We joined an elephant eco park and bamboo rafting tour in Chiang Mai with Seojin (6 years old). Feeding elephants, walking alongside them, bathing them in the river — the Chiang Mai elephant tour with kids was one of the most memorable experiences of our entire trip. Here’s an honest review.
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Hotel Pickup — Nimman Area Has Its Perks
The van picked us up outside the hotel at around 8:20 AM. There were already passengers from various countries on board, and we were the last stop. One small upside of staying in the Nimman area: you’re the last to be picked up, which means you’re always the first to be dropped off. A minor perk, but a real one.
After about 50 minutes on the road, we arrived at the elephant eco park, where we received our activity clothes and sat through a brief introduction about the elephants.
Making Elephant Snacks
Before meeting the elephants, we made vitamin treats to give them — mashing bananas and other ingredients into small balls. Seojin threw himself into it. Handing those to the elephants is when the tour really gets going.
Why We Chose an Ethical Eco Park
I visited Chiang Mai about 20 years ago and went on a traditional elephant tour. There was a riding experience, but I ended up not doing it — I watched the handlers hitting the elephants with a hook and couldn’t go through with it. That memory stayed with me, so this time I specifically searched Klook for ethical elephant experiences. The Good Elephant is known as one of the responsible, non-exploitative parks in the area, which is why I chose it.
Walking with the Elephants
After the feeding, we took a walk through the jungle paths alongside the elephants. Walking right next to an elephant was a first for me too. Seojin stuck close without a second’s hesitation.
Elephant Bathing in the River
The highlight of the tour: wading into the river with the elephants and splashing water on them with buckets. It was the rainy season so the river was running full, which made it even more fun. Every time an elephant sprayed water with its trunk, Seojin screamed and laughed.
Lunch Included
After the bathing session, lunch is served — fried rice, a simple soup, fruit, and some fried snacks. By that point we’d worked up a real appetite, and Seojin ate everything on his plate.
Bamboo Rafting to Finish
After lunch, we did bamboo rafting down the river. Rainy season meant strong currents and a quick, exciting ride. We were told that in the dry season the water level is too low and the rafting takes much longer and is less fun — so if anything, going in the wet season worked in our favor. Seojin loved it.
Tips for the Chiang Mai Elephant Tour with Kids
- Sunscreen: Even in the rainy season, sunlight breaks through in the jungle. Don’t skip it.
- Insect repellent: You’re deep in the jungle for most of the tour. Mosquitoes are active — especially important for kids.
- Spare clothes: You will get soaked during the elephant bathing. Pack a full change of clothes. I didn’t, and regretted it 😅
📍 How to Get There
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