4.8 (654) · Chiang Mai · By Ran-Tong Save & Rescue Elephant Centre ▶ Watch the videoFree cancellation
Ran-Tong is dedicated to rescuing elephants that have suffered abuse from across Thailand and neighboring countries. Each rescued elephant is brought to their sanctuary in Chiang Mai and receives care with immense passion and dedication.
Their mission extends beyond protecting and preventing the abuse of elephants in Thailand; it also aims to educate the public about the significant historical role elephants play in Thai culture.
Established in 2009, Ran-Tong has successfully rescued over 40 elephants to date, thanks to the generosity, support, and private donations from the public, which enable their vital ongoing work.
Animal welfare is their top priority. At the Ran-Tong Save & Rescue Elephant Centre, you will gain extensive knowledge about elephants and enjoy a memorable experience with them.
✓ Transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle✓ A satisfying lunch for the Half Day Morning tour or dinner for the Half Day Afternoon tour✓ Traditional Mahout Style Karen attire for you to wear✓ Comprehensive travel insurance coverageActivity Schedule
5 h
You will be picked up from your hotel or accommodation in Chiang Mai city.
Enjoy a drive of approximately 1 hour to the Ran-Tong Save & Rescue Elephant Centre, located in the Mae Taeng District.
Upon arrival, you'll change into traditional Mahout Style Karen clothing and begin your elephant school. Here, you will learn all about the center and these remarkable animals.
Participate in making vitamin balls for the elephants, including those who are pregnant, injured, or elderly.
Have the opportunity to meet the elephants, walk alongside them, and observe them in their natural environment.
Bid farewell to the elephants and change back into your own clothes.
Savor a delicious Thai meal, complete with seasonal fruits and drinking water.
Depart from the Ran-Tong Save & Rescue Elephant Centre and return to your hotel or accommodation in Chiang Mai city.
Please remember to bring a change of clothes, comfortable footwear, sandals you don't mind getting wet or dirty, shampoo and soap, a camera, and mosquito repellent.
Your mobile or paper ticket is accepted. Please present one ticket per booking.
Pick-up times are scheduled between 7:00 AM and 7:30 AM for the Half Day Morning session, and between 1:30 PM and 2:00 PM for the Half Day Afternoon session.
We offer pick-up services for hotels and accommodations located within a 3-kilometer radius of Chiang Mai Old City.
Kindly provide us with your hotel name and address in advance.
Infants must be seated on an adult's lap during the tour. This activity is suitable for individuals of all physical fitness levels. Half-Day Elephant Experience at Rantong Pick-up service is included. Wear comfortable clothing and shoes that can get wet. Bring a change of clothes, swimwear, and a towel. Don't forget insect repellent and sunscreen. Cameras are recommended to capture memories. Be prepared for a hands-on, immersive experience. To receive a full refund, please ensure your cancellation is made at least 24 hours prior to the scheduled departure time.
Product code: 354894P4
Activity offered by Ran-Tong Save & Rescue Elephant Centre via Viator.
WizardTrip Help Center Animal lovers Families Eco-tourists Travelers seeking ethical animal encounters Ethical elephant sanctuary experience Learn about elephant care and conservation Interact with rescued elephants Includes traditional Karen clothing Round-trip hotel transfers
Population 1,198,000 (2022)
Elevation 310 m
Currency baht
Official language Thai
Driving on the left
Power plugs A, B, C, F · 220 V
Emergency number 191
Capital city Bangkok Average temperatures 19° Jan 22° Feb 25° Mar 27° Apr 26° May 25° Jun 24° Jul 24° Aug 24° Sept 23° Oct 21° Nov 19° Dec Sources: Wikidata; climate: NASA POWER, 2001-2025 averages.
What should I bring for the elephant experience? + You should bring spare clothes, comfortable shoes, sandals that you do not mind getting wet and dirty, shampoo and soap, a camera, mosquito spray or insect repellent.
Is hotel pick-up included? + Yes, pick-up is included from your hotel/accommodation within a 3-kilometer radius of Chiang Mai Old City.
What are the pick-up times? + Pick-up time is between 7:00-7:30 AM for Half Day Morning and 1:30-2:00 PM for Half Day Afternoon.
Can infants join this tour? + Infants are welcome but are required to sit on an adult’s lap.
What is the cancellation policy? + For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
★★★★★ Viator review
Wonderful elephant experience.
Henry_L, September 2026
A wonderful time! Very professional and helpful. From hotel pickup to explaining about the elephants and the delicious lunch.
★★★★★ Tripadvisor review
Incredible
marisarO9178CA, August 2026
Absolutely gorgeous experience. The animals are highly respected and well cared for. The staff and handlers are so highly educated, capable and loving. Our tour leader Seven was so laid back and educational. He knew absolutely every answer to any question my kids could think of about elephants. A once in a lifetime experience.
★★★★★ Tripadvisor review
Getting there and returning sucked. The rest was amazing.
66lanec, August 2026
The best experience we had in Chiang Mai. The humane nature of this sanctuary was evidsnt from the first minutes. Our guide, Bowwy, was so knowledgeable and attentive. The lunch was 5 stars. The only downside was whoever provided the transportation. Miserable experience coming and going. Broken air conditioner and a driver who is unsafe.
★★★★★ Viator review
Rantong Elephant Sanctuary
kstoh2000, August 2026
The sanctuary is about 1.5 hours from Chiang Mai. We were given special clothes so not to destroy our clothes as conditions were quite muddy. You get to prep food and feed the elephants close up. We saw elephants of different sizes and ages. Then as an option you get to wash the elephants at the end. Food was then provided, a simple but good egg pad Thai and some fruits and mango sticky rice. Overall a fun experience and the elephants look like they were happy and sociable.
★★★★★ Viator review
Fun
Martin_G, June 2026
I enjoyed the experience. If you like to get close to elephants this is the best way. If you want to jump with elephants in the water, no worries you receive clothes and boots. Shower is available as well.
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