The elephant is a symbol of Thailand and one of the country’s most revered animals. In Phuket, there are several sanctuaries and rescue centers that are considered ethical, offering visitors the chance to see elephants in environments that closely resemble their natural habitat. In the past, not only in Phuket but throughout Thailand, elephant rides and shows featuring tricks and performances were a popular tourist attraction. Unfortunately, there is still demand for such experiences today. Unlike those exploitative practices, ethical sanctuaries in Phuket focus on caring for and protecting elephants that have been rescued from abuse and are now in rehabilitation.
We’ve put together a traveler’s guide to help you discover where to see elephants in Phuket. In this article, you’ll find details about the location of these sanctuaries and rescue centers, how to get there, what activities are available, and the cost of tickets and tours.
Phuket Elephant Sanctuary
Phuket Elephant Sanctuary was founded in 2016 by Montri Todtane, who initially ran a tourist elephant riding camp. Over time, he had a change of heart and transformed the site into a sanctuary dedicated to the care and protection of elephants. Today, it’s one of the most respected ethical sanctuaries on the island and a great place to visit with children.
The sanctuary is located in the northeast of Phuket, in the Paklok area near Phang Nga Bay. The most convenient way to get there is by arranging a transfer. They offer both half-day and full-day programs — current prices and availability can be checked on the official website. You can also book through GetYourGuide for added convenience.
The sanctuary provides a safe haven and rehabilitation for elephants that were once used in logging, agriculture, and entertainment. Visitors can walk along Thailand’s longest canopy walkway and observe the elephants from above as they roam through the jungle, enjoy a mud bath, or head to feeding areas.
Unlike some other places to see elephants in Phuket, this sanctuary does not allow guests to join the animals during bathing, as this is considered a private and personal experience for the elephants. Also, please note that elephant feeding will only be available to visitors until April 1, 2026.
- Address: Phuket Elephant Sanctuary Co., Ltd. 100, Moo 2, Paklok, Thalang, Phuket, Thailand
- Opening hours: 08:30 AM – 5:00 PM, daily
- Tours available via: Phuket Elephant Sanctuary official website and GetYourGuide
Elephant Jungle Sanctuary Rehabilitation Center
Elephant Jungle Sanctuary is another popular place to see elephants in Phuket. This rehabilitation center operates three locations on the island: one in Kathu, near Patong; another in Thalang, in the Paklok area; and a third in Bangtao, on Phuket’s northwest coast near the beach of the same name.
The organization doesn’t operate only in Phuket — it also has branches in Pattaya, Chiang Mai, and Koh Samui. If you’re planning a trip to Samui, be sure to check out our guide, The Elephant Kingdom on Koh Samui, for more information.
Most of the elephants at the sanctuary are seniors who spent much of their lives working in agriculture or entertaining tourists.
Here, you’ll not only learn about how these elephants are rescued and cared for, but you’ll also have the chance to take part in daily activities like preparing their food, cleaning their living spaces, and even washing the elephants themselves. The shortest program available is the elephant feeding experience, which lasts about an hour and costs $28 per person. More details and booking options are available via the link.
- Address: 2, 12, Kathu, Kathu District, Phuket 83120, Thailand
- Opening hours: 09:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Book a tour at the Elephant Jungle Sanctuary in Phuket
Elephant Care Center
This is one of the elephant sanctuaries in Phuket where you can see elephants up close, and it holds the ACES (Asian Captive Elephant Standards) certification — a mark that ensures the center follows proper animal care and welfare practices.
Elephant Care operates two locations: one near Phuket Town and another on the island’s northwest coast in the Nai Thon area. The sanctuary provides elephants with a setting that closely resembles their natural habitat, with ponds for bathing and forested areas where the animals can roam freely.
Visitors can join a variety of programs — from feeding and bathing the elephants to half-day and full-day experiences that include jungle walks, lunch, round-trip transfers, and even souvenirs to remember your visit.
- Address: Phuket Elephant Care™, Siam Kotchasan Conserve Co., Ltd. 3/5 Moo 4, Tambon Sakhu, Amphoe Thalang, Phuket 83110, Thailand
- Opening hours: 08:00 AM – 4:00 PM, daily
- Book a tour at Elephant Care Sanctuary
Bukit Elephant Park
Located in the southern part of Phuket, Bukit Elephant Park is another sanctuary committed to ethical elephant care. The founders focus on promoting respectful interaction between humans and elephants, as well as raising awareness about nature conservation.
Unlike many other sanctuaries and rehabilitation centers, Bukit does not offer elephant bathing experiences — and for good reason. First, it’s a matter of safety, as elephants are still wild animals. Second, bathing is considered a personal and private activity for elephants.
Instead, visitors are welcome to feed the elephants bananas or specially prepared rice balls — but only if the elephants choose to approach on their own. There’s no forcing, no posing for photos, and no staged interactions. So, if you’re hoping to get a great picture, you may need a little patience.
- Address: 78/10 Moo 6, Chalong District, Muang, Phuket 83130, Thailand
- Opening hours: 08:30 AM – 4:30 PM
- Book a tour at Bukit Elephant Sanctuary
Elephant Nature Reserve Phuket
Established in 2019, the Elephant Nature Reserve in Phuket has quickly become a popular destination for those looking to see elephants in a natural and ethical environment. The reserve is dedicated to educating visitors not only about proper elephant care, but also about respecting the natural world as a whole.
The center is accredited by respected organizations such as World Animal Protection and the Asian Captive Elephant Standards (ACES). Several visitor programs are available — you can book a 1.5-hour experience via the link provided. Please note that transfers are not included in this option, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the reserve.
During your visit, you’ll have the opportunity to help prepare food, feed the elephants, or walk through the jungle alongside experienced guides and rescued elephants. These elephants were previously used in circuses, forced to perform tricks, or give rides to tourists. Currently, the reserve is home to four rescued elephants.
- Address: Phuket Elephant Nature Reserve 100/12 Moo 7, Srisoonthorn Road, Thalang District, Phuket
- Opening hours: Closed on Mondays; Tuesday–Sunday, 09:00 AM – 5:00 PM
