On arrival enjoy complimentary refreshments before we watch an informative introduction video. We then meet and feed our elephants before going on a scenic walk through the forest observing and learning about their history, their stories, and their unique personalities. We don't follow a set route, our elephants are free to roam and forage, and if our elephants stop, we stop! Relax in our Bamboo Observation Huts as the elephant’s graze, play in the mud or bathe nearby with stunning views of the forest and a view over the valley to Big Buddha. So many fabulous photo and video opportunities! You will end your visit with a delicious vegetarian Thai buffet at our fabulous bamboo salas overlooking the pond as the elephant’s bathe and graze nearby. Your visit directly supports our work to rescue and rehabilitate elephants. Our key focus is to educate and bring awareness to the plight of the Asian Elephant and lead by example with our ethical approach to experiencing elephants.
This is a wonderful place with staff that really care, there are so many points of view regarding the care of elephants this gives a wonderful expert view, great location is the hills, with beautiful elephants, would visit again
Amazing place, really kind nature and elephants are treated so well - calm atmosphere and lovely trip.
OMG what an experience. To see these beautiful animals in their habitat and witnessing the care they are given by staff, and knowing that they’re wellbeing is always the number one priority. Absolutely an unforgettable memory in our hearts.
We had the heads up on this sanctuary in Hong Kong and as we were visiting Phuket booked onto this tour. Wow ...it was such a special morning spent with the incredible team who work with the elephants they have rescued. Ironically one of them came from a place we had driven past and seen the elephants at the side of the road as tourist attraction. To hear about the sufferering they endure it was just magical to see these elephants back in a safe and natural environment. Although you can feed them food, visitors are not allowed to touch them but they have created a clever way for visitors to observe them from close up. We also were given a beautiful meal at the top viewing point and the opportunity to see the elephants bathe in the water and just be happy and be free. Highly recommend
Great experience! This is a fantastic place to go, where they care about the animals not about making lots of money from them. It was so nice to go to this sanctuary and see the love and care they provide to these elephants, who have already experienced the worst. Would highly recommend and please support them!!
We had an amazing experience at the Hidden Forest! We did a lot of research trying to find an actual ethical hands-off and elephant first experience in Thailand. Upon arriving it was clear that the organisation and staff were extremely anti unethical tourist experiences, this included no touching, no bathing, no riding or any other performance. We started off with a presentation where they explained the dark side of elephant tourism along with explaining all the elephants at the reserve and their names, personalities and backgrounds. After this we went down to feed the elephants in a small group, which was the only interactive and natural part of the tour. We then went onto observe the elephants whilst they travelled uphill to continue feeding, before finally observing them from a raised viewing area where they bathed, and whilst we ate a vegan Thai lunch that was homemade by the staff. We would definitely recommend this tour, you can tell the elephants are loved by the staff after their heartbreaking past treatment from their previous owners.
I had a truly amazing experience at Phuket Elephant Sanctuary. We did the afternoon half-day tour with pick-up included, and everything was extremely well organised from start to finish. What I loved most was that the experience was completely elephant-led. Each elephant had its own mahout caring for it, and the elephants were free to roam naturally without being forced to do anything — no bathing, no touching, and no performances. We simply observed them in their natural environment, at their own pace. I loved learning about each elephant’s rescue story, personality, and journey while watching them go about their afternoon. 🐘❤️ Our guides were friendly, knowledgeable, and genuinely passionate about the elephants and the sanctuary’s mission. They explained everything so well, making the experience both educational and incredibly enjoyable. And the vegetarian lunch? Absolutely delicious! 🌱 We ate while watching my favourite animals play with their friends in a natural pool. Sitting there, surrounded by nature, watching these beautiful creatures simply being elephants… I felt completely at peace. I was at peace in Thailand, and this experience was the cherry on top. 🇹🇭💚 A beautiful afternoon, a meaningful experience, and what felt like a truly ethical way to encounter these incredible animals. 10/10 — an experience I’ll never forget. 🐘✨
We did a lot of research for a genuine ethical elephant sanctuary in Phuket. This seems to be the only one. No bathing, no touching, elephants roam free and aren’t at the whims of tourists - they are put first. They also cap numbers and we had a very small group to observe the elephants. You can still get very close to observe. Some of the stories of the elephants life before were so sad; the obvious scars from previous mistreatment for one, to the elephant that came to them with broken spine from over-riding. This reserve is doing good things, and is run by very kind and caring people. Go here if you want to see an actual ethical sanctuary at work. Give this sanctuary your money.
