Does anyone know of a decent (as in humane) place where my friends and I can see and interact, possibly ride, elephants in Yunnan? I was thinking that there would be some places in Xi Shuang Ban Na, but the only place I found had pretty bad reviews...
If anyone could help me out, that would be great! We are looking to go around August 20th or so...
Thanks!
Prince William visited there in March, so it can't be that bad can it? or do you have higher standards than even the British Royals?
You want somewhere humane to see elephants yet want to ride them? Nothing humane in keeping elephants in captivity so they are made to carry people around all day.
"do you have higher standards than even the British Royals?"
The British Royals murder foxes and other animals for sport, but point fingers at others who hunt. They would also happily make Nazi salutes and wear Nazi uniforms. Can't be that bad.
All elephants that are ride-able, have been made ride-able through training which involves some physical inhumane elements.
I doubt that you can find a place with your criteria in China. There are some sanctuaries in southern neighbors (Chiang Mai in Thailand at least), which take retired or otherwise confiscated working elephants and you can interact with them by feeding or bathing, not riding.
Actually some of the parks in Chiang Mai also have riding. Bathing is a bit fun because you have to get right in the water with them.
what's the difference between riding a domesticated horse and a domesticated elephant? If anything, the elephant is so much bigger and stronger than a horse so riding it is less of an issue, they probably barely feel a couple of medium sized humans
How cruel riding elephants. I prefer them in a tin.
Was there an actual useful answer to this question?
I lived in North Thailand before coming to China. I can vouch and support what you guys are saying about there.
Back to the original question what about in Yunnan?
Is Xi Shuang Ban Na the more humane option?
Answers and opinions greatly appreciated.
