Protecting Elephants in Lao PDR since 2001 - Elephant Conservation Center

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Protecting Elephants in Lao PDR since 2001 - Elephant Conservation Center
Elephant              Programme

Protecting

since 2001
                               & Rates 2022-2023

Elephants
in Lao PDR
         Conservation Center
Protecting Elephants in Lao PDR since 2001 - Elephant Conservation Center
Protecting Elephants in Lao PDR since 2001 - Elephant Conservation Center
Rate Card 2022-2023
                                                Public Rates
2 DAYS - 1 NIGHT "DISCOVERY"
Accommodation: Private Bungalow*
2 Days - 1 Night Discovery (2DDIS)                  $220,00
Accommodation: Family Lodge**
2 Days - 1 Night Discovery (2DDIS)                   $310,00
EXTRAS
Extra Night BUNGALOW                                 $80,00
Extra Night LODGE                                    $90,00
3 DAYS - 2 NIGHTS "EXPLORATION"
Accommodation: Private Bungalow*
3 Days - 2 Nights Exploration (3DEXP)                $310,00
Accommodation: Family Lodge**
3 Days - 2 Nights Exploration (3DEXP)               $380,00
EXTRAS
Extra Night BUNGALOW                                 $80,00
Extra Night LODGE                                    $90,00
4 DAYS - 3 NIGHTS "IMMERSION"
Accommodation: Private Bungalow*
4 Days - 3 Nights Immersion (4DFULL)                $390,00
Accommodation: Family Lodge**
4 Days - 3 Nights Immersion (4DFULL)                $470,00
EXTRAS
Extra Night BUNGALOW                                 $80,00
Extra Night LODGE                                    $90,00
7 DAYS - 6 NIGHTS "ECO-VOLUNTEERING"
Accommodation: Dormitory*
7 days - 6 Nights Eco Volunteering (7DECO)          $490,00
EXTRAS
Extra Night DORMITORY                                $60,00
Extra Week DORMITORY                                $450,00
Accommodation: Private Bungalow*
7 days - 6 Nights Eco Volunteering (7DECO) –
                                                    $840,00
Nov to Feb (2 pax per bungalow)
7 days - 6 Nights Eco Volunteering (7DECO) –
                                                     $710,00
March to Oct (2 pax per bungalow)
EXTRAS
Extra Night BUNGALOW                                  $70,00
Extra Week BUNGALOW                                 $640,00
Accommodation: Family Lodge**
7 days - 6 Nights Eco Volunteering (7DECO) –
                                                   $1 140,00
Nov to Feb (2 pax per room)***
7 days - 6 Nights Eco Volunteering (7DECO) –
                                                    $840,00
March to Oct (2 pax per room) ***

* Communal restrooms / Hot showers

** 4 rooms w/ private restrooms / Hot showers
*** 1 week only
Protecting Elephants in Lao PDR since 2001 - Elephant Conservation Center
Discovery: 2 days - 1 night
Join us for an overnight stay and discover our Center and elephants. Welcome to your idyllic holiday
destination in the Land of the Asian Elephant on the shores of a majestic lake surrounded by untouched
tropical forest. During your visit at the Center you will spend a lot of time walking through our protected
area. The area is forested and might not always be accessible without you getting dirty. Activities in the
forest vary during the rainy season between May and September. You will be guided by a local English
speaking guide and international experts.

Day 1: Travel from Luang Prabang by minivan – Boat           Day 2: Breakfast – Meet the elephants in the forest
trip – Walk Through the Forest – Picnic Lunch –              – Observe elephants bathing – Socialization Area
Nursery Visit – Hospital Visit – Observe Elephants           Observation – Lunch.
Bathing – Encounter Elephants & Mahouts – Dinner.
                                                             On the second day, you will meet up with the elephants
When you arrive at Nam Tien Lake, we will transfer you       in the forest. After spending the night in the jungle, it
to the Center by boat. You will have time to settle into     is time for another bath. Enjoy strolling together with
your private bungalow before your guide takes you to         these magnificent animals in their natural habitat.
the forest. Along the way, you walk past the different
                                                             When they have had their fill of water they are brought
enclosures where our main activities take place. After
                                                             to the Socialization Area. This is an area where the
enjoying a Laotian style picnic on a lakeside platform,
                                                             elephants can freely interact during a big part of the
you observe the bath time at the nursery, an area in the
                                                             day, recreating a semi-natural living environment.
forest reserved for our youngest elephants and their
                                                             Here the elephants can enjoy being elephants. Follow
mothers.
                                                             the guide around the perimeter to learn more about the
When the elephants have drunk enough and returned            group and its dynamics. Take your time on the different
to the forest, you will take the boat back to the Center     platforms to see how a new herd is being formed. This
for the hospital visit. Our Laotian vet assistant or         rare opportunity will bring you closer to their natural
our biologist will introduce you to their world and tell     life, something which is very special about our program
you more about common and uncommon injuries and              and difficult to find anywhere else.
their respective treatments. It is also the perfect time
                                                             Lunch is served at the Center. You have some time to
to ask any questions you may have about the biology of
                                                             relax before we bring you back to Luang Prabang by
the elephants.
                                                             minivan. You can say your goodbyes to the staff at the
You will then observe one of the elephants’ daily            restaurant or walk around the Center one last time.
baths and learn more about our giant guests’ playful
                                                             Special note: Medical Care and “positive
characters. Elephants love water. They also use the
                                                             reinforcement” training of the elephants at the
bath time to socialize and strengthen ties in the herd.
                                                             Elephant Hospital are only carried out by qualified
After the elephants have washed themselves, you will         vets. Unfortunately, you won’t be able to participate in
have the opportunity to see them up close. Their ears        this activity. Thank you for your understanding.
flapping, tails swatting while they use the trunk and the
                                                             This programme starts at 8:00 on day 1 and ends at
trees for a good scratching. Meanwhile, the guide will
                                                             about 17:00 on day 2. We will pick you up in Luang
tell you a little about the background of each elephant.
                                                             Prabang and return you to Luang Prabang after lunch
They have all been worked hard before they came here.
                                                             on day 2. Accommodation is in a wooden bungalow
See if you are already able to recognize the elephants
                                                             with shared washing facilities.
while observing them.
Now it’s time for them to walk back to the forest. After a
short trek the mahouts will decide on a place where the
elephants can graze for the night.
Before dinner, take a moment to take in the surroundings
from one of our viewpoints. You can also go for a swim
in the lake, take out a canoe, or visit the museum. At
6 pm one of the staff will give a presentation on our
conservation efforts, feel free to ask your unresolved
questions. After dinner you can relax at the bar with the
staff and share one of our delicious Lao style cocktails!
Protecting Elephants in Lao PDR since 2001 - Elephant Conservation Center
Public Price

