Elephant Haven

About Us

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Make Memories With Us

Our Story

Elephant Haven Thailand began with a simple yet powerful mission — to give elephants a life of freedom, dignity, and peace. Nestled within the lush greenery of Sai Yok National Park in Kanchanaburi, our sanctuary was transformed from a former trekking camp into a peaceful home where elephants can truly live as nature intended.

Supported by Lek Chailert, founder of Save Elephant Foundation and Elephant Nature Park, the camp moved toward the ethical “Saddle Off” model — a philosophy that prioritizes compassion, respect, and natural living for elephants. This transition reflects a growing movement across Thailand and Asia to change elephant tourism into something kinder and more sustainable.

Today, six rescued elephants roam freely across forested land, socialise with one another, enjoy refreshing river time, and play in mud baths. Visitors can observe these natural behaviours up close, gaining a deeper appreciation for their emotional intelligence and complex social bonds.

Your visit directly supports ethical elephant care and helps us provide a safe, natural, and loving environment for elephants in need. Whether you choose a one‑day experience, an overnight stay, or a one‑week volunteer program, you become part of a meaningful effort to create a better future for elephants.

Be Part of the Change

No riding, No shows,
JUST LOVE !

A New Beginning for Elephants

Big change has arrived — no elephant riding, no shows, no chains. At Elephant Haven Thailand, we believe that elephants deserve a life of dignity, freedom, and peace. Our sanctuary in Sai Yok, Kanchanaburi, was transformed from a traditional trekking camp into an ethical “Saddle Off” model, with support from the team at Elephant Nature Park.

This transformation marked a turning point, allowing elephants to live naturally without pressure or performance. Since opening under the Saddle Off model on August 23, 2015, Elephant Haven has become a safe refuge where elephants can rediscover their natural rhythms.

Life at Elephant Haven Today

Today, the herd enjoys roaming together through forested land, foraging for food, playing joyfully in the mud, and cooling off in the River Kwai. Young and old alike have been rightfully retired from work, free from saddles and free from performing.

Visitors can observe these behaviors up close — walking beside them, watching them interact, and seeing the emotional depth and strong social bonds that make elephants so remarkable. Every moment spent here is filled with quiet beauty and meaningful connection.

A Place of Respect

At Elephant Haven, our goal is simple: to create an environment built on respect. We welcome guests to meet elephants in a safe, gentle, and natural setting that honors who they truly are.

Your visit directly supports ethical elephant care and helps ensure a better future for elephants in Thailand. Whether you join us for a day, an overnight stay, or a longer volunteering experience, you become part of a movement that is changing elephants’ lives for the better.

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