Hey friends, it’s Estefi — back again with my favorite co-host and travel partner, Meijun! After our last episode on the Vipassana retreat, we’re shifting gears and taking you along for what happened right after we spent 11 days in silence.
A truly special part of our Thailand trip earlier this year: our 3-day stay at Kindred Spirit Elephant Sanctuary (KSES) in Mae Chaem, a remote Karen village nestled in the mountains about four hours from Chiang Mai.
We spent 2 nights and 3 days immersed in community, conservation, and the quiet presence of six semi-wild elephants. No feeding. No riding. No bathing.
This wasn’t a tourist attraction. It was the real thing, and it changed us.
In this episode, we talk about:
Why we chose Kindred Spirit (and how we found them through some very synchronistic connections)
What it was like to travel to the sanctuary and stay in a local homestay
The six rescued elephants living semi-wild, especially BoonRott 🥹
What we learned about the Karen community, rewilding, and how this model actually works
The funny and beautiful moments, including themed quiz night, freezing mornings, basket weaving, and more
🗺️ The Journey & Itinerary:
🚐 A scenic 4-hour drive through Doi Inthanon National Park to Mae Chaem
🚙 A bumpy 4x4 ride into the remote Karen village
🛖 Staying with our warm host Baw-eh and her family
🥾 Morning hikes to observe elephants in the forest
🍲 Homemade meals and lunch by the river, packed by our host
🐘 Tracking elephant behavior with the KSES team
🧺 Basket weaving, Karen language class, and late-night quiz games
📝 Joining in on conservation research and data collection
🌿 Why This Place Stood Out to Us:
It's a true elephant sanctuary — no riding, bathing, or tricks
The elephants live in a semi-wild environment and are observed respectfully. Real scientific data gathering about Asian Elephants in the semi-wild is happening here! Check some of their articles here, here, and here.
It’s community-run, with deep involvement from the Karen people
The experience felt real, intentional, and non-performative
Some more pictures from our trip 🐘
Frequently Asked Questions About This Experience:
Q: Can I touch or feed the elephants?
No.
KSES follows a strict ethical elephant tourism model, which means no direct interaction. You’ll observe elephants in their natural habitat — often from a respectful distance — and that’s what makes it truly special.
There’s no riding, bathing, or feeding. The elephants roam semi-wild, and the sanctuary is run in deep partnership with the local Karen community.
Q: Is it physically demanding?
Somewhat, yes.
There are daily hikes, sometimes lasting over 2 hours. The terrain can be steep, muddy, and uneven. Moderate fitness definitely helps, but the team is supportive and adjusts to different paces.
Q: Where is it located?
In Mae Chaem, a remote region about 4 hours west of Chiang Mai, within Doi Inthanon National Park. It’s beautifully remote and surrounded by mountains.
Q: What’s the weather like?
We went in January and were not prepared for how cold it got!
Mornings dropped to around 4°C (39°F), so layers are essential. The days warm up, but definitely pack warm clothes for sleeping and early hikes.
Q: Where do you sleep?
In a Karen family’s home, as part of a homestay experience.
It’s rustic but cozy — think mosquito nets, thick blankets, and basic shared facilities. It’s not a resort, it’s a cultural immersion, and it’s part of what makes the experience meaningful.
Q: How do I book or support them?
Visit www.kselephantsanctuary.com
Or follow them on Instagram:
@kindredspiritelephantsanctuary
Also check out their director @cris.elefantasia.
KSES is a nonprofit and always fundraising to support both the elephants and the local community. Any donation or share helps!
Q: Can anyone go?
Yes — as long as you’re up for early mornings, mountain hikes, and being unplugged in a remote area.
It’s perfect for travelers looking for a meaningful, off-the-beaten-path adventure. You can join as a short-term visitor or apply to volunteer. Spots are limited, so it’s best to book in advance.
Q: What’s the best part?
Watching elephants live freely in their natural environment.
Connecting with the Karen community.
And experiencing what real conservation looks like — beyond Instagram optics.
This is real data, real science, real impact. No gimmicks. Just heart.
If this story moved you — or made you rethink ethical travel — share it with a friend, or leave us a comment. 💌 I, Estefi, will 100% read you.
And if you’re dreaming of visiting, here’s where you can learn more and support:
👉 Kindred Spirit Elephant Sanctuary
Until next time, bye friends,
— Estefi & Meijun 🐘
A Note from Cris, the current director at Kindred Spirit:
"At Kindred Spirit Elephant Sanctuary, we work toward a future where elephants can once again live wild and free. Joining KSES was not just about conservation, it was about justice. I believe in collaboration, in listening, and in working alongside those who have shared their lives with elephants for generations.
The path forward for elephants in Thailand isn’t about quick fixes or externally imposed solutions. It grows from within the communities whose lives have long been connected with the elephants in their care. Lasting change comes through trust, mutual respect, and locally led alternatives that support both elephant welfare and human dignity.
Every donation, visit, or conversation that helps shift perceptions and uplift ethical, community-rooted models brings us closer to that future."
Share this post