Samui Elephant Sanctuary
ศูนย์พักพิงช้างสมุย
The island's first elephant sanctuary that does not offer riding. Visitors can observe and feed rescued elderly elephants up close.
The Samui Elephant Sanctuary takes in elephants retired from logging and riding work. It promotes an ethical approach to elephants with a policy of “no riding and no performing.” Visitors join a guided program of about 2–3 hours. They hear keepers talk about the elephants' stories, prepare and feed their food, and watch them walk and bathe. A vegetarian lunch and round-trip transfers are included. Advance booking on the official website is required. The price is about 3,000 baht per person, subject to the official rate. The sanctuary is located around Bophut, and it also has a branch near Chaweng, so confirm the meeting point when you book.
Opening hours
Scheduled guided sessions (advance booking required)
Nearby sights
- Fisherman's Village Bophut
- Big Buddha Temple (Wat Phra Yai)
- Chaweng Beach
- Wat Plai Laem
- Maenam Beach
- Choeng Mon Beach
- Hin Lad Waterfall
- Silver Beach (Crystal Bay)