Elephant PooPoo Paper Park & Sticky Waterfall

Taking a trip to Chiang Mai isn’t complete without exploring its unconventional attractions, and this private tour offers just that. It combines a fascinating look into eco-friendly paper-making with a scenic climb up a natural waterfall. We haven’t personally been on this tour, but a detailed look at the offerings suggests it’s a quirky, family-friendly experience packed with educational value and memorable moments.

What we love about this tour is the chance to see something truly different — transforming elephant waste into beautiful paper products — all in a private setting that puts your group front and center. Plus, the included hands-on activities and a scenic waterfall stop promise genuine fun. The only caveat is that some visitors felt the guide’s role was more about transportation than detailed storytelling. So, if you’re expecting an in-depth guide, you might want to prepare some questions ahead.

This tour is perfect for families, curious travelers, or those wanting a break from temples and traditional sightseeing. If you’re after a fun, educational outing that combines sustainability, creativity, and nature, this experience could be just the ticket.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Private transport and exclusive access make this a relaxed, intimate tour.
• Educational & Hands-On: Learn how elephant waste is turned into paper, then create your own crafts.
• Scenic Highlight: Climb the Sticky Waterfall to enjoy natural beauty and a bit of adventure.
• Value for Money: Includes lunch, admission fees, and transportation, making it a convenient package.
• Family Friendly: Suitable for kids and adults alike, with plenty of interactive activities.
• Weather-Dependent: Good weather is a must; rain could impact the waterfall climbing.

Exploring the Elephant PooPoo Paper Park

The tour kicks off with a private pick-up in Chiang Mai, setting the tone for a smooth, stress-free day. Once at the park, you’ll get a guided overview of the eco-friendly process that transforms elephant dung into paper. This part of the experience is surprisingly educational; you’ll learn about the importance of elephants and why sustainable paper-making matters.

Visitors, including families, can get involved right away by making their own recycled paper crafts. This hands-on activity is not just fun but also makes the process memorable. One reviewer mentioned, “Good interesting excursion, lots of hands-on experience and lovely guide.” Although some felt the guide’s role was limited to basic information, the interactive craft session was definitely a highlight for many.

The park itself is designed with family-friendly features in mind, allowing children to see, touch, and understand the process behind eco-conscious products. It’s a rare chance to learn about sustainability in a way that feels accessible, even for young kids. Plus, there’s plenty of room for photos, and the quirky concept of elephant waste being turned into art makes for great conversation starters.

The Scenic Sticky Waterfall Experience

After the paper park, the tour takes you to a beautiful natural waterfall where you can climb over rocks and enjoy some light adventure. The Sticky Waterfall gets its name from the mineral deposits that create a textured surface, allowing climbers to ascend without slipping. It’s a wonderful way to connect with nature and enjoy some physical activity.

While the waterfall is undoubtedly a highlight, it’s essential to be prepared — sturdy shoes and a sense of adventure are recommended. One reviewer described it as a “scenic climb,” emphasizing the natural beauty and fun of the experience. Keep in mind, the tour’s timing is approximately five hours, so it’s a half-day adventure perfect for those wanting a mix of education and outdoor fun.

Logistics and Practical Details

The tour is priced at around $61.64 per person, which covers most essentials: private transportation, lunch, all fees, and an English-speaking guide. This inclusive approach means you don’t have to worry about hidden costs or finding your way there. The transportation is comfortable, with a dedicated driver ensuring a smooth journey.

The tour departs at 9:00 am, making it a good choice for a morning start. It’s designed for most travelers, with most reviews noting that it’s suitable for families and those with a curiosity for unique experiences. Since it’s a private activity, your party won’t be crowded, allowing for a more personal and relaxed outing.

One thing to note: weather plays a role in the waterfall experience. If it rains heavily, climbing may become unsafe or impractical. The tour provider offers a full refund or rescheduling if the weather cancels the activity, providing peace of mind.

Authentic Reviews and Insights

While the overall rating is a solid 4 out of 5, feedback reveals some nuances. A reviewer named Kassaye_B found the tour “not worth the money,” mainly because they expected a more guided experience, especially traveling alone with a young child. They felt the guide was more like a driver, offering basic info they already knew, and suggested hiring a driver or renting a car for more flexibility.

Conversely, Michael_C rated the tour 5 out of 5, calling it “an unusual tour but well worth doing.” They appreciated the hands-on experience, lovely guide, and the chance to break from temple visits. Their enthusiasm indicates the tour delivers on its promise of a fun, educational outing.

These differing experiences underscore the importance of expectations. This tour is more about self-guided learning and interaction than storytelling; it’s best suited for those who enjoy doing and exploring rather than just listening.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is a great pick for families and curious travelers looking for something different from the usual temple and market tours. It offers a unique glimpse into sustainability and creativity, with the added bonus of outdoor activity on the Sticky Waterfall.

While it’s a cost-effective option, the value truly lies in the interactive nature and exclusive private setting. If you’re after an engaging, fun-filled half-day that combines education, nature, and a dash of adventure, this tour ticks those boxes.

However, if you prefer more guided storytelling or are traveling solo with high expectations of detailed explanations, you might find the guide’s role a bit limited. It’s also best to consider your comfort with outdoor climbing, especially in wet conditions.

This tour stands out as an authentic, quirky, and memorable activity in Chiang Mai, perfect for those wanting to learn something new while enjoying scenic views and outdoor fun.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is family-friendly, with plenty of hands-on activities that kids will enjoy, especially the craft-making part.

What should I wear for the Sticky Waterfall climb?
Sturdy shoes are recommended for climbing, and bring a change of clothes if you want to enjoy the waterfall without worry about getting wet.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 5 hours, including transportation, activities, and lunch.

Is lunch included in the price?
Yes, the tour includes a meal, so you won’t need to bring your own food.

What is the best time of day to start?
The tour begins at 9:00 am, ideal for a morning start to make the most of the day and to avoid afternoon rain.

Can I cancel or reschedule if the weather is bad?
Yes, the provider offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and if the activity is canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is the guide informative?
The guide provides basic information and is friendly and punctual, but some travelers wished for more in-depth storytelling.

What’s the overall value of this tour?
Considering all fees, lunch, and private transport, the price offers good value for an educational and outdoor experience in Chiang Mai.

This tour is an excellent choice for travelers seeking a mix of quirky education, outdoor adventure, and authentic local experiences without breaking the bank. It’s a playful way to learn about sustainability while enjoying some scenic climbs and family fun.