• In US Dollar per person:      $220 (bungalow)
				$310 (Lodge)
Child policy
• 1-4 years old: free of charge if sharing a bungalow
  with parents;
• 5 - 10 years old: 50% discount if sharing bungalow
  with parents,
• Over 10 years: full charge.

The price includes
• Transfer from Luang Prabang to the Center 2 ways,
• English speaking team on site,
• Set menu meals: Day 1 (L,D), Day 2 (B,L),
• Unlimited drinking water refills,
• Accommodation: a wooden bungalow with com-
  munal wash facilities (hot shower),
• Activities as described.

The price excludes
•   Personal expenses (Soft drinks, snacks, tips, etc.)
•   Travel insurance
•   Bank transfer fees
•   Anything not mentioned in ‘The price includes’

What to bring to the ECC:
• A cap
• A big bottle of water to refill
• Long trousers and long shirts or a jacket to go to
  the forest (to avoid scratches and insect bites)
• Sun screen
• A bag to carry your belongings during the activities
• Good quality trekking shoes (recommended)
• Raining jacket, especially during the rainy season
  (June to November)
• Mosquito repellent
Protecting Elephants in Lao PDR since 2001 - Elephant Conservation Center
Exploration: 3 days - 2 nights
By joining our Exploration programme you will fully experience the peaceful and beautiful world of the Asian
elephant. Not only will you enjoy a relaxing stay in the Nam Tien protected area but you will also learn all you
want to know about Asia’s most iconic creature! You will receive expert information about the condition of the
Asian elephant, its biology, cultural importance and the challenges of the species’ conservation. You will have
the opportunity to observe our elephant herd in its natural habitat.
During your visit at the Center you will spend a lot of time walking through our protected area. The area is
forested and might not always be accessible without you getting dirty. Activities in the forest vary during
the rainy season between May and September. You will be guided by a local English speaking guide and
international experts.

Day 1: Travel from Luang Prabang by minivan – Boat           questions. After dinner you can relax at the bar with the
trip – Walk Through the Forest – Picnic Lunch –              staff and share one of our delicious Lao style cocktails!
Nursery Visit – Hospital Visit – Observe Elephants
Bathing – Encounter Elephants & Mahouts – Dinner.            Day 2: Breakfast – Meet the elephants in the forest
When you arrive at Nam Tien Lake, we will transfer you       – Observe elephants bathing – Socialization Area
to the Center by boat. You will have time to settle into     Observation – Lunch – Bath time – Target training -
your private bungalow before your guide takes you to         Dinner.
the forest. Along the way, you walk past the different       On the second day, you will meet up with the elephants
enclosures where our main activities take place. After       in the forest. After spending the night in the jungle, it
enjoying a Laotian style picnic on a lakeside platform,      is time for another bath. Enjoy strolling together with
you observe the bath time at the nursery, an area in the     these magnificent animals in their natural habitat.
forest reserved for our youngest elephants and their
                                                             When they have had their fill of water they are brought
mothers.
                                                             to the Socialization Area. This is an area where the
When the elephants have drunk enough and returned            elephants can freely interact during a big part of the
to the forest, you will take the boat back to the Center     day, recreating a semi-natural living environment.
for the hospital visit. Our Laotian vet assistant or         Here the elephants can enjoy being elephants. Follow
our biologist will introduce you to their world and tell     the guide around the perimeter to learn more about the
you more about common and uncommon injuries and              group and its dynamics. Take your time on the different
their respective treatments. It is also the perfect time     platforms to see how a new herd is being formed. This
to ask any questions you may have about the biology of       rare opportunity will bring you closer to their natural
the elephants.                                               life, something which is very special about our program
You will then observe one of the elephants’ daily            and difficult to find anywhere else.
baths and learn more about our giant guests’ playful         Lunch is served at the Center. Lunch is served at the
characters. Elephants love water. They also use the          Center. You will visit our medicinal garden dedicated
bath time to socialize and strengthen ties in the herd.      to elephant care. You can then join our workshop and
After the elephants have washed themselves, you will         learn how to create some local handicraft products
have the opportunity to see them up close. Their ears        using bamboo or rattan. While at the workshop, you
flapping, tails swatting while they use the trunk and the    can observe the elephants having their afternoon bath.
trees for a good scratching. Meanwhile, the guide will       You will meet our mahouts or our vet technician
tell you a little about the background of each elephant.     again as they will conduct a Target Training Session.
They have all been worked hard before they came here.        All our elephants are being trained using ‘positive
See if you are already able to recognize the elephants       reinforcement’ techniques to facilitate any necessary
while observing them.                                        treatments and to reduce the stress that these treatments
Now it’s time for them to walk back to the forest. After a   or routine checks can give to them. We offer you the
short trek the mahouts will decide on a place where the      chance to follow their work from a safe distance.
elephants can graze for the night.
                                                             Day 3: Breakfast – Enrichment – Lunch.
Before dinner, take a moment to take in the surroundings
from one of our viewpoints. You can also go for a swim       On the third day, your guide will explain the ECC’s
in the lake, take out a canoe, or visit the museum. At       Sensorial Enrichment Activities. Enrichment is a
6 pm one of the staff will give a presentation on our        dynamic process for enhancing animal environments
conservation efforts, feel free to ask your unresolved       within the context of the animal’s behavioural biology.
Protecting Elephants in Lao PDR since 2001 - Elephant Conservation Center
Public Price

