27 June - 11 July 2024
An 'Elephantastic' Adventure
...tailored to provide a sustainable future for Thailand's elephants
ITINERARY:
Day 1 Bangkok to Ayutthaya
We fly in today and meet our group at Suvarnabhumi airport where we have organised a private transfer to Ayutthaya. Tonight we sleep surrounded by the sounds of an elephant village set up to give elephants a safe home. While our facilities might not be luxurious, we will still have hot showers, western toilets, fabulous Thai food, wi-fi...and elephants. My idea of heaven.
Days 2 - 8 Ayutthaya with elephants!!
We have reserved 7 nights' accommodation in this innovative elephant village, providing safe homes and a sustainable future for elephants in human care.
This morning we will meet the elephants we will be caring for over the next week.
Under the guidance of experienced mahouts, you will be responsible for a 'retired' elephant’s daily welfare, including clean up, feeding, water, scrubbing and swimming!
Throughout the week you will get to know your elephant’s personality and enjoy the mutual delights of that insight.
There will be plenty of time to witness and explore daily life in the community, to join in village activities and to enjoy interacting with elephant calves in the nursery.
During our week we will also visit local markets, temples and historical sites. Ayutthaya was once the capital of Siam and elephants are credited with being the backbone of Thai society. All meals included.
Day 9, 10
All about relaxation. We will have a long, restful drive down the Gulf of Thailand in a private vehicle. Our destination is Hua Hin, delightfully situated on the Gulf of Thailand. We can relax, shop and explore after all our hard work with the elephants. We will enjoy our evening meals at nearby night markets renowned for good food and entertainment with traders/artists/artisans selling a variety of quality goods. Wonderful for souvenirs and gifts! Breakfast and dinner included.
Day 11-13 National Parks in Prachuap Khiri Khan Province
Kui Buri, Sam Roi Yot and Kaeng Krachan National Parks offer unique opportunities to explore a range of habitats and species. We will make the most of the area. In the company of expert Rangers and guides, we will go in search of elephants and other wildlife. We can expect beautiful limestone karsts and hopefully numerous bird species, deer, macaques, lizards and perhaps Dusky Leaf monkeys, Serow, civets or even Gaur. We will also have the opportunity to relax with swimming, perhaps a massage, beach activities and wi-fi at our fingertips.
All meals included.
Day 14
After a leisurely morning, we will transfer to Bangkok airport where the tour concludes as we go our various ways. Breakfast and lunch are included.
Price & inclusions:
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AUD 3200 per person (twin-share). The single supplement price is AUD 3550.
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A $500 non-refundable deposit is required to hold your place (and price) after confirmation of availability. Balance is due 60 days before tour departure.
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All internal Thailand transfers, vehicles and drivers
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Accommodation is based on twin-share rooms with private bathrooms.
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Most meals - as indicated above
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Water supplied during all activities
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Conservation/community levies and National Park fees
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Activities as indicated, (subject to weather etc)
Exclusions:
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International airfares
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Travel insurance (compulsory for all participants)
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Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks
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Snacks, food and activities outside the scheduled itinerary
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Single room may be available on request, supplement will be charged.
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Additional transport required due to an emergency
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Tips/gratuities (optional, $60 AUD is plenty)
**This itinerary, accommodation and pricing is based on information available at the time of print and is subject to alteration due to changing circumstances beyond the control of Elephant Encounters.