Chiang Mai Elephant Sanctuary, Bamboo Rafting and Waterfall Tour
Chiang Mai, Thailand

Chiang Mai Elephant Sanctuary, Bamboo Rafting and Waterfall Tour

Outty Ranking 97 5.0 · 1,631 traveler reviews8 hoursFrom $5590+ Club
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Outty Ranking

97/100

Peak Performance. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

5.0/5

Based on 1,631 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is Chiang Mai Elephant Sanctuary, Bamboo Rafting and Waterfall Tour worth booking?

Chiang Mai Elephant Sanctuary, Bamboo Rafting and Waterfall Tour is a 8-hour experience in Chiang Mai, Thailand, from $55 per person. It scores 97 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Peak Performance”, based on a 5/5 rating across 1,631 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing. It sits in the Outty 90+ Club, the top tier of everything we rank.

Outty Ranking
97 / 100
Rating
5/5 (1,631)
Duration
8 hours
From
$55 per person

Experience a day of fun and adventure in Chiang Mai with a tour that includes a waterfall, an ethical elephant sanctuary, and bamboo rafting. Your day begins at Bau Tong Waterfall where it allows visitors to climb barefoot—an exciting and rare experiences. Take in the serene natural surroundings, breathtaking views, and refreshing mountain air. Next, visit Elephant Sanctuary, a sanctuary where elephants roam freely in a natural forest environment. Here, you’ll quietly observe these gentle giants as they go about their daily routines in peace. We respect their freedom by avoiding any riding or direct interaction, choosing instead to walk alongside them and witness their lives in a natural and ethical setting. The final, enjoy a scenic bamboo rafting experience as you float down the river, surrounded by lush landscapes and tranquil beauty.

What you get

    About this experience

    Experience a day of fun and adventure in Chiang Mai with a tour that includes a waterfall, an ethical elephant sanctuary, and bamboo rafting. Your day begins at Bau Tong Waterfall where it allows visitors to climb barefoot—an exciting and rare experiences. Take in the serene natural surroundings, breathtaking views, and refreshing mountain air. Next, visit Elephant Sanctuary, a sanctuary where elephants roam freely in a natural forest environment. Here, you’ll quietly observe these gentle giants as they go about their daily routines in peace. We respect their freedom by avoiding any riding or direct interaction, choosing instead to walk alongside them and witness their lives in a natural and ethical setting. The final, enjoy a scenic bamboo rafting experience as you float down the river, surrounded by lush landscapes and tranquil beauty.

    What's included

    Included

    • Entrance fees
    • Lunch

    Not included

    • Shopping or Souvenir

    What you'll see and do

    1. Bua Thong Waterfalls (Nam Phu Chet Si)

      We will head directly to the Bua Tong waterfall, which is about an 80-minute drive. We will spend around an hour there to relax and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. Explore to experience the natural adventure at Bua Tong Waterfall to breathe in the fresh mountain air and enjoy the calming sounds of the waterfall. Next, we will go to the elephant sanctuary, and it takes 40 for drive.

      60 minutes here · Admission included

    2. After waterfall, we will be heading to elephant sanctuary, which is about 40 minutes away. Elephant Sanctuary is an elephant conservation park located in the scenic Mae Tang Valley, just an hour’s drive from Chiang Mai. During the COVID-19 pandemic, we transitioned into a conservation-focused sanctuary. Our herd of 16 elephants thrives in a stress-free environment, where they spend their days eating, playing, and enjoying natural behaviors without the pressures of rides or shows.

      180 minutes here · Admission included

    3. Then, you’ll go bamboo rafting and see elephants nearby. You’ll enjoy beautiful natural scenery, surrounded by mountains and trees, where you can relax and breathe in the fresh air.

      40 minutes here · Admission included

    Where it starts and ends

    Meeting point

    Chiang Mai

    Meet your guide at the Three Kings Monument at the address listed 10 minutes before the tour begins.

    Hotel pickup

    Pickup is available for selected locations. Pickup begins about 30 minutes before departure.

    Ends at

    Meet your guide at the Three Kings Monument at the address listed 10 minutes before the tour begins.

