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Activity Chiang Mai, Thailand

Elephant Sanctuary Chiang Mai, River Rafting, Zipline & Waterfall

5.0 (73 reviews) 9 hours Free cancellation
Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

Elephant Sanctuary Chiang Mai, River Rafting, Zipline & Waterfall

About this activity

Visit an ethical elephant sanctuary in Chiang Mai focused on observation and education, and enjoy an unforgettable adventure including bamboo river rafting, zipline, and a visit to the beautiful Mae Sapok Waterfall.

Begin your journey with hotel pickup in Chiang Mai before heading into the mountains to visit an ethical elephant sanctuary where rescued elephants live in a natural jungle environment.

Learn about the traditional elephant care and the role of mahouts (care-keeper) while observing rescued elephants roaming freely in their natural environment.

Continue the adventure with a scenic bamboo river rafting experience through lush forest landscapes, offering a peaceful and authentic way to explore the countryside of Mae Wang.

After your river journey, enjoy a short hike to the stunning Mae Sapok Waterfall.

Guests will enjoy a delicious vegetarian Thai buffet lunch prepared with fresh local ingredients, offering a taste of traditional Thai cuisine in a sanctuary setting.

Day Trips Full-day Tours Bus Tours Private and Luxury Sustainable Tours Walking Tours Nature Walks Involves Animals

At a glance

Duration
9 hours
Confirmation
Instant confirmation
Ticket
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group
Up to 25 people
People per booking
1–15
Guide
Thai, English
Written guide
Thai, English
Operated by
Elephant Freedom Project

Ages: Infants (0–3 years) · Children (4–9 years) · Adults (10–99 years)

What is included

Included

  • Included: Traditional Thai vegetarian buffet lunch served at the elephant sanctuary. All meals are gluten free.
  • Included: Bamboo rafting experience Mae Wang River. Relaxing rafting along the River surrounded by jungle.
  • Included: Bottled water
  • Included: Entrance fees: Admission to an ethical elephant sanctuary in the scenic Mae Wang valley.
  • Included: Zipline adventure Mae Wang. Jungle zipline adventure with safety equipment and trained instructors.
  • Included: Elephant vitamin ball preparation activity for the elephants using natural ingredients.
  • Included: Tea and coffee: Coffee and/or Tea
  • Included: In-vehicle air conditioning: Round-trip transportation from hotels within Chiang Mai city limits in an air-conditioned vehicle.
  • Included: Professional English & Thai speaking guide, providing insight into elephants & local culture.

Not included

  • Not included: Alcoholic beverages are not included in the tour price.

Itinerary

  1. Mae Wang

    Passing by

    Travel through the beautiful Mae Wang district south of Chiang Mai, known for its lush mountain scenery, Karen hill tribe communities, and traditional elephant culture.

    This rural valley provides the natural environment where the elephants live and roam.

  2. Stop 2

    3 hours Admission included

    Visit an ethical elephant sanctuary in Chiang Mai located in the Mae Wang mountains. Guests will observe rescued elephants roaming freely in their natural habitat while learning about traditional mahout culture.

    You will watch the elephants forage, socialize, and enjoy a refreshing river bathing experience alongside their mahouts.

  3. Stop 3

    one hour

    Enjoy a scenic jungle walk to Mae Sapok Waterfall located in the Mae Wang valley.

    Guests can relax beside the waterfall, explore the surrounding forest, and swim in the natural pools before returning to the sanctuary.

  4. Stop 4

    one hour Admission included

    Experience an exciting zipline adventure set in the lush jungle of the Mae Wang valley. After a safety briefing and equipment fitting, guests will glide through the forest canopy on a series of ziplines and platforms while enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and tropical landscape.

    Professional guides ensure a safe and enjoyable experience suitable for beginners and adventure seekers alike.

  5. Stop 5

    one hour Admission included

    Enjoy a peaceful bamboo rafting experience along the Mae Wang River, surrounded by lush jungle scenery and mountain views.

    Guests float downstream on a traditional bamboo raft guided by an experienced local boatman. This relaxing journey offers a unique way to experience the natural beauty of northern Thailand and observe local village life along the riverbanks.

Meeting point and pickup

You can be picked up from your accommodation or go straight to the meeting point.

Meeting point

  • Please meet our guide at the Three Kings Monument in the center of Chiang Mai Old City. Our team will be waiting near the statue holding an Elephant Freedom Project sign.

    If you have difficulty please contact us via WhatsApp at +66 95 785 5191.

End point

  • Please meet our guide at the Three Kings Monument in the center of Chiang Mai Old City. Our team will be waiting near the statue holding an Elephant Freedom Project sign.

    If you have difficulty please contact us via WhatsApp at +66 95 785 5191.

Pickup points

  • Ritalanna Riverside Spa Resort
  • Akira Thaphae Hotel
  • Collection O Khu Mueang Near Tha Phae Gate
  • Baanswn`Inthaawn Baansuan In Town Hotel
  • Baan Chinnakarn
  • PE-LA Thapae Boutique Hotel
  • Dancenter Bupamontra Chiangmai
  • Glory Wabi Sabi Hotel
  • Amora Thapae Hotel Chiang Mai
  • Sleep Mai? Lifestyle Hotel Thapae
  • Muang Thong
  • North Star Guest House

and 494 more pickup points

Complimentary round-trip transportation from Chiang Mai City is included.

Pickup time is typically between 08:15–08:45 AM, depending on your hotel location. Exact pickup time will be confirmed on the morning of the tour by 7:45 AM.

Please wait in the hotel lobby or at the main entrance 10 minutes before your scheduled pickup time.

If you are staying at an Airbnb or private residence, please provide the full address and a WhatsApp contact number so our team can coordinate your pickup easily.

If your accommodation is located outside the Chiang Mai City pickup zone, we will contact you to arrange the closest meeting point.

Using your ticket

Ticket Redemption Instructions

Please present your Viator booking confirmation (mobile or printed) to your driver at pickup.

Hotel pickup is included for hotels within Chiang Mai city. Pickup time is typically between 08:15–08:45 AM depending on your location.

Our team will contact you on the morning of the tour by 7:45AM via WhatsApp or your email to confirm the exact pickup time.

If you have any questions please contact us using the phone number provided in your booking confirmation.

Cancellation

Free cancellation

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

If you cancel You get back
At least one day before 100%
Less than a day before 0%
  • The operator may cancel if too few people book; you then get another date or your money back.

Good to know

  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Traveller ratings

5.0 out of 5 · 73 reviews
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Activities, prices and reviews are from Viator. Booking and payment happen on Viator; Vacantier may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Elephant Sanctuary Chiang Mai, River Rafting, Zipline & Waterfall

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