Krabi Elephant Local Project (Sanctuary)
Located in Ao Nang, this relatively new sanctuary offers one of Krabi's more intimate wildlife encounters, with a clear commitment to elephant welfare at its core. Riding is not permitted, and the focus is instead on close, supervised interaction — visitors can feed and touch the elephants while knowledgeable, English-speaking staff explain animal behaviour and the project's conservation approach. The setting is quiet and uncrowded compared to larger elephant camps in the region, making it a genuinely relaxed experience for families and wildlife-conscious travellers alike.
The atmosphere is unhurried and attentive. Staff monitor interactions closely to ensure both visitor safety and the wellbeing of the animals, and the experience is structured enough to feel educational without being overly formal. Guests are welcomed with drinks and snacks on arrival, and the overall pace allows for meaningful time with the elephants rather than a rushed group tour.
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Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Krabi Elephant Local Project (Sanctuary), round out your day in Krabi with contrasting stops nearby.
Reviews from Google
An outstanding experience at this elephant sanctuary. We were initially greated with drinks and snacks. The experience prices were of good value unlike others. This place is still new, only 2 months old. They treat customers and their elephants very well. Ration and her team were very nice to us and showed us how to feed the elephants alongside taking our pictures. They certainly show a kind and welcoming attitude.
We had an amazing time here feeding the elephants! You can walk in without booking, it’s a quiet place out of the way so no crowds like other sanctuary’s we’ve been to. The staff here were amazing, very friendly and explained how the elephants are treated. The conditions the elephants are staying in look clean and ethical, NO RIDING ALLOWED. We would definitely recommend to check this place out.
I went to feed the elephants. Very nice experience, good price. They seem to take good care of the elephants here, no riding allowed. My quide spoke really good english and took nice pictures 😊 thank you!
A sample of visitor reviews from Google. Read all 439 reviews on Google.
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Krabi Elephant Local Project (Sanctuary): Frequently Asked Questions
Is Krabi Elephant Local Project (Sanctuary) worth visiting?
Krabi Elephant Local Project (Sanctuary) holds a 4.9★ rating from 439 Google reviews, placing it among the highest-rated activities & tours in Krabi.
What are the opening hours of Krabi Elephant Local Project (Sanctuary)?
Krabi Elephant Local Project (Sanctuary) 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 Krabi Elephant Local Project (Sanctuary)?
The best months to visit Krabi are November – April, with the most reliable weather. Crowds peak in December – February — going early in the day usually means fewer people. Months to think twice about: June – September (rough Andaman seas).
Where is Krabi Elephant Local Project (Sanctuary) located?
Krabi Elephant Local Project (Sanctuary) is at 57 8 Tambon Ao Nang, Amphoe Mueang Krabi, Chang Wat Krabi 81180, Thailand, in Krabi. Getting around Krabi: Long-tail boats (islands & Railay Beach); Songthaews in Ao Nang.
Location Info
57 8 Tambon Ao Nang, Amphoe Mueang Krabi, Chang Wat Krabi 81180, Thailand061 418 0492krabielephant-localproject.com/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 or 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
Where to stay near Krabi Elephant Local Project (Sanctuary)
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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
Giant Catfish Farm
A budget-friendly wildlife garden in Nong Thale with giant catfish, exotic animals, and tropical grounds for around 50 baht entry.
Ao Nang Elephant Sanctuary Krabi (Booking is needed)
A hands-on elephant experience in Krabi where small groups feed, bathe, and bond with elephants.
Atv krabi gaoxing tour
ATV adventure tours through Krabi's rugged terrain, offering 30-minute and 1-hour guided rides for all experience levels.
Krabi Old Elephant HOME
A family-run elephant sanctuary in Ao Nang where rescued elephants roam freely in a riverside garden setting.
Similar Activities & Tours Across Thailand
Elephant Jungle Sanctuary Phuket
No rides, no shows, just feeding, mud and washing rescued elephants in the Kathu jungle.
Safari World
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Nongnooch Pattaya Garden
Half a day minimum, 500 acres of themed gardens and dinosaurs, and you'll want to be there by 8am.
Lumphini Park
Bangkok's green lung, free to enter, and full of water monitor lizards the size of your leg.
Where to stay near Krabi Elephant Local Project (Sanctuary)
Find hotels in Krabi 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
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 or 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