Discover tropical wildlife spots
Watch elephants bathe in the river, see bats swarm from caves at sunset, spot monkeys in the jungle and snorkel through azure waters bursting with tropical marine life. Thailand is simply packed with wildlife, whether on land or in the water. Go in search of pink dolphins, trek through a wilderness home to wild elephants and porcupine and sleep in floating raft houses surrounded by the sounds of the jungle. If you’re wild about animals, Thailand will knock your socks off.
Have an elephant encounter in Chiang Mai
Seeing elephants is often high on the list for many visitors to Thailand, but with so many unethical practices, it’s important to find an experience that prioritises animal welfare over anything else. One of our favourites is Elephant Nature Park in Chiang Mai, home to elephants who have been rescued from logging, street begging and exploitative tourism and are now free to roam, graze and do the things that wild elephants do, with support from a caring organisation. You’ll learn all about their stories and watch them bathe in the river as a herd, splashing, socialising and just enjoying life, as they should.
Go on safari in Khao Yai National Park
Take a safari through Khao Yai National Park, Thailand’s oldest national park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Just a three-hour drive from Bangkok, this park is known for its lush jungle, cascading waterfalls, and incredible wildlife. Starting on the back of a jeep, you will take a short trek into the jungle, accompanied by an expert ranger, who will help you spot wild elephants, pigtail macaws, porcupines and gibbons swinging through the trees above. You will learn all about the history of the national park and how the ecosystem thrives here, a completely immersive experience in a beautiful location.
In the evening, head to the eerie bat caves at sunset for a real showstopper. All of a sudden, you’ll see thousands of bats flood from the caves and flit into the dusk. At the same time, birds of prey swoop into the swarm, trying to grab themselves a snack. It’s an eye-opening experience.
Set off in search of pink dolphins
Stay on a sleepy mainland beach bursting with local atmosphere and take a longtail boat trip to spot pink dolphins off the coast. Khanom is a seaside resort with an authentic vibe, views over the outlying islands and a bunch of leaping pink dolphins living in its waters. First, you’ll stop off at the local market, before heading out into the bay to spot the dolphins. Be sure to keep your camera ready as they often jump alongside the boat.
Sleep in untamed jungles
Explore the enchanting jungle with giant trees and lakes of Khao Sok National Park, scattered with sparkling lakes, limestone cliffs and waterfalls. You’ll stay in a jungle lodge, where you can fall asleep to sounds of nature under starry skies before heading to a floating raft house in the heart of the wilderness and follow overgrown trails to spot monkeys, birds and insects. The park is home to a handful of exotic species, including gibbons, clouded leopards, tapirs and elephants, so keep your eyes peeled.
Suggested bite-sized trips & itineraries for wildlife watching
Simply pick and choose your favourite bite-sized trips or ready-made itineraries, add them to your Travel Plan and request a quote. It’s easy. Our Travel Specialists will then put together a holiday that’s right for you. Plus you’ll have the same team for the life of your booking & support from our local partners on the ground 24/7.
Wildlife in Laos
The wildlife in Laos can be hard to spot; it’s all about being in the right place at the right time. With a keen pair of eyes and a great pair of binoculars you might spot some of the animals native to Laos. Of course, you’ve got a good chance of seeing the odd monkey at one of Laos’ many temples.
Search for the Irrawaddy dolphin
Just off Don Khone Island in Si Phan Don the highly endangered Irrawaddy dolphin has been spotted. Why not try your luck and take a boat trip in search of this incredible animal during your stay amongst the four thousand islands of the Mekong River.
Trek through Luang Namtha National Park
While trekking through the wild undergrowth of Luang Namtha National Park you might spot a few of the local inhabitants. Monkeys have been reported in this area, so if you walk quietly and luck is on your side, you may hear or even see them swinging amongst the branches overhead.
