5 Best Ethical Elephant Sanctuaries in Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai’s ethical elephant sanctuaries let you experience Thailand’s gentle giants without any riding, tricks, or chains. These five sanctuaries – all reachable by motorbike – prioritize elephant welfare and natural behavior. Within a 1–2 hour ride from the Chiang Mai Old City, you can feed or observe rescued elephants roaming free in forested hills. The best time to visit is the cool dry season (November–February) for comfortable riding and happy, mud-loving elephants. Mornings are ideal, when elephants are most active and you’ll avoid afternoon downpours in rainy months. Each sanctuary visit directly supports conservation, so you can feel good about every kilometer you ride to get there.

The five we cover: Elephant Nature Park (Mae Taeng), ChangChill (Mae Wang), Elephant Freedom Project (Mae Win, Mae Wang), Into the Wild Elephant Camp (Mae Wang), Elephant Jungle Sanctuary (Mae Wang).

All five picks sit on paved routes; a well-maintained 125 cc scooter is enough for a solo rider. Two-up, carrying luggage, or riding in the wet season? Step up to 150–300 cc — or choose our 300 cc enduro or Honda NX500 for stronger braking, torque, and stability on hills. Book the sanctuary first, then your bike; depart 07:30–08:00 to arrive for typical 09:00 starts. Pack a rain jacket and two bottles of drinking water. On-site parking for motorbikes/scooters is available at each location.

History & Culture

Elephants hold a revered place in Thai culture – traditionally used in logging and warfare, and featured in royal symbolism. But after logging was banned in 1989, many elephants were left unemployed and ended up in tourism or begging in cities. For decades, captive elephants suffered under phajaan (spirit-breaking) training to perform tricks or give rides. In response, passionate conservationists like Sangduen “Lek” Chailert pioneered a new model: sanctuaries where visitors simply observe and care for elephants. Elephant Nature Park, founded by Lek in the 1990s, proved that tourists would pay to watch elephants just be elephants. This sparked a movement in Chiang Mai towards ethical elephant tourism. Today the region leads in elephant welfare, with over 30 sanctuaries shifting from exploitation to conservation. Local Karen hill tribes have become partners in this effort, welcoming former working elephants back to nature on their land. Visiting an ethical sanctuary is not only an unforgettable cultural experience – it’s part of a nationwide conservation success story, turning former elephant handlers into guardians and giving these majestic creatures a second chance at a peaceful life.

Getting There by Motorbike

Mae Taeng: Elephant Nature Park (Route 107)

Riding to Chiang Mai’s elephant sanctuaries is an adventure through scenic countryside. Elephant Nature Park (ENP) lies about 60 km north in Mae Taeng District – an easy 1–1.5-hour ride on Route 107, which is a well-paved highway. The route has gentle curves and climbs; a 125 cc scooter is sufficient, while 150 cc is preferred in the rainy season or when riding two-up. Start from Chiang Mai Old City and head north on Highway 107 toward Mae Taeng. Around km 15 at Mae Malai Market, you can refuel and grab fresh fruit (at local prices) for the road. Turn onto the rural road for ENP (there are signs) at km 55 – it’s a smooth asphalt country lane along the Mae Taeng River. ENP provides free parking for bikes inside the gate.

Mae Wang Cluster: Route 1013 (ChangChill, Elephant Freedom, Into the Wild)

Most other top sanctuaries cluster in Mae Wang District south of Chiang Mai (50–70 km away). For these, take Canal Road (Route 121) or Highway 108 south toward Hang Dong, then cut west on Route 1013 into the Mae Wang hills. The ride takes ~1.5 hours through a mix of farmlands and forested hills. Roads are paved but narrow; expect some potholed sections and watch for livestock or chickens crossing in villages. As you climb into Mae Win subdistrict (where several sanctuaries are located), you’ll hit some sharper bends – nothing too hard if you ride cautiously. Turn for ChangChill Elephant Sanctuary at the signed side road near Mae Win; the last approach is a short gravel driveway to the base hut. ChangChill runs observation-only programs (no touching/bathing), welcomes self-riders, and has on-site scooter parking. A 125 cc bike is fine; 150 cc is preferred in the rainy season or with a passenger. Into the Wild Elephant Camp and Elephant Freedom Project are accessed via short gravel driveway turn-offs from the main road – look for signboards in English or ask a local (the word “chang” – ช้าง – means elephant). These last few kilometres might be muddy in the rainy season, so ride slowly and be ready for slick red clay.

