Elephants & Us - a Kui Buri Experience

Join us on an unforgettable cultural experience in the Hat Kham subdistrict of Kui Buri; on the edge of Kui Buri National Park.

Each of the experiences is thoughtfully designed to immerse you in the world of wildlife co-existence.

Elephant Conservation
Experience the noble work of the Bring The Elephant Home Foundation, dedicated to enhancing elephant survival. Engage in initiatives which help foster harmony between humans and elephants, creating a world where both can thrive together. Witness first-hand how conservation efforts are transforming local communities, promoting sustainable co-existence and restoring natural habitats.

Tom Yum Farming
Participate in the Tom Yum Project, an innovative initiative that intertwines agricultural practices with elephant conservation efforts. Inspired by Tom Yum, the famous Thai hot ‘n’ sour soup, the project focuses on cultivating crops like chilli, garlic, lemongrass, galangal, kaffir lime, onion and coriander, which are key ingredients of Tom Yum and, importantly, unattractive to elephants. This strategic choice of crops serves as a natural deterrent, protecting farmlands, while generating income for the local farmers. To enhance the diversity and sustainability of this approach, the project incorporates additional elephant-repellent crops such as lime, ginger, chamomile, mint, basil, turmeric and citronella. By encouraging farmers to shift from mono-cropping practices that negatively impact biodiversity and attract elephants, the Tom Yum Project not only promotes human-elephant co-existence but also fosters a variety of livelihoods, boosts rural employment and plays a crucial role in preserving the vital ecosystems of Thailand.

Beehive Fences
In Thailand, beehive fences have emerged as an ingenious and peaceful solution to the growing conflicts between local farmers and the majestic elephants that once roamed freely in what are now agricultural lands. This innovative approach, arising from the need to balance the increasing demands for resources by both humans and elephants, utilises the natural deterrent effect of bees to prevent elephants from encroaching on farmlands. The strategic placement of beehive fences around crop fields not only effectively reduces damage caused by Asian elephants but also offers an added benefit of supplemental income for farmers through the production of honey and wax; this offers guests a chance to craft their own lip balm. This eco-friendly beehive fence method has shown great promise in mitigating violent encounters between people and these grand creatures, paving the way for a harmonious coexistence and a sustainable future for both communities.

Cook Your Lunch
Immerse yourself in Thai culture by preparing your own traditional lunch. Forage for fresh ingredients in the garden and learn how to cook a delicious Thai meal. This hands-on experience culminates in a communal dining experience, enjoying your creations in true Thai style.

Tie-Dye Workshop
Offering a unique opportunity for creative expression through the vibrant transformation of fabric, Tie-dye is a craft with a rich tradition. This process involves various resist dyeing techniques where fabric is folded, twisted, pleated, or crumpled and then securely bound using string or rubber bands. In this tie dye workshop, you will be using the region’s unique dark orange earth as the colour base; this imparts a vivid orange in the patterns on the fabric, creating a one-of-a-kind design. Under the guidance of local experts, you will have the chance to craft your own custom-made scarf. This hands-on experience not only ignites your creativity but also leaves you with a sustainable and personal memento of your Thai adventure, blending traditional techniques with your individual artistic flair.

Go Wild On Safari
Embark on an exciting safari through the Kui Buri National Park in an open-air vehicle. Explore diverse ecosystems and possibly encounter a variety of wildlife in their natural habitat; from majestic elephants to gaurs, deer, wild boars and an array of birds and reptiles, each safari offers a unique and thrilling experience, with different sightings each day.

Join us on this full-day experience and prepare for an unforgettable cultural immersion, as you spend time at the Bring The Elephant Home Foundation. From hands-on experiences to cooking your own lunch, “Elephants & Us: A Kui Buri Encounter” promises a memorable experience in the Thai wilderness.

WHO SHOULD DO THIS TOUR?
This tour is for the person who wants to not only see wildlife, but also understand how local villagers are working towards supporting themselves and co-existing with elephants; prepare to get involved!

Where: Kui Buri
Operates: Daily 9:30am to 6:30pm
Duration: Approx 9 hours
Group Size: Min 4 People / Max 8 People
Walking Distance: None, as we use an a/c minivan
Transport: Tour departs from the Hua Hin Clocktower
Food Included: Tom Yum tea, Thai lunch and water.
Note:This tour is suitable for Vegans & Vegetarians however please let us know upon booking.
It’s not suitable for celiacs or those with other food restrictions/allergies.

Adult Price 12+ years: 3150 THB
Child Price 6 to 11 years: 2650 THB