19 March - 2 April 2023 **filling fast!**
An 'Elephantastic' Adventure
...tailored for you to participate in providing a sustainable future for Thailand's elephants!
ITINERARY:
Day 1 Bangkok to Ayutthaya
We fly in today/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! 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 an innovative elephant village, set up to provide safe homes and a sustainable future for elephants in human care.
This morning we will each meet the elephant 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
All about relaxation. We will have a long, restful drive down the Gulf of Thailand in a private vehicle. Our destination is delightfully situated on the beach in close proximity to National Parks to ensure we make the most of this exceptional area. Here we will have the opportunity to relax with swimming, perhaps a massage, beach activities and wi-fi at our finger tips.
Days 10-13 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 & caves, hopefully numerous bird species, deer, macaques and Dusky Leaf monkeys, lizards & frogs and perhaps Serow, civets and Gaur. We will also visit Hua Hin and enjoy a meal at a night market renowned for good food and entertainment with traders/artists/artisans selling a variety of quality goods. Wonderful for last-minute souvenirs & gifts! Breakfast & dinner included..
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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$2950 aud per person (twin-share). A $500 non-refundable deposit is required to hold your place (and price) after confirmation of availability. Balance is due 60 days prior to tour departure.
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All internal Thailand transfers, vehicles and drivers
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All accommodation based on twin-share rooms with private bathroom
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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 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 situation
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Tips / gratuities (optional, $60 is plenty)
**This itinerary, accommodation and pricing is based on information available at time of print and is subject to alteration due to changing circumstances beyond the control of Elephant Encounters.