While you technically can still find venues that offer elephant riding in 2026, it is highly discouraged by global animal welfare organizations and the vast majority of ethical travelers. The industry has shifted dramatically toward "observation-only" sanctuaries. Research in 2026 shows that riding causes significant long-term spinal damage to elephants and often involves a cruel training process known as phajaan. Leading ethical centers in Chiang Mai and Phuket now focus on allowing guests to watch elephants roam, forage, and bathe naturally from a respectful distance. Many travel agencies and platforms like TripAdvisor have stopped selling tickets to riding camps entirely. If a venue allows riding, performance tricks, or forced "selfie" posing, it is considered a major "red flag" for animal abuse. For a truly ethical 2026 experience, look for sanctuaries certified by the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS), where the focus is on the elephant's choice and freedom rather than tourist entertainment.