Patong Elephant Hug: A Heartwarming, Ethical Elephant Experience in Phuket
When you think of Phuket, you probably picture stunning beaches, sunsets, island hoping, vibrant night markets, and delicious Thai cuisine. But did you know Phuket is also home to one of the most heartwarming and ethical elephant sanctuaries in Thailand?
A must-do activity, just a 15-minute drive from Karon Beach, the Patong Elephant Hug Sanctuary offers a rare opportunity to connect and spend time with Thailand’s most beloved creatures in a responsible and respectful way. If you're searching for an ethical elephant sanctuary in Phuket, this is the place.
What Makes Patong Elephant Hug Different?
This sanctuary is built on a simple but powerful philosophy: No Riding, No Hook, No Chain. Patong Elephant Hug focuses on the well-being and happiness of the elephants. It provides a stress-free environment where the elephants can live peacefully, and where visitors can experience meaningful interactions. Additionally, it is located near Patong Beach and easily accessible from Paradox Resort Phuket.
What to Expect in the Elephant Hug Experience
The 1.5-hour experience is available in morning (9:30–11:00) and afternoon (14:00–15:30) sessions. During your visit, you will:
- Prepare fruits and vitamin balls
- Feed seasonal fruits to the elephants
- Shower and scrub them playfully
- Take beautiful photos with the elephants
The package also includes:
- Round-trip transfer from our resort
- Welcome drinks and Thai snacks
- A traditional outfit for the activity
- A professional, English- or Chinese-speaking guide
- facilities like lockers, showers, and disposable towels
- Accident Insurance
Important Safety & Etiquette Guidelines
For the safety of both guests and elephants, please follow these sanctuary rules:
- Do not use flash photography
- Do not shout or make loud noises
- Do not approach elephants without staff guidance
- Do not hit, tease, or provoke the elephants
- Do not feed any food that is not provided or approved by staff
- Do not litter in or around the sanctuary
- Always cooperate with staff instructions
- Wash your hands after touching elephants
- Maintain a safe distance when not actively participating in activities
These guidelines help ensure a respectful and enjoyable experience for everyone—especially the elephants.
Where to Stay: Karon Beach’s Best Sea View Hotel
Make your ethical travel experience even more special by staying at Paradox Resort Phuket, one of the instagrammable hotel in Phuket. Nestled in the heart of Karon Beach, our resort offers easy access to Karon Beach, Patong Beach, Kata Beach, modern rooms, beachfront relaxation, and curated experiences like the Elephant Hug Package.
With a 3-night stay, daily breakfast, and the full elephant program included, it’s one of the best eco-friendly travel packages in Phuket.
Why Ethical Tourism Matters
By visiting this ethical sanctuary, you are supporting eco-friendly tourism in Thailand and giving back to organizations that care deeply for animal welfare. Whether you're traveling as a couple, family, or solo, this experience is a beautiful way to make your Phuket trip more meaningful.
Book the “Stay & Shower with Elephants” Package Today!
Join the movement for ethical travel in Phuket. Click here to book and experience the difference.
* Limited slots available per day to protect the well-being of the elephants.