Encounter Magnificent Elephants in Thailand
At The Bush Camp Chiang Mai, we provide a sanctuary for our magnificent pachyderms.
They were once part of the logging industry until the practice was banned in 1989. With each elephant consuming over 200kg of food daily, new sustainable ways to care for these gentle giants became essential.
Most transitioned to the tourism industry, and we have embraced a unique approach to their care and interaction with guests.
A New Era of Elephant Experiences
In 2010, we introduced a unique concept at The Bush Camp Chiang Mai by stopping elephant riding activities. We believe that carrying tourists on their backs is not natural or respectful to these majestic animals. Instead, we offer a more interactive and meaningful way for our guests to connect with our elephants.
The Elephant Conservation Project is committed to supporting both domestic and wild elephants through meaningful and sustainable initiatives. Our work includes providing medicines, nutritional supplements, and essential medical equipment to elephant hospitals and rescue centers in need. Education is a key pillar of our mission, with our veterinary team actively engaging in seminars and working directly with local communities—especially those living near elephant habitats or affected by wild elephants—to share knowledge, strengthen understanding, and promote peaceful coexistence between people and elephants.
Beyond elephant conservation, The Bush Camp actively supports broader wildlife conservation initiatives in collaboration with relevant agencies. This includes assistance for wildlife living in protected areas, sanctuaries, and national parks. As part of these efforts, we contribute equipment and resources for conservation activities such as the creation of natural salt licks within national park areas, helping to maintain the health and sustainability of wildlife populations.
Additionally, we provide support for other conservation-related activities upon request from authorized organizations, aligned with identified needs and conservation priorities, to ensure long-term protection of natural ecosystems.
Supporting Elephants Beyond Our Camps: Elephant Hills and The Bush Camp Chiang Mai
Caring for elephants extends far beyond camp boundaries. Elephant Hills and The Bush Camp Chiang Mai recognize that many elephants in rural Thailand still lack access to proper veterinary care due to limited resources and expertise.
To help address this, they support the Asian Elephant Foundation of Thailand, which conducts outreach missions to remote areas along the Thai–Myanmar border, delivering essential medical care to elephants suffering from injury or illness.
Their veterinary teams actively participate in these missions, working alongside professionals from The Elephant Hospital – Lampang and Thai Elephant Conservation Center. This collaboration enhances elephant care while promoting knowledge exchange and valuable hands-on experience.
Services provided include health checks, microchipping, deworming, vitamin supplementation, and wound treatment—all free of charge.
For over 20 years, this conservation effort has remained committed to improving elephant welfare across Thailand, extending care beyond camps to elephants in underserved communities.
Engaging Adventures with Elephants
Our elephant experience is part of every soft adventure tour package, providing guests with a hands-on adventure that redefines traditional elephant rides.
Here’s what you can expect:
Up-Close Interactions:
Begin your journey by getting up close and personal with our elephants.
Feel the connection as you learn about their personalities and habits.
Meal Preparation:
Participate in preparing one of their daily meals and enjoy moments of connection where any interaction happens on their terms.
This activity helps forge a deeper bond and understanding of their needs.
Natural Observations:
Observe our elephants as they are released back into their expansive free-roaming pen.
Watch them play, interact, and graze in a setting that mirrors their natural habitat.
A Day in the Life of Our Elephants
Our elephants lead fulfilling lives where their “work” primarily involves eating and enjoying themselves.
We invite you to meet these incredible creatures in Thailand. It’s a unique opportunity to interact with Asia’s largest land animal in a respectful and enriching way for both the elephants and visitors.
Why Choose The Bush Camp Chiang Mai?
Ethical and Responsible Tourism: We prioritize the well-being and natural behaviour of our elephants
Educational Experiences: Learn about elephant conservation, behaviour, and care from our knowledgeable staff.
Scenic Jungle Setting: Our luxury tented camp offers stunning views of the northern Thailand jungle,
enhancing your overall experience.
Experience an unforgettable adventure with these majestic creatures. Whether you’re looking to volunteer or simply experience the beauty of elephants up close, we offer a unique and ethical way to connect with these incredible animals.
