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Enhancing Elephant Welfare: A New Chapter in Ethical Experiences
05-May-2026
Category: News Stories
Elephant Hills and The Bush Camp Chiang Mai are proud to introduce an important evolution in their elephant experiences, further strengthening their long-standing commitment to animal welfare and responsible tourism.
From 1 May 2026, both camps have transitioned to a fully observation-based elephant experience, removing all direct hand-feeding by guests. Visitors will continue to take part in preparing food and nutritional supplements for the elephants, while experienced mahouts carry out the feeding at designated stations. This approach allows elephants to interact on their own terms, encouraging natural behaviour within a free-roaming environment.
Guests can observe the elephants throughout their daily routines from foraging to bathing, gaining a deeper understanding of their wellbeing, behaviour and the unique bond between elephants and their mahouts. Photography is welcomed; however, there is no staging or posing, ensuring a respectful and authentic wildlife experience.
This update reflects Elephant Hills’ continuous efforts to align with evolving global standards in wildlife tourism. With recognised animal welfare practices and independent audits supporting their approach, both Elephant Hills and The Bush Camp Chiang Mai remain at the forefront of ethical elephant experiences in Thailand.
By prioritising the elephants’ natural behaviour and wellbeing, the camps continue to offer guests a meaningful, educational and immersive experience — one that connects travellers with wildlife in a responsible and sustainable way.
From 1 May 2026, both camps have transitioned to a fully observation-based elephant experience, removing all direct hand-feeding by guests. Visitors will continue to take part in preparing food and nutritional supplements for the elephants, while experienced mahouts carry out the feeding at designated stations. This approach allows elephants to interact on their own terms, encouraging natural behaviour within a free-roaming environment.
Guests can observe the elephants throughout their daily routines from foraging to bathing, gaining a deeper understanding of their wellbeing, behaviour and the unique bond between elephants and their mahouts. Photography is welcomed; however, there is no staging or posing, ensuring a respectful and authentic wildlife experience.
This update reflects Elephant Hills’ continuous efforts to align with evolving global standards in wildlife tourism. With recognised animal welfare practices and independent audits supporting their approach, both Elephant Hills and The Bush Camp Chiang Mai remain at the forefront of ethical elephant experiences in Thailand.
By prioritising the elephants’ natural behaviour and wellbeing, the camps continue to offer guests a meaningful, educational and immersive experience — one that connects travellers with wildlife in a responsible and sustainable way.
