


Wildlife Friends Foundation Thailand (WFFT)
Located about an hour from Hua Hin, Wildlife Friends Foundation Thailand is a non-profit rescue and rehabilitation centre dedicated to animals that have suffered abuse, exploitation, or displacement across Thailand. Originally focused on elephants, the sanctuary has grown to shelter a wide range of species including tigers, bears, monkeys, and birds — all housed in spacious enclosures designed with animal welfare as the priority rather than visitor entertainment. Visitors can join guided day tours led by knowledgeable staff and long-term volunteers who take time to explain the background of individual animals and the broader issues of wildlife exploitation in Southeast Asia. The atmosphere is educational and genuinely conservation-focused, making it a meaningful alternative to traditional animal attractions. Full-day tours run from morning to mid-afternoon and cover a broad range of animals across the reserve. For those wanting a deeper experience, multi-week volunteer placements are also available. Good to know: the centre is open every day from 9:00am to 5:00pm, so advance booking is recommended to secure a spot on a guided tour. Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes and lightweight clothing suitable for walking outdoors in the heat. The site is located in Phetchaburi province, so visitors coming from Hua Hin should arrange private transport or check with their accommodation about transfers. Check the official website at wfft.org for current tour options, volunteer programmes, and pricing.
Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Wildlife Friends Foundation Thailand (WFFT), round out your day in Hua Hin with contrasting stops nearby.
Visitor Reviews
I volunteered here for 2 weeks, which frankly wasn’t long enough! I loved every minute of my experience here. The staff are so helpful and accommodating especially Jam, Fifa and Faii on the wildlife project. There was rarely a dull moment as Jam kept everyone’s spirits up! The days are long and the work is hard, but it’s so worth it! The animals here are so well cared for and it’s a privilege to be a small part of their journey. The house dogs around the volunteer accommodation are also so sweet! I honestly can’t say thank you enough to everyone at WFFT. Such a special place!!
Huge reserve with lots of space in animal enclosures. Originally aimed at helping rescue elephants. But now has lots more different animals e.g. tigers, monkeys, birds, bears. Apparently were asked to take most of these when several zoos failed during covid. Had great guide (jan?) Who had been involved from earliest times so knew much about the history of many rescues. They keep human interaction to a minimum to let animals live how they want. At end of afternoon session did get to feed 2 elephants that had sight issues. Be aware this place seems very popular. On my visit we were split into 3 parties of about 24 on our own trams. In the morning there is quite a lot of walking. But this is on fairly level ground and by enclosures often on concrete paths. The included lunch was nice, chicken with salads. Could buy beer and soft drinks at Stripes restaurant. After lunch lot of time on tram with short walks. I got the impression they are totally devoted to the well being on their animals. Many of whom had horrendous experiences prior to being rescued. They totally deserve your support and my thanks for a highly enjoyable and educational day.
An amazing experience! The volunteers were incredibly friendly, kind, and knowledgeable. They took the time to explain what wild animals go through and the abuse many of them suffer. You should absolutely visit, donate, or even volunteer there, it’s truly an incredible and deeply heart-touching experience. At the same time, it’s so important to be mindful of where we choose to visit. We should avoid places that exploit or abuse animals and instead support sanctuaries and organizations that genuinely protect and respect them.
Location Info
108, Tambon Tha Mai Ruak, Amphoe Tha Yang, Chang Wat Phetchaburi 76130, Thailand+66 32 706 906www.wfft.org/Visitor Information
Best time to visit
March – August
Avoid: September – November (rainy season)
Rainy season
September – November
Avg. temperature
23°C – 33°C(73°F – 91°F)
Crowds
Peak: Weekends year-round (Bangkok day-trippers)
Getting there
Minivan from Bangkok's Victory Monument (~3.5 hrs). Train from Hua Lamphong station (~4 hrs, scenic). Private car recommended.
Getting around
- •Songthaews (blue, along main roads)
- •Motorbike taxis
- •Bicycle rental
- •Grab available
Where to stay near Wildlife Friends Foundation Thailand (WFFT)
Find hotels in Hua Hin on the booking sites travellers trust most.
We may earn a commission from bookings made through these links — at no extra cost to you. Learn more.
Tips 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 Hua Hin

Hua Hin Night Market
A lively evening street market in central Hua Hin offering local food, clothing, crafts, and souvenirs nightly from 6pm.

Cicada Market
A relaxed weekend night market in Hua Hin showcasing local artisans, handmade goods, and live entertainment.

Wat Huay Mongkol
A parklike Buddhist temple outside Hua Hin, home to an impressive 12-metre statue of revered monk Luang Pu Thuat.

Rajabhakti Park
A grand memorial park honouring seven Thai kings through towering bronze statues and open ceremonial grounds.
Similar Activities & Tours Across Thailand

Safari World
A sprawling open-zoo and entertainment park combining safari drives, animal shows, and marine attractions.

Lumphini Park
Bangkok's beloved green lung — a vast urban park offering lake boats, wildlife, and a peaceful city escape.

SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean World
An immersive aquarium hidden beneath Siam Paragon mall, featuring sharks, rays, and walk-through ocean tunnels.

King Power Mahanakhon
Bangkok's highest accessible observation deck, perched atop a 78-floor skyscraper with a thrilling glass floor.
Location Info
Visitor Information
Best time to visit
March – August
Avoid: September – November (rainy season)
Rainy season
September – November
Avg. temperature
23°C – 33°C(73°F – 91°F)
Crowds
Peak: Weekends year-round (Bangkok day-trippers)
Getting there
Minivan from Bangkok's Victory Monument (~3.5 hrs). Train from Hua Lamphong station (~4 hrs, scenic). Private car recommended.
Getting around
- •Songthaews (blue, along main roads)
- •Motorbike taxis
- •Bicycle rental
- •Grab available
Where to stay near Wildlife Friends Foundation Thailand (WFFT)
Find hotels in Hua Hin on the booking sites travellers trust most.
We may earn a commission from bookings made through these links — at no extra cost to you. Learn more.