Intrepid Doubles Down for Thailand’s Elephants

Twelve years after becoming the first global tour operator to remove elephant rides from its trips, Intrepid Travel is investing in the next phase of elephant welfare reform in Thailand.

Throughout June, Intrepid will match donations to World Animal Protection Thailand through The Intrepid Foundation, dollar-for-dollar up to $50,000, helping fund the transition of elephant tourism venues from rides and performances to higher-welfare sanctuary models.

According to World Animal Protection’s latest assessment of Thailand’s captive elephant tourism industry, 2,849 elephants are currently held across 236 tourism venues in Thailand. While elephant rides and shows have declined over the past decade, more than 1,200 elephants are still used for riding experiences, and two-thirds are kept in conditions World Animal Protection considers poor for welfare outcomes.

The campaign supports World Animal Protection’s goal of transitioning three elephant venues in Thailand this year, enabling elephants to move freely, socialise naturally and live without forced interactions with tourists.

Funds raised will support venues like Ran-Tong Elephant Rescue Centre in Chiang Mai, home to 10 rescued elephants with improvements including chain-free night enclosures, enrichment facilities and observation-only visitor experiences at sanctuaries.

The campaign builds on Intrepid’s long-standing connection with Thailand, the first destination the company operated in when it launched in 1989, and its ongoing commitment to responsible wildlife tourism.

Mike Stewart, General Manager Thailand, Intrepid Travel, said while progress had been made, thousands of elephants across Thailand were still living in tourism venues designed around entertainment rather than welfare. “This campaign supports practical solutions that improve elephant welfare while also supporting local communities and the livelihoods of elephant carers. It’s about creating a tourism model that benefits both people and animals,” Stewart said.

Ben Pearson, Country Director, World Animal Protection Australia New Zealand said: “Every elephant deserves the opportunity to express natural behaviours, socialise with other elephants and live free from exploitation. This campaign will help more venues make the transition to higher-welfare models, creating better lives for elephants while meeting growing demand for responsible wildlife experiences.”