Chiang Mai Elephant Sanctuary and Sticky Waterfall Day Tour
Chiang Mai, Thailand

Chiang Mai Elephant Sanctuary and Sticky Waterfall Day Tour

Outty Ranking 61 4.1 · 13 traveler reviews8 hoursFrom $38
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Outty Ranking

61/100

Solid Choice. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

4.1/5

Based on 13 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is Chiang Mai Elephant Sanctuary and Sticky Waterfall Day Tour worth booking?

Chiang Mai Elephant Sanctuary and Sticky Waterfall Day Tour is a 8-hour experience in Chiang Mai, Thailand, from $38 per person. It scores 61 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Solid Choice”, based on a 4.1/5 rating across 13 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
61 / 100
Rating
4.1/5 (13)
Duration
8 hours
From
$38 per person

Get ready for an unforgettable day as you meet gentle elephants and climb the amazing Sticky Waterfall on a full-day tour from Chiang Mai without the hassle of planning transportation and logistics. Start the day with hotel pickup from Chiang Mai accommodations. Begin at an elephant sanctuary In the city of Chiang Mai where five elephants, enjoy a life of freedom. Feed them bananas and bamboo, walk beside them in the jungle, and join in the fun of a mud bath and river splash. (This sanctuary offers a rare, hands-on connection in a cruelty-free setting) The journey continues at the famous Sticky Waterfall, surrounded by lush jungle, it is a refreshing and unforgettable highlight, making this tour the perfect combination of culture, adventure, and nature in one day. -Enjoy seamless, door-to-door transport from Chiang Mai in an air-conditioned vehicle -Stay cool and comfortable in a vehicle with air-conditioning -No hunger pangs: Lunch are included

What you get

    About this experience

    Get ready for an unforgettable day as you meet gentle elephants and climb the amazing Sticky Waterfall on a full-day tour from Chiang Mai without the hassle of planning transportation and logistics. Start the day with hotel pickup from Chiang Mai accommodations. Begin at an elephant sanctuary In the city of Chiang Mai where five elephants, enjoy a life of freedom. Feed them bananas and bamboo, walk beside them in the jungle, and join in the fun of a mud bath and river splash. (This sanctuary offers a rare, hands-on connection in a cruelty-free setting) The journey continues at the famous Sticky Waterfall, surrounded by lush jungle, it is a refreshing and unforgettable highlight, making this tour the perfect combination of culture, adventure, and nature in one day. -Enjoy seamless, door-to-door transport from Chiang Mai in an air-conditioned vehicle -Stay cool and comfortable in a vehicle with air-conditioning -No hunger pangs: Lunch are included

    What's included

    Included

    • Tour guide
    • Entrance fees
    • Lunch
    • In-vehicle air conditioning
    • Elephant's food and snack

    Not included

    • Personal expenses

    What you'll see and do

    1. At the elephant sanctuary, your day begins with a warm welcome from the guides who share fascinating stories about the elephants’ lives. Change into traditional clothing and step closer to these gentle giants in a way that makes them feel at ease. Hand-feed them bananas and bamboo from your own basket and see their personalities shine. Stroll together through the jungle, enjoy the playful fun of a mud spa, and splash with them in the river for an unforgettable bath. Take part in preparing herbal vitamin balls that help keep the elephants healthy, and savor a simple yet delicious Thai meal surrounded by nature. This is a rare chance to bond with elephants in a truly meaningful and joyful way.

      180 minutes here · Admission included

    2. After your time with the elephants, continue to the famous Sticky Waterfall, one of Chiang Mai’s most unique natural wonders. Unlike ordinary waterfalls, the mineral-rich limestone here creates a natural grip, allowing you to climb directly up the cascading water without slipping. Surrounded by lush jungle, the experience feels adventurous yet refreshing, as you cool off in the clear flowing streams. Whether you choose to climb, explore the forest trails, or simply relax in the tranquil setting, the Sticky Waterfall offers the perfect balance of fun and relaxation, making it a highlight for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. **This visit is optional. Please select the corresponding option if you wish to include it in your tour.

      120 minutes here

    Where it starts and ends

    Meeting point

    Chiang Mai

    Please meet us at the McDonald's in front of Tha Phae Gate, and kindly arrive 10 minutes early. We’ll reach out to you via email or Whatsapp the day before to make sure all goes smoothly.

    Hotel pickup

    Pickup is available for selected locations. Pickup begins about 10 minutes before departure.

    Ends at

    Please meet us at the McDonald's in front of Tha Phae Gate, and kindly arrive 10 minutes early. We’ll reach out to you via email or Whatsapp the day before to make sure all goes smoothly.

