Krabi Elephant Green Sanctuary
Situated in Krabi Noi and accessible from Krabi town, this sanctuary markets itself as an ethical alternative to traditional elephant tourism, offering hands-on activities including elephant feeding, bathing, and mud spa experiences. The setting is natural and relatively quiet compared to busier attractions in the region, and staff are consistently described as friendly and attentive throughout visits. However, visitor experiences here vary significantly, and travellers with strong animal welfare concerns should research carefully before booking. While some guests report seeing elephants that appeared content and well cared for, others have raised serious concerns about the conditions and handling practices on site, describing close-contact interactions that they felt were stressful for the animals. These conflicting accounts suggest that experiences may differ depending on the day, group size, or specific activities chosen. Good to know: Pricing for activities has been reported by visitors at approximately 2,400 to 2,500 baht per person, though this is not confirmed on an official website. No opening hours are listed online, so contacting the sanctuary directly before visiting is strongly recommended to confirm availability, inclusions, and current practices. Allow for additional travel time to reach the site, as some visitors have noted logistical delays with transport arrangements. Wear clothes you are comfortable getting wet and muddy, and bring sturdy closed-toe footwear.
Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Krabi Elephant Green Sanctuary, round out your day in Krabi with contrasting stops nearby.
Visitor Reviews
This place is very accommodating and the staff are incredibly kind. We did the elephant bathing and feeding activity for 2,400 baht, and one staff member assisted us the entire time with the elephant, which made the experience even better. Just a heads-up: they accept cash only, so make sure to bring cash. Also, tipping the staff isn’t required, but I chose to give a tip because the staff member helped us throughout the whole activity and truly deserved it. After the activity, we were pleasantly surprised with free food, water, and watermelon, which was a nice touch. We absolutely loved this place and highly recommend it! Plus, our accommodation was only about a 100-foot walk away, so it was super convenient. Definitely give it a try if you're nearby!
Amazing Experience! I had a wonderful time at the elephant sanctuary. The staff were friendly and really cared about the elephants. It was great to see the elephants happy, free, and well taken care of. I learned a lot and got to feed and walk with them. Highly recommend if you love animals! Khun kan very pleasant and great with us!
Negative: -They hadn't organized enough cars so it took an additional 30 minutes to get to the place. -We payed 2500THB per person to get mud spa and "make medicine", which was supposed to be an extra hour of activity. In reality we did the exact same thing as the rest of the people who payed 1500, only difference was in the end we got a clump of rice mixed with some nuts that we gave to an elephant just before we left. (We left with the same group that payed for only an hour activity). The extra 1000 per person felt like a scam. I just hope some of the money gets used to whatever "medicine" was in the clump. -i wouldn't call it a sanctuary, it looked like the elephants were forced to do the same routine every day. Positive: -The guide really did his best to let everyone be close to the elephants, and help to take pictures. -They were friendly to our kids. -Although not a "sanctuary", the elephants clearly doesn't suffer there. They are obviously fed well, and seemed chill with everyone.
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 Krabi
Ko Lanta
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Ko Phi Phi Don
Largest island in the Ko Phi Phi archipelago, featuring scenic inlets, beach resorts & restaurants.
Wat Tham Suea
Expansive temple complex in lush jungle surrounds known for its gold Buddha statue & cave network.
Kodam Kitchen branch 1
Highly regarded budget Thai restaurant in Ao Nang, open daily, known for curries, seafood, and Pad Thai.
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Visitor Information
Best time to visit
November – April
Avoid: June – September (rough Andaman seas)
Rainy season
May – October
Avg. temperature
23°C – 33°C(73°F – 91°F)
Crowds
Peak: December – February
Getting there
Krabi Airport (KBV) has direct flights from Bangkok (1.5 hrs). Ferries connect to Koh Lanta, Koh Phi Phi, and Phuket. Bus/minivan from Phuket takes ~3 hrs.
Getting around
- •Long-tail boats (islands & Railay Beach)
- •Songthaews in Ao Nang
- •Grab (limited, mainly Ao Nang)
- •Motorbike rental