Explore Kui Buri National Park in Thailand in 2025!

One of the few parks to see Wild Elephants in Thailand

Experience

Where is the best place to see elephants in the wild in Thailand?

Kui Buri National Park is renowned for its elephants, providing a unique chance to observe some of the the country’s remaining wild herds. With around 320 of these majestic yet endangered creatures freely traversing the park, visitors are treated to an awe-inspiring experience.

Thailand’s Kui Buri National Park is located in Prachuap Khiri Khan Province. It sees relatively few visitors and is fairly unknown among international tourists. Many Thai people are also unaware of this fabulous hidden natural gem.

If you love wildlife and nature, I can’t recommend Kui Buri National Park enough. It’s the best place in all of Thailand to spot wild elephants; there’s more than a 95% chance of seeing the magnificent lumbering beasts on any given day. Add to that the high likelihood of seeing the rare and at-risk gaur, majestic hornbills, and other wildlife, and a visit to Kui Buri becomes highly compelling!

I heard about the national park and was eager to visit, mainly for the thrill of seeing elephants in the wild. I wasn’t disappointed! We spied our first elephant munching on leaves almost as soon as we’d set off along the dusty trail. Partially obscured by trees, the large elephant didn’t seem bothered by people staring as it ate.

Continuing along the track, there was exciting evidence of elephant life, with broken branches, ripped-up tree trunks, and large piles of dung. We drove slowly along the trail, peering into the bushes in the hope of seeing another elephant. The greenery-clad mountain range separating Thailand and Myanmar rises nearby, and the landscapes are rugged and wild.

You can only visit the national park with a local guide and driver. Sitting in the back of a pick-up truck helps create a safari-like feeling, and the anticipation deepens each time the truck slows or the guide cranes their neck to peer through branches.

There’s a viewing point in the national park where you can often strike it lucky and see elephants grazing in the open. As we approached the wooden shelter, we were excited to see a group of elephants below. There were ten beautiful creatures in total, with both adults and babies standing in clear sight.

After watching the elephants for some time, I left the national park, delighted to have been lucky enough to have spotted 11 elephants in their natural habitat.

I returned to Kui Buri National Park a second time several months later. If I was amazed on my first visit, I was blown away the second time around! I sat on the dry ground at the hilly viewpoint observing no fewer than 33 elephants on the grassy expanse below. A herd of gaur grazed nearby, and white birds pecked in the earth, mulched up by the elephants’ large feet and heavyweight. The tranquillity was only broken by the melodious sounds of calling birds, and the experience was rather magical. This time around, I was fortunate enough also to see colourful hornbills flying overhead and flitting through the trees.

One aspect that makes Kui Buri National Park so special is the fact that the locals are heavily involved in mutually beneficial eco-tourism initiatives. In the past, people and elephants didn’t live together so harmoniously, with elephants straying out of the forests to ravage farmland and eat crops. Reforestation projects and the creation of watering holes, however, played a vital role in replacing some of the elephants’ lost natural habitat and preventing the creatures from needing to forage for food.

Locals work as drivers and guides, taking visitors through landscapes that they have known for many years. This provides an income for local families, which in turn makes villagers keener to take part in conservation and protection efforts. Sustainable tourism in the national park also helps to raise funds for further environmental work.

Back to Top

SEE – Photos & Videos

Back to Top

Affiliate Disclosure: Some links in this post are affiliate links, which means WSE Travel may earn a small commission if you choose to book or buy through them—at no extra cost to you. We only recommend products and services we believe can genuinely enhance your travel experience.

GO – Getting There

The easiest way to get to Kui Buri National Park is as part of an arranged tour or by rented vehicle. Tours operate from the popular beach town of Hua Hin; you can easily rent cars there too. A day’s car rental costs from 1,000 THB plus fuel.

There is no public transport to the national park. You could take a local bus to Kui Buri town, though do note that the town is around 30 kilometers (18.6 miles) away from Huai Luek Ranger Station (where the elephant-spotting safaris begin). Buses stop at the side of the highway on routes between Bangkok and Southern Thailand. From the town, you would need to arrange a private car to take you to the national park. This isn’t impossible—this is how I first traveled to the national park—but with no local taxis or car rentals, I do feel that I was just fortunate in being able to negotiate a ride to the park. I paid 1,000 THB for a vehicle to take me to several local places of interest en route to Kui Buri National Park, wait while I enjoyed the elephants, and then return to town.

Kui Buri town has a train station; trains from Bangkok leave from Thonburi Station and take around five hours. From the train station, you would still need to arrange transportation to the national park.

Another option would be to charter a taxi for the return trip from a nearby tourist area, such as Hua Hin, Cha Am, or Prachuap Khiri Khan town. You should expect to pay a minimum of 2,000 THB for a return taxi ride from Hua Hin, though prices do depend on your negotiating skills!