                                                           • In US Dollar per person: $310 (Bungalow)
                                                           				$380 (Lodge)
                                                           Child policy
We are providing cognitive enrichment in the form of
                                                            • 1-4 years old: free of charge if sharing a bungalow
hidden food, toys, a mud bath etc. to give elephants
                                                              with parents;
mental stimulation and help them avoid boredom.             • 5 - 10 years old: 50% discount if sharing bungalow
They love it! We invite you to take part in this amazing      with parents,
experience by helping our team prepare the enclosure,       • Over 10 years: full charge.
cutting and hiding food, creating new games for them...
to give elephants some challenging exercises to solve.      The price includes
Once they arrive, you will have the opportunity to          • Transfer from Luang Prabang to the Center 2
observe how elephants find ways to discover what you          ways,
have hidden! This is a novel and unique way to interact     • English speaking team on site,
                                                            • Set menu meals:Day 1 (L, D), Day 2 (B, L, D), Day
with our elephants, contributing directly to their well-
                                                              3 (B, L)
being.                                                      • Unlimited drinking water refills,
                                                            • Accommodation: a wooden bungalow with com-
                                                              munal wash facilities (hot shower),
Lunch is served at the restaurant. You have some time       • Activities as described.
to relax before we bring you back to Luang Prabang by
minivan. You can say your goodbyes to the staff or walk     The price excludes
around the Center one last time.                            •   Personal expenses (Soft drinks, snacks, tips, etc.)
                                                            •   Travel insurance
Special note: Medical Care and “positive                    •   Bank transfer fees
reinforcement” training of the elephants at the             •   Anything not mentioned in ‘The price includes’
Elephant Hospital are only carried out by qualified
vets. Unfortunately, you won’t be able to participate in    What to bring to the ECC:
this activity. Thank you for your understanding.            • A cap
                                                            • A big bottle of water to refill
This programme starts at 8:00 on day 1 and ends at
                                                            • Long trousers and long shirts or a jacket to go to
about 17:00 on day 3. We will pick you up in Luang            the forest (to avoid scratches and insect bites)
Prabang and return you to Luang Prabang after lunch         • Sun screen
on day 3. Accommodation is in a wooden bungalow             • A bag to carry your belongings during the activities
with shared washing facilities.                             • Good quality trekking shoes (recommended)
                                                            • Raining jacket, especially during the rainy season
                                                              (June to November)
                                                            • Mosquito repellent
Protecting Elephants in Lao PDR since 2001 - Elephant Conservation Center
Immersion: 4 days - 3 nights
By joining our Immersion programme you will fully experience the peaceful and beautiful world of the Asian elephant.
Not only will you enjoy a relaxing stay in the Nam Tien protected area but you will also learn all you want to know about
Asia’s most iconic creature! You will receive expert information about the condition of the Asian elephant, its biology,
cultural importance and the challenges of the species’ conservation. You will have the opportunity to observe our elephant
herd in its natural habitat. During your visit at the Center you will spend a lot of time walking through our protected area.
The area is forested and might not always be accessible without you getting dirty. Activities in the forest vary during the
rainy season between May and September. You will be guided by a local English-speaking guide and international experts.
This program differs from the EXPLORATION Program by offering a day of exclusive activities including the visit
of our research laboratory, a cruise on the Nam Tien lake, the visit of the a traditional Lao farm and ricefields within
the ECC land concession, and half a day with our most knowledgeable mahouts... a unique experience closer to the
world of the mahouts of the “Land of the Million Elephants”.

