Wild Elephant Valley

Wild Asian elephants in their natural habitat — China's most important elephant conservation area

Qianyi L.
By Qianyi L.·Updated May 2026·10 min read
Wild Asian elephant in Xishuangbanna tropical forest, Yunnan, China
Time needed
3-4 hours
Rating
AA

Overview

Wild Elephant Valley (Banna Wild Elephant Valley) is a nature reserve in Xishuangbanna protecting one of the last wild Asian elephant populations in China. Approximately 300 wild Asian elephants roam the forests of this tropical region, and the reserve's canopy walkway system allows visitors to observe them from above the forest floor. This is one of the few places in China where wild megafauna can be observed in a relatively natural setting.

Plan your visit

Best time to visit

October-April (dry season) for best wildlife sighting conditions. Early morning any day.

Getting there

Approximately 45 minutes north of Jinghong city by bus or taxi. Buses run from Jinghong's main bus station.

Nearby

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Xishuangbanna

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