Krabi Elephant Shelter
Set in Ao Nang within the Krabi region, this shelter operates as a genuine conservation and education facility, offering a responsible alternative to traditional elephant tourism. Rather than performances or rides, the focus is firmly on animal welfare, with spacious grounds designed around the elephants' wellbeing. The approach is considered and purposeful, giving visitors meaningful insight into elephant behaviour and the broader challenges facing these animals in Thailand.
Visitors can expect hands-on involvement that includes feeding, bathing, and walking alongside the elephants under the guidance of knowledgeable staff who are clearly invested in the shelter's mission. The atmosphere is calm and unhurried, and the experience is well suited to travellers of all ages, particularly those seeking substantive wildlife encounters rather than passive observation. The shelter's popularity means it draws consistent interest throughout the week, so availability can be limited during busier periods.
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Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Krabi Elephant Shelter, round out your day in Krabi with contrasting stops nearby.
Also Popular in Krabi

Wat Tham Suea
A jungle-clad Buddhist temple complex in Krabi, famous for its 1,200+ steep steps and sweeping hilltop views.

Kodam Kitchen branch 1
Beloved budget Thai restaurant in Ao Nang serving consistent classics daily from 11am to 10:30pm.

Krabi Town Night Market
Weekends only, and worth building your Krabi Town plans around if food is the point of your evening.

Royal Palm Spa
A highly regarded Ao Nang spa offering traditional Thai massage and beauty treatments daily until 23:00.
Krabi Elephant Shelter: Frequently Asked Questions
Is Krabi Elephant Shelter worth visiting?
Krabi Elephant Shelter holds a 4.6★ rating from 2,100 Google reviews, placing it among the highest-rated activities & tours in Krabi.
What are the opening hours of Krabi Elephant Shelter?
Krabi Elephant Shelter 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 Shelter?
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 Shelter located?
Krabi Elephant Shelter is at 334, 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
334, Tambon Ao Nang, Amphoe Mueang Krabi, Chang Wat Krabi 81180, Thailand+66 98 671 5336krabielephantshelter.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 Shelter
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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

The Dragon krabi sea tour
A sea tour operator running full-day boat trips to Krabi's islands, praised for attentive crews and smart crowd avoidance.

Krabi Spesialisten
A Krabi-based tour agency offering guided island and jungle experiences with highly praised local guides.

Wang Sai Speed Boat, Aonang Krabi
Speed boat tours departing from Aonang, covering Krabi's islands, limestone cliffs, and coastal highlights.

Aonang ATV Jungle Adventure (krabi)
Off-road ATV tours through Krabi's tropical jungle, offering a thrilling alternative to beach activities.
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.

Elephant Jungle Sanctuary Samui (Soi 1 Branch)
Ethical elephant sanctuary in Maenam offering daily hands-on encounters with rescued elephants in a jungle setting.
Where to stay near Krabi Elephant Shelter
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