Day 1: Travel from Luang Prabang by minivan – Boat             Day 2: Breakfast – Meet the elephants in the forest
trip – Walk Through the Forest – Picnic Lunch –Nursery         – Observe elephants bathing – Socialization Area
Visit – Hospital Visit – Observe Elephants Bathing –           Observation – Lunch – Activities with mahouts – Bath
Encounter Elephants & Mahouts – Dinner.                        time – Target training – Dinner.
Once in Nam Tien Lake, we will transfer you to the Center      On the second day, you will meet up with the elephants
by boat. You will have time to settle into your private        in the forest. After spending the night in the jungle, it
bungalow before your guide takes you to the forest. Along      is time for another bath. Enjoy strolling together with
the way, you walk past the different enclosures where          these magnificent animals in their natural habitat.
our main activities take place. After enjoying a Laotian
                                                               When they have had their fill of water they are brought
style picnic on a lakeside platform, you observe the bath
                                                               to the Socialization Area. This is an area where the
time at the nursery, an area in the forest reserved for our
                                                               elephants can freely interact during a big part of the
youngest elephants and their mothers.
                                                               day, recreating a semi-natural living environment.
When elephants have drunk enough and returned to the
                                                               Here the elephants can enjoy being elephants. Follow
forest, you will take the boat back to the Center for the
                                                               the guide around the perimeter to learn more about the
hospital visit. Our Lao vet assistant or our biologist
                                                               group and its dynamics. Take your time on the different
will introduce you to their world and tell you more about
                                                               platforms to see how a new herd is being formed. This
common and uncommon injuries and their respective
                                                               rare opportunity will bring you closer to their natural
treatments. It is also the perfect time to ask any questions
                                                               life, something which is very special about our program
you may have about the biology of the elephants.
                                                               and difficult to find anywhere else.
You will then observe one of the elephants’ daily baths
                                                               Lunch is served at the Center. Lunch is served at the
and learn more about our giant guests’ playful charac-
                                                               Center. You will visit our medicinal garden dedicated
ters. Elephants love water. They also use the bath time
                                                               to elephant care. You can then join our workshop and
to socialize and strengthen ties in the herd. After the
                                                               learn how to create some local handicraft products
elephants have washed themselves, you will have the
                                                               using bamboo or rattan. While at the workshop, you
opportunity to see them up close. Their ears flapping,
                                                               can observe the elephants having their afternoon bath.
tails swatting while they use tree trunks for a good
scratching. Meanwhile, your guide will tell you about          You will meet our mahouts or our vet technician
the background of each elephant.                               again as they will conduct a Target Training Session.
                                                               All our elephants are being trained using ‘positive
They have all been working hard before they were
                                                               reinforcement’ techniques to facilitate any necessary
rescued and brought here. See if you are already able to
                                                               treatments and to reduce the stress that these treatments
recognize the elephants while observing them! Now it’s
                                                               or routine checks can give to them. We offer you the
time for them to walk back to the forest. After a short
                                                               chance to follow their work from a safe distance.
trek, the mahouts will decide on a place where the
elephants can graze for the night.
Before dinner, take a moment to enjoy the surroundings
from one of our viewpoints. You can also go for a swim
in the lake, take out a canoe, or visit the museum. At
6 pm one of the staff will give a presentation on our
conservation efforts, feel free to ask your unresolved
questions. After dinner, you can relax at the bar with the
staff and share one of our delicious Lao style cocktails!
Protecting Elephants in Lao PDR since 2001 - Elephant Conservation Center
Public Price

                                                             • In US Dollar per person: $390 (Bungalow)
                                                             				$470 (Lodge)
Day 3 : Breakfast – Short trek to the Male Elephants         Child policy
Socialization Area – Lunch at the restaurant – Visit of       • 1-4 years old: free of charge if sharing a
the Research Laboratory in Sayaboury – Boat Cruise              bungalow with parents;
on the Nam Tien Lake (visit the ECC concession) –             • 5 - 10 years old: 50% discount if sharing
                                                                bungalow with parents,
Visit of a traditional Lao farm & ricefields – Return to
                                                              • Over 10 years: full charge.
main camp for Sunset.
On the third day, you will follow your guide to the          The price includes
Mal Elephants Socialization Area. ECC is the only             • Transfer from Luang Prabang to the Center 2
facility in Laos taking care of male elephants and              ways,
socializing them (male elephants are considered more          • English speaking team on site,
aggressive and difficult to manage than cows, and are         • Set menu meals:Day 1 (L, D), Day 2 (B, L, D),
                                                                Day 3 (B, L, D), Day 4 (B, L)
usually not presented in tourist elephant camps). You
                                                              • Unlimited drinking water refills,
will get up close with our group of bulls and learn           • Accommodation: a wooden bungalow with
about the specificities of the group and the progress           communal wash facilities (hot shower),
of the socialization programme we created for them.           • Activities as described.
After lunch, you will visit the only endocrinology lab
dedicated to the study of elephant hormones with our         The price excludes
resident biologist. ECC works on 3 different hormones         • Personal expenses (Soft drinks, snacks, tips,
(testosterone, progesterone and cortisol) to measure the        etc.)
levels of stress and the reproductive cycles of elephants.    • Travel insurance
                                                              • Bank transfer fees
You will then board one of our boats and cruise the Nam
                                                              • Anything not mentioned in ‘The price includes’
Tien Lake to learn about the importance of pastures for
our 30 elephants. You will visit a traditional Lao farm on   What to bring to the ECC:
grounds used for rice field cultivation, young elephants’
                                                              • A cap
training and pre-rewilding tests. Return to the Center        • A big bottle of water to refill
for Sunset.                                                   • Long trousers and long shirts or a jacket to go to
                                                                the forest (to avoid scratches and insect bites)
Day 4: Breakfast – “Way of the Mahouts” experience –          • Sun screen
Lunch.                                                        • A bag to carry your belongings during the
                                                                activities
On the fourth day, you will accompany one of our mahouts
                                                              • Good quality trekking shoes (recommended)
into the forest and spend the full morning together. You      • Raining jacket, especially during the rainy
will be able to experience his daily life and connection        season (June to November)
with his elephant in full immersion. from the commands        • Mosquito repellent
he uses to call his elephant, to the techniques he uses to
guide it, and his knowledge of local plants. Walk in the
footsteps of Laos’ best elephant caretakers and learn
about “The Way of the Mahout”.
Lunch is served at the restaurant. You have some time
to relax before we take you back to Luang Prabang
by minivan. You can say goodbye to the staff or walk
around the Center before leaving.
Special note: Medical Care and “positive
reinforcement” training of the elephants at the
Elephant Hospital are only carried out by qualified
vets. Unfortunately, you won’t be able to participate in
this activity. Thank you for your understanding.
Protecting Elephants in Lao PDR since 2001 - Elephant Conservation Center
Eco Volunteering: 7 days - 6 nights
Departures on Mondays

