Somboon Legacy Foundation - Hands-Off Elephant Sanctuary

For anyone who would like to see the majestic elephants, please only visit ethical sanctuaries. No, you shouldn’t be expecting to touch, bathe or ride elephants. Somboon Legacy Foundation is one of those ethical sanctuaries and I’m so grateful to have joined the full day programme. 1. Amazing experience to observe and learn about the elephants: First, you get introduced to the 4 elderly elephants and learn their history and quirks. Then, you get to observe them from afar doing many activities: eating watermelon, bathing, throwing mud on their back. The elephants were not forced to do anything for the amusement of tourists, and were simply living as naturally as they could after being retired from various unfortunate circumstances. 2. The rest of the programme was great: you get to learn so much from the guides and the museum. In addition, you contribute by collecting banana leaves and cutting watermelons. No time was wasted and it was well thought out (good mix of observing, learning, contributing). 3. Guides were amazing: Big thank you to Martini and Julie who took such great care of us. We enjoyed learning from them and engaging in spirited discussions. 4. Lunch was fantastic: We had pineapple rice, pad thai, plate of fruits overlooking the river. 5. Value for money: You get return transfer, programme from 10am-4pm and lunch. Plus, it goes to the maintenance of the foundation. Please visit Somboon Legacy Foundation. I would like to turn back time and relive the experience :)

Yesterday we had a wonderful opportunity to spend the day in this place. We really enjoyed this amazing experience—the tour was interesting and educational, and we were provided with a Ukrainian-speaking guide (Kateryna, thank you, you’re amazing). It was a pleasant and unexpected surprise! The other volunteers were great as well. We visited the elephant museum, helped prepare their food, and watched the elephants eat, walk, and bathe. We also had very delicious dinner (right at the beginning when we arrived)! It was my Birthday, and I was even given a small symbolic gift, which was very nice. Overall, the day was fantastic—I definitely recommend going! Don’t be afraid that the experience won’t be as cool as if you could touch the elephants—that’s not true. It’s still an unforgettable experience and please go to support such places!

An amazing place with lovely and knowledgeable volunteers that love these magnificent animals. We loved the respect these old rescued elephants are treated with. Let’s stop the selfies and selfish tricks and respect these wonderful wild animals - may all the Sanctuaries become as Somboon one day. Elephants don’t bees tourists to feed them or bathe them. They need to be treated as they are: wild beautiful and intelligent beasts xx