Ruammit Elephant Camp
Located in the Mae Yao district a short distance from Chiang Rai city, this elephant camp offers visitors the chance to get close to elephants through activities such as feeding, riding, and photography. It operates seven days a week from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, making it an accessible option for travellers looking to see elephants without committing to a full sanctuary programme. However, prospective visitors should approach with clear expectations. A notable portion of recent reviews express serious concerns about animal welfare, with multiple visitors reporting that elephants are kept on chains and exhibit repetitive swaying behaviour — a recognised sign of stress in captive elephants. Several reviewers describe the camp as a traditional commercial operation rather than an ethical sanctuary, with elephant riding offered as a primary activity. This stands in contrast to the growing number of sanctuaries in the Chiang Rai region that have moved away from riding in favour of more naturalistic interactions. Travellers who prioritise elephant welfare are encouraged to research the camp's current practices thoroughly before booking and to consider comparing it with alternative facilities in the region. For those who do visit, the camp is open daily and arriving earlier in the morning typically means cooler temperatures. As no website is listed, it is advisable to contact the camp directly through your hotel or a local tour operator to confirm current pricing, available activities, and any recent changes to how the elephants are managed.
Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Ruammit Elephant Camp, round out your day in Chiang Rai with contrasting stops nearby.
Visitor Reviews
I had never ridden an elephant before, so I don’t have a basis for comparison. The elephants seem to be well cared for, and their living conditions appear decent. Elephants are highly intelligent and emotional creatures with long lifespans, and the mahout was very attentive to them. Overall, it was a very nice experience.
Hopefully they will think to use a wild Way than a asphalt ➡️.....not for pachyderms 🙏
Our hotel suggested here as somewhere we could see elephants without committing to a half day programme. The reviews were off-putting but we went to check it out anyway thinking we might be pleasantly surprised. We were not and it was thoroughly depressing. We saw two elephants with mahoots and tourists in seats on their backs plodding along the main road through the town while traffic overtook them - really sad to see. Both had chains around one ankle and it just seemed so exploitative. Also the guys at the information desk were pretty unpleasant. Please don't give this place your business and tell your hotels/guides not to suggest going there.
Location Info
Unnamed Rd, Tambon Mae Yao, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Rai, Chang Wat Chiang Rai 57100 Tambon Mae Yao, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Rai, Chang Wat Chiang Rai 57100, Thailand+66 53 777 303Tips for Visiting Activities & Tours
Vet Elephant Sanctuaries
Only visit sanctuaries that prohibit riding, use no chains or bullhooks, and let elephants roam freely. Elephant Nature Park in Chiang Mai set the standard. If a place offers painting shows or circus tricks, walk away.
Book Through Klook or GetYourGuide
These platforms offer instant confirmation, free cancellation on most activities, and prices that are often lower than walk-up rates. Compare with local agencies for multi-day trips where negotiation might save more.
Do Outdoor Activities in the Morning
Heat and humidity peak from noon to 3 PM. Schedule jungle treks, cycling tours, and outdoor cooking classes for early morning. Water activities are more flexible since you're in and out of the sea.
Also Popular in Chiang Rai

Rong Suea Ten Temple
Monumental, modern Buddhist temple distinguished by its vivid blue coloring & elaborate carvings.

Wat Rong Khun
Contemporary Buddhist temple drawing massive crowds with its unique, intricate white exterior.
Wat Huay Pla Kang
Temple complex featuring a 9-floor pagoda with 12 surrounding structures & a giant Buddha.

Choui Fong Tea Plantation
A working hillside tea plantation in Chiang Rai offering scenic terraces, tea tasting, food, and a shop.
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Location Info
Visitor Information
Best time to visit
November – February
Avoid: March – May (smoke & heat)
Rainy season
June – September
Avg. temperature
14°C – 35°C(57°F – 95°F)
Crowds
Peak: December – February
Getting there
Mae Fah Luang Airport (CEI) has direct flights from Bangkok (1.5 hrs). Bus from Chiang Mai takes ~3 hrs. Scenic Golden Triangle road trip from Chiang Mai.
Getting around
- •Grab (available in city centre)
- •Songthaews
- •Motorbike rental (฿200/day)
- •Car hire (for Golden Triangle & hill tribes)