Experience a unique ride atop one of Elephant Stay's majestic elephants. Visitors can admire the beautiful scenery of Ayutthaya while feeling the gentle sway of these incredible creatures. The ride typically takes you through the historic park of Ayutthaya, revealing ancient ruins and lush landscapes. During the journey, riders learn about the elephants' behavior, how they are cared for, and the significance of elephants in Thai culture and history. The activity is supervised by experienced mahouts (elephant trainers) ensuring a safe and educational experience for all. Although elephant riding is a contentious topic, Elephant Stay operates with a focus on the welfare and conservation of their elephants.
This hands-on activity offers visitors the chance to get up close and personal with these gentle giants during their daily bathing ritual. Guests can help wash the elephants in the river, which is not only a wonderful way to cool off on a hot day but also a great opportunity to interact with the animals in a more natural setting. The experience aims to promote the importance of caring and providing for these magnificent animals while highlighting the bond between the elephants and their mahouts. Expect to get wet and enjoy a unique bonding experience that is both fun and educational.
Join the elephants for one of their daily meals and learn about their eating habits and dietary needs in this memorable activity. Visitors will have the opportunity to feed the elephants with their favorite snacks, which typically include bananas, sugarcane, and special nutritionally balanced elephant-friendly food. While feeding the gentle giants, guests will also get insights into an elephant's typical daily intake and the careful planning that goes into ensuring their health and well-being. This interaction not only helps to forge a memorable connection with the animals but also serves as an educational glimpse into the complexity of elephant care.
For those who want to delve deeper into the world of elephant handling and care, the Mahout Training program offers a comprehensive look. Participants will learn basic commands, how to safely approach and interact with elephants, and the day-to-day tasks involved in caring for these amazing animals. The program includes both theoretical education and hands-on experience guided by professional mahouts, granting a deeper understanding and respect for these intelligent creatures. The training is designed to enlighten guests about the bond between mahouts and their elephants and to underscore the importance of ethical treatment.
This activity is designed for visitors who are keen to learn about elephant conservation efforts. The program includes informative talks and interactive sessions with experts in the field. Guests will gain knowledge about the challenges elephants face in the wild, as well as the efforts being undertaken to protect them both in captivity and their natural habitats. This experience is both eye-opening and inspiring, aiming to equip participants with the knowledge and passion to advocate for elephant conservation. Visitors will also learn about the history and significance of the Asian Elephant in Thailand.
Elephant Stay hosts a unique gallery where visitors can view and purchase artwork created by the resident elephants. Each painting is a collaborative effort between the animal and its mahout, making these pieces truly one-of-a-kind. The activity includes a tour of the gallery and a session where guests can see the elephants creating art, which is a testament to their intelligence and creativity. In purchasing these artworks, visitors contribute directly to the elephants' upkeep and conservation, making it a gift that gives back. The viewing also serves as a conversation starter about the intersection of art, animals, and conservation.
Few things are as heartwarming as spending time with a baby elephant. During this activity, guests have a chance to interact with the playful youngsters under the careful supervision of their mahouts. It's a delightful opportunity to play, feed, and sometimes even help with the baby elephants' training routines. The experience is not just endearing but also illuminates the early stages of an elephant's life and the nurturing process they undergo. Interacting with the babies fosters a deep appreciation for the species and supports Elephant Stay's breeding and conservation program.
Embark on an elephant trek through the lush surroundings of Ayutthaya. Unlike the short elephant rides, trekking offers a longer, in-depth journey that allows visitors to explore a variety of landscapes such as jungle paths and riverside trails. Accompanied by a mahout, guests can admire the beauty of nature from a unique vantage point while gaining insight into how these magnificent animals traverse through different terrains. Elephant trekking also educates participants about the delicate balance between human encroachment and natural habitats, emphasizing the need for sustainable eco-tourism practices.
Although primarily an elephant sanctuary, Elephant Stay is situated in royal historic Ayutthaya. The Cultural Heritage Tour takes guests on an educational excursion to the nearby temples and ruins, showcasing Thailand's rich history. Participants will trace the steps of ancient kings among the architectural marvels of the old city, learning about the significance of elephants in Thailand's past. The tour may also include a visit to the Elephant Kraal Pavilion, a historic structure that was once used in the round-up and training of wild elephants for royal service or war.
As the day comes to a close, join this serene activity that allows you to witness the breathtaking Ayutthaya sunset in the company of elephants. This magical experience offers a quiet moment to reflect on the day's adventures while watching the sky change colors over the ancient city. It's a chance to bond with the elephants during one of the most peaceful times of day, with opportunities to take incredible photographs of the silhouettes of elephants against the dusk sky. To ensure the tranquility of the experience, the activity is offered to small groups and should be booked in advance.