This eco volunteering programme is your gateway to feeling like a part of the Elephant Conservation team!
It will give you a more in-depth insight into what it takes to look after elephants. During the week, you will
share in the life of our staff and learn more about the Lao culture. You may even pick up a bit of Lao language!
You will start by following our 3 day ‘Exploration’ program. Then you will be asked to assist us in the Center’s
development by participating in current projects on site.
During your visit at the Center you will spend a lot of time walking through our protected area. The area is
forested and might not always be accessible without you getting dirty. Activities in the forest vary during
the rainy season between May and September. You will be guided by a local English speaking guide and
international experts.

Day 1: Travel from Luang Prabang by minivan – Boat           conservation efforts, feel free to ask your unresolved
trip – Walk Through the Forest – Picnic Lunch –              questions. After dinner you can relax at the bar with the
Nursery Visit – Hospital Visit – Observe Elephants           staff and share one of our delicious Lao style cocktails!
Bathing – Encounter Elephants & Mahouts – Dinner.
                                                             Day 2: Breakfast – Meet the elephants in the forest
When you arrive at Nam Tien Lake, we will transfer you       – Observe elephants bathing – Socialization Area
to the Center by boat. You will have time to settle into     Observation – Lunch – Bath time – Target training -
your private bungalow before your guide takes you to         Dinner.
the forest. Along the way, you walk past the different
enclosures where our main activities take place. After       On the second day, you will meet up with the elephants
enjoying a Laotian style picnic on a lakeside platform,      in the forest. After spending the night in the jungle, it
you observe the bath time at the nursery, an area in the     is time for another bath. Enjoy strolling together with
forest reserved for our youngest elephants and their         these magnificent animals in their natural habitat.
mothers.                                                     When they have had their fill of water they are brought
When the elephants have drunk enough and returned            to the Socialization Area. This is an area where the
to the forest, you will take the boat back to the Center     elephants can freely interact during a big part of the
for the hospital visit. Our Laotian vet assistant or         day, recreating a semi-natural living environment.
our biologist will introduce you to their world and tell     Here the elephants can enjoy being elephants. Follow
you more about common and uncommon injuries and              the guide around the perimeter to learn more about the
their respective treatments. It is also the perfect time     group and its dynamics. Take your time on the different
to ask any questions you may have about the biology of       platforms to see how a new herd is being formed. This
the elephants.                                               rare opportunity will bring you closer to their natural
                                                             life, something which is very special about our program
You will then observe one of the elephants’ daily            and difficult to find anywhere else.
baths and learn more about our giant guests’ playful
characters. Elephants love water. They also use the          Lunch is served at the Center. You have some time
bath time to socialize and strengthen ties in the herd.      to relax before the elephants come down for their
                                                             afternoon bath.
After the elephants have washed themselves, you will
have the opportunity to see them up close. Their ears        You will meet our mahouts or our vet technician
flapping, tails swatting while they use the trunk and the    again as they will conduct a Target Training Session.
trees for a good scratching. Meanwhile, the guide will       All our elephants are being trained using ‘positive
tell you a little about the background of each elephant.     reinforcement’ techniques to facilitate any necessary
They have all been worked hard before they came here.        treatments and to reduce the stress that these
See if you are already able to recognize the elephants       treatments or routine checks can give to them. We
while observing them.                                        offer you the chance to follow their work from a safe
                                                             distance.
Now it’s time for them to walk back to the forest. After a
short trek the mahouts will decide on a place where the      Day 3: Breakfast – Enrichment – Lunch - Volunteer
elephants can graze for the night.                           Work.
Before dinner, take a moment to take in the surroundings     On the third day, your guide will explain the ECC’s
from one of our viewpoints. You can also go for a swim       Sensorial Enrichment Activities. Enrichment is a
in the lake, take out a canoe, or visit the museum. At       dynamic process for enhancing animal environments
6 pm one of the staff will give a presentation on our        within the context of the animal’s behavioural biology.
We are providing cognitive enrichment in the form of        This programme starts at 08:00 on day 1 and ends
hidden food, toys, a mud bath etc. to give elephants        at about 17:00 on day 7. We will pick you up in Luang
mental stimulation and help them avoid boredom.             Prabang and return you to Luang Prabang after lunch
They love it! We invite you to take part in this amazing    on day 7. Accommodation is in a traditional Lao
experience by helping our team prepare the enclosure,       rosewood stilt house shared dormitory with bunk beds
cutting and hiding food, creating new games for them...     and shared washing facilities. (Other accommodation
to give elephants some challenging exercises to solve.      options available. See Below)
Once they arrive, you will have the opportunity to
observe how elephants find ways to discover what you
have hidden! This is a novel and unique way to interact
                                                              Public Price
with our elephants, contributing directly to their well-
being. After lunch, you will start to become a volunteer!     • In US Dollar per person:   $490 (Dormitory)
                                                                Bungalow: $710 (Mar-Oct) - $840 (Nov-Feb)
Day 4-6: Breakfast – Volunteer Work – Lunch –
                                                                Lodge: $840 (Mar-Oct) - $1140 (Nov-Feb)
Volunteer Work – Dinner.
You will spend your remaining days supporting the             Children policy
work of the ECC on current projects. These volunteer          • 1-4 years old: free of charge if sharing a
projects will not be directly with elephants, but help          bungalow with parents;
them a lot indirectly in keeping the Center running.          • 5 - 10 years old: 50% discount if sharing
                                                                bungalow with parents,
Please keep in mind that you are working in a developing      • Over 10 years: full charge.
country with minimal access to western tools. Activities
can be influenced by the weather, i.e. rain or heat. We       The price includes
                                                              • Transfer from Luang Prabang to the Center 2
are looking for flexible and autonomous volunteers.
                                                                ways,
For example:                                                  • English speaking team on site,
                                                              • Set menu meals:Day 1 (L,D), Day 2 to 6 (B,L,D)
 • Spend a day with local mahouts;                              Day 7 (B,L),
                                                              • Unlimited drinking water refills,
 • Development and maintenance of the socialization
                                                              • Accommodation: Bunk bed in a shared
   area (cleaning, cut grasses around the electric fence,       dormitory with communal wash facilities (hot
   protecting the trees etc);                                   shower),
                                                              • Tools and equipment for community work
 • Enrichment Activities;
                                                              • Activities as described.
 • Tree Nursery and Reforestation;
                                                              The price excludes
 • Maintenance work (painting, cleaning, gardening);          • Personal expenses (Soft drinks, snacks, tips,
 • Create handicraft at our work shop (when possible);          etc.)
                                                              • Travel insurance
Of course, we are always open to project ideas you            • Bank transfer fees
might have yourselves                                         • Anything not mentioned in ‘The price includes’