Elephant Jungle Sanctuary (Mae Wang branch)

Elephant Jungle Sanctuary (Mae Wang branch) sits off Route 1013 on a short, signposted side road. Access is paved with a brief gravel driveway; on-site scooter parking is available. Programs are small-group half-day or full-day with no riding or shows; you mostly observe and hand-feed under guide supervision. Self-riding is welcomed — 125–150 cc is sufficient (prefer 150 cc if two-up or in the rainy season). Book in advance and arrive 10–15 minutes before the start.

Fuel, Navigation & Seasonal Notes (incl. advanced option)

Having your own wheels gives you flexibility. You can time your arrival for the start of programs (usually ~09:00 for full-day, or ~12:00 for afternoon half-day). No need to rush with a tour van; you can pause at viewpoints like Pha Chor Canyon on the way back or detour to a waterfall. Note that reaching more remote sanctuaries like Burm & Emily’s Elephant Sanctuary (BEES) in Mae Chaem (about 150 km away) is a much longer ride — about 3–4 hours one-way with steep mountain roads — outside this guide’s five-sanctuary list and recommended only for experienced riders on ≥300 cc. For the five sanctuaries in this guide, the routes are comfortably within a day-trip range from Chiang Mai. Fuel up in Chiang Mai or a major town (Hang Dong for Mae Wang, Mae Taeng town for ENP) to ensure you have at least ~130 km range. There are PTT stations en route (e.g., Ban Kad in Mae Wang and near Mae Taeng Hospital) where you can top off. Keep Google Maps or an offline map handy (cell signal can drop in valleys). With a reliable scooter and a spirit of adventure, the journey to these sanctuaries becomes half the fun — winding roads, rice terraces, and maybe an elephant crossing sign or two along the way!

Rules & Etiquette

No-Riding Rules & Safe Distance

When visiting an ethical elephant sanctuary, respect for the animals and local culture is paramount. Absolutely no riding is allowed – these sanctuaries exist to combat that very practice, so don’t even ask. In fact, you shouldn’t climb on or hug the elephants; maintain the distance your guide instructs. Most places will let you feed elephants by hand, and some allow supervised mud baths or river bathing with them (except observation-only programs like ChangChill, where there’s no touching at all). Follow your guide’s cues on how to approach – usually from the side, not directly head-on, and always staying out of the path of an elephant’s feet or trunk swing. Never tease or withhold food; give treats the proper way (flat palm, or per guide’s directions). It’s wise to wear the traditional Karen mahout shirt if provided – not only is it respectful and makes the elephants familiar with you, it also protects your own clothes from getting dirty. Dress modestly in general (as you’re interacting with locals): T-shirt and long shorts or pants are fine. No bikinis or revealing attire during bathing – a modest swimsuit or quick-dry clothing works best, and you can change into it when it’s time for the water.

Drones, Photography & Geo-tagging

Ask staff for permission before using drones or flash photography. Drones can scare the elephants with their noise; some sanctuaries ban them or restrict to certain times. If allowed, keep a good distance overhead. Regular photography is welcome – these elephants are often photogenic – but avoid using flash right in their faces, as it may startle them. Do take as many photos as you like of the elephants being elephants (bathing, mud-slinging, playing); sanctuaries appreciate guests sharing these to promote ethical tourism. Just don’t geo-tag precise locations if you venture into wild areas with elephants (to prevent unwanted crowds or disturbance).

Karen Village Etiquette

Be mindful that you’re often on Karen tribe land. When visiting a hill tribe village as part of a sanctuary program (some tours include a stop at the caretakers’ village), dress modestly (covered shoulders and knees) and ask before photographing people, especially elders or spiritual items. Learn a few polite words: “khop kun krap/ka” (thank you) goes a long way. And remember, the welfare of the elephants comes first. If an elephant decides to wander off, you let it go – you’re on their schedule, not the other way around. By following the sanctuary rules, you ensure a safe, joyful experience for both you and the elephants.

For detailed local riding laws and safety, make sure you also review Thailand’s basic [Traffic Rules] and [Safety Advice] before you set off on your motorbike journey.