    Options you can book

    • Elephants & Sticky Waterfall

      Sticky Waterfall: Includes a visit to Sticky Waterfall, where you can climb the limestone cascades and enjoy a refreshing jungle adventure. Duration: 6 hours: We may begin with the elephants/waterfall based on conditions. We’ll plan the best flow for you. Pickup included

    • Elephant Sanctuary Only

      Duration: 3 hours: Enjoy 3 hrs at Elephant Sanctuary near Chiang Mai. Feed, walk, and bathe with elephants in an unforgettable experience. Pickup included

    Before you book

    Cancellation
    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
    Languages
    en
    Ticket
    Mobile Only
    Runs on
    Every day
    Group size
    Up to 12 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    ThaiDay Tour

    Know before you go

    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

    Photos

    Chiang Mai Elephant Sanctuary and Sticky Waterfall Day Tour, photo 2Chiang Mai Elephant Sanctuary and Sticky Waterfall Day Tour, photo 3Chiang Mai Elephant Sanctuary and Sticky Waterfall Day Tour, photo 4Chiang Mai Elephant Sanctuary and Sticky Waterfall Day Tour, photo 5Chiang Mai Elephant Sanctuary and Sticky Waterfall Day Tour, photo 6Chiang Mai Elephant Sanctuary and Sticky Waterfall Day Tour, photo 7

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 13 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    The guide

    9 mentions

    Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

    Photo opportunities

    3 mentions

    The views and photo stops come up again and again.

    Value for money

    3 mentions

    Travelers feel they got more than they paid for.

    Food and drink

    3 mentions

    The tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.

    Knowledge and storytelling

    2 mentions

    Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.

    Traveler reviews

    13 verified traveler reviews for Chiang Mai Elephant Sanctuary and Sticky Waterfall Day Tour. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

    5 star
    9
    4 star
    0
    3 star
    1
    2 star
    2
    1 star
    1
    Sort
    markmC5719YV · October 2026

    Best day so far

    Best day in Thailand so far! The pick up was on time. They took us to the elephant sanctuary then the sticky waterfalls. The guided were great. Very informative and polite. The adventure itself was spectacular. I think I'm going to book it again!

    via Tripadvisor

    799cezarb · October 2026

    Elephant great experience

    We have a great experience with the help and experience of Temo ( the guide). Free elephants for those who appreciate nature and do not approve with animals riding etc..

    Response from the operator: Thank you for your lovely review! We're so glad you had a great experience and felt the elephants are well cared for with plenty of space. Hope to see you again soon!

    via Tripadvisor

    Deborah_W · September 2026

    There was a tour guide...

    There was a tour guide provided by the elephant sanctuary, but otherwise you're basically on your own b/c the driver doesn't speak English. You're not so much booking a tour, as much as you're booking transportation & admission.

    Response from the operator: Thank you for your feedback. We're sorry your experience didn't meet your expectations. We also appreciate your note about the driver's English and will take it into consideration. Thank you again. We hope to serve you better next time.

    via Viator

    Gowri_M · March 2026

    Will not do this again

    I would not recommend this tour nor would I redo it. First things first, it is not clearly described in the description but a driver picks you up. No tour guide until the elephant place where a guide is with you but then again you leave with the driver who doesn't really talk or explain what is next or how long to the next place etc. I do not think the cost was worth it. The elephant sanctuary- although the elephants are not in chains, I would not say it is ethical. They stage it all and the caretakers force them to stand and eat while you take your pics, sit and eat for more pics, make them go into the water so you can have your fun with them. Some guides had their guests sit on the elephants leg for pics which I thought was horrible. An ethical sanctuary for me is when the elephants wander and do what they want and you get to observe and interact on their terms. If they want to eat, we feed etc. I did not like how Controlled and forced it felt. Good side is there are just 4 elephants sharing the large space. Lunch was nothing great. I wish there was an option to opt out. It was a very plain basic pad thai and they offered chilli on the side but there was a dead cricket in the chilli bottle so hygiene was just lacking. Washroom was clean in that space but bring wipes and hand sani as soap was empty. The falls was cool. The driver just told us what time to be back and left us to our own time. You don't need a guide for the falls so if you manage your own transportation to and from, that would work well! I would do better research on which sanctuaries to check out. I chose this because the original reviews were good but I would not suggest this. There was others that do it right. Lack of chains only doesn't mean ethical. Its to do with control and forcing interaction with people. It was a timetable like now its time to feed them. Now it's time to take pic. Now its time to make this item for them. Now its time to get into the water and splash. Some guides were forcing the little elephant to spray the people while another kept yelling at the older one to squat in the river so people could splash them with the buckets of water. Avoid booking this.