Day 7: Breakfast – Volunteer Work – Lunch.                    What to bring to the ECC:
                                                              • A cap
On your final morning you will complete your                  • A big bottle of water to refill
volunteering session and then, after lunch, the boat          • Long trousers and long shirts or a jacket to
will return you to the Nam Tien Lake pier, where our            go to the forest (to avoid scratches and insect
minivan will be waiting to take you back to Luang               bites)
                                                              • Sun screen
Prabang or to drop you off at the Sayaboury bus station
                                                              • A bag to carry your belongings during the
for your next destination.                                      activities
Special note: Medical Care and “positive reinforcement”       • Good quality trekking shoes
                                                              • Raining jacket, especially during the rainy
training of the elephants at the Elephant Hospital are
                                                                season (June to November)
only carried out by qualified vets. Unfortunately, you        • Mosquito repellent
won’t be able to participate in this activity. Thank you
for your understanding.
Access Map
                                                                                                  LAO PDR

                                                                Luang Prabang                        CHINA

                         Hongsa                                                                   MYANMAR
                                                                                                                        VIETNAM

                                                               Xieng Ngeun
                           Sayaboury
                                                                                                                                           SAYABO
                                                   Nan                                                                                      PROVIN
SAYABOURY
                                                                  Kasi
 PROVINCE
                                                                                                                      THAILAND

                                                                          Vangvieng
                                                                                                                     CAMBODIA

                                                                   RN13
                        Paklay

                                                                           Vientiane
                                                          Nongkhai

How to get there?
FROM/TO LUANG PRABANG
From Luang Prabang ECC minivan departs from the post
office on the main street daily at 8:00am, and returns daily
to Luang Prabang, arriving approximately at 4:30pm.
The journey takes approximately 2 hours.

FROM/TO VIENTIANE
In Vientiane: Sakura Minivans (Sikhay station, pass the
airport).
Departures at 7:00am, 8:00am and 10:00am.

In Sayaboury: Sakura Bus Station.
Departures at 7:00am, 8:00am and 10:00am.
The journey takes approximately 7 hours.

