal. Many guests have noted how they felt like they truly connected with the elephants, rather than just observing them from a distance.

Stunning Nature & Mountain Views

The sanctuary’s location offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. During walks, you’ll see lush greenery and rolling hills, perfect for photos or just soaking in nature’s tranquility.

Delicious Local Food & Cultural Elements

The included lunch features authentic Thai flavors, with the signature Pad Thai often highlighted as a highlight. Changing into a traditional Mo Hom shirt adds a cultural touch, making the experience richer and more immersive.

Expert & Friendly Guides

Guests rave about guides like Lulu and Adam for their friendly and knowledgeable manner. They explain the elephants’ stories, answer questions, and ensure everyone feels comfortable engaging with the animals. This level of care and education elevates the experience beyond a simple tour.

Analyzing the Value: Is It Worth $45?

At $45, this tour offers substantial value. You’re not just paying for transportation or entry—you’re investing in a meaningful, educational experience that emphasizes animal welfare. The inclusion of a local lunch and quality guides makes it a well-rounded day out.

Compared to other elephant attractions, which might focus on performances or forced rides, this sanctuary’s emphasis on ethical interactions and natural behaviors makes it stand out. Many reviews describe it as “a once-in-a-lifetime” opportunity to bond with elephants in a responsible way—something you’ll cherish long after the day ends.

Practical Details & Considerations

The tour is suitable for those with moderate physical fitness, as it involves walking and standing in natural terrains. The pickup service from Bangkok and Pattaya removes any hassle of logistics, and the 7-hour duration fits well into a day trip schedule.

If you’re traveling with children or anyone sensitive to dirt, note that you’ll be changing into a shirt and walking outdoors—so wearing comfortable, easy-to-clean clothes is advisable. Also, bringing insect spray, sunblock, and a towel might boost your comfort, even though some amenities are provided.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who value ethical wildlife interactions and want to go beyond typical tourist attractions. It suits those interested in culture, as well as families, solo travelers, or couples looking for a responsible adventure. If you’re seeking a peaceful, educational encounter with elephants—without the crowds or exploitation—this sanctuary delivers.

Those with a genuine curiosity about conservation efforts in Thailand will find the guides’ stories insightful. It’s an ideal activity for anyone wanting to support ethical tourism and leave with a positive impression of Thailand’s wildlife care.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, round-trip transportation in air-conditioned vehicles from specified meeting points is included, making it easy to plan your day without extra hassle.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the Ekkamai Bus Terminal in Bangkok at 7:00 am and ends back at the same meeting point after the day’s activities.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is approximately 7 hours, including pickup, travel, activities, and return.

What should I bring?
Extra clothes, a swimming suit, sandals, sunblock, insect spray, a towel, and allergy medication if needed. Some reviews suggest bringing water shoes for walking.

Are there any age restrictions?
While not explicitly stated, travelers should have moderate physical fitness, and the experience is generally suitable for most ages comfortable with outdoor activity.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, with a full refund. Less than 24 hours’ notice means no refund.

Is the tour suitable for non-Chinese speakers?
Yes, guides speak both English and Chinese, ensuring clear communication for diverse travelers.

What is included in the price?
All entrance fees, a local lunch, guided commentary, and transportation are included.

Will I get many photo opportunities?
Absolutely. The guides are praised for taking lots of photos, and the scenic mountain views provide a stunning backdrop for your memories.

Final Thoughts

The Living Green Elephant Sanctuary in Chonburi offers a rare chance to experience elephants up close in a responsible, caring environment. With knowledgeable guides, breathtaking views, and authentic cultural elements, it’s a tour that leaves a lasting positive impression.

If you’re seeking a meaningful, ethical adventure that combines wildlife, culture, and nature, this experience ticks all the boxes. It’s particularly well-suited for those who want to learn about Thai conservation efforts while forming genuine bonds with these gentle giants.

This tour delivers value for money, enriching your understanding of elephants and Thailand’s wildlife scene. It’s a rewarding choice for anyone wanting to travel responsibly and create memories that go beyond typical sightseeing.