What is the most ethical elephant sanctuary in Chiang Mai?
Elephant Nature Park is no doubt the most popular elephant sanctuary in Chiang Mai. It is certainly known as one of the most ethical as well. It opened in the 1990s by founder Lek Chailert who is widely known for her conservation work with elephants.
Are elephant sanctuaries in Thailand ethical?
Sadly, there are many unethical elephant sanctuaries in Thailand. These organisations often promote themselves as being ‘ethical’, but in reality they are not. Tourists who visit the unethical elephant sanctuaries in Thailand are unknowingly contributing to these poor animals’ pain and hurt.
Is there an ethical way to ride an elephant?
“There are no elephant rides that are ethical,” she said. “All the elephants that have humans on their back experience stress and pain in their vertebrae. Elephants have evolved to have very strong shoulders and necks, but not for pressure directly on their spines.”
How do you know if an elephant sanctuary is ethical?
True sanctuaries never buy, sell, trade, breed, exploit, or profit from elephants. They never use bullhooks or punish elephants in other ways (even out of tourists’ sight), and they don’t force animals who naturally avoid humans into close contact with them.
How ethically see elephants in Thailand?
Essential Tips for Finding an Ethical Elephant Sanctuary
- Think beyond the Elephant Nature Park.
- Do your research.
- Don’t rely on tourism offices to be honest about what they’re selling.
- Don’t feel pressured to find an elephant sanctuary or company in advance.
Is elephant jungle sanctuary Chiang Mai ethical?
Elephant Jungle Sanctuary is an ethical and sustainable eco-tourism project based in Thailand. Currently comprised of spacious locations in Chiang Mai, Phuket, Samui, and Pattaya, Elephant Jungle Sanctuary is home to over one hundred formerly mistreated elephants, who are now free to enjoy their lives.
Are animal sanctuaries ethical?
Unfortunately, “sanctuary” and “rescue” aren’t regulated terms; many tourist venues intentionally use those terms to lure well-meaning tourists to their parks despite the fact that they can’t prove their animals were actually “rescued”, do not meet established standards of care, breed their animals, or actively engage …
Is swimming with elephants ethical?
While bathing elephants itself isn’t harmful, it’s the process to get the elephants to go against their natural instinct to avoid humans that’s often unethical. Therefore, the best approach is to visit sanctuaries that encourage observation rather than direct contact with elephants.