Lovely to see the elephants eat and interact with each other. Watched the elephants bath while eating a delicious lunch.
Magical experience with the ladies. Very informative guides and interesting antidotes. Enjoyed the lunch and the mahouts interacting with their elephants. Would highly recommend this tour in beautiful rainforest surrounds.
What a wonderful experience. We got up close to the elephants, fed them, and watched them play. All while letting them be in their natural environment. The handlers were so gentle, never speaking to the elephants, only taking their cues from them. It was beautiful to watch. Everyone should experience elephants this way instead of the awful tourist way of bathing with or riding them, both of which are harmful to the elephants.
The morning tour was very informative and we got to feed th elephants and observe them. I valued th hands off ethical approach this organisation took with their tours. You could clearly see each elephant was loved and cared for to a high level. Learning about th personalities of each individual elephant made it much more special. Highly recommend.
Wow wow wow! Definitely a tour you need to tick off your bucket list. We had an amazing experience & learnt so much about these incredible elephants. The world needs to hear so much more about this sanctuary. Each part of the tour was informative & the lunch made by the family members was amazing. Definitely do this one. Wear runners & pack your mosquitoes spray!!
The tour of the Hidden Forest Elephant Sanctuary was a wonderful experience. We walked with the elephants and loved seeing them happy and enjoying being elephants. We learnt about their lives prior to being rescued and watched them exhibiting natural behaviour that they had never been allowed during their many years of captivity. All the people working at the sanctuary are totally dedicated to their care and wellbeing . A highlight of the visit was watching the elephants play in the waterholes while we enjoyed a vegetarian Thai lunch prepared by the wives of the Mahouts. I am so happy that we went there and would recommend this excursion to everyone. Kate Smith
Well put together lots of facts and information easy to understand
An exciting trip to the Hidden Forest elephant sanctuary where we had the opportunity to feed elephants,learn about them and see them in their natural environment enjoying everything offered by the employees who are 100% dedicated to their care. We also had a vegetarian meal, just like the elephants' food. 100%recommended.
What an amazing experience, loved everything about it. The guides were fantastic & knowledgeable, the Elephants were beautiful in habitat that was natural, food was also a delicious bonus - would highly recommend the Hidden forest experience.
A wonderful experience! The staff were welcoming and knowledgeable! The elephants look happy and well cared for. My family absolutely loved every moment of it!
This was a phenomenal half day experience. The elephants are rescued from tourist operators and given the opportunity to be socialised back into a herd and to live a more natural and normal life. You are given the opportunity to feed them but the focus is on learning about these beautiful creatures in a peaceful setting. The lunch was delicious and the guides were very friendly and so knowledgeable. I would thoroughly recommend the Hidden Forest animal sanctuary. Thank you to the awesome owners and staff, my family and I had a wonderful time!
What can I say. We arrived in Thailand with a view to seeing the elephants in their natural habitat. After researching a number of places with some unethical practices, we stumbled across this absolute dream of an organisation, who rescue elephants from a working or tourist background. They have been treated horribly and the welcome video to the tour did bring a tear to me eye. The guided tours and mahoots were amazing with us and the elephants. It was great to see the elephants being so well looked after. You can feed the elephants a snack (bananas) at a safe distance; and as you walk amongst these beautiful animals you are guided to a lovely meal above the lakes where these animals bathe and have fun. It is a magical experience! The mahoots live on the reserve with their wives who cook us the food. It was delicious! Also a massive thanks to Louise and the team for accommodating my partner who is recovering from knee surgery. They were ever so nice by taking her to each station by vehicle. These tours help fund the reserve and help save even more elephants from a horrible life. I can't recommend this tour enough!