    via Viator

    John_S · March 2026

    Elephant tour and sticky falls

    This tour was not for us No English guide hence absolutely no interpretation Beat up old Toyota with bad suspension not air con in the back Driver and guide left their visors down the whole trip limiting passenger view Driver nibbled on berries and left pips in view 3 .5 hours of driving with no interpretation Elephant farm was great with excellent interaction and interpretation Sticky fall were interesting but without interpretation and due to long drive not really worth the effort

    via Viator

    Good to know

    Duration
    8 hours
    Free cancellation
    Up to 24h before
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Every day
    Price range
    $38 to $50
    Hotel pickup
    Available for selected locations
    Booked in 30 days
    5
    Verdict
    Solid Choice

    Who runs this experience

    Operated by ThaiDay Tour, who run 10 experiences we rank across 3 cities, with an average Outty Ranking of 54.6.

    See everything ThaiDay Tour runs

    Why this scores 61

    The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)63
    Review evidence (18% weight)41
    Booking momentum (14% weight)33
    Value for money (12% weight)100
    Listing quality (10% weight)85
    Local standing (8% weight)18
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)100

    Chiang Mai Elephant Sanctuary and Sticky Waterfall Day Tour: questions travelers ask

    Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Chiang Mai.

    How much does Chiang Mai Elephant Sanctuary and Sticky Waterfall Day Tour cost?

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    Prices start at $38 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Chiang Mai usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.

    How long does Chiang Mai Elephant Sanctuary and Sticky Waterfall Day Tour take?

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    Plan for about 8 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Chiang Mai is not rushed.

    Is Chiang Mai Elephant Sanctuary and Sticky Waterfall Day Tour worth it?

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    It holds an Outty Ranking of 61 out of 100, which we label "Solid Choice". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.1/5 across 13 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Chiang Mai, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.

    Can I cancel or reschedule Chiang Mai Elephant Sanctuary and Sticky Waterfall Day Tour?

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    Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.

    Is Chiang Mai Elephant Sanctuary and Sticky Waterfall Day Tour suitable for kids and families?

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    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 8-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book Chiang Mai Elephant Sanctuary and Sticky Waterfall Day Tour?

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    Around 5 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Chiang Mai can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.

    What should I bring or wear?

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    Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Chiang Mai and add a light layer if any part of the 8-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does Chiang Mai Elephant Sanctuary and Sticky Waterfall Day Tour start and how do I get there?

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    The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Chiang Mai within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.

    What are the best things to do in Chiang Mai?

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    On Outty we rank every Chiang Mai experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Half-Day Thai Cooking Class at Organic Farm in Chiang Mai, Full Day Thai Cooking at Farm (Chiang Mai), Chiang Mai Elephant Sanctuary, Bamboo Rafting and Waterfall Tour. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.

    When is the best time to visit Chiang Mai?

    +

    Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.

    How many days do you need in Chiang Mai?

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    Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.

    Do I book through Outty or through the operator?

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    Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.

    What is included in Chiang Mai Elephant Sanctuary and Sticky Waterfall Day Tour?

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    Included: Tour guide; Entrance fees; Lunch; In-vehicle air conditioning; and Elephant's food and snack. Not included: Personal expenses. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.

    Does Chiang Mai Elephant Sanctuary and Sticky Waterfall Day Tour include hotel pickup?

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    Yes, pickup is offered, or you can meet at the start point instead from 423 listed pickup locations in and around Chiang Mai. Be ready about 10 minutes before the start time.

    What languages is Chiang Mai Elephant Sanctuary and Sticky Waterfall Day Tour offered in?

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    It runs in English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.

    Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Chiang Mai Elephant Sanctuary and Sticky Waterfall Day Tour?

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    Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.

    Is Chiang Mai Elephant Sanctuary and Sticky Waterfall Day Tour wheelchair or stroller accessible?

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    The operator notes: Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.

    What happens to Chiang Mai Elephant Sanctuary and Sticky Waterfall Day Tour if the weather is bad?

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    This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.

    What do travelers say about Chiang Mai Elephant Sanctuary and Sticky Waterfall Day Tour?

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    Across 13 reviews averaging 4.1 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, photo opportunities, value for money. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

    What booking options are available for Chiang Mai Elephant Sanctuary and Sticky Waterfall Day Tour?

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    There are 2 options to choose from, including Elephants & Sticky Waterfall, Elephant Sanctuary Only. Prices and start times differ by option, so compare them on the booking screen.

    Ready to lock in your spot?

    Pick a date, choose your group, and see the exact price for Chiang Mai Elephant Sanctuary and Sticky Waterfall Day Tour.

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