Back to Top

Do – Activities & Attractions

While the elephant safari from Huai Luek Ranger Station is the main thing to do in Kui Buri, you’ll still find a few other places of interest to fill your day with diversity.

Make a quick photo stop at Yang Chum Reservoir if travelling to the national park independently. The freshwater reservoir is a breeding ground for several fish species, and you’ll likely spot keen anglers sitting patiently at the water’s edge. The views across the reservoir are splendidly scenic.

If you enjoy hiking, you’ll find several marked trails through Kui Buri National Park, starting at the main Visitor Centre some 23 kilometres (14.3 miles) from Huai Luek Ranger Station.

You can follow a short, self-driving nature route just outside the park entrance at Huai Luek Ranger Station. Although there’s little chance of seeing the main stars (AKA elephants) on the drive, you may spot various birds, reptiles, and rodents. Agricultural land stretches into the distance to meet the forests and mountains.

Back to Top

Stay – Accommodation

There are no accommodation options at Huai Luek Ranger Station, though you’ll find a selection of accommodations in nearby Kui Buri town. Camping is also available at the Visitor Centre at the main entrance to Kui Buri National Park.

Camping – You can rent tents and sleeping bags at the Visitor Centre for around 300 THB per night. Do note that there are only basic facilities, and eating options are limited to snacks unless you take your own meals. You can pitch your own tent for 30 THB per night.

Wyndham Hua Hin Pranburi Resort & Villas

Wyndham Hua Hin Pranburi Resort & Villas offers a serene escape in Pranburi, surrounded by lush gardens and located just 2.6 km from Pranburi Beach. Guests can enjoy a year-round outdoor swimming pool, a well-equipped fitness centre, and a variety of dining options, including a daily American buffet breakfast praised by visitors. With free private parking, full-day security, and a peaceful setting, the resort is ideal for relaxation. Conveniently located 33 km from Hua Hin Airport, and within reach of Pranburi Forest Park and Hua Hin Railway Station, the property provides a welcoming base for exploring the area.

Check Rates and Availability here!

Fancy Carp Resort Hua-Hin

Fancy Carp Resort Hua-Hin offers a peaceful stay surrounded by greenery, featuring garden views and a relaxing atmosphere. Guests can unwind in the hot tub, enjoy quiet moments on the terrace, or make use of the shared kitchen and on-site minimarket. Located just 4 km from Hua Hin Airport and close to local attractions like Klai Kangwon Palace and Hua Hin Railway Station, the resort also provides free private parking. Known for its attentive host, spotless environment, and comfortable setting, Fancy Carp Resort Hua-Hin is a welcoming choice for travelers seeking a restful retreat.

Check Rates and Availability here!

Srisanor Boutique Hotel

Srisanor Boutique Hotel in Tambon Prachuap Khiri Khan offers a relaxing stay with views of the garden or city, a welcoming atmosphere, and thoughtful outdoor spaces including a terrace and barbecue area. Guests can enjoy authentic Thai cuisine at the on-site restaurant and explore nearby attractions such as Ao Manao Beach (3 km), Khao Chong Krachok (2 km), and Hat Wanakon National Park (27 km). With free private parking and a peaceful garden setting, the hotel is well-suited for a quiet getaway. Highly rated for its friendly staff, comfortable rooms, and satisfying breakfast, Srisanor Boutique Hotel provides a pleasant base for exploring the region.

Check Rates and Availability here!

Pruksa Resort Prachuabkhirikhan

Pruksa Resort Prachuabkhirikhan offers a peaceful retreat with a lush garden, inviting terrace, and a year-round outdoor swimming pool perfect for relaxation. Each room includes thoughtful touches like balconies and parquet floors, creating a comfortable and airy atmosphere. Located 102 km from Hua Hin Airport, the resort is close to local attractions such as Khao Chong Krachok (4 km), King Mongkut Memorial Park of Science and Technology Waghor (9 km), and Hat Wanakon National Park (24 km). Praised for its clean rooms, friendly staff, and refreshing pool, Pruksa Resort provides a welcoming base for exploring Prachuap Khiri Khan.

Check Rates and Availability here!

Dolphin Bay Beach Resort

Dolphin Bay Beach Resort sits on Samroiyod Beach, about 30 minutes from Hua Hin and surrounded by Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park. It has two outdoor pools, a fitness center, a spa, and a beachside café serving Thai, Western, and seafood dishes. Families appreciate the kids’ room, outdoor playground, and beach games like volleyball and badminton. Bikes, motorbikes, and water sports gear are available to rent for exploring the area. With a quiet coastal setting and views of nature, it’s a good choice for both relaxing and adventure.

Check Rates and Availability here!

