Who we are
Karen Hilltribe Elephant Sanctuary is run by the Karen people at Sobwin Village, in the Mae Wang district of Chiang Mai province — just over an hour south of Chiang Mai’s historic old city.
For hundreds of years the Karen people have lived and worked with elephants in Thailand. We want to share our love and respect for these truly amazing animals, and at the same time help protect this endangered species.
Rescued from illegal logging
Our elephants have been rescued from illegal logging camps in Mae Hong Son province, on the border of Myanmar.
In 1989 Thailand banned logging following mass deforestation that eventually led to flash floods and considerable loss of life. Despite the ban, elephants are still used in the illegal logging industry, where they suffer both physical and mental abuse.
Every visit and every donation helps us shelter and provide for these wonderful animals.
How we care for our elephants
- No riding, ever. Riding is strictly forbidden at our sanctuary.
- Natural surroundings. Our elephants live in an area of natural beauty in rural farmland.
- Gentle, hands-on visits. Guests feed the elephants, give them a mud spa and walk with them to the river to bathe.
- Traditional knowledge. Guests learn how the Karen make medicine for elephants.
- No drones or flash photography, so the elephants are not frightened.
Visiting the sanctuary
We offer half day morning and half day afternoon visits, full days with bamboo rafting or an ATV ride to a waterfall, and a 2 day, 1 night trip with a Karen homestay and jungle trek.
Every program includes pick up from your accommodation in Chiang Mai, an English speaking guide, insurance, drinking water and a traditional Thai lunch. Have a question? See our FAQ.