Elephants may be known for their size and strength, but tourists who ride on their backs can still do great harm, as this photo shared by a wildlife rescue group in Thailand shows.

In 2026, the ethical consensus among wildlife experts and major travel associations is a resounding "No." Riding an elephant is widely considered an outdated and cruel practice. For an elephant to accept a rider, it must undergo a traumatic "breaking" process (often called phajaan) which involves physical and psychological abuse to make the animal submissive. Additionally, an elephant's spine is not built to carry the weight of a heavy wooden chair (howdah) and multiple people, which can lead to permanent spinal deformities. In late 2025, several countries, including Indonesia, officially banned elephant riding in conservation parks. The 2026 travel standard encourages "Observation-Only" tourism, where you can watch elephants from a distance in reputable sanctuaries that do not allow riding, bathing, or forced interaction. Choosing "No-Ride" facilities is the most effective way for tourists to support true conservation and animal welfare.