Samui Elephant Sanctuary
Situated in Maret on Koh Samui, this sanctuary stands apart from conventional elephant tourism by placing animal welfare at the centre of every visit. The elephants here are rescued from working conditions and live in a naturalistic environment where they are never ridden, bathed on command, or subjected to forced interaction. Visitors observe and engage with these animals entirely on the elephants' own terms, making for a genuinely different kind of encounter. The experience is calm and educational rather than performance-driven. Knowledgeable guides walk guests through the elephants' individual histories, explain their behaviours, and share the sanctuary's broader conservation mission. Feeding the elephants is a highlight, and the small group format keeps the atmosphere unhurried and personal. All fees go directly toward the ongoing care of the animals, so a visit also functions as a tangible contribution to their rehabilitation. Good to know: The sanctuary is open every day from 08:00 to 17:00, accommodating both half-day and longer visits. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes suitable for uneven or muddy terrain are recommended. Booking in advance through the sanctuary's website at samuielephantsanctuary.org is strongly advised, particularly during peak season, as time slots fill quickly. The Maret location is accessible from most parts of Koh Samui and pairs well with other attractions in the southern part of the island.
Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Samui Elephant Sanctuary, round out your day in Koh Samui with contrasting stops nearby.
Visitor Reviews
It was truly a wonderful experience. It gave our children a chance to understand that although the elephants in the sanctuary are now being cared for and enjoying a peaceful life, many of them spent 40–50 years working hard for humans — carrying logs or giving rides. Personally, I don’t think that should ever have happened. The staff at the sanctuary genuinely care about the elephants. We even prepared food for them by hand — it was a little messy (and slightly gross!), but still a very meaningful experience. Even though the meal provided was vegetarian, the food was absolutely delicious.
As another comment has said, if you only visit one elephant sanctuary in your life, make sure it’s this one. This is a genuinely ethical sanctuary with no bathing, riding or excessive touching. Many of the elephants have been rescued from other tourist sites around Thailand where riding and bathing has been offered and are now being given the life they deserve. It’s clear that all of the staff deeply care for and love the animals. The tour groups are kept small and there are only 2 entry times per day (at 9am and 2pm). They provide transfer from hotels and a lovely vegetarian buffet at the end. I left this experience relived that there is at least one place in the world where elephants are truly being cared for. Can’t recommend highly enough.
Wow what an amazing experience. I would recommend to anyone that wants to see and feed the elephants to come here. The service provided from the company is fantastic and the staff are so friendly. I feel that they look after these elephants so well and the support from people that visit help them so much in providing the care the elephants need 24/7. You are able to take pictures and feed the elephants that are happy to do so and the ones you cannot touch you can just observe from a platform. You also get drinks and snacks when you arrive and then a hot vegetarian lunch was was really tasty. Well done all for your great work in helping these elephants 🥰🐘
Location Info
Maret, Ko Samui District, Surat Thani 84310, Thailand+66 95 269 8343www.samuielephantsanctuary.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). Ferry from Surat Thani takes ~1.5 hrs — a cheaper option.
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 Sanctuary
Find hotels in Koh Samui 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 Koh Samui
Ko Pha Ngan
A laid-back Thai island of white-sand beaches, jungle interior, and the legendary monthly Full Moon Party.
Ko Tao
A small Gulf of Thailand island renowned for white sand beaches, coral reefs, and world-class scuba diving.
Wat Phra Yai
A iconic gilded Buddha statue from 1972 sits atop a hilltop temple complex with panoramic sea views.
Central Samui
Koh Samui's largest mall, with indoor and open-air wings, international brands, a food court, and a staffed children's play area.
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SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean World
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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). Ferry from Surat Thani takes ~1.5 hrs — a cheaper option.
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 Sanctuary
Find hotels in Koh Samui 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.