Chang Thai Thappraya Safari (ช้างไทย ทัพพระยา ซาฟารี)
“This place serves as a polarizing litmus test: some see it as a must-see for photos, while others are deeply concerned by the animal welfare standards.”
Description
This location is a prime example of a tourist animal attraction that evokes mixed feelings. Don’t expect the scale of a national park; it’s a very compact area designed for a quick visitor flow. Some come here for that classic Instagram shot on an elephant’s back and leave satisfied, while others leave this safari park in Pattaya with a heavy heart. Located away from central areas like Jomtien, it’s surrounded by quieter developments.
The atmosphere here is purely commercial. The main audience consists of package tourists brought by buses for a one-hour program. Be prepared for persistent offers to purchase bananas for feeding, take additional photos for a fee, or try other activities. Many reviews point to questionable animal treatment methods, which may leave a negative impression on those sensitive to animal welfare issues.
Why visit
Insider tips
💡 Be mentally prepared for potentially upsetting animal conditions. Many visitors report the use of sharp hooks and rough training.
💡 The entry ticket is just the tip of the iceberg. Each option (photos, feed, rides) incurs additional charges. Your budget can easily double.
💡 The park area is very small. Don’t plan to spend more than 1-2 hours here.
💡 Prices for all services are fixed. Haggling is neither expected nor successful.
