The Global Meaningful Travel Map

Mahouts Elephant Foundation

Mahouts Elephant Foundation

Ethical elephant observation, forest hikes, and cultural immersion that protect wildlife, livelihoods, and ancient traditions.

OUR EXPERIENCES

We offer life changing and unique experiences in the very heart of indigenous Karen communities. Through community based tourism, guests immerse in a beautiful and ancient culture, with the opportunity to hike into pristine forest to observe Asian elephants living naturally. The elephants in our care roam and forage for 100% of their diet all year round, and with our hands-off observation only model there is no touching or feeding. Guests leave with treasured memories and lots of photos.

ABOUT US

We partner with indigenous Karen communities to ensure captive Asian elephants can remain in their natural forest habitat, therefore reaching the highest welfare standards. Through these partnerships we operate a community based tourism model which is equitable to all, ethical, and sustainable. Communities have the opportunity to showcase their culture and host guests through homestays and meals, and demonstrate handicrafts such as fabric and basket weaving. A guest lodge is available for those preferring something other than a homestay.

Our model protects culture and community, the elephants, and the forest itself. When elephants remain in large forest habitats and communities have a sustainable income, it reduces the risk of forest destruction for cash crops.

IMPACT

Our impact is far reaching. We enable captive Asian elephants to live in vast forest habitats, roaming in family groups and foraging for their own diet. We undertake research through observational behavioural data, informing best practices for elephant welfare. Guests leave with treasured memories and a deeper understanding of the needs of elephants to ensure they can truly thrive.

We support Karen indigenous communities through a fair and sustainable community based tourism model, enabling income generation while showcasing a culture they are proud of. We also run an annual field course for university students focused on collecting behavioural data. This work protects forest habitats for captive elephants, wild elephants, and the wildlife that depends on these ecosystems.

DETAILS

To learn more, contact: sarah@mahouts.org

What are your minimum and maximum group sizes?
2–18

Do you require visitors to pre-book?
Yes

Do you have group rates?
Yes

Do you pay commissions to travel advisors?
Yes

What languages do you offer your services in?
English

When are you open?
Our LIFE project is open all year round. Our Palatha project is open from September to June.

What accommodations do you make for people living with disabilities?
We are in remote mountainous regions and will do our best to accommodate guests given the experiences we offer. Trips involve hiking to see the elephants.