We booked the half day afternoon session, and had a shared mini bus pick up and that was great. The experience lasted approximately 3hrs. The staff are incredible, I had a knee operation and they really were attentive. As for the elephant experience WOW! It really is a beautiful sanctuary for them. They look well looked after. So much space for them to roam around freely and do whatever they want to do. Which is how it should be. Louise and her team do an incredible job. Other than feeding the elephants bananas, its a complete hands off experience which is what we were wanting. And the food provided was an added bonus, extremely tasty. I am so glad we found this little gem. I just hope more people hear about it and so it helps prevent money going to the other non ethical sanctuaries. I would 100% recommend this sanctuary!
Great experience to learn about each elephant's journey and how they arrived at this ethical sanctuary. You will be able to get close enough to feed them, but no riding, touching, bathing or any other circus tricks. You can see them in their natural habitat up close. Also, a nice vegetarian lunch is provided while you watch the elephants bathe. Definitely recommend this sanctuary.
This is a group that's passionate about elephants. What majestic animals. It was a joy to feed & watch them. The pace was not too strenuous, water was always available, th lunch buffet was delicious. I highly recommend this tour for animal lovers.
A great ethical elephant experience. We visited Hidden Forest after doing some research into ethical elephant experiences in Phuket. The tour was lovely. We learnt about the stories of the elephants they have rescued from the logging and tourism industries. We got to feed the elephants without causing them any unnecessary stress and got a close up look at the elephants trekking though the park and bathing. The sanctuary does a great job at putting the elephants' welfare first, and seeing them just being elephants was a great breath of fresh air. If you're visiting Phuket and want to see elephants, please choose an ethical option that prioritises the welfare of these amazing animals
One of the most amazing experiences throughly enjoyed myself. Lunch was provided and was excellent
It was wonderful to see the elephants in an environment where you could see them very well but they were also able to wonder off and do their own thing. It was very interesting to hear the stories of the elephants and how they ended up at the sanctuary, I had no idea they lived for so long. All the guides were very knowledgeable and that was great as we all had a lot of questions. We went in the morning and finished with lunch in a hillside area overlooking the ponds where the elephants bathe. The food was great and it was lovely to observe the elephants while we ate.
We had an incredible experience at Hidden Forest Elephant Reserve in Phuket. What really stood out to us was the amazing work the team are doing to rescue elephants from captivity and give them a safe, ethical home. You can genuinely see how much they care about the animals’ wellbeing. We loved that the experience focused on observing and interacting with the elephants in a respectful way, without riding or bathing them. Being able to get close, watch them roam freely, and feed them was such a special and memorable experience. The team were knowledgeable, passionate, and happy to answer all our questions. To top it off, we enjoyed a delicious vegetarian Thai lunch in beautiful surroundings — the perfect end to a meaningful visit. Highly recommend this if you’re looking for an ethical elephant experience in Phuket.
Totally different then how I thought the visit/walk would be. Still very nicely arranged, interesting to see. Worth the visit!
Absolutely superb place to visit. Friendly, informative staff - so passionate about caring for their beautiful elephants. A superb balance of activities during the visit with plenty of time to watch the elephants both up close and further away. Delicious lunch. Superb environment for the elephants. Can 100% recommend a visit.
This was a brilliant experience. The guides were all really friendly and knowledgeable. It was important to us that we went to an ethical sanctuary (no bathing etc.). You start with a talk about the elephant sanctuary, and then you go to see them and feed them some bananas. Our group fed Bestie and Boss Lady. Afterwards, you watch them all make their way up the reserve and observe them eating at their feeding stations. We finished the day with a nice lunch watching over the elephants in the water. The best part was learning about the individual elephants and seeing their personalities! Our favourites were Granny and Princess.
