Elephant Tour Zipline Waterfall & Rafting - Chiang Mai

Full-Day Elephant Sanctuary, Zipline & River Rafting Waterfall Adventure in Chiang Mai

Join us for a truly unforgettable adventure in the mountains of northern Thailand at the Elephant Freedom Project. This unique 3-in-1 full-day experience combines an ethical elephant sanctuary visit with thrilling outdoor activities including zip-lining through the rainforest and bamboo rafting along the Mae Wang River.

Your day begins with a scenic drive from Chiang Mai into the lush Mae Wang valley. Along the way, you will experience the beauty of northern Thailand’s mountains, rivers, and jungle landscapes.

The adventure starts with bamboo river rafting on the Mae Wang River, where you will float peacefully through the jungle while enjoying views of local villages and surrounding nature.

Next, prepare for an exciting zip-line adventure through the rainforest canopy, giving you a unique perspective of the jungle from above.

After your morning adventures, we arrive at the Elephant Freedom Project sanctuary for a delicious vegetarian Thai lunch overlooking the elephants. Following lunch, guests will participate in an elephant vitamin and supplement preparation session, learning how we care for and support the health of our rescued elephants.

You will then have the opportunity to hand-feed the elephants, followed by a memorable elephant river hike where you walk alongside these gentle giants as they explore their natural surroundings.

One of the highlights of the day is the elephant bathing and swimming experience, where guests can join the elephants in the river as they play and cool off in the water.

We finish the day with a short jungle walk to a beautiful mountain waterfall, where guests can relax, swim, and enjoy the peaceful setting before returning to Chiang Mai.

Throughout the experience, your knowledgeable mahout guide will share insights about elephant behavior, conservation efforts, and the important role ethical sanctuaries play in protecting these magnificent animals.

At the Elephant Freedom Project, we do not force our elephants to perform or ride. All interactions are natural and respectful, allowing the elephants to move freely and participate at their own pace.

This experience offers a rare opportunity to connect with elephants in a responsible environment while enjoying some of the most beautiful landscapes in Chiang Mai.

Tour Activities

• Zip-line through the rainforest canopy

• Bamboo rafting along the Mae Wang River

• Vegetarian Thai lunch overlooking the elephants

• Elephant vitamin and supplement preparation

• Hand-feed rescued elephants

• Elephant river hike with mahouts

• Elephant swimming and bathing experience

• Waterfall visit and swimming opportunity

• Complimentary coffee and snacks upon arrival

• Free Karen clothing (optional)

• Free download of all tour photos and videos

• On-site restrooms and locker room for personal items

Tour Exclusions

• Towels

• Closed-toe shoes

• Hat

• Sunglasses

• Sunscreen

• Bug repellent

Tips to Enhance Your Visit

• Wear comfortable shoes that can get wet or muddy during the river hike.

• Flip-flops are discouraged; sandals with straps or sneakers are recommended.

• Expect water levels of approximately 30–45 cm (12–18 inches) in some parts of the river.

• Stay hydrated and bring water for the jungle walk.

• Apply sunscreen and consider bringing insect repellent.

• Make sure your phone is fully charged — complimentary photos and videos will also be provided the day after your tour.

• Karen clothes are provided free of charge. These traditional Thai outfits are lightweight, quick-drying, and comfortable.

• We recommend wearing a swimsuit underneath if you plan to swim with the elephants or at the waterfall.

Full-Day Tour Itinerary

08:30 – Complimentary hotel pick-up in Chiang Mai

09:45 – Arrive at Mae Wang for bamboo rafting

11:00 – Zip-line adventure through the rainforest

12:05 – Arrive at the Elephant Freedom Project sanctuary

12:05 – 12:50 – Vegetarian Thai lunch overlooking the elephants

12:50 – 16:00 – Elephant activities including feeding, jungle walk, river bathing, and waterfall visit

16:00 – Say goodbye to your new elephant friends

17:15 – Return to Chiang Mai hotels

Few experiences in life are truly unforgettable, and spending the day with elephants in their natural environment is one of them. Our experienced guides, including local mahouts who have worked with elephants for many years, will help you gain a deeper understanding of these intelligent and gentle animals.

Guests often describe this experience as one of the highlights of their visit to Thailand.

The Elephant Freedom Project is dedicated to providing rescued elephants with a safe and natural environment where they can live peacefully without exploitation.

We welcome guests from around the world and are honored to share this experience with you.

For questions or assistance, feel free to contact us via WhatsApp: +66 95 560 2569

Customer support is available daily from 08:00 to 20:00.

Important Information

• Round-trip transportation from Chiang Mai City included

• Complimentary photos and videos provided after the tour

• Same-day and last-minute bookings welcome

• Difficulty level: Moderate

• Not wheelchair accessible

• Special dietary requests for lunch can be accommodated

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Do you accept last-minute reservations?

A: Yes. Last-minute and same-day bookings are welcome depending on availability.

Q: How far is the sanctuary from Chiang Mai?

A: The Elephant Freedom Project is located approximately one hour from Chiang Mai city.

Q: Should I bring a change of clothes or a swimsuit?

A: Karen clothes are provided free of charge. Many guests bring a swimsuit to wear underneath if they plan to swim with the elephants or at the waterfall.

Q: Do you force the elephants to participate in activities?

A: No. Our elephants are free to move and interact naturally. We never force them to perform or participate.

Q: Are there changing rooms and bathrooms available?

A: Yes. The sanctuary provides changing rooms and separate restroom facilities.

Q: Are photos and videos included?

A: Yes. Complimentary photos and videos are shared with guests via a download link within 24 hours after the tour.

Q: Are elephant rides offered?

A: No. The Elephant Freedom Project does not offer elephant riding. Our mission is to promote ethical elephant tourism and conservation.

Q: How long can visitors spend at the sanctuary?

A: We offer several programs including full-day tours, half-day tours, and shorter feeding experiences.

Q: Are there accommodation options at the sanctuary?

A: We do not offer accommodation on site, but nearby mountain guesthouses are available and we are happy to assist with recommendations.

Q: Are elephant sanctuaries in Thailand regulated?

A: Yes. Elephant facilities in Thailand must meet government regulations and certification requirements.

Q: Are children allowed on the tour?

A: Yes. Children aged three years and younger may join free of charge.