Safety

Riding out to remote sanctuaries and interacting with huge animals calls for some safety prep. Road hazards: In rural Chiang Mai, watch for sand or gravel on corners (especially after rain), and be prepared for sudden fog in early mornings up in the hills. Keep your speed modest on unfamiliar winding roads – if a local pickup truck is tailing you, just let them pass at the next opportunity. There is a police checkpoint on Route 108 near Hang Dong; ensure you have your helmet on (always!) and carry your license and passport copy. They occasionally stop foreign riders for license checks.

At the sanctuary, your guides will brief you on elephant safety. These elephants are used to humans, but they’re still wild at heart. Always keep an exit path open – don’t get sandwiched between an elephant and a wall or tree. Pay attention to elephant body language: flapping ears or a raised tail can mean excitement or irritation – time to give them space. Do not approach mothers with young calves; even in sanctuaries, a mother elephant will fiercely protect her baby. Stick as a group and never wander into the forest without a guide, as elephants might be grazing out of view.

It’s smart to wear sturdy shoes (no flip-flops when walking near a 3-ton animal that might step near you). If an elephant starts to move toward you unsolicited, step aside and let the mahout intervene. Never try to feed an elephant that the guide hasn’t introduced you to – each has a personality, and some can be cheeky with strangers’ food baskets!

In case of any accident (motorbike or on-site), know that Thailand’s emergency number for ambulance is 1669 and police 191. In Mae Wang district, the nearest hospital is Mae Wang Hospital (Ban Kad), about 10 km from the sanctuaries, phone +66 53 365 130. For the northern route, Mae Taeng Hospital is along Highway 107 (tel. 053-104148). Both are small district hospitals; for serious injuries, you’d be transferred to Chiang Mai city hospitals like Nakornping or Chiang Mai Ram. If you come off your bike, call for help – locals are generally helpful, and many sanctuary staff are first-aid trained (Elephant Nature Park even has a clinic on-site for elephants and can assist humans in a pinch). Carrying a basic first aid kit on your bike (bandages, disinfectant) is a good idea, as is travel insurance that covers motorcycle riding. And of course, never ride under the influence – a celebratory beer can wait until you’re safely back in town or settled in overnight lodging.

Should you run into trouble on the road, contact your rental company for support (some have pickup service). As a rider, the best safety net is prevention: well-maintained bike, helmet and pads, and defensive driving. With those in place, visiting these sanctuaries by motorbike is very safe and immensely rewarding.

On-site Logistics

Navigating the sanctuaries on arrival is straightforward. Parking is usually free and secure: Elephant Nature Park, for instance, has a designated lot where you can park your scooter (with security watching over) under some trees near the entrance. At smaller camps like Into the Wild or Elephant Freedom Project, you might just park along a fence or in a dirt yard by the base hut – it’s very informal but quite safe (some even have a friendly dog playing parking attendant!). Lock your bike and remove valuables as standard practice.

Check-in: Most sanctuaries require advance booking, so you’ll just give your name or show a confirmation email at a reception desk or with the lead guide. Often you’ll be asked to sign a waiver. Then, many camps invite you to change into a provided traditional Karen shirt or poncho. It’s a loose cotton tunic that fits over your clothes – helps identify you to the elephants and protects your clothes. They usually have changing rooms or at least a private area to swap into swimwear or dry clothes later.

Facilities: Expect basic but adequate amenities. Elephant Nature Park, being large, has proper restrooms, a canteen, and even a gift shop on site. Into the Wild and Elephant Freedom Project have simpler setups: a squat toilet or Western toilet in a bamboo hut (bring your own tissue and hand sanitizer just in case). Clean well water is typically available to wash hands (and hose off mud). Drinking water is provided in jugs or bottles – stay hydrated; a day of walking under the sun can sneak up on you. Most programs include lunch (often a tasty vegetarian buffet or packed lunch). At ChangChill, for example, you’ll have a vegetarian lunch in a riverside sala (pavilion) as part of the program. If you have dietary restrictions, mention when booking – they can accommodate most needs.

There are usually no ATMs or card payments on-site at the smaller sanctuaries, so bring enough cash (Thai baht) if you need to pay a balance or want to buy a T-shirt or bananas for feeding (some places sell extra baskets of fruit for 50–100 THB). Tipping the guides or mahouts is not obligatory but always appreciated – 100–200 THB tip per guest is a nice gesture if you enjoyed the day.

