There is nothing more thrilling for an animal enthusiast than to see magnificent beasts up close and personal in their natural habitat. If you love elephants, we’re sure you’ll love to see these amazing mammals roaming where nature intended them to live.

Luckily, there are a handful of places around the world where you can see these majestic creatures in an ethical manner. From the grasslands of Africa to the jungles of Southeast Asia, here are four of the best destinations to view elephants in the wild while enjoying the stunning beauty Mother Nature has to offer.

Selous Game Reserve — Tanzania

One of the largest areas in Africa designed to protect native animals, Selous Game Reserve in Tanzania makes absolute sense as a permanent home for elephants. Unfortunately, this corner of the globe is also known for the rampant problem of elephant poaching. Although it is illegal to hunt these animals, that does not stop some people from killing them for their ivory tusks.

However, Selous is committed to protecting these animals while educating people about the atrocities often inflicted upon them. Visitors can purchase a day pass to check out the elephants and the other creatures on this land, including leopards, cheetahs, hippos, crocodiles, giraffes, zebras, various types of antelope, and a wide array of bird species. Or you can go all out and choose a package that allows for overnight stays. There are even specially designed honeymoon packages for couples wanting to take a walk on the literal wild side in Tanzania.

Chobe National Park — Botswana

Nestled in the northern fringe of the country of Botswana, the Chobe National Park is known as the home to one of the biggest concentrations of game animals in Africa. Its elephant population is especially renown, but you can also see may also see Cape buffalo, lions, hippos, antelopes, and more living in the woods and the waterways around Linyanti Marsh.

Visitors can choose to stay for a day or a few nights. Can you imagine anything more exciting than camping under the bright night skies of Africa knowing that these game animals are right at your doorstep? A visit to Chobe National Park is the ultimate safari adventure.

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Elephant Valley Project — Cambodia

Elephants get proper care at the Elephant Valley Project

Viewing elephants in the wild is not just limited to Africa. You can also find them in Southeast Asia, specifically in Cambodia. The Elephant Valley Project is an agency that gives domesticated elephants a place to retire from the work of providing rides to tourists and hauling heavy loads. Although you cannot ride the elephants here, visitors are encouraged to interact with them by working with the staff to care for the animals. You’ll feel good about giving back to the elephant community when you visit this wonderful reserve dedicated to their preservation.

Udawalawe National Park — Sri Lanka

Lastly, the island country of Sri Lanka is a great place to see elephants roaming in the wild. And there is no better place in Sri Lanka to immerse yourself in this wonder than at the Udawalawe National Park. Expanding over 100 square miles, this park was created in the 1970s with animal preservation and support at the forefront.

The endangered Sri Lankan elephant is heavily protected here, giving the gentle beasts shelter while also keeping them happy in their natural surroundings. Visitors can choose from a variety of upscale accommodations and campgrounds when planning a trip to this marvelous destination. Although Sri Lanka may seem remote, it’s just a short hop from some major areas of India, including Chennai and Madurai.

Have you ever visited any of these elephant sanctuaries? Tell us about it in the comments below!