Visiting an elephant sanctuary is a typical activity tourists want to do when they are in Thailand. But it may raise some questions, like How ethical it is to go visit these animals. Is a sanctuary like a farm or even a zoo? How do you choose the best elephant sanctuary? Are the animals happy being around tourists and being bathed 4 times a day?
These are all questions that we will try to answer in this article, so you have the best information to decide if you want to go to an elephant sanctuary, and if so, which characteristics should the elephant sanctuary of your choice have. But just take into account that some of our answers may be biased by personal opinions. And that the line between what’s ethical and what’s not is very influenced by personal and cultural beliefs.
What's a sanctuary?
A sanctuary is a place of refuge and safety where individuals, animals, or objects are protected and cared for. In terms of wildlife, it is a facility where animals, often rescued from harmful situations, are provided with a safe and natural environment. Sanctuaries aim to offer better living conditions, free from exploitation or harm, allowing the animals to live out their lives peacefully.
How animals are treated?
The Majority of elephants in sanctuaries live healthier and more comfortable lives than they would in the wild. According to our guide, elephants at the sanctuary are given treats that aren’t available in their natural habitat, such as pumpkins and watermelons. However, their diet is monitored to make sure they don’t overeat, as too many treats could lead to health issues.
Additionally, the sanctuary ensures that the elephants are properly fed with a balanced diet unlike in the wild, where elephants may have to look for their own food.
Finally, regular health check-ups are performed by veterinarians. These exams help detect and treat potential health problems, ensuring the elephants remain in optimal health. Since the elephants are a vital part of the sanctuary’s operation, the staff is invested in their well-being and longevity, doing everything possible so they live long, healthy lives.
What to expect during Your Visit?
Each sanctuary operates a little differently, but most visits follow a similar pattern. Typically, you’ll start with a guided walk through the sanctuary’s facilities. Then, you’ll have the chance to feed the elephants some of their favorite treats, like pumpkins and watermelons. You can place the food on their trunk, or if you’re feeling brave, you can place it directly in their mouths.
One thing you’ll notice is that the elephants are often covered in mud. This isn’t just for fun, it also serves several important purposes. The mud helps protect the elephant’s sensitive skin from the sun, acts as an insect repellent, helps regulate their body temperature, and even benefits their skin health by keeping it moist and exfoliating dead skin cells.
After feeding the elephants, you’ll normally wash them. and while it is a fun experience for visitors and the elephants, it’s important to note that doing it too frequently could potentially harm the elephants. However, as long as they are reapplied mud afterward, it generally doesn’t pose a significant concern.
Are elephants"happy" on a sanctuary or would they rather be somewhere else?
How to Choose the Best Elephant Sanctuary: What to Look For and Ask
Choosing the right elephant sanctuary can be tricky, especially since many excursions don’t reveal the location of the sanctuary until you arrive. This practice is often done to prevent visitors from booking directly and to ensure the tour companies can continue to profit. However, if you can find out the name of the sanctuary in advance or if you’re researching sanctuaries on your own, here are some important questions you can ask on the phone to help ensure the elephants are being treated ethically:
Ask about Elephant Riding
The most obvious sign of an ethical sanctuary is that they do not offer or promote elephant riding. You can ask directly if this practice is allowed, and if it is, it’s a red flag.
Ask about the Sanctuary’s History
Ask about the sanctuary’s origins and mission. Ethical sanctuaries often rescue elephants from abusive situations. If the sanctuary has a clear focus on rehabilitation and conservation, it’s usually a good sign that the elephants are treated well.
Research Certifications
Look for sanctuaries that have third-party certifications from organizations like World Animal Protection or other wildlife and animal welfare groups. These certifications help ensure that the sanctuary adheres to strict standards of care.
Once at the sanctuary, you should also :
Ask About Conservation Projects
Once at the sanctuary, ask your guide if they have any initiatives to protect wild elephants or conserve their natural habitats. A good sanctuary often plays a role in larger conservation efforts.
Respectful Interaction & Transparency
Ask the guide about how visitors are allowed to interact with the elephants, how often they do it, and what a typical day looks like for them. The sanctuary should prioritize the elephants’ well-being over tourist entertainment. Be wary of any interactions that seem forced or stressful for the elephants.
Veterinary Care
Inquire about the level of veterinary care the elephants receive. How often do they get check-ups, and what kind of emergency care is available? A sanctuary that invests in the health of its elephants is likely to treat them well in other aspects as well.
By asking these questions and looking for clear, ethical practices, you can help ensure that you’re supporting a sanctuary that genuinely cares for the elephants.
We hope that this information helped you make your decision to visit an elephant sanctuary in Thailand. If you have any further questions or want to add your personal insights make sure to use the comments section.
Safe travels!
