‘Khao Sok National Park is absolutely mind-blowing and to be part of something that’s helping improve the lives of elephants in this stunning landscape, is something I’m very proud of.’ Chris Kaiser, Elephant Hills Tented Jungle Camp, Khao Sok National Park
After returning from travelling around South America to the chilly weather back home in Germany, Chris still had itchy feet. So, when the opportunity popped up to go to Thailand and work at Elephant Hills in 2012, he jumped at the chance. Six years later, he hasn’t grown tired of the natural beauty that surrounds him.
‘Even now, my jaw still drops to my chest and I have walked through the jungles and witnessed the limestone cliffs of Khao Sok hundreds of times.’
Over the past seven years, Chris has seen the Elephant Hills wildlife experience grow into one of Thailand’s most highly regarded (and awarded) sustainable eco tour companies.
‘You can touch the elephants’ trunks and look into the eyes of these magnificent creatures – it’s a magical way to connect with an animal that has been ingrained in Thai culture for hundreds of years.’
While the plight of Asian elephants has been well documented in recent years, Khao Sok is one of the few places where numbers are on the up, estimated to be around 150-200 compared to 3,000 across the whole of Thailand. Part of the work the team at Elephant Hills, Thailand does includes monitoring the number of wild elephants in the park, using a number of strategically placed cameras to track the arrival and welfare of baby elephants.
‘We have become an example of elephant conservation to the rest of the country and that is something we are very proud of. However, we are always looking for ways to improve their conditions and make their lives better. Here at Elephant Hills we’re all about the elephants.’
Rest your head:
Enjoy a 10 night journey around Thailand from £2,595 per person. Stay 3 nights at The Sarojin, 2 nights at Elephant Hills, 5 nights at Six Senses Yao Noi on varying board bases. Including international, domestic flights and transfers. Discover more here!
