There are roughly 3,800 captive elephants in Thailand.

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InThailand, its very easy to encounter an elephant.

Some sites allow quiet observation, as you admire the massive animals from afar.

Asian elephants foraging in the forests of the northern part of Thailand in Lampang Province

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Other tourist venues offer activities like feeding, riding, or bathing with elephants.

Another warning sign is if the elephants perform in shows or demonstrations, like painting, Higgins said.

A true sanctuary will never encourage or force any animal to interact with people, especially tourists.

Riding elephants at the Ran Tong Elephant Sanctuary in the Chiang Mai province of Thailand

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Elephant tourism has been animportant part of Thailands economyfor five decades.

There is direct value in keeping these elephants wild, living as elephants should live.

They have been threatened by conflict with humans, poaching, and illegal elephant trade.

Rear view of woman feeding elephants in sanctuary, Krabi, Thailand

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In Thailand, captive elephants are classified as “beasts of burden” with few welfare protections.

And a Thailand-based independent welfare organization is performing welfare audits of tourist camps.

Another pro-tip: research what is offered at an elephant tourist location and look at photos before visiting.

You dont have to touch or bathe an elephant to experience how amazing they are.