I tried the newly launched Elephant Explorer at Bali Zoo – here's all you need to know about this animal conservation programme.
Bali Zoo has long been a popular destination for families in Bali. You can easily spend an entire day here, wandering through lush tropical gardens while meeting wildlife from Indonesia and around the world. But on my latest visit, I wasn’t there to tick animals off a checklist. I was there to experience Elephant Explorer – Bali Zoo‘s brand-new immersive elephant programme that’s redefining how we connect with these incredible animals.
Launched in April 2026, Elephant Explorer marks a new chapter for Bali Zoo, centred around animal welfare and responsible tourism. I love how, instead of prioritising entertainment, the experience focuses on education, conservation and elephant encounters in a respectful and meaningful way. I joined the 1.5-hour programme, and spoiler alert: I left with a much deeper appreciation for these gentle giants.
Key details on Elephant Explorer at Bali Zoo
Duration: Approximately 1.5 hours.
Price: IDR 1,350,000 per adult and IDR 945,000 per child (aged 2 to 12 years).
Inclusions: Welcome drink, guided ranger car tour, elephant encounters and feeding, refreshments and snacks, merchandise and full Bali Zoo admission.
Operating hours: Daily session from 10am – 11.30am (Note: Check in by 9.30am).
Try this if: You love animals and want to experience an up-close elephant encounter, respectfully.
A more thoughtful way to connect with elephants in Bali
If you’ve travelled around Southeast Asia before, you’ll know that elephant experiences have changed dramatically over the past decade. Travellers are becoming more conscious of animal welfare, and many now seek wildlife encounters that prioritise education and respect over spectacle.
That’s exactly the direction Bali Zoo has chosen with Elephant Explorer. Rather than offering close interactions simply for the sake of it, the programme encourages visitors to slow down, observe and understand elephants through the eyes of the people who care for them every day.
I really love that the experience never felt performative. Instead, it was about learning how elephants communicate and behave, what they like to eat, and the bond they share with their mahouts. Throughout the morning, it became clear that the focus was on helping us better understand these remarkable animals. As someone who loves Bali’s wildlife attractions, but also values responsible tourism, this felt like a positive step forward.
Up close with Bali Zoo’s gentle giants
My Elephant Explorer experience began with a refreshing welcome drink before hopping aboard a ranger buggy with my guide for the morning. As we drove through the elephants’ lush habitat, Bali Zoo’s experienced mahouts and zoo educators introduced each elephant individually, sharing fascinating stories about their personalities, habits and daily routines.
Of course, feeding time was one of my favourite moments. After all, what’s not to love? I stood just metres away while offering food to Rangge, the cheeky elephant. I’ll never forget how gently this enormous animal picked the food off my hands! It gave me a whole new appreciation for just how intelligent and dexterous elephants really are.
Group sizes are intentionally kept small too, so the atmosphere felt calm throughout – not only for me, but also for the elephants. There was plenty of time to ask questions, take photographs and simply observe the animals without feeling hurried. The whole programme encourages curiosity rather than excitement alone.
A long-term commitment to conservation and animal welfare
While the Elephant Explorer programme is undoubtedly an unforgettable visitor experience, it also reflects Bali Zoo’s broader commitment to conservation and its ongoing commitment to improving animal welfare. Today, Bali Zoo is home to 14 elephants, including the successful births of two male elephant calves, demonstrating the zoo’s ongoing efforts to provide a safe environment where elephants can thrive.
What impressed me most is that the Elephant Explorer wasn’t just an attraction. By combining guided education, respectful observation and close encounters, Bali Zoo is creating an experience that helps visitors understand why elephant conservation matters. It’s without doubt one of the best things to do in Bali with kids if you’re looking for an educational wildlife experience.
Best for: Families, wildlife lovers and anyone interested in responsible tourism in Bali.
Good to know: The Elephant Explorer programme runs daily with limited participant numbers, so advance booking is recommended.
Insider tip: Wear comfortable shoes, as the programme involves around 1 to 2 kilometres of walking (at a slow pace).
Address: Jl Raya Singapadu, Sukawati.
Book Elephant Explorer at Bali Zoo
FAQs on Elephant Explorer at Bali Zoo
What is Elephant Explorer at Bali Zoo?
Elephant Explorer is Bali Zoo's new immersive elephant experience, designed around education, conservation and responsible tourism. Instead of traditional entertainment, visitors enjoy guided ranger tours, elephant feeding sessions and educational storytelling from experienced mahouts, allowing you to connect with elephants in a respectful and meaningful way.
What happens during the Elephant Explorer experience?
The 1.5-hour Elephant Explorer programme includes a welcome drink, a guided ranger car journey through the elephant habitat, close-up elephant encounters, a feeding experience, refreshments and snacks, a souvenir, and full-day admission to Bali Zoo. Throughout the experience, mahouts share fascinating insights into each elephant's personality, behaviour and daily care.
Is Elephant Explorer suitable for children?
Yes. Elephant Explorer is a family-friendly activity in Bali that's suitable for children aged two years and above. The experience is educational, interactive and designed to inspire young visitors to appreciate wildlife while learning about elephant conservation and responsible tourism.
How much does Elephant Explorer at Bali Zoo cost?
Elephant Explorer costs IDR 1,350,000 per adult and IDR 945,000 per child (aged 2 to 12 years). The price includes the full Elephant Explorer experience as well as general admission to Bali Zoo.
Why is Elephant Explorer considered a responsible wildlife experience?
Elephant Explorer was created to encourage meaningful interactions between people and elephants while prioritising animal welfare. Rather than focusing on entertainment, the programme promotes observation, education and conservation, helping visitors understand elephant behaviour, the role of mahouts, and the importance of protecting these remarkable animals.
Do I need to book Elephant Explorer in advance?
Yes, advance booking is highly recommended. Elephant Explorer operates with limited participant numbers each day to provide a more personal experience and minimise disturbance to the elephants. Booking ahead helps secure your preferred date, particularly during Bali's peak holiday seasons.
What should I wear for Elephant Explorer at Bali Zoo?
Wear comfortable clothing and supportive walking shoes, as you'll spend around 1.5 hours exploring the elephant habitat at a relaxed pace. Don't forget sunscreen, a hat, insect repellent and a reusable water bottle, especially if you're visiting during Bali's warmer months.