Or fly to Luang Prabang, Lao Airlines and Lao Skyway have
several departures daily, and board the ECC minivan the next
morning.
                                                                   Luang Prabang Visitor Center             Elephant Conservation Center
                                                                   Manthatoulat Road (Mekong)               Nam Tien Lake,
FROM/TO VANGVIENG                                                  Ban Pakham, Luang Prabang                Sayaboury Province, Lao PDR
                                                                   TEL: +856(0)71 25 23 07                  TEL: +856 (0)20 96 59 06 65
In Sayaboury: Public Buses from the Bus Station.
Departures at 3:00pm.                                              www.elephantconservationcenter.com
                                                                   Facebook: elephant conservation center
In Vangvieng: Minivan from Vangvieng bus station.                  Instagram: #elephantconservationlaos
Departures at 10:30am (reservation required).                      marketing@elephantconservationcenter.com
Terms & Conditions
CURRENCY                                                                     medical expenses, emergency repatriation and personal liability.
                                                                             We also advise to contract insurance coverage against cancellation,
All amounts mentioned in this quotation are stated in US Dollars,
                                                                             curtailment, and loss of luggage and personal effects. The participants
but are occasionally calculated in other currencies - especially when
                                                                             must be aware that during the course of the trip certain risks and
using a credit card.
                                                                             dangers may occur, including but not limited to hazards of traveling
BOOKING                                                                      on a mountain bicycle, kayak, hiking, or driving in a motor vehicle or
                                                                             boat, snakes, insects and other wildlife and proximity of elephants.
All clients are deemed to have read these terms and conditions and           It may also involve an accident or illness in remote places without
have signed a reservation form which must be made directly between           appropriate facilities, or be caused by the forces of nature. The client
the customer and the Elephant Conservation Center (ECC). The                 agrees to assume all risks associated with the trip and agrees that no
booking includes the number of participants, a list of participants’         liability will be attached to the company or its outfitter, employees or
names incl. title (Ms., Mr.), nationality and passport numbers prior         agent, or to any member of the tour group. ECC accepts no liability
to the departure. To secure a booking, ECC requires a completed              in respect of death, personal injury, illness or delay of the passenger,
booking containing all relevant information detailed above by e-mail,        or for any loss or damage to the property of the participant during
telephone, fax, or via Checkfront. Clients booking are deemed to             the course of the trip, however caused.
accept these terms and conditions and sign a waiver when boarding
our minivan to the Center. A booking is accepted and a contract is           PASSPORTS AND VISAS
entered into as soon as ECC issues a written confirmation of the
                                                                             Clients must carry a valid passport and obtain the relevant visas
booking. The booking will be secured upon reception of the payment
                                                                             when traveling with ECC. We cannot accept responsibility if entry is
(see below). If Clients are not paying the booking in timely manner,
                                                                             denied to Laos or any other country due to incorrect visa or passport
ECC reserves the right to cancel the booking.
                                                                             documentation.
PAYMENT
                                                                             COMPLAINTS
An invoice will be issued with the confirmation of the booking and
                                                                             If a client has a complaint about the tour, he or she must make it
the submission of the participants’ details as stated above. Payments
                                                                             known to the tour guide (leader) as soon as possible so that he/she
can be made by bank transfer which will incur a bank fee, or cash (at
                                                                             is able to take appropriate action at the earliest opportunity. If the
the ECC). Account details are given on the booking confirmation.
                                                                             client is not satisfied with our response and he/she feels his or her
Note that all bank transfer fees have to be covered in full by the client.
                                                                             enjoyment of the tour will be significantly affected the client should
In case of a payment being made later than 90 days after the invoice         contact our manager at ECC to discuss how we might best resolve
is sent, a penalty of 10% of the total invoice will be applied.              the problem. If the client remains unsatisfied after return from the
                                                                             tour, we must be notified in writing within 30 days.
CANCELLATION (ALL SEASONS)
                                                                             RESPONSIBILITY
ECC Cancellation policy is as follows :
                                                                             When booking an ECC tour, the client understands that ECC
•    Cancellation less than 30 days prior to arrival date: 25% charge        runs adventure and outdoor tours in Laos where the standards of
     of the full price will be applied, bank fee not included. (ECC will     accommodation, transport, safety, hygiene, level of infrastructure
     pay back 75% of the amount invoiced, bank fee not included)             development and medical facilities, and telecommunication services
•    Cancellation less than 15 days prior to arrival date: 50% charge        are not necessarily the same as one may be used to at home, or one
     of the full will be applied, bank fee not included (ECC will pay        would find on a conventional holiday. This type of holiday inherently
     back 50% of the amount invoiced, bank fee not included)                 involves a higher level of personal risk than a ‘conventional holiday’.
                                                                             ECC, the Government of Laos and the Lao National Tourism
•    Cancellation less than 72 hours (3 days) prior to the arrival date      Administration cannot accept any responsibility for accidents,
     or ‘no show’ - Full charge from all services requested for will be      injuries, death, or loss of personal effects. The client understands
     applied (ECC will retain the full amount invoiced)                      that during the course of the tour certain events may occur, including,
                                                                             but not limited to, accident or illness in remote places without
CHILD POLICY
                                                                             medical facilities, political instability and the forces of nature. The
•    1 - 4 years old: free of charge with no supplement single, sharing      client agrees to assume all risks associated with the journey to the
     the room with parents,                                                  maximum extent permitted by law. Each client acknowledges that
                                                                             travel on ECC tour requires a degree of flexibility, and understands
•    5 - 10 years old: 50% discount with no supplement single, sharing
                                                                             that the itinerary, accommodation and modes of transport are subject
     the room with parents,
                                                                             to change without prior notice due to local circumstances. Should
•    Over 10 years: full charge                                              ECC deem it advisable to amend an itinerary for any reason, it may
                                                                             do so by shortening, varying or re-routing any trip. These changes
TOUR LEADER AND FOC POLICY                                                   are binding and additional expenses will be charged to the client,
•    Lao National guide will be charged 20$ / night (per person),            if the reason for any alteration is outside control from ECC. While
                                                                             traveling with ECC, the client agrees to accept the authority of the
•    International Tour Leader will be charged 80% of the public             leader or local operator at all time. He/she is aware that travel within a
     price (per person), Both guide and tour leader will sleep in the        group may involve compromise to accommodate the diverse desires
     dormitory.                                                              and physical abilities of group members. The client understands that
We do not offer FOC.                                                         ECC reserves the right to decline the participation of any person as
                                                                             a member of the group at any time. The client acknowledges that
CANCELLATION BY ECC                                                          ECC contracts a network of companies, government agencies and
                                                                             individuals throughout the country to assist in the running of its
ECC reserves the right to cancel any trip due to reasons beyond its
                                                                             tours. To the best of ECC knowledge, these third parties are qualified
control (i.e.: natural disasters or political instability). In such a case
                                                                             to perform the duties they are contracted to perform. However, ECC
ECC will refund monies received in full (minus bank transfer fees).
                                                                             will not be held liable for any injury, damage, loss, delay or irregularity
INSURANCE                                                                    that may occur due to the behavior of these third parties. ECC will
                                                                             not accept responsibility or liability for any traveler who contravenes
ECC guarantees that all its buses and cars owned by ECC are                  any law or regulation of Lao P. D. R. No employee, servant or agent of
insured as commercial passenger vehicle. Insurance coverage does             ECC has authority to alter these conditions.
not apply after the passengers have exited the vehicle. A private
travel insurance is compulsory for all people traveling with ECC.
Your travel insurance must provide cover against personal accident,
ECC AMENITIES

