Freedom Elephant Reserve Phuket

Name: Freedom Elephant Reserve Phuket
Address: 888, Subdistrict อำเภ, 8, Tambon Chalong, Amphoe Mueang Phuket, Chang Wat Phuket 83130, Thailand, TH
Telephone: +66 63 272 3415
Rating: 5

5.0(1,107 reviews)

Featured in: Best Temples in Phuket

Situated in the Chalong area of Phuket, this wildlife reserve operates as a non-profit sanctuary dedicated to the welfare of rescued elephants, setting it apart from conventional elephant attractions across Thailand. The reserve prioritises ethical, low-impact interactions over performance-based entertainment, making it a meaningful alternative for travellers who want to engage with elephants responsibly. Visitors can expect an unhurried, immersive experience in natural surroundings. Activities include feeding elephants bananas and sugar cane, observing them bathe freely in mud, and walking alongside them through the reserve's grounds. The knowledgeable mahouts and staff guide guests throughout, explaining the elephants' individual histories and natural behaviours. The atmosphere is calm and educational, with an emphasis on mutual respect between visitors and animals. Those joining the Ethereal Nature Walk can observe the elephants moving and foraging freely, giving a genuine sense of their day-to-day lives. Good to know: The reserve is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Hotel pick-up and drop-off is available, and the check-in process is well-organised according to visitors. Booking in advance through the official website at freedomelephantreserve.com is strongly recommended, as visitor numbers are kept limited to uphold the sanctuary's welfare standards. Comfortable, casual clothing is suitable, though wearing clothes you do not mind getting dirty is advisable if mud bathing is part of the programme.

Experience hints

Visitor favorite

Pair your visit. After Freedom Elephant Reserve Phuket, round out your day in Phuket with contrasting stops nearby.

Visitor Reviews

We did the Ethereal nature walk which included watching elephants walk and eat in the area, as well as feed them with snacks like bananas and sugar cane and watch them bath freely in the mud. Elephants are being taken care of very well, they have enough sleep and they are free to walk around the area which is quite big. They have 4-5 elephants and they are all very friendly. We got information from our guide and learnt a lot about these lovely animals. It is a proper reservation without any torture and elephants seem to be happy. Visitors can observe the elephants. Would recommend this place!

Truly spectacular. It was incredible to see the four elephants up close and observe their natural behaviour. Feeding them was a delight, super hungry and also super sweet! This is the place to visit if you want to see elephants up close in an ethical and enriching way. Tour guide was very knowledgeable and explained each of the elephants stories and livelihoods. 10/10 recommend visiting! Also pet Freedom the dog!

Amazing experience. Finding an ethical sanctuary was important to me and this place checked all the boxes. They were on time and communicated well for pick up and drop off from my hotel, check in was easy and Tom was a great guide. The elephants seemed happy in their environment and what was okay for contact with them was thoroughly explained. Had a great time and was very happy with the experience. Thank you!

Location Info

888, Subdistrict อำเภ, 8, Tambon Chalong, Amphoe Mueang Phuket, Chang Wat Phuket 83130, Thailand

Get directions

+66 63 272 3415 freedomelephantreserve.com/

Opening Hours

Monday09:00-17:00

Tuesday09:00-17:00

Wednesday09:00-17:00

Thursday09:00-17:00

Friday09:00-17:00

Saturday09:00-17:00

Sunday09:00-17:00

Tips for Visiting Temples & Culture

Dress Modestly

Cover shoulders and knees at all temples. Carry a light scarf or sarong — some temples lend wraps, but not all. Shoes come off before entering any building with a Buddha image.

Mind Your Feet

Never point your feet at a Buddha image or a monk — it's considered deeply disrespectful. When sitting inside a temple, tuck your feet behind you or to the side.

Ask Before Photographing

Exterior photos are almost always fine, but some interior halls prohibit photography. Look for signs, and never pose irreverently with Buddha images — it's a legal offense in Thailand.