Back to Top

Eat – Restaurants

Close to the national park, the main eating options are small, local Thai restaurants. Expect a handful of tables and chairs under lean-to shelters in what looks to be somebody’s yard. Menus are typically basic, using fresh ingredients to prepare popular Thai dishes like stir-fried pork and holy basil, chicken fried rice, and pad Thai noodles.

There are a handful of restaurants in Kui Buri town, most of which serve typical Thai fare. Many specialize in particular dishes, so don’t wander into a noodle shop expecting to find many rice options! Restaurants take full advantage of their coastal location, with fresh seafood featuring prominently in many recipes.

Back to Top

Time – Seasonality & Schedules

While Kui Buri National Park is generally open year-round, the cooler season (between November and February) is an ideal time to enjoy the outdoors. April and May, on the other hand, are the hottest months of the year; sitting in the back of a pick-up truck can be unbearably hot. Plus, a lot of the wildlife seeks out hidden, shaded spots, so your chances of seeing animals may be diminished.

If you plan to visit during the rainy season (July to October), do check that the park is open; it sometimes closes due to flooding.

The elephant-viewing trips at Huai Luek Ranger Station start at 2 pm each day (this section of the park is closed in the mornings). The last admission is at 5 pm, though people already in the park can remain until around 6 pm. You should plan to spend around one to two hours within the park.

Back to Top

Safety – Possible risks

While local guides and drivers have plenty of experience and practice safe viewing of wildlife, it is important to remember that any animals you see in the national park are wild and can be unpredictable. Do not approach wildlife and do not get out of the vehicle unless you are given permission.

Mosquitoes can be an annoyance, particularly in the late afternoon and during the rainy season. Take bite avoidance measures like applying insect repellent and wearing long clothing.

Protect yourself from the sun and heat by wearing a hat and covering up with loose, long clothing. Don’t forget the sun cream and drink plenty of water.

Please Note: Travel inherently comes with an element of risk (just like crossing the road does). You are putting yourself in elements that are unfamiliar and foreign to your usual lifestyle and with that, become more susceptible to fall victim those who try to play off those unfamiliar to their local scams. There are also potential dangers in the environments to which you may not be accustomed to.

Please take extra care in travelling, ensure that you have adequate medical insurance (accidents seem to happen when you least expect them), and have let a trusted colleague, family member or friend know your whereabouts and activities.

Where Sidewalks End travel advises you to travel at your own risk, and to be extra aware of your surroundings (without letting it spoiling your time).

Back to Top

Pay – How much does it cost?

At the time of publication, there was a 200 THB entrance fee for foreigners visiting Kui Buri National Park. The truck ride costs 850 THB per vehicle. Visitors are not grouped together, so do be aware that if you’re visiting on your own, you will need to pay the entire safari cost by yourself. It is not possible to enter this section of the national park without taking the safari tour.

Back to Top

Responsible Travel – Best Practices

Avoid doing anything that could cause distress to animals or locals, such as making loud noises and sudden movements. Respect the environment and don’t leave any litter behind. Keep in mind that this is an off-the-beaten-track destination and that facilities and services may not be quite what you are used to—go with the flow and try not to become frustrated with people.

While you’re in Thailand, it is imperative that you be sure to practice Responsible Elephant Tourism, read my guidelines to know what to be aware of.

Back to Top

Reality Check – Be Aware

Seeing wildlife at Kui Buri National Park is a fantastic experience, and you are highly likely to see wild elephants and other creatures. Although the chance of seeing elephants is around 98%, you should remember that sightings of wild animals can never be guaranteed. Although unlikely, you should be prepared for the possibility of seeing just spectacular scenery and no creatures. Having binoculars can significantly enhance your experience, although it’s often possible to get excellent views of wildlife without them. Locals are friendly and will often go out of their way to help you. That said, if you are planning to visit Kui Buri National Park independently and do not have your own vehicle, you should expect at least some minor setbacks and delays. Being flexible with your plans and having a realistic budget in mind is essential.

Additional Resources
https://www.thainationalparks.com/kui-buri-national-park

Back to Top

JOIN US! WSE Travel Packages

This sounds like quite the adventure, right? We thought so too! Though we realize it can be pretty intimidating to get out there into the world on your own, especially when travelling to some of these off-the-beaten-path locations. We love it when our readers give it a shot and try it for themselves! In fact, please leave us feedback if you do!! If trying something ‘this’ adventurous on your own is just a bit outside of your comfort zone, WSE Travel is here to help!

Follow this link for our ‘Choose Your Own Adventure’ Tours – packages that are highly personalized and tailored at your request.

Back to Top

Back to top

Have you ever been to a city that had a really unique historical or cultural feature? Where was it and what made it so unique?

Please feel free to share your stories and thoughts in the comment section below!

Like This Post? Pin it for later!