If you love elephants and want to get up close and personal with them then this is THE place for you. Supat who runs the center is passionate about his work and it's infectious. We have never had a more enjoyable Christmas in our lives. Our 10 year old son and our 19 year old daughter absolutely loved it! Don't... more

We did the 3-day VIP course in November and it was definitely a very good experience. I recommend doing the VIP course instead of the normal course as you will stay at the park resort in a comfortable bungalow (otherwise you will stay at what they call HomeStay which is not so nice or comfortable - it's more authentic though).... more

This is an absolute must for anyone visiting this part of Thailand. My husband and I participated in the 3 day VIP course in October 2009. The opportunity to connect with your own elephant for the 3 days is incredible. The Thai people at the centre are very kind and beautiful. The resort where we stayed is nestled amongst the... more

My best friend and I visited the TECC for the VIP course for the last 3 days of our week in Thailand. Without knowing it, we had saved the best for last. Before arriving at the center, we visited the Palace and Wat Pho in Bangkok; then we went snorkeling in the Phi Phi Islands and the Similan Islands. On... more

My husband and I did the 3 day VIP course in July. I would highly recommend spending the extra few bucks on the VIP version as this course provides you with lots of opportunity to work with and learn about the elephants. You will have your own elephant for the duration and in a sense will become it's 'keeper' or... more

When we decided to undertake the VIP Mahout Training Course we were guided by the great reviews from those who went before. All we can say is that they are absolutely right - it is an experience of a life time. The wonderful elephants, the friendly and caring mahouts, the lush jungle, great food, comfortable accommodation and the interesting logistical... more

Thailand is full of questionable elephant centers. This is the real deal. Run by the Thai government and funded through private donations, this center houses one of the world's best elephant hospitals and all profits go straight to the hospital. They have the standard elephant show and rides, and if you're really adventuresome, you can sign up for mahout training.... more

My boyfriend and I attended the Conservation Center this past summer for the 3 day course. We had enrolled in the normal program, thinking that the only difference between this and the VIP course, was the accomodation, and were happy to stay in a homestay as we felt that would be a more authentic experience. However, there's a HUGE difference... more

I went to both Maesa and Elephant Conservation Centre (we were based in Chiang Mai), and a friend has gone to a number. We agree that Elepant Conservation Center is the place to go. No elephants kicking soccer balls here. And it's beautiful- in the hills. Although the website isn't clear, you can come for a show and an elephant... more