SANCTUARIES ARE SEXY

Elephant sanctuaries are hot! Elephant rides are not.

Sanctuaries are definitely the best places to go if you’re visiting a country with elephants. They don’t train elephants; they simply make sure these animals remain in a protected area and are well cared for. Elephants are in their natural environment and are not forced to obey orders. Visitors are also educated properly about them.

Here are a few places that you might enjoy.

1 ELEPHANT JUNGLE SANCTUARY (THAILAND)

They have four locations in Thailand: Chiang Mai, Phuket, Pattaya, and Samui. They started an ethical and sustainable project that prioritizes the welfare of elephants. The money that they raise from donations and visits helps in rescuing other captive elephants and in maintaining the sanctuaries.

Volunteers are welcome.

REMINDER: Most sanctuaries strictly prohibit elephant rides. According to Elephant Jungle Sanctuary, their protruding spines cannot bear heavy loads. Riding elephants causes their spine to degenerate and become deformed.

PHANG NGA ELEPHANT PARK (THAILAND)

It is a small, family-run park with a history that goes back 150 years. They are against abusive practices and strongly object the use of these gentle creatures for entertainment.

Descriptions of each elephant are provided, with corresponding reminders for visitors to approach them with caution to prevent accidents. Mahouts (caretakers) guide visitors during interaction.

ELEFANTASTIC (INDIA)

They provide welfare services and also raise awareness for Asian elephants. They have a human-elephant interaction program that helps pay for vet care and sanctuary maintenance.

Visitors get to meet and befriend the rescued elephants, walk with them, feed them, and even wash them, depending on the season. The sanctuary also provides home-cooked vegetarian meals.

THE INTERNET IS YOUR FRIEND

Find out about their program to see if they truly prioritize animals.

ETHICAL TOURS REQUIRE YOU TO ADJUST TO ELEPHANTS, NOT THE OTHER WAY AROUND.

Mahouts are available to ensure not only the safety of humans, but also the comfort of elephants.

A TRUE SANCTUARY OR REFUGE WOULD NOT ALLOW THE USE OF ELEPHANTS FOR ENTERTAINMENT.

Don’t go to places offering elephant rides, shows, tricks, dancing, or anything that requires obedience from these animals.

MOST SANCTUARIES EDUCATE THEIR GUESTS ABOUT ELEPHANT BEHAVIOR.

A good sanctuary provides proper education about elephants. They may also have rescue programs.