6 Animal and Wildlife Experiences to Visit in Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai has always been a city bursting with the vibrant energy and rich heritage that Thailand has to offer. With cultural trips to iconic temples and scenic mountain sights to escape to, there are endless adventures to do when in the city. Why not add another layer of excitement to the adventure with one-of-a-kind experiences with the wonders of Chiang Mai?

From the famed Chiang Mai Zoo and Aquarium to the Chiang Mai Elephant Sanctuary, we’ve got you covered with a list of animal and wildlife attractions and experiences you should do during your trip! 

Families looking for a bit of adventure while Chiang Mai should definitely schedule a day of excitement at the famed Chiang Mai Zoo and Aquarium. Home to a wide variety of animals and an impressive 133-meter-long aquarium tunnel, you and your loved ones will be able to see the beauty and wonders of the great animal kingdom. We were able to see fresh water and sea water marine life all in one aquarium – some fish friends even coming from Mekong River! The zoo also has a convenient tram that you can hop on and off as you explore the park’s facilities and exhibits! 

Klook Tip: Make sure to make room for Chiang Mai Zoo and Aquarium’s fun activities like the Shark and Ray Feeding Show, the Bird Show, and Nozzle Stingray feeding activity into your schedule!

To those looking for a day away from the noise of the city and in the company of nature, Doi Inthanon National Park is the place to be. The popular national park is home to the highest mountain in Thailand, Doi Inthanon, as well as several hiking trails and waterfalls that allow you to immerse yourself in the beauty of the highlands. With the park being nestled in the forests of Northern Thailand, you’ll surely be able to spot a variety of flora and fauna as you explore. 

After visiting the park, we recommend making the most of your trip and head to the nearby Hmong Village Market and Wat Phrathat Sri Jomthong for a dose of Thailand’s rich culture!

When animal lovers think of what experiences to try in Thailand, meeting its famed elephants has always been on the top of the list. While in Chiang Mai, consider heading up to the Chiang Mai Mountain Sanctuary located in Northern Chiang Mai. It is a family-run sanctuary that hosts unforgettable safe, ethical, and educational experiences in caring for elephants. 

If you plan to add this experience to your itinerary, we recommend booking a full day visit to enjoy more time with the friendly giants and the scenery of the mountainside!

Thrillseekers, we’ve got the perfect experience for you if you’re thinking of reconnecting with Mother Nature! Spend a day at the Pong Yang Adventure Park for exhilarating activities that have the beauty of the lush Chiang Mai forest as your backdrop. While you take a breath of cool fresh air, feel your heart race on open-air jungle coasters, giant swings, and more!

Klook Tip: If you own an action camera, don’t forget to bring it! You’ll be able to capture the awe-inspiring sights of Chiang Mai’s forest as you fly through the jungle on ziplines and coasters! 

When we said meeting the famed elephants of Thailand was a must-do when in Chiang Mai, we weren’t kidding! The conservation of elephant lives will always be an important effort when it comes to animal care in Thailand and the Chiang Mai Elephant Jungle Sanctuary is a firm believer of this. 

Known also for their safe and ethical elephant experiences, visitors will be able to spend a day learning about how these gentle giants are cared for from the friendly staff that run the sanctuary. We especially love the chance to enjoy a mud spa session and a river shower with them – so don’t forget to pack extra clothes!