A day at an elephant sanctuary

The elephant has a special place in Thailand, a national symbol bound up with the country's history. In the hills around Chiang Mai are sanctuaries that shelter elephants rescued from logging or tourist shows, now living in open space.

We choose ethical sanctuaries with no riding and no shows, where the visit is about watching and learning. Children prepare fruit and hand it to the elephants, walk with them quietly down to the river, and hear each animal's story from its keepers.

The best-known sanctuaries are an hour to an hour and a half's drive north of Chiang Mai, in the Mae Taeng valley. A simple vegetarian lunch is usually included, and we can arrange a halal meal to take with you.

Wear comfortable clothes you do not mind getting dirty, closed shoes and sun cream. Visitor numbers are capped each day, so book early.