Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort
Chiang Saen, ThailandSet atop a ridge where Thailand, Laos and Myanmar converge, this resort offers travelers the untamed beauty of the Golden Triangle. Encompassing 160 acres of bamboo forest and gardens, guests are treated to panoramic vistas of mist-covered mountains and the meandering Mekong River.
What sets this retreat apart is its connection with the majestic Asian elephants that inhabit the surrounding jungle. Home to an award-winning elephant camp and conservation program, the resort provides unique, ethical opportunities to interact with these gentle giants. Travelers passionate about wildlife conservation and cultural immersion will find this destination particularly appealing.
Rooms and suites
Accommodations reflect the heritage of Northern Thailand, featuring teak furnishings, indigenous artwork and organic textiles. Each room has a private balcony with daybeds, offering views of the Golden Triangle and occasionally elephants in their natural habitat. Spacious suites provide expansive living areas and larger balconies, ideal for families or those desiring extra space.
For an adventurous stay, the Mekong Explorer Tents offer a hillside glamping experience. These tents include outdoor bathtubs, private balconies and interiors inspired by the explorers who once charted the Mekong River. Regardless of accommodation type, guests can expect amenities that blend comfort with regional character.
Amenities and experiences
Responsible interactions with elephants through activities like Walking with Giants and the Elephant Guardian experiences at the conservation center.
Overnight stay under the stars in a transparent Jungle Bubble, surrounded by elephants in their natural habitat.
Options include regional flavors at Samsara featuring Thai, Lao and Burmese cuisine, treetop dining at Canopy, Asian and international fare at Sala Mae Nam and cocktails at the Elephant Bar & Opium Terrace.
Open-air treatments at Anantara Spa rooted in local traditions, yoga sessions in leafy gardens and Muay Thai kickboxing in an outdoor ring.
Cliff-edge pool overlooking where three countries converge.
Tandem sky bike rides above the jungle canopy with views of the Golden Triangle and Mekong River.
Visits to ancient temples, the Hall of Opium Museum or private longtail boat trips on the Mekong River at dawn.
Excursions through northern jungles and borderlands in a vintage Royal Enfield motorcycle sidecar.
Fully equipped gym with sauna, steam room and whirlpool.
How to get here
Located in the Golden Triangle, the resort is about an hour's drive (approximately 40 miles) from Chiang Rai Airport (CEI). Private transfers include options such as a scenic drive or a journey through historic Chiang Saen with a longtail boat cruise down the Mekong River to the resort's jetty, where elephants may greet you. Helicopter transfers can also be arranged, landing directly near the resort. Arrive by land, water or air to find yourself at the convergence of three countries.