ONE DAY TOUR


Perfect for those short on time but eager for an unforgettable experience, our one-day tour immerses you in the natural beauty of Northern Thailand’s lush jungle, while offering a meaningful encounter with majestic elephants in their natural habitat.
This hands-off, truly ethical elephant adventure lets you observe elephants roaming freely, just as nature intended. Along the way, you’ll trek through breathtaking scenery, enjoy a freshly prepared jungle lunch, and gain a glimpse into the traditions of local communities. Here’s what you can expect on your day with us...


  • Soak in the serenity of Northern Thailand’s untouched jungle
  • Observe elephants roaming freely in their natural habitat
  • Learn about elephant conservation from experienced guides and mahouts
  • Enjoy a delicious, locally prepared lunch in the heart of the jungle
  • Hands-off, ethical elephant encounters—no riding, no touching, no bathing, no feeding


  • 7:00 - 7:30 AM – Hotel Pick-Up

    Pick up from your Chiang Mai city hotel (if you’re staying outside the city, please mention this in the booking details as additional charges may apply).

    7:30 - 10:00 AM – Drive to the Jungle!

    Enjoy a scenic drive through Northern Thailand’s stunning landscapes, stopping for a short toilet/refreshment break along the way. The final 30 minute leg of the journey is in the back of a pickup truck, hold on tight!

    10:00 - 10:30 AM – Rest Break

    Upon arrival, you’ll have time to enjoy a light snack/drink and use the facilities before we start the hike!

    10:30 AM - 12:15 PM – Guided Trek to Find Elephants

    Join our experienced guides and mahouts as we walk into the jungle to find the elephants in their natural jungle environment. This hands-off experience allows you to observe them in their most natural habitat!

    12:15 - 1:00 PM – Lunch

    Take a break and enjoy a delicious, locally prepared lunch, served to you in the middle of the jungle. All of our food is 100% vegetarian/vegan, and served on biodegradable banana leaves. Please let us know in advance if you have any other dietary requirements!

    1:00 - 2:15 PM – Continue Trekking & Observing Elephants

    After lunch, we continue to trek and find the rest of the herd. You’ll witness their interactions with each other and their environment, all from a respectful distance. Our guides will share insights into their behaviours and conservation efforts.

    2:15 - 2:45 PM – Trek Back to the Viewing Platform

    We’ll walk back through the jungle to the main platform.

    2:45 - 3:00 PM – Refreshment/Toilet Break

    Before leaving, have a refreshment or use the bathroom. Soak in the natural beauty of these local surroundings.

    3:00 - 5:30 PM – Drive Back to Your Hotel

    Sit back and relax on the scenic drive back to Chiang Mai, with lasting memories of your day spent with these incredible animals. We will drop you back off at your hotel!

    (Note: times may vary due to traffic, weather, or road conditions. If you have evening travel plans, please let us know in advance to ensure a timely return).



  • Lunch - please let us know on your booking form if you have any dietary requirements
  • Transportation - all transportation is included (mini van and pick up truck)
  • Insurance - all our guests are covered by our insurance
  • Drinking water - we provide bottled drinking water
  • English speaking tour guide - all of our tour guides can speak English and are extremely knowledgeable of the local area and elephants
  • Rain boots and jackets upon request - please let us know in advance if you need to borrow boots or a jacket!


  • Tips for the guides (optional)
  • Sunscreen, bug spray, appropriate clothing, etc.


  • What to bring: hat, sunscreen, shoes appropriate for walking in the jungle, long trousers and top to protect yourself from insects in the jungle, camera, bug repellent, rain jacket for rainy season (May - October).
  • Trip operational months: we run all year round.
  • Fitness level: requires a moderate level of fitness, as the hike can be challenging depending on where the elephants are located on the day.
  • Age suitability: we would advise that children over the age of 7/8 should be fine to participate.



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    Phone: +66 62 201-2355

    Email: info@elephantecotrails.com


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