    Before you book

    Cancellation
    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
    Languages
    cmn, en, fr
    Ticket
    Mobile Only
    Runs on
    Every day
    Group size
    Up to 30 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    NEW ELEPHANT HOME

    Know before you go

    • Wheelchair accessible
    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Specialized infant seats are available
    • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

    Photos

    Chiang Mai Elephant Sanctuary, Bamboo Rafting and Waterfall Tour, photo 2Chiang Mai Elephant Sanctuary, Bamboo Rafting and Waterfall Tour, photo 3Chiang Mai Elephant Sanctuary, Bamboo Rafting and Waterfall Tour, photo 4Chiang Mai Elephant Sanctuary, Bamboo Rafting and Waterfall Tour, photo 5Chiang Mai Elephant Sanctuary, Bamboo Rafting and Waterfall Tour, photo 6Chiang Mai Elephant Sanctuary, Bamboo Rafting and Waterfall Tour, photo 7

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 1,616 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    The guide

    7 mentions

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

    Knowledge and storytelling

    2 mentions

    Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.

    Traveler reviews

    1,616 verified traveler reviews for Chiang Mai Elephant Sanctuary, Bamboo Rafting and Waterfall Tour. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

    5 star
    1,563
    4 star
    41
    3 star
    7
    2 star
    4
    1 star
    1
    Sort
    P9046NAmichaelr · October 2026

    Superb Tour

    Amy was great, she made the tour worth it! Very funny and knowledgeable. I was surprised by the waterfall part, getting to walk it was super neat! Recommend!!

    via Tripadvisor

    ernestoe889 · October 2026

    A wonderful experienced . We loved the elephants and the waterfalls

    A wonderful experience . My partner and I loved the elephants . The elephants we very friendly and easy to feed. We loved the waterfall climb too , it was fun. Amy was lovely and friendly tour guide, we felt very supported with her.

    via Tripadvisor

    clesiter · October 2026

    Great tour guide Amy. ...

    Great tour guide Amy. Waterfall climbing experience was epic. Well paced day and great lunch included in the tour.

    via Viator

    152janiquev · October 2026

    Great Experience🌊

    Very great experience we would definitely recommend; our tour guide was great nim nim

    via Tripadvisor

    hannanF915AG · October 2026

    Nim is the best

    Had a great experience with our guide Nim! They picked us up from our hotel, were very knowledgeable and kind and made sure we had the best day! Highly recommend!

    via Tripadvisor

    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
    $55 to $1,800
    Hotel pickup
    Available for selected locations
    Booked in 30 days
    571
    Verdict
    Peak Performance

    Why this scores 97

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

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)100
    Review evidence (18% weight)100
    Booking momentum (14% weight)100
    Value for money (12% weight)100
    Listing quality (10% weight)85
    Local standing (8% weight)82
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)100

    Chiang Mai Elephant Sanctuary, Bamboo Rafting and Waterfall Tour: questions travelers ask

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

    How much does Chiang Mai Elephant Sanctuary, Bamboo Rafting and Waterfall Tour cost?

    +

    Prices start at $55 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, Bamboo Rafting and Waterfall 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, Bamboo Rafting and Waterfall Tour worth it?

    +

    It holds an Outty Ranking of 97 out of 100, which we label "Peak Performance". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 1,631 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable most popular in Chiang Mai, and how flexible the cancellation terms are. Scoring 90 or above puts it in the Outty 90+ Club, the top tier of everything we rank.

    Can I cancel or reschedule Chiang Mai Elephant Sanctuary, Bamboo Rafting and Waterfall 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, Bamboo Rafting and Waterfall 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, Bamboo Rafting and Waterfall Tour?

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    Around 571 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, Bamboo Rafting and Waterfall 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), The Rice Barn Thai Cooking Farm Chiangmai. 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?

    +

    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, Bamboo Rafting and Waterfall Tour?

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    Included: Entrance fees; and Lunch. Not included: Shopping or Souvenir. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.

    Does Chiang Mai Elephant Sanctuary, Bamboo Rafting and Waterfall Tour include hotel pickup?

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    Yes, pickup is offered, or you can meet at the start point instead from 612 listed pickup locations in and around Chiang Mai. Be ready about 30 minutes before the start time. You can also enter a custom pickup address when booking.

    What languages is Chiang Mai Elephant Sanctuary, Bamboo Rafting and Waterfall Tour offered in?

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    It is offered in Chinese, English and French. 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, Bamboo Rafting and Waterfall 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, Bamboo Rafting and Waterfall Tour wheelchair or stroller accessible?

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    The operator notes: Wheelchair accessible; and Specialized infant seats are available. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.

    What happens to Chiang Mai Elephant Sanctuary, Bamboo Rafting and Waterfall Tour if the weather is bad?

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    It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in Chiang Mai. Standard cancellation terms apply: free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.

    What do travelers say about Chiang Mai Elephant Sanctuary, Bamboo Rafting and Waterfall Tour?

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    Across 1,631 reviews averaging 5.0 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

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