FAQ
Most frequent questions and answers
We are the only elephant experience in Luang Prabang supported by World Animal Protection and included on their list of Elephant Friendly Venues. We prioritize the well-being of the elephants: space to socialize, forage, and life without chains. We focus on education and conservation, and allow elephants to be elephants. Learn more about World Animal Protection.
THERAPEUTIC TREK & NEW BEGINNINGS
These are half-day tours for those who enjoy spending time in nature and jungle trekking! The tour is limited to six or eight people, and the two rescued elephants who you will be joining on their walk. This tour is approximately 2.5 kilometers roundtrip and takes you through the jungle, local Lao farm fields, and some tours may even include a stop at our elephant care and treatment areas! Morning tours include lunch after your trek. Afternoon tours are trek only. We recommend a moderate level of fitness.
COMMUNICATING WITH ELEPHANTS
This tour is best for children, if you are short on time, or looking for a less physically demanding trek. Pickup time is 2 pm, at your hotel, and drop-off is around 5:30 pm. The tour is limited to eight people. You will begin the tour by creating nutritious treats for the elephants. After meeting the elephants on the banks of the Nam Khan, give them your treats and walk briefly with them before coming back to the property for local snacks.
CUSTOM/ PRIVATE TOURS
MandaLao would love to help make your travels unforgettable. If you are traveling with a big group or looking for a place to host an event, MandaLao is happy to help. We also offer private behind the scenes tours with one of the managers/owners if you are looking for our most comprehensive and unique experience.
*** Please note all of our tours are subject to availability and require a minimum of two people to go ahead. For the welfare of the elephants, tour times may be adjusted or cancelled. For any changes we will make all attempts to notify in advance. Thank you! ***
While most of our tours are moderately difficult, it can still be tiring walking in the heat. The trails can be very muddy and slippery, especially during the rainy season (June- October). We recommend a moderate level of fitness and to be aware that you may be walking on uneven jungle terrain, with some elevation gains.
Please let our team know if you require any special assistance!
Absolutely! However, parents should be aware that the tours do require between three to five kilometers of trekking, so you may have to carry your children if they are tired. For young children we recommend the “Communicating with Elephants.”
Children between 4 and 11 years of age receive a 25% discount.
Children between 0 and 3 years join free of charge.
Please note that we provide no backpacks for carrying children and parents are responsible for their well-being. We do not advise children 4 and under to attend a trek unless parents are used to hiking with their children.
Please note the difficulty of tours. MandaLao will not make refunds if children are unable to complete trips due to age or ability.
Unaccompanied minors must be 16 years of age or older and have written consent from parents or guardians to participate.
Trekking with elephants through the jungle can be a messy endeavor. We recommend wearing clothes that you don’t mind getting wet and muddy. Also, a hat and sunglasses can help in the tropical sun and heat.
All of our tours include roundtrip transport from Luang Prabang to our sanctuary, English speaking guide, coffee, tea, & water.
We provide optional footwear/boots for guests designed specifically for trekking in muddy and slippery conditions. Ponchos and umbrellas are available if it’s raining. We also have water, sunscreen and bug spray available. Lunch is included on select tours.
The jungles of Southeast Asia are synonymous with rain, so our tours run rain and shine. Rain ponchos and umbrellas are available!
All of our tours are subject to availability, so we recommend booking in advance, especially during the high tourist season (October – February).
You are welcome to view all of our tours on our tours page:
You can easily send us a booking request on the “Contact Us” page of our website:
If you prefer to email us directly we can be reached at:
If you are in town, you can visit us directly at our office in downtown Luang Prabang and book your tour there. You can find us here:
We accept Visa and Mastercard both at our office and camp. You can pay in either USD or in local Lao Kip.
Please be advised if using USD, only new series bills in perfect condition will be accepted, this is due to the local bank requirements.
We are located approximately 20 kilometers from Luang Prabang city center. The drive takes about 30 minutes.
All of our tours include either departure from our town office or a pick up from your accommodation. If you don’t know the name of your accommodation at the time of booking, please make sure to let us know the name of your accommodation at least 48 hours in advance.
Our staff is professionally trained to accommodate guests with food allergies and eating preferences. Please advise us before the day of your tour so we can make proper arrangements.
