Warm holiday wishes from all of us at
the Mekong Elephant Park
As 2024 comes to a close, we at the Mekong Elephant Park extend our warmest greetings to all of you. May your season be filled with peace, happiness, and a touch of wilderness magic.
Thank you for walking this journey of elephant conservation with us. Your love and support never go unnoticed, and we look forward to making even greater strides together in 2025.
Xmas for Dokeo: A Meaningful Gift
Born in northern Laos, Dokeo endured years of grueling labor. After a decade spent hauling timber for the logging industry, he was sold to work in the tourism sector in Luang Prabang. There, he spent four long years carrying tourists, deprived of the forest, adequate food, and any social interaction. The harsh living conditions left him severely underweight, with foot infections, injuries, and mental distress. Today, Dokeo is already showing signs of positive transformation. He has gained 350 kilograms and is finally enjoying a natural and peaceful environment.
During this festive season, consider offering a symbolic gift of support to Dokeo, our newest elephant.
With a total cost of $25,000, including six months of lease, every contribution makes a difference.
Donations over $100 will receive a personalized thank-you photo with Dokeo and the name of your choice, making it a meaningful gesture for your loved ones while supporting an endangered and abused animal.
Dokeo finally deserves a peaceful life filled with love. This Christmas, give him a unique gift: the opportunity to rebuild his life in a safe and respectful environment.
Your donations are more than just financial support—they are a promise of a brighter future for Dokeo. Every contribution, no matter the size, helps provide for his care, food, and the improvement of his habitat.
2024 Year in Review
This year was a whirlwind of emotions and milestones. Here’s a look back at some key moments:
The Loss of Boua
Our hearts still ache over the loss of our cherished Boua, our little baby elephant, lovingly known as our “little lotus flower.” Though her time with us was far too short, it was filled with care, companionship, and the love of her elephant family and our dedicated team. Her gentle spirit touched us all, and her memory continues to inspire our mission of compassion and conservation ❤️
Microchips for Our Herd
In a significant step toward safeguarding our elephants, all members of our herd are now microchipped. This initiative, carried out onsite by government officials and a veterinarian, ensures better protection and identification of each elephant
Our First Bungalow Season
Our new bungalows had a fantastic debut season, offering visitors a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in Pakbeng’s stunning natural beauty. These bungalows, featured in our Jungle Package, allowed guests to experience the tranquillity of the park and the surrounding jungle. Many visitors shared how staying close to the elephants and the serene environment made their visit unforgettable.
Wildlife Sightings
Our night camera revealed the diverse wildlife thriving around the park, including the elusive barking deer, native to South and Southeast Asia. Observing these creatures reminds the importance of proctecting the biodiversity in the park as fast as possible.
Mae Ping’s Return to the Mekong
For some months, we couldn’t allow Mae Ping to visit the Mekong River because Boua would follow her, and the river wasn’t safe enough for a baby elephant. Since Boua’s passing, Mae Ping has gradually returned to the Mekong, this time with her loving aunt Mae Nin and wise great-aunt Mae Nat by her side. The bond between these three females is extraordinary—a true testament to the strength of family in the elephant world. These moments of fun and togetherness are a beautiful reminder of how deeply elephants care for and support each other.
Funds Raised for Our Night Enclosure
Thanks to your generous contributions, we’ve successfully raised funds for a 15 hectares fenced night enclosure for our female elephants. This new addition will keep the herd together, allowing them to bond and comfort each other through the night. We are now in the process of transporting materials to the park and building up the fence. Transporting materials to the jungle is not an easy job, and we are so grateful for everyone who participate and help us during this process.
A Strong Bond Among Our Female Elephants
Despite the challenges of 2024, our female elephants have shown incredible resilience and an unbreakable bond. Their unwavering support and love for one another inspire us every day to stay dedicated to our mission at the Mekong Elephant Park.
Dokeo Joins the Herd
This year ended on a high note with the arrival of Dokeo, a strikingly handsome elephant who has quickly become part of our family. His addition symbolizes hope and renewal, as we work tirelessly to raise the remaining funds needed to secure his future and ensure he will never endure a life of labor again. Dokeo is now embarking on his journey of recovery, surrounded by care, love, and nature.
None of these achievements would be possible without your unwavering support and donations. Every visit, contribution, and kind word fuel our efforts to protect these gentle giants. THANK YOU!
Welcome Audrey
Welcome back Damien
We are delighted to (re)introduce two incredible team members who have been instrumental during this high season:
- Damien: A longtime supporter of our project, Damien returned this year, providing invaluable assistance with visitor tours, the shop, the restaurant, and our bungalows.
- Audrey: After discovering our park last year during her world tour, Audrey joined us this season and has quickly become an integral part of our team.
Special thanks to Damien and Audrey for their invaluable support, especially as Wendy is navigating the season with a little baby. We couldn’t have done it without this amazing team!
We’re deeply grateful to everyone who made 2024 a year of progress and love for the Mekong Elephant Park. Here’s to even greater adventures and milestones in 2025!
*** BEST WISHES ***
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