Elephants are one of the most beloved and awe-inspiring animals in the world, and it’s no wonder that elephant tourism is a booming industry. However, one of the most popular elephant-related tourist activities—elephant bathing—is surrounded by ethical concerns. While it may seem like a harmless and even compassionate way to interact with these gentle giants, the reality is often far more complicated.
What is Elephant Bathing?
Elephant bathing experiences are marketed as ethical alternatives to activities like elephant riding or circus shows. These experiences typically allow tourists to splash in rivers or mud pits with elephants, creating photo-worthy moments that often flood social media feeds.
The appeal is obvious: tourists get a close, personal encounter with these incredible creatures, all under the guise of sustainability and animal welfare. But behind the scenes, the ethics of these interactions are questionable.
The Problem With Elephant Bathing
While it’s easy to believe that bathing elephants is a kind gesture, this activity can have significant negative implications for the animals involved. Here’s why:
Unethical Training Methods
When done properly and according to international elephant husbandry standards, training can be a wonderful form of enrichment for elephants. However, the “training” the elephants at these sorts of tourist establishments receive is more akin to abuse.
To make elephants cooperate with bathing or any tourist interaction, they are often subjected to harsh training practices. Elephants are wild animals, and their natural instincts must be suppressed for them to interact safely with humans. This is typically achieved through a process called “phajaan” or “the crush,” where young elephants are separated from their mothers and subjected to physical and psychological abuse to make them submissive.
Repetitive Interactions
Elephant bathing sessions are often scheduled multiple times per day, subjecting the animals to repetitive and unnatural interactions. This constant exposure to humans can lead to stress, exhaustion, and long-term psychological distress.
False Marketing
Many establishments that offer elephant bathing experiences brand themselves as “sanctuaries” or “ecotourism” spots. However, these same businesses are frequently tied to less ethical activities, such as elephant riding or performances. For example, some companies that run bathing activities also own camps where elephants are chained, beaten, or forced to perform in shows
What Does Ethical Elephant Tourism Look Like?
The contrast between unethical and ethical elephant tourism is stark. A visit to Elephant Valley Project offers a glimpse into what true ethical elephant tourism can look like. Located in Cambodia, this sanctuary prioritizes the well-being of the elephants above tourist interactions.
- No touching allowed: Visitors observe elephants from a safe distance, allowing the animals to roam freely and engage in natural behaviors.
- Minimal human interference: Elephants are not forced to interact with tourists, ensuring their stress levels remain low.
- Conservation-focused: The sanctuary’s efforts are aimed at providing a peaceful retirement for elephants rescued from the logging and trekking industries.
The Bigger Picture: Responsible Wildlife Tourism
The rise in demand for ethical animal experiences is part of a broader trend in wildlife tourism. As people become more aware of the negative impacts of activities like elephant bathing, the tourism industry is being forced to adapt. However, it’s crucial for travelers to stay informed and vigilant.
According to the United Nations World Tourism Organization, wildlife tourism accounts for 7% of global tourism and is growing annually. This growth can benefit conservation and local economies—if done right. Responsible tourism practices, like those at Elephant Valley in Cambodia, show that it’s possible to prioritize animal welfare without sacrificing memorable experiences.
