Regulated and controlled properly 'elephant trekking' can offer a much-needed lift to the tourism industry, and generate the funds to assure the survival of thousands of elephants in a dignified manner. Unfortunately, the opposite is equally possible in the current uncontrolled rush to 'cash in' on this latest business opportunity.

As the number of new elephant camps increase so do the reports of overworked and abused elephants. Informed visitors who demand humane treatment for the elephants may be the last best chance to save many of these majestic creatures.

The unpleasant reality is the natural habitat of the Asian Elephant has diminished to the point that only an estimated 2,000 survive in the wild. A number not generally believed large enough to maintain the essential genetic-diversity to ensure the survival of the species in the wild. Traditionally domesticated elephants were used as transport, and in the logging industry moving cut timber. All logging was officially banned in Thailand in 1989.

Elephants that had been employed to move logs in the forest became unemployed, that is why they can now be seen in Bangkok and tourist areas literally 'begging' for a living. It costs approximately US$500 per month to feed and care for an elephant in captivity. In the modern world elephants have an almost human-like problem of needing to be gainfully employed in order to survive. With the survival of these majestic and highly intelligent creatures increasingly in doubt. It is more important than ever for visitors to understand they have the power to make a positive difference. Informed visitors to Thailand can support the humane treatment of these gracious beasts by carefully selecting the elephant camp they visit. As with any high growth industry 'elephant trekking' is subject to abuse.

Elephant trek for 45 minutes through the jungle and rivers of Chalong. An exciting enjoyable and unforgettable experience!

The trek is safe and suitable for all ages and abilities. Do not miss this unique opportunity of elephant trekking with an internationally relonized company.  All our elephant are well cared for and properly trained. At all times the elephants are under full control of experienced elephant handlers. Just sit back and enjoy being close to these magnificent but sadly endangered animals.



For more infomation please contact :

SIAM SAFARI NATURE TOURS CO. LTD.
17/2 Soi Yod Sane, Moo 10, Chalong, Phuket, 83130 Thailand
Tel: 280 116 Fax: 280 107
International Fax:+66 76 280 107,
e-mail: ecearth@samart.co.th
http://www.siamsafari.com

The first elephant treks on Phuket were along jungle trails on their property in the hills above Ao Chalong. Also a strong advocate in practicing Eco-Tourism, Siam Safari has won numerous awards from the travel industry and from the Tourism Authority of Thailand.


ISLAND SAFARI CO.LTD.
371/76 Yaowarat Rd., Talad Yai, Muang, Phuket 83000, Thailand.
Tel: (66 76) 254-724, 255-021, 255022 Fax: (66 76) 255-022
Tourism authority of Thailand License number 33/0050
Insurance number U4 2U 9700081 OH
E-mail: info@islandsafari.net
Website: http://www.islandsafari.net

Island Safari started out in 1994 with a small camp and a lot of hopes and dreams that we could offer something new and totally different to people who were really interested in finding out a lot more about Thailands nature and rural way of life. Little did we know at the time that we were starting one of Thailands leading Eco-Tour and adventure travel companies!