Guide Tour to Patong Hilltribe Ethical Elephant Village

Phuket , Thailand

Guide Tour to Patong Hilltribe Ethical Elephant Village

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(2 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Discover the peaceful world of Hill Tribe Elephant Village, a hands-off, ethical sanctuary just behind Patong Beach. This 2.5-hour experience lets you observe elephants living freely—no riding, no performances.

Learn their stories, watch herbal food being prepared, and follow them into the forest as they roam, forage, and interact naturally. Our guides share insights into elephant behavior and care, offering a meaningful and unforgettable connection with Thailand’s gentle giants.

Available options

Pickup from anywhere in Phuket

Pickup from anywhere in Phuket Area to Hill Tribe Elephant Village<br/>Pickup included

Meeting Point

Meeting Point at Hill Tribe Elephant Village without Transfer

Pickup at Hotel in Patong

Pickup at Hotel in Patong,Tri Trung and Kalim Area to Hill Tribe Elephant Village<br/>Pickup included

What's included

English-speaking guide

Hotel pick-up and drop off (If Option is selected)

Detailed itinerary

This hands-off, immersive 2.5-hour experience takes place at Hill Tribe Elephant Village — a peaceful sanctuary founded by hill tribe families with generations of elephant care tradition. Nestled in the forest just behind Patong Beach, it provides a forever home for elephants retired from tourism.

Begin by learning the unique stories of each elephant and their mahout. You’ll observe from a respectful distance as our team prepares herbal medical food — a natural blend that supports the elephants’ recovery and daily health.

Then, join our guided walk into the forest, where you’ll quietly observe the elephants as they roam, forage, and interact freely in their natural surroundings — without performance or riding. Our guides will share insights into their body language, social behavior, and how we care for them with compassion and dignity.

What's not included

Personal Expense

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Specialized infant seats are available

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Public transportation options are available nearby

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

The local tour operator will confirm your exact pick-up time after booking

Important notes

• You can check exacly pickup time by whatsapp or imessage at +66986626239

Hotel pickups commence prior to this time

About Phuket

Phuket is the largest island in Thailand and a premier beach destination known for its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and rich cultural heritage. With a mix of modern resorts and traditional Thai charm, it offers something for every type of traveler.

Top Attractions

Patong Beach

Patong Beach is the most famous and developed beach in Phuket, known for its vibrant nightlife, water sports, and shopping.

Beach Half day to full day Free (activities and dining may incur costs)

Phi Phi Islands

The Phi Phi Islands are a group of six islands known for their stunning beaches, clear waters, and dramatic limestone cliffs.

Nature Full day trip Moderate to Expensive (depending on tour type)

Big Buddha Phuket

The Big Buddha Phuket is a 45-meter tall marble statue of Buddha, offering panoramic views of the island and a sense of tranquility.

Religious 1-2 hours Free (donations appreciated)

Phang Nga Bay

Phang Nga Bay is known for its emerald waters, limestone karst formations, and the famous James Bond Island.

Nature Full day trip Moderate to Expensive (depending on tour type)

Old Phuket Town

Old Phuket Town is a charming area with well-preserved Sino-Portuguese architecture, colorful buildings, and a rich cultural heritage.

Historical Half day to full day Free (entry to some museums may incur costs)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Pad Thai

Stir-fried rice noodles with eggs, tofu, shrimp, and a tangy tamarind sauce, garnished with crushed peanuts and lime.

Lunch/Dinner Vegetarian options available (without shrimp and fish sauce)

Tom Yum Goong

A spicy and sour shrimp soup with lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, galangal, and chili.

Lunch/Dinner Can be made with chicken or tofu for vegetarians

Massaman Curry

A rich and mildly spicy curry with potatoes, onions, and tender pieces of meat (usually chicken or beef), cooked in a fragrant coconut milk sauce.

Lunch/Dinner Vegetarian options available (with tofu and vegetables)

Mango Sticky Rice

Sweet ripe mango served with sticky rice cooked in coconut milk and topped with coconut cream and sesame seeds.

Dessert Vegetarian and vegan options available (ensure no fish sauce is used in the sticky rice)

Popular Activities

Snorkeling Diving Kayaking Zip-lining Beach relaxation Spa treatments Yoga Meditation

Best Time to Visit

November to February

This is the peak tourist season with the best weather conditions. The skies are clear, and the sea is calm, making it ideal for beach activities and island hopping.

24°C to 32°C 75°F to 90°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Thai
Widely spoken: English
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Thai Baht (THB)

Time Zone

GMT+7

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Phuket is generally safe for travelers, with a low crime rate and friendly locals. However, petty crimes and scams can occur, especially in tourist areas.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of aggressive street vendors and touts.
• Use reputable tour operators and transportation services.
• Avoid unlicensed taxis and tuk-tuks.

Getting there

By air

Phuket International Airport • 32 km from Phuket City

By bus

Phuket Bus Terminal 1, Phuket Bus Terminal 2

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system is affordable and covers most areas of the island. However, schedules can be unpredictable.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Grab

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Patong Phuket Town Karon Kata Rawai

Day trips

James Bond Island

50 km from Phuket • Full day trip

James Bond Island, located in Phang Nga Bay, is famous for its stunning limestone karst formations and appearance in the James Bond film 'The Man with the Golden Gun.'

Similan Islands

80 km from Phuket • Full day trip

The Similan Islands are a group of nine islands known for their pristine beaches, clear waters, and excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities.

Phi Phi Islands

46 km from Phuket • Full day trip

The Phi Phi Islands are a group of six islands known for their stunning beaches, clear waters, and dramatic limestone cliffs.

Festivals

Phuket Vegetarian Festival • Late September to early October Loy Krathong • November (full moon night) Songkran • April 13-15

Pro tips

Learn a few basic Thai phrases to enhance your experience and interact with locals.
Bargain for better prices in markets and with street vendors, but do so politely and with a smile.
Try local street food and dishes to experience the authentic flavors of Thai cuisine.
Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and the heat.
Use reputable tour operators and transportation services to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.