🚫 1. Riding Programs

Any sanctuary that allows elephant riding is not ethical. Carrying tourists damages elephants’ spines and often involves cruel training methods. A real sanctuary never offers rides.

🚫 2. Circus Tricks & Performances

Elephants painting, dancing, or playing football may look entertaining, but these behaviors are forced and unnatural. Ethical sanctuaries respect elephants’ dignity.

🚫 3. Unlimited Feeding & Bathing

Constant feeding and bathing sessions put elephants on display, turning natural activities into scheduled shows. Observation-only experiences are healthier for them.

🚫 4. Crowded Tours

If a sanctuary allows large groups, stress levels rise for elephants. At Khaolak Elephant Sanctuary, we limit groups to just 5 guests to protect elephant well-being and create a calmer experience for visitors.

🚫 5. No Transparency

A lack of information about the number of elephants, land size, or welfare practices is a red flag. Genuine sanctuaries are proud to share details openly and often have recognition or awards to prove it.

✅ Choosing the Right Place

When you avoid these red flags, you’re helping elephants live as they should — free, respected, and cared for. The best sanctuaries focus on welfare, not profit, and invite you to observe elephants simply being elephants.