Chiang Mai: Elephant Sanctuary, Bamboo Raft & Bua Tong Falls

Summary

Climb sticky waterfalls meet elephants float by bamboo raft Chiang Mai day trip

You’ll climb barefoot up Chiang Mai’s sticky Bua Tong Waterfall, walk beside rescued elephants in Mae Tang Valley (no riding or shows), and float downriver on a bamboo raft with mountain views all around. With lunch included and a local guide leading the way, you’ll get real moments—muddy feet, laughter, maybe even an elephant glance—that stick with you after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed at Bua Tong Waterfall was how everyone left their shoes behind. Our guide, Nok, grinned and said, “You’ll see why.” The rocks felt weirdly grippy under my feet—almost like climbing up a kitchen sponge, but colder and way more alive. Water rushed past my ankles and the air smelled green, if that makes sense. We laughed a lot trying to scramble up the wet steps—one guy in our group kept slipping and cursing softly in French. It was loud with water but somehow peaceful too; I caught myself just standing there for a minute, letting the spray hit my face.

After drying off (sort of), we piled back into the van for the drive to Mae Tang Valley. The elephant sanctuary felt quiet compared to the falls—just birds and the low rumble of elephants somewhere out of sight. Nok told us about how they’d stopped all riding here during COVID, so now it’s just sixteen elephants doing their thing. We walked along muddy trails while two young elephants played tug-of-war with a branch. I tried saying “sabai sabai” (Nok taught us) and got a look from one of them—probably unimpressed with my accent. Lunch was simple but good—rice, veggies, something spicy I still can’t name.

Bamboo rafting surprised me most. The river moved slower than I expected, almost lazy between big green banks. Someone pointed out an elephant wading nearby; it looked like it belonged there more than we did. The raft creaked under us and water soaked through my shorts pretty quick—not that it mattered because by then nobody cared about being dry anymore. There was this moment where everything went quiet except for the splash of paddles and some far-off laughter from another raft. I still think about that view sometimes.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Waterfall, elephant sanctuary, rafting

• Drive to Bua Tong Waterfall
• Climb and explore waterfall barefoot
• Drive to elephant sanctuary
• Observe elephants in natural habitat
• Enjoy bamboo rafting near elephants

Top questions

How long does the Chiang Mai elephant sanctuary tour last?

The full day trip takes around 8–9 hours including travel between stops.

Is riding elephants part of this Chiang Mai tour?

No, this is an ethical sanctuary—no riding or direct interaction is allowed.

Can you really climb Bua Tong Waterfall barefoot?

Yes! The mineral-rich rocks are grippy enough for barefoot climbing.

Is lunch included on this day trip from Chiang Mai?

Yes, lunch is provided as part of your tour package.

Are transfers included for the waterfall & elephant sanctuary tour?

The tour includes pickup and drop-off in Chiang Mai city area.

Is bamboo rafting safe for kids or older travelers?

Bamboo rafting is suitable for most fitness levels; specialized infant seats are available if needed.

What’s included

Your day includes entry to Bua Tong Waterfall and the ethical elephant sanctuary in Mae Tang Valley, plus a scenic bamboo rafting ride along the river. Lunch is provided mid-day before you head out on the raft, and transfers between each stop are included so you don’t have to worry about logistics at all.