Everyone wants to see the elephants when visiting Thailand. But unfortunately many also want to ride them without thinking twice on how that impacts the animal. We are so grateful to have had the opportunity to volunteer at Elephant Jungle Sanctuary in Chiang Mai and be a part of an organization that cares for the well being of these amazing animals. Although big, elephants spines are not built to support weight from above, therefore riding causes long term harm. We got to feed the elephants (they eat literal bushels of bananas at a time), take a mud bath with them, wash them, and play with the babies; all fun and no harm. Seeing them show their happiness by running around and rolling in the mud while we splashed them made my heart SO happy! Show your love for elephants and all animals and do the right thing, choose a sanctuary that practices ethics over greed for tourist money.
Think twice. Live less out of habit and more out of intent.
This was the best day. I love Thailand. I love elephants.