Join this ethical elephant tour near Chiang Mai for an unforgettable experience with elephants living in sanctuary amid stunning natural surroundings.  This family run project is a great example of elephants experiencing happier, healthier lives thanks to the evolution of elephant tourism, supported by growing numbers of people choosing to see elephants living a more natural existence.

When you visit Hope for Elephants, you will encounter a herd of elephants doing what comes naturally  — walking in the forest and grassland, foraging, playing in the mud and river, and socializing — a rewarding experience that takes into account the well-being of elephants. Between activities, a delicious vegetarian buffet lunch is served overlooking the valley with a panorama that takes in a stream, farmland, and surrounding jungle. The elephants at this project are all females retired from elephant riding and performing. They have formed strong friendships thanks to being able to relax and socialize as a herd. Guests to this sanctuary will spend time with a happy herd of elephants who are relishing their life free of the saddle.

This project was renamed from Elephant Refuge Project to its original name, Hope for Elephants, to more clearly represent the intention of the project. The owner, Pin, has been involved in elephant tourism for over 20 years, and in the past, her elephants used to do riding and performances in trekking camps. Several years ago, she decided to change from the old way of doing things to give hope to her elephants and allow them to live better life where they are well cared for. In recognition of this transformation, supported by a growing number of people concerned with animal welfare, the elephants at Hope for Elephants spend their days foraging in the grassy fields and forest, playing in the mud and the stream, and interacting with each other in nature.