The Day I Became an Elephant Caretaker
A personal journey of stepping into the mahout’s world — preparing food, observing behaviors, and feeling what it’s like to care for gentle giants.
Read More →Most Popular Activities
Small-group, ethical programs — no riding, no shows.
Certifications / Press / Recognition
- GFAS Accreditation – Application submitted, aligning with global sanctuary standards.
- OTA Partnerships – Featured on GetYourGuide, Viator, Tripadvisor as an ethical experience.
- Press Features – Highlighted in local and international media as a leading ethical elephant program.
- Community Recognition – Praised for sustainability and support of local employment.
Our Promise at Hill Tribe Elephant Village
We believe travel should be kind — to animals, nature, and local people. That’s why every visit follows our promise:
🐘 No Riding, No Shows, No Bathing
Elephants here live naturally — free from performances or forced interactions.
👨👩👧 Local Family-Run
Operated by a Patong hill tribe family, ensuring fair jobs and community benefits.
🌱 Conservation Focus
We plant food forests, source crops from local farmers, and support long-term elephant care.
📚 Learn & Respect
Every program is guided — you’ll learn elephant behavior, culture, and why respect matters.
Meet Our Elephants
Aussie
Born: 1 February 2019Aussie is the cheeky youngster of the herd — playful, curious, and never far from her friends. Once paraded in a circus, she now spends her days chasing butterflies and rolling in the dust, finally free to just be a kid again.
Mali
Born: 29 May 2014Mali has a heart as big as her appetite. She adores the younger elephants and often looks after them like a gentle older sister. Loud noises still spook her, but here in the forest, she’s finally found her calm.
Mon Caan
Born: 1 August 2020Mon Caan is a quiet soul. He lost his mother young and carries a shyness that makes him prefer the edges of the forest. Yet when food is around, he’s quick to step forward — proof that healing comes slowly, but surely.
Tad Daow
Born: 10 June 2014Tad Daow is the introvert of the group — calm, observant, and happiest in her own company. After years of carrying tourists, she now wanders the sanctuary at her own pace, savoring the peace of her new life.
Chan Horm
Born: 10 June 2014Chan Horm is a social butterfly who lights up whenever sugarcane is near. She loves playtime but isn’t a fan of dogs or noisy birds. Once a show elephant, she now enjoys life surrounded by friends, not crowds.
About Hill Tribe Elephant Village
Nestled in Patong’s quiet forest, Hill Tribe Elephant Village is more than a sanctuary — it is a family legacy. Our mission combines ethical elephant care, slow travel experiences, and support for the local hill tribe community.
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Rescued Elephants
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Years of Hill Tribe Wisdom
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Staff & Mahouts
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Local Employment (%)
We are proud to be a hill tribe family–run sanctuary, creating jobs and sharing knowledge passed down through generations. Our elephants’ food — grass, bananas, sugarcane, and herbs — is sourced directly from local farmers, ensuring the community grows together with us.
Latest Stories
Insights, stories, and reflections from Hill Tribe Elephant Village
Walking Beside Giants in Patong
Behind Phuket’s busy streets lies a hidden forest where elephants roam free. Discover the slow rhythm of walking beside giants.
Read More →Why Ethical Travel in Phuket Matters
Travel choices make an impact. Learn why choosing ethical elephant tourism supports conservation, animal welfare, and community livelihoods.
Read More →Find Us Easily
Some guests may get confused with nearby attractions. Please use this exact location to reach Hill Tribe Elephant Village, Patong.