Photography: All sanctuaries allow cameras. Elephant Nature Park even has a dedicated viewing platform ideal for photos. At others, you’re often right in the forest with the elephants – keep your camera strapped and secure. A dropped GoPro in the mud could get stomped! Drones, as mentioned, require permission. Some places like Elephant Jungle Sanctuary will have an in-house photographer snapping pics of you with the elephants which you can later download for free or a small fee, so you can focus on enjoying the moment. But do ask – policies vary.

Timing: Full-day visits usually run ~09:00–15:30 (with pickup around 08:00 from town if you used their transport). Half-days might be 07:00–12:30 or 12:00–17:00. As a self-rider, ensure you arrive by the program start. If you’re late, you might miss the introductory briefing or feeding session. Groups typically stay together throughout the day, moving to different activities (feeding, walking, mud bath, etc.). You’re generally free to leave earlier on your own if needed (just inform the guide), but try not to disrupt the group dynamic.

Weather considerations: In hot season (Mar–May), sanctuaries schedule a lot of break time – shade and water for elephants and humans. You’ll have chances to rest at a base hut with cold water and maybe fresh fruit snacks. In rainy season, bring a rain poncho; activities usually continue rain or shine (elephants don’t mind rain at all!). The trails can get muddy, so those closed-toe shoes or trekking sandals will be your best friend. Each site has a first aid kit for minor cuts or insect stings. Speaking of bugs: mosquitoes can be active, especially in the late afternoon by the river, so reapply repellent after lunch.

Finally, respect quiet hours if you stay overnight (some sanctuaries offer homestays). In Karen villages, people and animals wake with the sun – by 21:00 things wind down. Even if you’re just there for the day, being respectful – not playing loud music on your phone, for example – keeps the environment peaceful for the elephants and other visitors. Enjoy the slower pace and the sounds of nature: rustling trees, distant elephant rumbles, and maybe the laughter of your guides. This is a far cry from the city hustle – embrace it fully.

Budget

Visiting an ethical elephant sanctuary is not a shoestring activity, but it’s worth every baht for the care of the animals. Entry fees for a day visit typically range from about ฿1,500 to ฿2,500 per adult, which usually includes two meals (or one meal for half-day) and all activities. For example, Elephant Nature Park charges ฿2,500 for a single-day visit (same price for adults or kids over 12, while children under 12 are half price at ฿1,250). Into the Wild Elephant Camp’s full-day program is around ฿2,400, and half-day options at places like Elephant Freedom Project or Elephant Jungle Sanctuary cost roughly ฿1,700–฿1,800. Observation-only sanctuaries like ChangChill also charge about ฿2,400 for a full day including lunch and transfers. These fees might seem high, but remember a single elephant eats hundreds of kilograms of food per day and requires veterinary care – your fee directly supports those expenses.

Motorbike costs: Renting a 125cc scooter in Chiang Mai is very affordable, about ฿250 per day (plus maybe ฿100 in fuel for a round-trip to Mae Wang or Mae Taeng). So transport costs are minimal – far cheaper than booking a package tour van (which often adds ฿500–฿800 per person just for transport). If you don’t have your own helmet or gear, your rental should include a helmet for free. Factor in an extra ฿50–฿100 if you plan to buy a better quality helmet liner or rent protective pads.

Fuel: Gasoline (91 or 95 octane) is around ฿40 per liter. A round trip to the sanctuaries 120 km might use 3–4 liters on a scooter, so under ฿160. It’s wise to start with a full tank (฿100–฿150) to avoid searching for fuel in rural areas, though as noted, there are stations in Mae Wang and on the way to ENP.

Food and drink: All sanctuaries include a meal – often a buffet lunch of Thai dishes like fried rice, stir-fried veggies, maybe even pasta, plus fruit and water/coffee/tea. You likely won’t need to buy lunch on your own. If you want a cold soda or beer after (some places sell drinks), have ฿50–฿100 on hand. Many sanctuaries have a small gift shop or at least t-shirts for sale (Elephant Nature Park’s gift shop proceeds go back to the animals). A t-shirt or cap runs around ฿300–฿500. If you want an official photo or USB of photos (for those that offer photography service), budget another ฿200–฿500, although these days many just give a download link included.

