HOW TO SEE THAI ELEPHANTS

ELEPHANT VALLEY

Half or full-day visits to see the captive elephants, or volunteer experiences available. Located near Chiang Rai. www.elephantvalleys.com

NATIONAL PARKS KUI BURI NATIONAL PARK

Near Hua Hin, Khiri Khan province Accommodation and transport: Trekking and camping can be arranged. Hides and viewing platforms. Tours in safari vehicles. What to see: Elephants, golden jackals, gaurs, leopards, hornbills and many other bird species.

KHAO YAI NATIONAL PARK

Nakhon Ratchasima province is a 2.5-hour drive from Bangkok. Accommodation and transport: On-site bungalows and camping. Visit by hire car or safari vehicles. What to see: Elephants, gibbons, macaques and barking deer.

TOUR OPERATORS

Audley Travel offers tailor-made trips to Thailand. A nine-day itinerary costs from £2,785 ( www.audleytravel.com/thailand). Naturetrek offers a 10-day tour of Thailand that costs from £2,795 (www.naturetrek.co.uk).