Elephants are not indigenous to Bali. Any elephants on the island have been brought from other regions, primarily Sumatra. These animals reside in specific conservation and tourism settings where visitors can observe and interact with them.
Elephants Native to Bali
Bali’s natural ecosystem does not support native elephant populations. The elephants currently on the island are Sumatran elephants, a critically endangered species in their native habitat. They have been relocated to Bali, often as part of conservation efforts aimed at preserving the species due to rampant deforestation and poaching in Sumatra. Some of these elephants were rescued from situations where they were considered a nuisance by local farmers.
The intention behind bringing them to the island was to provide a safe haven and contribute to their long-term survival.
Where Elephants Reside in Bali
Elephants in Bali are primarily found in dedicated parks and sanctuaries established for tourism and conservation. Mason Elephant Park, located in the Taro Highlands near Ubud, hosts Bali’s largest herd of Sumatran elephants. This park, spanning 4.5 hectares, offers activities such as hand-feeding, bathing, and safari rides through the park and surrounding jungle. Visitors can also observe elephant shows.
Another location is Bali Elephant Camp, situated near the Ayung River. This camp provides opportunities for visitors to watch elephants bathe and embark on treks through the natural landscape, including rice paddies and artificial forests. Bali Safari Park, a larger wildlife park, also houses Sumatran elephants and offers elephant back safaris through African-themed bushveld areas.
Ethical Elephant Tourism in Bali
Engaging with elephants in tourism settings involves important ethical considerations. Organizations like Four Paws Australia and World Animal Protection advocate for observing elephants from a distance rather than direct interaction. They suggest avoiding activities such as riding, bathing, hand-feeding, or watching shows, as these can involve intensive and potentially harmful training methods to ensure elephant compliance. These groups argue that facilities allowing such interactions often fail to meet adequate welfare standards, despite sometimes marketing themselves as “sanctuaries.”
Conversely, some parks, like Mason Elephant Park, state they prioritize animal welfare, claiming their elephants are trained with kindness and positive reinforcement. They assert that activities like riding are part of the elephants’ exercise routine. They also explain that elephants are tethered at night for their safety and to prevent conflict among the herd members. Visitors seeking ethical experiences should research a facility’s practices, looking for transparency, sufficient space for elephants to roam, proper diet, and veterinary care, rather than focusing solely on interactive opportunities.