Maesa Elephant Camp
Experience close encounters with elephants, including feeding and bathing, in a lush jungle setting. A place of interaction and potential learning.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Cooler temperatures & active elephants
Maesa Elephant Camp
Best Time
Cooler temperatures & active elephants
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience close encounters with elephants, including feeding and bathing, in a lush jungle setting. A place of interaction and potential learning.
"Glad we did. Was fun to interact with the elephants, feed them and the see just how capable they are."
Bring Snacks & Water
While food is available, having your own snacks and water is always a good idea. :water_buffalo:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking around, so opt for comfy footwear. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Elephant Feeding
Designated feeding areas
Engage directly with these gentle giants by offering them bananas and mangoes. A truly heartwarming experience!
Elephant Bathing
River or designated bathing pools
Join the elephants for a refreshing bath, a fun and interactive way to connect with them.
Elephant Painting
Artistic enclosure
Witness the surprising artistic talents of elephants as they create unique paintings.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Ethical Considerations
Booking & Timing
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bring Snacks & Water
While food is available, having your own snacks and water is always a good idea. :water_buffalo:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking around, so opt for comfy footwear. :athletic_shoe:
Capture the Memories
Your phone camera will be busy! Ensure you have enough storage. :iphone:
Consider Ethical Concerns
Research recent reviews on animal welfare before your visit. :dove:
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring Snacks & Water
While food is available, having your own snacks and water is always a good idea. :water_buffalo:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking around, so opt for comfy footwear. :athletic_shoe:
Capture the Memories
Your phone camera will be busy! Ensure you have enough storage. :iphone:
Consider Ethical Concerns
Research recent reviews on animal welfare before your visit. :dove:
Book a Tour Package
Many tours include transport and meals, making your day hassle-free. :bus:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Reviews for Maesa Elephant Camp are mixed, with some visitors praising the interactive experiences like feeding and bathing, and noting positive changes like the absence of elephant riding. Others express significant concerns about animal welfare, citing signs of stress and questioning the 'sanctuary' claims. The camp's buffet receives generally positive remarks for its variety.
"We had gotten recommend this tour and glad we did. Was fun to interact with the elephants, feed them and the see just how capable they are. If I had not witnessed them pain I would not have believed it. The fished painting photo is below. They had an on site buffet that have a very good assortment of food and drinks. The family really enjoyed our visit and made some good memories."
Rob Johnson
"This is not a sanctuary, it’s hidden exploitation.
Elephants are kept in wooden cages, some with chains, and forced to approach tourists, bathe, pose for photos, and perform unnatural tricks. The animals show clear signs of stress (swaying, shouting, begging desperately for food).
They advertise themselves as a conservation center, but in reality it’s just a tourist circus disguised as a sanctuary. Before 2019 it was known for elephant shows and paintings, and now it rebranded as “The Chang” to deceive visitors looking for an ethical experience.
If you truly care about elephants, avoid this place. Choose real sanctuaries, like Elephant Nature Park, where the animals live in better conditions and are not forced to perform."
Pablo Sánchez
"I booked a full-day program with my partner and even in the rain, we had a really nice time. Mr. Den was an amazing tour guide. He took great pictures and videos of us and also answered all of our questions. The Camp has made changes to how they interact with the elephants. No more riding or shows 👍. We spent the day, feeding them, making medicine for them, and bathing them. It felt like we were truly helping take care of the elephants while having a fun time!"
Eliany Rodriguez
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way to reach Maesa Elephant Camp is by booking a tour that includes transportation from Chiang Mai. Taxis or private drivers are also options, typically taking about 45-60 minutes. Some visitors opt for organized day trips from Mae Rim.
Yes, there is parking available at the camp for visitors who choose to drive themselves.
The travel time from Chiang Mai city center to Maesa Elephant Camp is approximately 45 to 60 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
Public transport directly to the camp is limited. It's generally recommended to book a tour or arrange private transport for convenience.
Yes, taxis are readily available in Chiang Mai and can take you to Maesa Elephant Camp. Negotiate the fare beforehand or use a metered taxi.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entrance fees can vary, and many visitors opt for tour packages that include admission. Some reviews mention an entrance ticket that includes a basket of bananas and mangoes for feeding. It's best to check current pricing with tour operators or the camp directly.
Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially if you plan to visit during peak tourist seasons or holidays, to ensure availability.
Typically, an entrance ticket may include a basket of bananas and mangoes for feeding the elephants. Some packages offer more extensive interaction experiences.
Yes, various tour operators offer different packages that might include transportation, meals, and specific elephant interactions like bathing or making medicine.
The camp is generally open daily, but specific hours for activities and interactions can vary. It's advisable to confirm the schedule when booking your visit or tour.
🎫 🐘 Elephant Interactions
Recent reports indicate that elephant riding is no longer offered at Maesa Elephant Camp, with a focus on more ethical interactions like feeding and bathing.
Visitors can feed the elephants, bathe them, and some programs include making medicine for them. The camp aims for respectful engagement. +1
There are mixed reviews regarding ethical treatment. While some visitors report positive changes and respectful interactions, others express concerns about animal welfare. It's recommended to research current conditions. +1
Yes, feeding the elephants is a popular activity. You can usually purchase baskets of bananas and mangoes on-site to offer them.
When following the guidance of the mahouts and staff, interacting with the elephants is generally considered safe. They are accustomed to human presence.
📸 📸 Photography & Souvenirs
Absolutely! Photography is encouraged, and you'll have plenty of opportunities to capture memorable moments with the elephants.
Yes, the camp often has facilities to purchase photos taken by staff during your visit, as well as various elephant-themed souvenirs.
The feeding areas, bathing pools, and any artistic displays by the elephants offer fantastic photo opportunities.
Yes, you are welcome to bring your own cameras and equipment to document your experience.
Elephant painting demonstrations or opportunities to see their artwork can happen at various times throughout the day. Inquire upon arrival for the schedule.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, an on-site buffet is often available, offering a good assortment of food and drinks. Some tour packages also include meals.
The buffet typically offers a variety of local Thai dishes and some international options, catering to different tastes.
While specific options can vary, Thai cuisine often includes vegetarian dishes. It's advisable to inquire about specific dietary needs when booking or upon arrival.
While not explicitly prohibited, it's generally best to check the camp's policy. However, purchasing from their facilities supports the camp.
Some packages or buffet options may include drinks, while others might charge separately. Check your booking details.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
❤️ Couples & Solo Travelers
Solo travelers can enjoy the immersive experience and the chance to connect with nature and these incredible animals. 🌍 Ethical Travelers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding Ethical Elephant Tourism
It's important to note that Maesa Elephant Camp has stated it has made changes, moving away from elephant riding and shows towards more respectful interactions like feeding and bathing.
When visiting any elephant facility, observe the animals' behavior. Signs of distress include repetitive swaying, head bobbing, or vocalizations that seem out of place.
Experiencing Elephant Interactions
Beyond feeding, bathing the elephants is another popular activity. Joining them in the water provides a fun and refreshing experience, allowing you to get up close and personal.
While elephant painting was a past attraction, the focus has shifted towards more naturalistic interactions.
Regardless of the specific activities, the overarching goal is to provide visitors with a meaningful encounter with elephants, fostering a greater appreciation for these intelligent animals. Photography Opportunities
From close-ups of their expressive faces during feeding time to the dynamic action of bathing, your camera will be working overtime. Don't miss the chance to photograph the elephants interacting with their mahouts, showcasing the bond between humans and animals.
If you're lucky, you might even catch them engaged in their artistic endeavors, creating unique visual content. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit