Our Elephant Conservation Story on Koh Lanta
Our Beginning More Than 20 Years Ago
Our family’s journey with elephants began on Koh Lanta more than 20 years ago.
At that time, elephant tourism in Thailand was very different from today. Riding and performances were widely accepted activities, and our family operated according to the tourism practices and understanding of that period.
Through years of living and working closely with elephants, we gained experience not only in their daily management but also in recognising their individual behaviour, emotions and changing needs.
Learning and Changing
As public understanding of elephant welfare developed, our own perspective also changed.
We listened, learned and began to reconsider how visitors should experience elephants. We recognised that the future of elephant tourism should focus less on entertainment and more on education, respect and responsible long-term care.
Changing an established way of working required time, investment and commitment from our family and team. It also required us to create a new visitor experience that could continue supporting the elephants without relying on riding or performances.
Moving Away From Riding and Performances
Approximately five years ago, we began our transition away from elephant riding and shows.
We developed experiences where visitors could meet the elephants more respectfully—by preparing food, feeding them, walking alongside them, observing their behaviour and learning about their individual histories.
This change marked an important new chapter for our family and for the elephants under our care.
Lanta Elephant Lover Today
Today, we welcome visitors as Lanta Elephant Lover, operated by Lanta Elephant Conservation.
We care for four female elephants: Linda, Pepsi, Prae and Jan. Each has a different background and personality, and each receives care according to her individual needs.
Our daily work includes preparing food, maintaining clean water and living areas, monitoring behaviour and health, supporting veterinary care and giving the elephants time and space to rest.
We do not offer riding or performances. Activities involving water take place only when the elephant is comfortable and conditions are suitable.
Recognition Through GAP Certification
Our commitment to improving elephant care is recognised through certification under Thailand’s Good Agricultural Practices for Elephant Camps.
Certification Number: 02-6413-81-530-080005
Certified by: Department of Livestock Development, Thailand
Valid until: 1 July 2028
For us, certification is not the end of the journey. It is a foundation that encourages us to continue learning, improving and taking responsibility for the elephants’ long-term care.
Supporting Elephants and the Local Community
A responsible elephant care programme must support both the elephants and the people who care for them.
Visitor income contributes to elephant food, veterinary support, mahout employment, staff training, transportation, maintenance and improvements to the elephants’ environment.
By visiting us, guests support a family-run local business and help make responsible long-term elephant care possible.
Our Commitment for the Future
Our story is one of experience, learning and change.
We cannot change every part of the past, but we can take responsibility for what we do today and continue improving the future. We are committed to providing appropriate lifelong care for our elephants, sharing honest information with visitors and encouraging a more respectful understanding of domesticated elephants.
We hope every visitor leaves not only with memorable photographs but also with greater knowledge, compassion and respect for elephants.
Continue the Story With Us
Your visit helps support the next chapter of responsible elephant care on Koh Lanta.
Support Our Elephants
with Your Donation
Your contribution helps provide food, healthcare, shelter, and loving care for our elephants—now and in the future.