Wow what an amazing experience my husband and myself really wanted to see some elephants and my niece who works in Thailand recommended this place. Really enjoyed are morning with you . Staff were fab and can’t believe how close you get to the elephants feeding them and watching them bathe was a truly fantastic experience. Well done to all the lovely staff . So nice to see the elephants enjoying there old age in piece .
Amazing experience. The environment felt so peaceful and natural and the elephants were calm and so well cared for. It was so special to have time to just watch the elephants behaving naturally, to listen to them interact with each other and to observe their features up close without touching. The guides were extremely knowledgeable throughout the experience. Feeding the elephants bananas was a highlight and again was done with so much respect and care towards the elephants. Lunch provided was adequate and their was plenty of cold water during the day. This excursion was q highlight of my trip to Thailand and I strongly recommend choosing an ethical sanctuary to appreciate these amazing creatures
We visited the Hidden Forest Elephant Reserve for the half day morning tour and it was truly spectacular! The elephants are so well cared for and the tour so well organised. Lunch was equally enjoyable whilst we watch the elephants bathe in the water below. I would 100% recommend a visit, we learnt to much and the fact it is an ethical reserve makes it feel even more special.
Wonderful afternoon spent with the elephants. All the staff & carers were very friendly & informative. Lovely to see the rescued elephants in a safe & natural environment. Lunch was also very nice. The whole experience was definitely value for money. Only downside was the vehicle used for pick up & drop off, it was a very old minibus van with hardly any air conditioning, which made the 40 minute journey uncomfortable.
Best experience of our trip so far. Highly recommended! Elephants are treated well and guide are very friendly. Overall very enjoyable.
Our experience at Hidden Forest Elephant Sanctuary was truly unforgettable. From the moment we arrived, Louise and the team created an experience that felt calm, respectful, and genuinely educational. We were travelling with our two young children (3 and 4), and they were completely captivated from start to finish. What made this experience so special was how natural everything felt. There was no sense of performance or control, just quiet, respectful moments watching the elephants move through their environment, interact with each other, and simply be elephants. It felt far more like a safari than a typical sanctuary visit. As parents, we were initially unsure whether our children might be too young, but the team were incredible with them. They felt safe, involved, and engaged throughout, and days later they’re still talking about “the elephant forest.” The setting itself is peaceful and beautiful, the explanations were clear and thoughtful without being overwhelming, and even the food was a highlight (the spring rolls were fantastic). We don’t leave many reviews, but this is one experience we felt compelled to share. Hidden Forest is doing something truly special, and we couldn’t recommend it more highly, particularly for families looking for an ethical, meaningful way to experience elephants in Thailand.
The tour was the highlight of our trip. Everything was explained and in case of questions there was always great staff which answered all of our questions. I highly recomend for everyone who doesnt agree with elephant bathing and riding. It’s a uphill but dont worry at almost every stop there is a water pump where you can get water. Overall highly recommend
If you are after a true ethical elephant experience this is the one. Elephants are treated well and visitors have a wonderful experience and lunch. Highly recommend.
Highlight of our trip to Thailand. It was great to see the elephants up close and learn more about them. The guides were very friendly knowledgeable. Families with children had an age appropriate tour at their own pace. All was well planned! Highly recommended!
I did a lot of research from the UK prior to visiting this Sanctuary. I was determined not to feed into anything that was cruel in any way. From the moment we arrived I could tell I has made the right decision. They not only rescue elephants they also have cats, dogs, geese which were rescued and introduced to us. The event is set up in such a structured way that it is peaceful so you can feed, observe and walk with the elephants in stages where the elephants are truly relaxed. Not once did I see any staff member prod or nudge the elephants In the direction they wanted them to be. We simply waited until the elephants wanted to move. All the staff are wonderful. I highly recommend this beautiful place. I am someone who cares deeply about animal welfare and it brought tears to my eyes being able to experience such a truly magical experience. I urge anyone to think very careful before going to just any "ethical" elephant experience. If you are swimming with them, riding them or touching them it's not what they want and a level or control is needed for these types of activities. Today each elephants has a 1:1 carer who knew the individual elephant and clearly had the elephants trust. The vegan meal was absolutely delicious. We watched the elephants swim and play whilst we ate with no need for humans to intervene. It was just beautiful. I wish I was a wealthy person as I wouldve definitely of donated significantly. I did spend a small fortune buying lots of gorgeous things in the gift shop. Highly highly recommended this wonderful Sanctuary.
