Boon Lott’s Elephant Sanctuary: My Dream Trip 16 Years in the Making
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Boon Lott’s Elephant Sanctuary: A Dream More Than 16 Years in the Making. Some trips are vacations. Some trips become lifelong memories. For me, visiting Boon Lott’s Elephant Sanctuary (BLES) in Thailand was a dream more than 16 years in the making. Long before ethical elephant tourism became a popular topic, I was following the work of founder Katherine Connor and supporting the sanctuary’s mission. Over the years, I donated when I could, followed the elephants’ stories, and hoped that one day I would see this incredible place for myself. This year, that dream finally became reality.
Why Boon Lott’s Elephant Sanctuary Is Different
If you’re researching ethical elephant sanctuaries in Thailand, you’ve probably discovered that not every sanctuary operates the same way. Many places market themselves as ethical while still allowing activities that put human entertainment ahead of elephant welfare. What makes Boon Lott’s Elephant Sanctuary different is that everything revolves around the elephants.
There are:
- No elephant rides
- No elephant shows
- No forced bathing experiences
- No performances
- No tricks for tourists
Most importantly, the elephants are allowed to simply be elephants. They roam freely throughout the property, socialize naturally, rest when they choose, and move according to their own needs rather than a visitor schedule. The mahouts work alongside the elephants without bullhooks and develop relationships based on trust and understanding rather than force. As a visitor, you’re entering their world rather than expecting them to perform in yours.
Meet Katherine Connor and the Story Behind BLES
Boon Lott’s Elephant Sanctuary was founded by Katherine Connor after rescuing a young elephant named Boon Lott. What began as an effort to save one elephant eventually grew into one of the world’s most respected elephant welfare organizations. Katherine’s dedication to ethical elephant care has helped shape conversations about responsible elephant tourism throughout Thailand and beyond. Her commitment to allowing elephants to live as naturally as possible can be seen in every aspect of the sanctuary.
What It’s Like Staying at Boon Lott’s Elephant Sanctuary
One of the most unique parts of BLES is that visitors stay on the property and become immersed in the daily rhythm of the sanctuary.
Everything is included with your stay:
- Accommodations
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Daily activities
- Elephant experiences
The accommodations are peaceful, comfortable, and designed to help guests disconnect from the busy pace of everyday life. And the food? Absolutely incredible. Every meal served during our stay was homemade and completely vegan. Even as someone who doesn’t regularly eat vegan meals, I was blown away by how flavorful and satisfying everything was. Lunch is often served picnic-style, either in one of the beautiful treehouses overlooking the elephants or beneath shaded outdoor gathering areas surrounded by nature. Every meal felt thoughtful, fresh, and perfectly suited to the experience
More Than Watching Elephants
One of the things I loved most about BLES is that visitors have opportunities to help support the elephants’ care. Depending on the needs of the sanctuary that week, guests may help:
- Prepare vitamin rice balls
- Cut banana leaves
- Gather food for the elephants
- Assist with enrichment activities
- Help with daily sanctuary projects
Nothing feels staged. You’re simply helping with the work that needs to be done to care for these incredible animals.
The Dogs, Cats, and Unexpected Moments
While the elephants are obviously the stars of the sanctuary, they’re not the only animals you’ll meet. Several dogs and cats call BLES home as well, and they quickly become part of the experience. Whether they’re following you around the property, joining you during meals, or finding a sunny spot to nap nearby, they add another layer of warmth and charm to an already unforgettable stay.
Was It Worth Waiting 16 Years?
YES! Watching elephants in their natural habit allowed to be free, happy, grazing and just being elephants was such a magical experience.
- It was what they weren’t doing.
- They weren’t performing.
- They weren’t posing.
- They weren’t being forced into interactions.
- They were simply living their lives.
And honestly, that made the experience far more meaningful than anything I could have imagined.
Planning Your Own Visit
If ethical elephant tourism is on your bucket list, Boon Lott’s Elephant Sanctuary is an experience I cannot recommend enough.
- Learn more about visiting and accommodations here.
- Interested in supporting their mission? Learn about donating here.
How You Can Help?
Caring for elephants is incredibly expensive. An adult elephant can eat hundreds of pounds of food every day, and many of the elephants at Boon Lott’s Elephant Sanctuary require lifelong medical care due to injuries, neglect, or health conditions from their previous situations.
Every donation helps provide food, veterinary care, medications, habitat maintenance, and the daily support these elephants need to live safe, comfortable lives. Even small contributions make a meaningful difference and directly support the sanctuary’s ongoing mission to give these elephants the care they deserve.
If you’d like to help support the elephants and the incredible work being done at BLES, you can donate here:
Donate to Boon Lott’s Elephant Sanctuary
Or, if you’d like to experience the sanctuary yourself, learn more about staying at BLES here:
