The Elephant Sanctuary Krabi Thailand
Situated in the Nong Thale district of Krabi, this sanctuary offers a meaningful and ethical alternative to traditional elephant camps, providing a permanent home for rescued and retired elephants in a natural, open environment. The focus is squarely on animal welfare, making it a compelling choice for travellers who want a genuine connection with these animals without compromising on responsible tourism values.
Visits are immersive and hands-on, typically spanning several hours and including feeding, bathing, and walking alongside the elephants in their natural surroundings. The setting is entirely outdoor, with ample opportunity for close encounters and photography throughout the experience. The sanctuary operates seven days a week from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, offering good flexibility for travellers working around a broader Krabi itinerary. Families are welcome, though young children should remain under close supervision at all times given the nature of the experience.
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Experience hints
Pair your visit. After The Elephant Sanctuary Krabi Thailand, round out your day in Krabi with contrasting stops nearby.
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The Elephant Sanctuary Krabi Thailand: Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Elephant Sanctuary Krabi Thailand worth visiting?
The Elephant Sanctuary Krabi Thailand holds a 4.9★ rating from 1,907 Google reviews, placing it among the highest-rated activities & tours in Krabi.
What are the opening hours of The Elephant Sanctuary Krabi Thailand?
The Elephant Sanctuary Krabi Thailand 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 The Elephant Sanctuary Krabi Thailand?
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 The Elephant Sanctuary Krabi Thailand located?
The Elephant Sanctuary Krabi Thailand is at 165 หมู่4 หนองทะเล Tambon Nong Thale, เมือง Chang Wat Krabi 81000, Thailand, in Krabi. Getting around Krabi: Long-tail boats (islands & Railay Beach); Songthaews in Ao Nang.
Location Info
165 หมู่4 หนองทะเล Tambon Nong Thale, เมือง Chang Wat Krabi 81000, Thailand+66 91 826 5498www.theelephantsanctuarykrabi.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 The Elephant Sanctuary Krabi Thailand
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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
Krabi Roaming Elephant Sanctuary
An ethical elephant sanctuary near Ao Nang where rescued elephants roam freely in a naturalistic setting.
Giant Catfish Farm
A budget-friendly wildlife garden in Nong Thale with giant catfish, exotic animals, and tropical grounds for around 50 baht entry.
Krabi Old Elephant HOME
A family-run elephant sanctuary in Ao Nang where rescued elephants roam freely in a riverside garden setting.
Krabi Elephant Local Project (Sanctuary)
An ethical elephant sanctuary in Ao Nang where visitors can feed and interact with rescued elephants in a relaxed, crowd-free setting.
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 The Elephant Sanctuary Krabi Thailand
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