Koh Yao Elephant Care is a small elephant centre on Koh Yao Yai, the larger of the two Yao islands between Phuket and Krabi. This half-day visit lets you meet the elephants, feed them and learn how the keepers look after them, with a drive through the island’s quiet villages, rubber plantations and rice fields on the way.
Updated October 2026 by the Phuket Dream Company team (TAT licensed).
It is a good choice if you are already staying on Koh Yao Yai and want a slow, local experience rather than a big organised day trip.
Highlights
- Meet and feed the elephants with their keepers
- Learn about elephant behaviour, diet and daily care
- See rural Koh Yao Yai – fishing villages, plantations and countryside
- Choose a 2-hour join tour or a 4-hour private visit
- Free pickup from hotels on Koh Yao Yai
Koh Yao Elephant Care programme and times
The care programme runs as a half-day session, morning or afternoon:
- Morning session: 09:00 – 11:00 (pickup around 08:00)
- Afternoon session: 13:00 – 15:00 (pickup around 12:00)
The join tour includes about 2 hours of activity; the private tour about 4 hours. Which hands-on activities are offered on the day is set by the centre for the safety of guests and elephants, and the team will confirm the current programme when you book.
Getting there
Pickup is included from hotels on Koh Yao Yai. Koh Yao Yai is reached by boat from Phuket (Bang Rong Pier) or from Krabi. If you are staying in Phuket and want to visit as a day trip, ask the team on WhatsApp – they can help plan the boat and transfer.
What to bring
- Light clothes you do not mind getting dirty, plus a change of clothes
- Sandals or shoes that can get wet or muddy
- Sunscreen, hat and insect repellent
- Drinking water and a small towel
Safety and tips
- Always follow the keepers’ instructions and keep the distance they ask for.
- Never walk in front of an elephant or approach one from behind.
- Keep children within arm’s reach of an adult at all times.
- Choose the morning session in the hot season – it is cooler for everyone.
FAQ
Where is Koh Yao Elephant Care?
On Koh Yao Yai island in Phang Nga Bay, between Phuket and Krabi. Hotel pickup on Koh Yao Yai is included.
Is elephant riding included?
No. The programme focuses on feeding, observing and caring for the elephants.
What is the difference between the join and private tour?
The join tour lasts about 2 hours with other guests; the private tour is about 4 hours for your group only.
Can I go from Phuket?
Yes, but you need a boat to Koh Yao Yai first. Ask the team on WhatsApp and they will help plan it.
What age counts as a child?
Child prices apply to ages 4-12, as shown in the table below.
Is bathing with the elephants included?
Activities are set by the centre and can change. The team will confirm exactly what is included when you book.
How to book
Book online on this page. Once your booking comes in, the Phuket Dream Company team confirms availability with the operator and stays in touch with you on WhatsApp (+66 95 038 5535) about pickup times and any changes. Have a question first? Message the team on WhatsApp or ask Hannah, our chat assistant on this site.
KYEC: Kph Yao Elephant Care Package
Half Day Morning / Afternoon
Operate Everyday
*This price is from 1 January 2024 – 31 October 2024*
*Pick up from Koh Yao Yai area*
1. Program: *Join Tour*
|
Regular Price |
Promotion Price |
Adult |
|
2,000.-THB |
Child (4-12 year) |
|
1,000.-THB |
2. Program: *Private Tour*
|
Regular Price |
Promotion Price |
Adult |
|
3,200.-THB |
Child (4-12 year) |
|
1,800.-THB |
Extra Charge Transfer (Area 1.)
| Area 1. | Morning/Afternoon | Price/Person |
| Koh Yao Yai |
08.00/12.00 |
FREE |