Staying here at the moment, lovely staff, beautiful location overlooking the sea. The main pool is very near the beach and overlooks the sea. It is is picturesque and serene….except when they have a wedding / event! There’s been an outdoor daytime wedding today (and there are more over the weekend, guess they are a regular occurrence) they’ve played very, very, very, very loud music, there was also an MC shouting make some noise etc. I like music and happy with electronic dance music, even go to nightclubs occasionally, but the sheer volume is ridiculous and spoils the most beautiful spot in the hotel. If this was n the evening it would be OK and It wouldn’t be so bad if the volume was just a little bit lower. I guess they don’t really care because weddings take in so much money but other guests have also paid a lot to enjoy a beautiful atmosphere. I would think twice about coming here again for this reason as I like a bit of peace and quiet when I’m having a relaxing holiday, not an outdoor daytime nightclub.
It was a beautiful place. After seeing the poor conditions many elephants are kept in around Thailand, I understood even better how ethical this place is and how much it truly puts the elephants first. From hotel pick-up to drop-off, everything was a perfect experience. Big kisses to Big Mama! 🐘
To really appreciate elephants, you must see them in a natural environment being able to choose what and where they go to find food and shelter and friendship.
Our aftenoon visit was one of the highlights of our holiday, we cannot recommend it enough. Louise and Russell have created a real oasis of learning and calm natural habitat for the elephants. Respectful, fun and fascinating insight into these amazing animals. The food was delicious. Not much else to say other than go and see it for yourself - and when you do tell everyone about it
That was a truly wonderful experience. Each elephant has its own full-time keeper, called a mahout, who lives at the sanctuary with their families. The wife's cooked us a delicious buffet lunch, which was amazing. The mahouts form a deep, lifelong bond with their elephant, caring for them for up to 20 hours a day and understanding their needs by just one look from the elephant. This connection was breathtaking. The sanctuary rescues elephants from difficult lives in Thailand by purchasing them, giving them a safe and cherished home where they are treated like kings. Truly wonderful experience ❤️❤️❤️ highly recommend it if you're visiting Thailand ❤️❤️❤️
It was making and well worth the price! Not only the experience , but what a great cause m. Would highly recommend to everyone of all ages
This is a lovely place ran by people who truly care about the elephants in their care! You will be told about how the elephants ended up with them and how they are cared for before feeding them and watching them bathe! You will also receive a gorgeous vegetarian lunch served at an amazing viewpoint watching the Elephants! Highly recommended but you will need to walk up steep hills so make sure you are fit and agile before booking!
Excellent and ethical encounter with the elephants. Please do your research and understand how cruel some of the other elephant places are. This one is terrific ... great staff, information, grounds, etc. Only caution is there is a bit (not much!) of uphill walking. Meal at end was great while watching the elephants wallow in the water/mud. Highly recommend this experience and, should you have the means, chip in a bit extra donation or gift shop purchase at the end to help the cause.
What a Magical day! Watching Eight lovely lady elephants (44-61 years) enjoying their retirement after working in the logging and tourism industries. They are now treated with respect and kindness. They have their freedom to roam the property with their mahouts. We were also treated to a beautiful lunch while watching the elephants relax in the mud. Exceptional experience!!!
Such a great experience and I learnt so much!! For instance, I had no idea that elephants are highly social - there are loner elephants, friendly elephants and they even form cliques! The reserve currently has 8 female elephants all of whom have distressed backgrounds (logging elephants, etc.). The staff is really great - their passion towards their work is evident - and that's not something you see often!! Thank you for a great afternoon!
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