The hype
Reviewers universally adore the staff (especially 'Best' the manager) and the magical experience of watching elephants from the pool.
Elephant View Camp
$150-250/ night
Book this if You want to wake up to rescued elephants roaming freely just feet from your private plunge pool without the guilt of riding them.
Why People Love It
- Ethical elephant observation right from your private deck
- Only 3 luxury tents ensure total exclusivity and quiet
- Direct access to the Wildlife Friends Foundation Thailand (WFFT) next door
Quick Take: It’s a high-end safari experience where the 'luxury' is the proximity to wildlife, not white-glove butler service.
Reviewed by @oliviamanginitravel_: I honestly couldn't believe how close the elephants came to my villa! Waking up to that view while sipping coffee by my private pool was a core memory unlocked. It’s a bit rustic, but the AC works great and the staff are so sweet. Perfect for a quiet nature escape.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
The food menu is somewhat limited for longer stays, and the 'open-air' bathroom means you might share your shower with a frog.
- You care deeply about ethical animal tourism (no riding, no hooks)
- You enjoy 'glamping' where AC meets canvas walls
- You want a private pool with a view of elephants
Cleanliness & Maintenance
9.8
- Housekeeping: Impeccable. Guests consistently rave about the 'spotless' condition of the tents.
- Bathroom hygiene: Sparkling clean modern fixtures, though nature (leaves/dust) can blow in due to the open-air design.
- Maintenance: Excellent condition. The tents, decks, and pools are well-maintained and feel new.
- Linens & towels: Fresh, high-quality linens and fluffy towels provided.
- Odors & scents: Fresh nature smells; no complaints of mustiness despite the humid environment.
Sleepability™
7.5SILENT
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Gibbon calls in the early morning
- Rain hitting the canvas tent roof
- Occasional dog barking in the distance
Before you book
Good to know
- This is a 'soft adventure' stay; the focus is on the animals.
- You are right next to the WFFT rescue center—book a tour there in advance.
- The property is small (only 3 tents), so book months ahead.
What to pack
- High-strength mosquito repellent (essential for evenings)
- Earplugs (if you want to sleep past the gibbon wake-up call)
- Binoculars for better wildlife viewing from your deck
Room Genie
Best picks
- Any of the 3 tents offer great views, but end units typically offer slightly better privacy for the outdoor shower.
Rooms to avoid
- None are 'bad', but be aware that the middle tent has neighbors on both sides, making the outdoor bathroom feel less secluded.
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“We are so excited to visit! If possible, we'd love one of the outer tents for a bit more privacy during our outdoor showers. We are celebrating a special occasion and can't wait to see the elephants.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Can I ride the elephants?
Absolutely not. This is an ethical observation camp next to a rescue center. You watch them roam freely.
Is there air conditioning?
Yes, the tents are fully air-conditioned, providing a cool escape from the Thai heat.
How do I get there?
It's about a 45-minute drive from Hua Hin. A taxi costs around 1,500 THB ($45-50). The hotel can arrange transfers.
Is the pool private?
Yes, each of the 3 tents has its own private plunge pool on the deck.
What are the food options?
There is an on-site restaurant serving Thai and Western dishes. The 'Mookrata' (Thai BBQ) dinner is highly recommended.
Are kids allowed?
Yes, families are welcome. The tents have a king bed and a bunk bed, sleeping up to 4.
Insider Tips
- ✨
Book the full-day tour at WFFT (Wildlife Friends Foundation Thailand) next door for a behind-the-scenes look at the rescue work.
- ✨
Order the 'Mookrata' (Thai BBQ) for dinner—it's a fun, interactive meal set up right on your private deck.
- ✨
Wake up early (around 6:30 AM) to see the elephants most active near the camp boundary.
5 things to know before you go
💡The 'Skywalk' offers a unique elevated perspective of the elephants that you can't get from the ground.
💡You might see wild gibbons swinging in the trees above your tent—keep your snacks sealed!
💡The outdoor bathroom is truly outdoors; you might have a gecko watching you brush your teeth.
💡It's not just elephants; the rescue center nearby houses bears, tigers, and primates, and you can sometimes hear them.
💡The location is technically in Phetchaburi province, but it feels worlds away from the busy Phetchaburi town center.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Elephant View Camp is located and what's nearby.