LIVING GREEN ELEPHANT SANCTUARY Chonburi

If you’re looking for a meaningful way to connect with Thailand’s gentle giants, the Living Green Elephant Sanctuary offers an experience that’s both authentic and responsible. This tour promises a chance to see elephants in a natural, stress-free environment, away from the overwhelming crowds and commercialized attractions. We’ve gathered insights from travelers who’ve been, so you can decide if this 7-hour eco adventure is worth your time and money.

What we love about this tour is the up-close interactions with elephants, the knowledgeable guides sharing their insights, and the stunning mountain views that create a peaceful backdrop. Plus, the cost of $45 offers good value considering all included activities, transportation, and a delicious Thai lunch. The one thing to consider is that it’s a physically active experience—walking, feeding, and bathing elephants could be tiring if you’re not in moderate shape. Overall, it’s perfect for animal lovers, eco-conscious travelers, and those wanting a genuine connection with wildlife in a responsible setting.

Key Points

• Ethical and Responsible: The sanctuary emphasizes natural behaviors and freedom for the elephants.
• All-Inclusive Experience: Transportation, entry fees, guides, and lunch are covered.
• Interactive Activities: Feeding, walking, and bathing elephants create memorable moments.
• Stunning Views: 180° mountain scenery provides a gorgeous natural setting.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Guides share detailed insights about elephants and conservation efforts.
• Limited Group Size: Usually capped at 20 travelers for a more personal experience.

What to Expect from the Living Green Elephant Sanctuary Tour

This experience begins early in the morning, with pickup from central locations in Bangkok or Pattaya between 7:45 and 8:45 am. The comfortable, air-conditioned transportation makes the roughly 1.5-hour drive to the sanctuary quite relaxing. The sanctuary is located near Pattaya, so it’s a convenient escape from the city buzz, set amid beautiful mountain scenery.

The Sanctuary Environment

Once you arrive, the first thing you’ll notice is how peaceful and spacious the sanctuary is. Spanning 100 rai (roughly 40 acres), the site offers a genuine refuge for elephants that roam freely, forage naturally, and interact with their environment without restrictions. Many reviews highlight how clean and well-maintained the sanctuary is, with small details like clean restrooms and shower facilities making it comfortable for visitors.

Engaging with the Elephants

One of the most praised aspects is the opportunity to feed the elephants with fresh sugar cane—a favorite snack—and watch them interact naturally. Guides like Lulu and Adam, who received praise for their friendliness and knowledge, walk you through the elephants’ behaviors and backgrounds. The feeding session isn’t just a photo op; it’s an educational moment that emphasizes the importance of respecting these animals.

Travelers mention that they could walk among the elephants, which adds a sense of intimacy and awe. As Nicholas_H shared, they loved “walking with the elephants, feeding them, and then hopping in the water to splash them.” From a practical perspective, the guides make sure everyone knows how to approach and handle the elephants safely while respecting their space.

Bathing and Water Play

Bathing elephants in their watering holes is a highlight. Many reviews describe how interactive and fun it is to help wash these gentle giants, often with coconut and fruit included in the bathing process. It’s a rare chance to get wet, play with, and care for the elephants in a hands-on manner that feels natural and respectful.

The Midday Break and Lunch

At around noon, the tour takes a break for a local, flavorful lunch—the signature Ancient Pad Thai, made with fresh ingredients, is often highlighted as a delicious and authentic Thai dish. Reviewers mention that the lunch is plentiful and well-cooked, giving you the energy needed for the rest of the day.

Scenic Views and Relaxation

While activities are the main focus, many travelers rave about the stunning mountain views from the sanctuary’s sitting area. It’s a peaceful spot to relax, take photos, and absorb the natural beauty of the surroundings. The quiet, scenic atmosphere enhances the sense of escape from urban chaos.

Departure and Return

By 1:00 pm, it’s time to say goodbye to the elephants and head back to Bangkok or Pattaya. The round-trip transportation is usually smooth, with some travelers noting the friendly driver who keeps everyone informed about the journey. The tour wraps up around 2 pm, leaving plenty of time to enjoy the rest of your day.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At $45, this experience provides excellent value. It includes all entrance fees, transportation, a guided experience, and a substantial Thai lunch. Compared to other elephant attractions that focus on rides or commercial shows, Living Green focuses solely on ethical interaction—feeding, walking, and bathing—making it a responsible choice for animal lovers.

Many reviewers, like Christina_J, mention that this is “the only place near Bangkok where you truly feed, pet, and walk with the elephants,” emphasizing the authenticity. Plus, the presence of English and Chinese-speaking guides ensures clear communication and educational value.

The Authenticity and Ethical Approach

What sets this sanctuary apart is its commitment to the animals’ well-being. Elephants are allowed to roam freely and interact naturally, rather than being forced into performances or rides. Reviewers repeatedly note how happy and well-cared-for the elephants appear, with Lulu describing how they seem very content and loved.

The guides also share insights into the elephants’ history and the sanctuary’s conservation mission, making this a meaningful educational experience. This transparency and focus on animal welfare resonate with travelers who want their trip to have a positive impact.

Practical Tips for Visitors

• Wear comfortable clothing since you’ll be walking and participating in outdoor activities.
• Bring extra clothes, a towel, and sun protection like sunscreen and a hat, especially since some walking is involved.
• Be prepared for dirt and mud, as you may walk in natural terrains.
• Consider bringing insect spray and allergy medication if needed.
• The tour group is limited to 20 travelers, which helps maintain a personal experience—booking in advance is advisable.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re an animal lover seeking a genuine, ethical experience, you’ll find this tour rewarding. It’s also great for families, couples, or solo travelers who want to learn about elephants and conservation in a relaxed environment. The scenic views, friendly guides, and interactive activities make it a memorable outing that encourages respect for wildlife.

Travelers with moderate physical fitness will enjoy the walking and bathing activities without feeling overwhelmed. And if you’re craving something more responsible and natural compared to busy elephant parks, this sanctuary hits the mark.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour offers round-trip transportation from designated pickup points in Bangkok and Pattaya, in comfortable air-conditioned vehicles.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, starting early in the morning around 7:00 am and returning around 2 pm.

Are the activities suitable for children?
Most travelers with moderate fitness and a love for animals will enjoy the activities. However, parents should consider their children’s comfort with walking and water play.

Is the tour family-friendly?
Yes, the experience is suitable for families, especially those interested in eco-friendly and ethical wildlife encounters.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, insect spray, a towel, an extra set of clothes, and possibly swimming shoes for bathing. The sanctuary is clean, but a bit muddy terrain is expected.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the booking has a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance, allowing flexibility and peace of mind.

Final Thoughts

The Living Green Elephant Sanctuary near Pattaya offers an authentic and responsible way to experience Thailand’s elephants. It’s a thoughtfully curated experience that combines education, interaction, and natural beauty—all within a respectful environment that prioritizes animal welfare.

This tour is best suited for those who want a meaningful connection with elephants, enjoy scenic mountain views, and appreciate guides who are knowledgeable and friendly. The $45 price tag includes everything needed for a rewarding day—making it one of the most worthwhile animal encounters available near Bangkok.

For anyone craving an ethical, hands-on adventure that leaves a positive footprint, this sanctuary is an excellent choice. Just remember to bring your sense of curiosity and a camera—beautiful moments await.