This is the most legitimate sanctuary on Samui. Here, you will find aging, injured, sick, and even drug-abused elephants, to the extent that they may not feel at ease in this place. It's a harsh reminder of how cruel our world can be. Some elephants have lost their eyes, and they bear scars and wounds all over their bodies from being harshly beaten. They are all elderly, 'over the hill'; most of them are in their 70s or even older. The elephant owners tend to reduce their age on their papers to be able to sell them for a higher price later. Here's a fun fact: all the elephants in Thailand should have their own passports.

The baby elephants at a tender age are broken in using really inhumane methods. One female elephant, who had been working in a circus for a long time, still tries to put her trunk around the visitors, lifting them up in the air, as she was conditioned to do and got used to it. This habit scares people.

As the main reason for elephant decline is not their worsening health conditions but the loss of their teeth. Elephants eat a lot - about 250 kg per adult. That's why elderly elephants need a special soft meal prepared for them daily and special equipment that can shred leaves into small pieces to help them chew it down. The sanctuary has these machines.

This sanctuary doesn't strictly adhere to a 'hands-off' approach. You can interact with the elephants by feeding and touching them if they like, under the observation of their helpers. Our guides are extremely professional, compassionate, and passionate. They share the sad stories of each elephant with a happy ending.

About Our Sanctuary:

Our original Bophut sanctuary opened in 2018 and is situated on 15 rai of land. It is home to 7 beautiful female elephants that have been rescued from elephant riding and shows. SES Bophut's central location makes it easily accessible from popular places to stay on the island.

Visitors to our Bophut sanctuary have the opportunity to feed the elephants at the feeding platform and are provided with a bag of fruit to offer to the elephants while strolling around the sanctuary grounds. These elephants are now accustomed to the presence of kind people, allowing visitors to enjoy limited interaction with them while respecting their space. At the sanctuary, you will witness the elephants foraging, indulging in special treats, swimming in their custom-built pool, playing in the mud, and covering themselves with sand – a truly fascinating experience.

Our Itinerary:

• Hotel pick-up: We provide pick-up services from all accommodations on Koh Samui. Please refer to the schedule below for pick-up times.
• Welcome and introduction video: Learn about who we are and why it's essential to protect elephants.
• Food preparation for the elephants: Prepare and feed the elephants, a magical experience for both you and the elephants as they enjoy their basket of treats.
• Elephant interaction: Walk with the elephants and observe their natural behaviors, including foraging for food, bathing in the pool, and playing in the mud pit.
• Enjoy a light vegetarian meal and fresh fruit, with time to rest, relax, and appreciate the tranquility of our sanctuary.
• Complimentary filtered water, coffee, and tea are provided.
• Transfer back to your hotel for your convenience.

What to Bring for Your Visit to Our Sanctuary:

For your visit to our sanctuary, we recommend bringing the following items:

• Your passport details to complete our Insurance Agreement (either on your phone or as a paper copy).
• Personal travel insurance, which is recommended for any international travel in case of accidents.
• A reusable water bottle, as we provide large chilled filtered water dispensers for refills.
• A cap or wide-brimmed hat to protect you from the sun.
• Sunglasses.
• Sunscreen.
• Insect repellent.
• Camera.
• Closed-toe shoes or trainers.
• Comfortable clothes that you don't mind getting sweaty or dirty.
• Please wear attire that is respectful of the local culture, avoiding bikinis, low-cut tops, or cheeky shorts.