Bali’s popular Mason Elephant Park has ceased elephant rides for tourists, effective January 25, 2026. The decision marks a shift towards more ethical wildlife tourism practices at the park, which is home to 27 critically endangered Sumatran elephants.
A Growing Trend in Bali
Mason Elephant Park is not alone in this change. Bali Zoo discontinued elephant rides on January 1, 2026, citing a commitment to animal welfare. Emma Kristiana Chandra, Head of Public Relations for Bali Zoo, stated the decision was made to “support better elephant management and ensure continuous improvement in animal handling standards.” Bali Zoo is home to fourteen Sumatran elephants, including a young calf named Kama.
Government Support and Future Plans
The move aligns with a directive from the Director General of KSDAE, outlined in Circular Letter Number 6 of 2025, calling for the termination of elephant riding demonstrations at conservation institutions. Ratna Hendratmoko, Head of the Bali Natural Resources Conservation Agency (BKSDA), confirmed the agency is actively monitoring implementation of this policy. “The Bali BKSDA is committed to ensuring that every elephant in its conservation facilities is treated in accordance with animal welfare principles,” Hendratmoko said.
Both Mason Elephant Park and Bali Zoo will continue to offer alternative elephant encounters, including hand-feeding, observation walks, and allowing elephants to roam freely. Elephant washing will also remain a featured activity.
Implications for Tourism
This shift reflects a growing global awareness of animal welfare concerns within the tourism industry. Facilities in Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, and Nepal have already transitioned to observation-based tourism models, demonstrating their viability. Inda Trimafo Yudha, Chairperson of the Indonesian Recreational Park Business Association (PUTRI) Bali, emphasized that “the essence of conservation remains animal protection. Tourism should only support sustainability, not the other way around.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted Mason Elephant Park to stop offering elephant rides?
Mason Elephant Park suspended elephant rides in accordance with Circular Letter Number 6 of 2025 from the Director General of KSDAE, which calls for the termination of elephant riding demonstrations at conservation institutions.
What other activities will be available at Mason Elephant Park?
Mason Elephant Park will continue to offer a range of elephant tourism programs, including hand-feeding, encounters, observation walks, elephant free-roam viewing, and elephant washing.
Was Mason Elephant Park the first facility in Bali to end elephant rides?
No, Bali Zoo was the first facility on the island to discontinue elephant rides, beginning January 1, 2026.
As Bali moves towards more sustainable tourism practices, will other animal interaction programs face similar scrutiny and potential changes?