                PARKING                                                         Luang Prabang (110km)
                                                                                Sayaboury Town (3.5km)

                                         Reproduction Area (500m)
                                                                                                                Nam Pouy National
                                         Socialization Areas (1km)
                                                                                                                Protected Area (50km)
      Workshop

                                                                                             Laboratory
                                                                                             (1km)

                                                                                           Elephants
                                                                                           Treatment
                                                                                           Area

                                                                                                                        Elephant
                                                                                                                        Hospital

                                                             Elephant
                                                             Information
                                                             Area

                                                                  Elephant Bath
Swimming
Area                                       Kayaks
                         “Sala”                        Boat jetty

      Visitors Lodging            Showers / WC                      Staff Lodging             Boat Jetty                     Fire extinguishers

      Restaurants                 Elephant Hospital                 Technical Facilities      First Aid                      Children Playground

      Kitchen                     Information & Relaxation          Solar Panels              Emergency Meeting Point
MEDIA QUOTES
“Ici (…) les éléphants vivent en paix.”                       “One of the world’s best places to see elephants”
– Le Monde                                                    – Wanderlust

                                                              “Meet and interact with elephants the ethical way at the
“ECC rescues elephants from the logging industry”             Elephant Conservation Center”
– The Guardian                                                – The Independent

                                                              “A true sanctuary”
“The Centre offers visitors a unique insight into the lives   – Travel3sixty
of these majestic creatures in a natural setting”
– Lonely Planet
                                                              “The ECC team works to protect the Asian elephant from
                                                              extinction”
“The work of the ECC (…) offers some hope for the future      – NHK World
survival of Laos’ largest mammal.”
– The Diplomat
                                                              “Elephant Conservation Center sets a sustainable
                                                              example”
“A chance to observe the elephants                            – The Outdoor Journal
from morning until evening”
– Lonely Planet
                                                              “The ECC is not your typical tourist elephant camp.
                                                              It is run by people with a passion for the animals”
“The ECC team are now working towards their rewilding         – Lonely Planet
goal”
– The Telegraph UK
                                                              “Through a partnership with the Smithsonian Institute,
                                                              the ECC has established a successful breeding program”
“ECC is a bright light in an increasingly dark landscape      – The Diplomat
for wildlife conservation in the region”
– Lonely Planet
                                                              “El Centro de Conservación de Elefantes es un brote verde
                                                              en medio del turismo convencional”
“El Centro de Conservación de Elefantes en Sayaboury se       – El Pais
dedica a la protección y recuperación de los paquidermos”
– El Pais
                                                              “Lao’s only sanctuary that offers an undisturbed natural
                                                              environment with professional staff and world-class
“ECC and Lao Tourism welcome 13 rescued elephants”            facilities”
– We Are Lao                                                  – We Are Lao

“Elephant Conservation Center is a memorable                  “The local mahouts genuinely care for their elephants’
experience”                                                   survival”
– Wanderlust                                                  – The Outdoor Journal

“An innovative project to utilise Laos’ elephant experts in   “The ECC breeding program seeks to (re)create
service of protecting the country’s natural treasures”        sustainable breeding populations in the wild”
– Geographical                                                – The Diplomat
“CONSERVATION
            GOLD” AWARD BY

 PROFESSIONAL PHOTOS AVAILABLE
           TO AGENCIES AT:
 https://www.flickr.com/photos/elephant-
           conservation-center/

Sayaboury, Lao PDR      www.elephantconservationcenter.com
+856(0)20 96 59 06 65   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/elephantconservationlaos
+856(0)71 25 23 07      Instagram: #elephantconservationlaos
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