1 Mahout / 1 Elephant — Mae Kham and Mr Vee
Born in 1954 in Borthan, in the province of Sayaboury, Mae Kham is the oldest elephant at Mekong Elephant Park. She arrived at the park in 2008, bearing the marks of a long history in the logging industry, where she worked for over forty years. The scars on her skull and torn ears bear witness to difficult years.
After this period, she spent another 15 years in the tourism industry, in constant contact with humans. Now aged 72, her way of life has changed considerably!
Like many elephants of her age, Mae Kham experiences a few minor age-related ailments. Yet her most recent veterinary check-up brought reassuring news: she remains in excellent overall health.
At the sanctuary, Mae Kham has gently earned a special VIP status. Breakfast, 10 o’clock snack, lunch, afternoon treats… she receives special attention every day, tailored to her age and needs.
Respected as a matriarch, Mae Kham is nonetheless independent by nature. She often prefers the quiet presence of the team to the company of other elephants. This is undoubtedly the result of spending many years mainly alongside humans, with little natural interaction with other elephants. Peaceful and gentle, she delights in dust baths beneath the trees and tends to avoid swimming in the Mekong River especially during cooler days.
By her side, Vee, originally from Na Nong Kham (Hongsa district), watches over her. Born in 1984, he joined the park when Mae Kham’s former mahout retired.
Although he does not come from a family of mahouts, his calm and attentive nature was quickly noticed. Caring for a 70+ year-old elephant requires patience, consistency and constant awareness. Every movement matters, particularly during moments of fatigue.
Vee is also deeply connected to the forest. He knows the plants intimately: which ones elephants favor, which carry medicinal properties, and how the surrounding ecosystem sustains them. He generously shares this knowledge with visitors, offering insight into the rich biodiversity that defines Mekong Elephant Park.
Over time, a quiet understanding has grown between Mae Kham and Vee built on routine, trust and steady presence. This year’s funding projects include the construction of a bungalow in the immediate vicinity of her night enclosure, so that Vee can be available at all times, including at night. A reassuring presence to best support the needs of our eldest resident.
Together, Mae Kham and Vee form a calm and essential duo, a stable presence at the heart of the park, witnessing the journey they have travelled.
Welcome Charlotte!
A few weeks ago, Charlotte joined Mekong Elephant Park for a three-month stay, and we are truly delighted to welcome her to the team. Originally from Réunion Island, her arrival almost feels like a small fairy tale. Last year, friends of hers visited the park during their journey through Laos. As they were leaving, they told us:“We have a friend who would love what you are doing… she would love to come and help.”
One year later, Charlotte is here, and they were absolutely right. Discreet, attentive and deeply respectful, she observes, listens and learns with great sensitivity. In just one month, she has already understood how the team works and the spirit of the project.
In the heart of high season, her presence is especially valuable.
She provides meaningful, hands-on support while helping us preserve what matters most: the delicate balance between welcoming visitors and respecting the elephants’ natural pace. If you visit us in the coming weeks, you may have the chance to meet her.
Thank you, Charlotte, for your energy, your kindness and everything you bring to the park. We are delighted to have you on board.
Swimming pool renovation… what a great way to start 2026
Last month, we shared one of our priority projects for 2026: the renovation of the elephant pool, damaged by Typhoon Yagi. Restoring this space is essential not only for the well-being of our elephants, who rely on it daily to cool off and bathe, but also to protect the overall infrastructure of the park.
Today, we are delighted to share some excellent news!
In January, we received an exceptional donation to support this project. Thanks to the generosity of Somsamay, Katsia, Jason, and Jane and Philipp who joined forces for this cause, we were able to raise 80% of the required amount, totaling $3,200.Their commitment, along with that of the other supporters who contributed to this project, brings us one step closer to an important goal: giving elephants back the space they truly need. Work has now begun and what a challenge it has been!
The construction and renovation of the pool is indeed a real logistical mission. Equipment such as the tractor had to cross the Mekong River, reach the park grounds, and access the pool area before any construction could even begin. It’s not finished yet, but we’re making good progress.
To prevent further damage in the event of a typhoon next year, we have also diverted the river to the side, making the area safer. This is an important step towards protecting the infrastructure in the long term.
Thank you to each and every one of you for your trust and generosity. It’s a great start to the year for Mekong Elephant Park.
Wallpaper of the month
This month, our wallpaper features Mae Kham and Vee. A discreet and essential duo: the park’s oldest resident and the one who watches over her every day. A moment of calm to keep with you, at the office or at home.
