Discover tropical wildlife spots

Although elephant trekking is popular throughout Thailand, the practice is often unethical and sometimes unkind. So instead we offer the chance to get to know the local elephants in a more authentic way through the Save Elephant Foundation. Instead of a tourist ride on an elephant, choose an ethical elephant encounter in Chiang Mai where you’ll see the animals living as a herd at the Elephant Nature Park. Watch them splash in the river and learn all about the work of the Save Elephant Foundation.

Take a safari across Khao Yai National Park and 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. The next day, you’ll trek along elephant trails and set out on safari in a traditional songthaew, scouring the jungle for macaques, toucans, gibbons and sloths.

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.

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.

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.

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.