Accommodation (optional): All the sanctuaries in this list are close enough to do as day trips. But if you wanted to make an overnight of it, Elephant Nature Park has an overnight program (฿5,800 for adult, including lodging and meals), and BEES in Mae Chaem is actually a homestay model (฿4,000 including 2 nights basic lodging and food). Those costs are higher, but it’s a unique experience sleeping near elephants. Most travelers will stick with the day trip, though, and sleep back in Chiang Mai (where a guesthouse might cost ฿500–฿1000/night).

Other expenses: Don’t forget travel insurance if you’re riding – a plan that covers motorbiking and adventure activities might be around ฿150–฿300 per day of coverage, but that’s up to your provider (it’s a worthwhile investment for peace of mind). You should also account for a tip to the sanctuary staff if you felt they did a great job – tipping isn’t mandatory but as mentioned, consider ~฿100 per person for the guide and perhaps another ฿100 into a communal box for the mahouts. On a tight budget? Even a heartfelt thank-you note or review online can be valuable to them.

In summary, expect to spend roughly ฿2,000–฿3,000 per person for the sanctuary experience (fee + fuel and minor extras). Add the cost of your motorbike rental (~฿250) and you’re still around ฿3,000 or under for an incredible day. Seeing elephants living happily after years of hardship: priceless. Just plan and book ahead so you can choose a sanctuary that fits your budget and ethos – remember that cheaper is not always better if welfare is compromised. The ones we list here ensure your baht is well-spent on ethical care.

Loop & Variants

If you’re up for more than a simple out-and-back, you can incorporate these sanctuaries into a larger motorbike loop through Chiang Mai’s countryside. One popular variant is the Mae Wang Loop, which strings together many of the sights in the Mae Wang area (where four of the five sanctuaries in this guide are). For example, you could ride out of Chiang Mai on Route 108 to Samoeng, then down through the valleys to Mae Wang, visit a sanctuary, continue to Pha Chor Canyon, and circle back via the town of San Pa Tong. This loop is around 120–150 km depending on detours. Difficulty ~3/5; 125–150 cc is adequate (125 cc solo is fine; prefer 150 cc two-up or in the wet).

Another option for experienced riders is combining a sanctuary visit with the Doi Inthanon loop. For instance, you could head to BEES or Kindred Spirit Sanctuary (both in Mae Chaem district) on day one, then continue over the mountain to Doi Inthanon on day two, and back to Chiang Mai via Chom Thong. This is a long, advanced loop (~300 km) and definitely a 5/5 difficulty due to very steep, winding mountain roads and longer distances — outside this guide’s five-sanctuary list and recommended only on ≥300 cc with overnight stops. The payoff is huge though: you get an elephant experience plus epic mountain riding and waterfalls.

For a more relaxed variant, consider a two-day Mae Taeng & Mae Rim loop. On day one, ride to Elephant Nature Park (Mae Taeng), spend the day, stay overnight at a simple guesthouse in Mae Taeng or nearby Chiang Dao. On day two, take the backroads through Mae Rim and Samoeng and return to Chiang Mai. This loop (sometimes called the “Mini Mae Hong Son loop”) offers nice twisties and the chance to visit other attractions like Chiang Dao Cave or Mon Cham on the way back. Difficulty ~2/5; 125–150 cc is adequate.

Whichever variant you choose, plan fuel stops and check closing times of attractions. If doing loops, leave the sanctuary as early as their program allows so you’re not riding unknown mountain roads after dark (sunset is ~18:30). The loops let you maximize your ride and see more than just the sanctuary, making the most of being on two wheels. Just be conservative with time – it’s easy to underestimate how much slower you’ll go on twisty roads or if a sudden rain hits. Always have a “bail-out” plan (like a guesthouse en route) in case you’re too tired or weather turns. Remember, the goal is an enjoyable journey and destination.

Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them

• Assuming all “sanctuaries” are ethical: Many tourists book the first “elephant camp” they see, only to realize it allows riding or shows. Avoid by: researching names on this list or ones endorsed by organizations. If a place offers circus tricks or unnatural interactions, steer clear. Ethical sanctuaries never have riding or performances.
• Not booking in advance: Showing up at Elephant Nature Park or ChangChill without a reservation can mean being turned away, as they cap visitor numbers. Avoid by: booking online at least 1–2 weeks ahead (3+ weeks in high season Nov–Jan). This guarantees your spot and sometimes includes free transport (which you can decline if riding yourself).
• Poor timing on the ride: A common mistake is leaving too late and arriving mid-program. Avoid by: departing Chiang Mai early (give yourself extra 30 minutes for finding the place). Aim to arrive 15 minutes before the start time – better to enjoy the scenery at the gate than miss the intro briefing.
• Riding unprepared: People sometimes rent a scooter last-minute without checking it, then have a breakdown en route (flat tire, etc.) or get caught in rain without gear. Avoid by: doing a quick bike check (tires, brakes, lights) before leaving the city. Bring a lightweight raincoat, and store the sanctuary’s contact number in case you’re delayed or need help.
• Getting too comfortable with elephants: Understandably, visitors may lose their inhibitions around these gentle giants and try to selfie too close or feed an elephant without guide supervision. This can be dangerous. Avoid by: always staying aware of your surroundings. Keep a safe distance unless a guide is right there and the elephant is calm. That perfect selfie isn’t worth a trunk shove! Instead, ask the guide – they’ll help you take a good photo safely.
• Forgetting essentials: Many travelers show up in flip-flops, without sunscreen, and then slip in mud or get sunburned. Avoid by: wearing proper footwear (at least sports sandals or sneakers) and applying sunscreen/bug spray. Carry a small backpack with a change of clothes, a hat, and a bottle of water for the ride.

By sidestepping these mistakes, you’ll ensure a smooth, enjoyable trip – one focused on connecting with the elephants rather than dealing with avoidable hassles.

What to See Nearby

Visiting an elephant sanctuary typically takes half a day or more, but if you have extra time in the area, there are some great nearby attractions to enrich your ride:

• Pha Chor Canyon (Grand Canyon of Chiang Mai): Just 20 km from the Mae Wang elephant camps, Pha Chor is a stunning cliff formation where the Ping River once flowed. You can walk a short loop to see the towering layered earth columns – fantastic for photos in late afternoon light. It’s within Mae Wang National Park (small entry fee ~฿100). Combine this with a morning sanctuary visit for a full day of nature.
• Mae Wang Waterfall: A refreshing stop only 5–10 km from ChangChill or Elephant Freedom Project. This waterfall (Nam Tok Mae Wang) is an idyllic cascade about 20 m high, with a pool where you can wade or swim. It’s popular with locals on weekends but usually quiet on weekdays. There’s a parking area and a short trek (<5 minutes) to the falls. Perfect for washing off the day’s dust – and yes, elephants sometimes visit upstream, but you’ll likely just see fish and birds.
• Bamboo Rafting on the Mae Wang River: Several operators by the Mae Wang bridge offer gentle bamboo rafting trips. It’s a relaxing 1-hour float through lush jungle, often guided by local villagers who pole the rafts. You’ll glide right through areas where elephants sometimes bathe (don’t be shocked if you float past an elephant in the river!). Cost is around ฿500 per raft (which fits 2–3 people). Do this after a sanctuary visit in Mae Wang for a full “jungle day.”
• Karen Village & Weaving Center: If your sanctuary visit doesn’t already include it, you can drop by a nearby Karen hill tribe village such as Ban Karieng Sao. Some have small cooperatives where women hand-weave textiles. You can learn about their techniques and buy a scarf or traditional shirt directly from the makers (supporting the community). It’s a culturally enriching add-on; ask sanctuary staff for a recommendation and directions – many guides come from these villages.
• Sticky Waterfalls (Bua Thong): If you went north to Elephant Nature Park, consider swinging by Bua Thong Waterfall on your return via Route 1001. It’s about 20 km east of ENP. These “sticky” falls are famous because the mineral-rich water makes the rocks grippy, allowing you to climb up the waterfall. There are multiple tiers in a beautiful forest. It’s free, just a small parking fee. A fun, unique experience but watch your time – best earlier in the day before heading back to town.

Each of these stops pairs well with the sanctuary locations: Pha Chor/rafting for Mae Wang, Sticky Falls for Mae Taeng. They give you a chance to see more of Chiang Mai’s natural beauty and local life on your motorbike journey. Just ensure you have daylight to enjoy them and ride safely back. And if you’re pleasantly exhausted from elephant time and skip these – no worries, the elephants alone are worth the trip!