Samui Elephant Haven
Operated as a non-profit organisation in the north of Koh Samui, Samui Elephant Haven offers a meaningful alternative to conventional elephant tourism. The sanctuary rescues elephants from exploitative industries and provides them with a safe, permanent home, giving visitors the opportunity to observe and feed the animals while learning about their individual histories and personalities. There is no riding, bathing, or forced interaction — the focus throughout is firmly on animal welfare and conservation rather than entertainment.
Visits are structured as guided group experiences led by knowledgeable, passionate staff who share detailed insights into elephant behaviour, biology, and the sanctuary's ongoing rescue work. The atmosphere is unhurried and educational, making it a well-suited outing for families, couples, and solo travellers with a genuine interest in ethical wildlife experiences. Groups are kept intentionally small, ensuring encounters remain calm and respectful for both visitors and animals, and guides bring warmth and depth to each session.
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Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Samui Elephant Haven, round out your day in Koh Samui with contrasting stops nearby.
Reviews from Google
We had the most heartwarming and unforgettable day at Samui Elephant Haven. From the moment we arrived, it was clear how deeply the staff care — not only about the elephants, but about sharing their stories with respect and compassion. This is truly an ethical sanctuary. You can see how well the elephants are looked after and how much thought goes into their care, enrichment, and wellbeing. Hearing each elephant’s history was incredibly moving and gave us a deeper appreciation for the work this sanctuary is doing. The tour was very informative and included plenty of hands-on experiences, all done in a way that clearly prioritizes the elephants’ comfort and dignity. The guides were knowledgeable, patient, and genuinely passionate. For anyone with mobility issues, there is a bit of a hill to walk, but it felt very manageable. There were always shaded areas to wait, and at almost every stop where information was shared, there was also a place to sit and rest, which was really appreciated. Lunch was absolutely delicious and thoughtfully prepared. One of the biggest highlights of the day was celebrating our friend’s birthday — we brought a birthday “cake” that was fed to the five girls (the elephants!) at the end of our visit, and it was such a joyful, unforgettable moment. This experience was educational, emotional, and deeply uplifting. If you’re looking for an ethical, caring, and meaningful elephant experience in Koh Samui, Samui Elephant Haven is a must-visit. We left with full hearts and so much gratitude for the work they do. 🐘💚
Samui Elephant Haven is truly incredible. The elephants are treated with real respect — no riding, bathing, or forced interaction (only short feeding sessions and photo ops as they explained people would not go to this sanctuary without an activity which is sad and they hope one day will be totally hands free!!!) — just observing them living freely and naturally. What really stood out was how much detail the staff shared about each individual elephant, their history, personality, and journey, which made the experience so meaningful and educational. Our tour guide was absolutely amazing — so knowledgeable, passionate, and clearly dedicated to the elephants’ wellbeing. You can feel how much they genuinely care. I honestly wish more people would choose places like this instead of supporting non-ethical elephant attractions. If you care about animal welfare, this is the place to go.🐘💚
My friends and I had a great experience at the elephant sanctuary. We spent the half day feeding the elephants and learning about their lives before the sanctuary. Our guide Thai was incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about each elephant. Would definitely recommend this experience for anyone looking for an ethical elephant experience on Koh Samui!
A sample of visitor reviews from Google. Read all 1,640 reviews on Google.
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Samui Elephant Haven: Frequently Asked Questions
Is Samui Elephant Haven worth visiting?
Samui Elephant Haven holds a 4.9★ rating from 1,640 Google reviews, placing it among the highest-rated activities & tours in Koh Samui.
What are the opening hours of Samui Elephant Haven?
Samui Elephant Haven is typically open 09:00-17:00 — see the full day-by-day schedule in the location info on this page. Hours can change on Thai public holidays, so check ahead for holiday visits.
When is the best time to visit Samui Elephant Haven?
The best months to visit Koh Samui are January – August, with the most reliable weather. Crowds peak in July – August & December — going early in the day usually means fewer people. Months to think twice about: October – December (Gulf Coast monsoon).
Where is Samui Elephant Haven located?
Samui Elephant Haven is at 137/31 Tambon Bo Put, Koh Samui Chang Wat Surat Thani 84320, Thailand, in Koh Samui. Getting around Koh Samui: Songthaews (fixed routes around the ring road); Motorbike or scooter rental.
Location Info
137/31 Tambon Bo Put, Koh Samui Chang Wat Surat Thani 84320, Thailand+66 95 628 6160samuielephanthaven.org/Visitor Information
Best time to visit
January – August
Avoid: October – December (Gulf Coast monsoon)
Rainy season
October – December
Avg. temperature
24°C – 32°C(75°F – 90°F)
Crowds
Peak: July – August & December
Getting there
Koh Samui Airport (USM) has direct flights from Bangkok and regional hubs (Bangkok Airways monopoly). The ferry from Surat Thani takes ~1.5 hrs and it's cheaper.
Getting around
- •Songthaews (fixed routes around the ring road)
- •Motorbike or scooter rental
- •Taxis (metered or negotiate upfront)
- •Grab available in main areas
Where to stay near Samui Elephant Haven
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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 Popular Activities Online
Booking platforms like GetYourGuide give you instant confirmation and, on many activities, free cancellation — and you can read recent reviews before committing. 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.
Nearby Places
Jungle Kitchen
A farm-to-table Thai cooking class in Koh Samui's jungle, hosted by Tom and Lin on their working property.
Smiley Cook Thai
Hands-on Thai cooking school in Bophut, Koh Samui, open daily with classes for all skill levels.
Samui Elephant Sanctuary Bophut
An ethical elephant sanctuary in Bophut where welfare-first principles shape every aspect of the visitor experience.
The Dive Academy Koh Samui
A PADI-certified diving school in Bo Put offering guided dive tours and courses for all levels across Koh Samui's reefs.
Similar Activities & Tours Across Thailand
Elephant Jungle Sanctuary Phuket
An ethical elephant sanctuary in Kathu where rescued elephants roam freely and visitors connect with them through feeding and bathing.
Elephant Jungle Sanctuary Chiang Mai
No riding, no tricks: a day of feeding and mud with rescued elephants in the Mae Wang hills.
Elephant Jungle Sanctuary Pattaya Camp 1
An ethical elephant sanctuary in Pattaya's jungle offering hands-on feeding, mud baths, and close wildlife encounters.
Safari World
A sprawling open-zoo and entertainment park combining safari drives, animal shows, and marine attractions.
Where to stay near Samui Elephant Haven
Find hotels in Koh Samui on the booking sites travellers trust most.
- Compare prices across sites
- Filter for free cancellation
- Secure checkout on the partner site
Compare rates on Booking.com
Largest selection
Compare rates on Expedia
Bundle & save
Compare rates on Hotels.com
Member prices
We may earn a commission from bookings made through these links — at no extra cost to you. Learn more.
Location Info
Visitor Information
Best time to visit
January – August
Avoid: October – December (Gulf Coast monsoon)
Rainy season
October – December
Avg. temperature
24°C – 32°C(75°F – 90°F)
Crowds
Peak: July – August & December
Getting there
Koh Samui Airport (USM) has direct flights from Bangkok and regional hubs (Bangkok Airways monopoly). The ferry from Surat Thani takes ~1.5 hrs and it's cheaper.
Getting around
- •Songthaews (fixed routes around the ring road)
- •Motorbike or scooter rental
- •Taxis (metered or negotiate upfront)
- •Grab available in main areas