Wan Mai (วันใหม่) meaning “A New Day” in Thai, is a beautiful symbol of a fresh new start and a brand new life that she so deeply deserves.

At 59 years old, Wan Mai spent the last 30 years with the same family who decided they wanted her to enjoy a peaceful retirement. Her story is similar to many captive elephants. She spent most of her working life in the logging and riding industries, both exhausting and arduous. Her days were long especially when she used to give up to 40 rides per day.

She had a long journey to Hidden Forest but traveled well accompanied by two brothers from the family to comfort her. The weather was clear for most of the journey but just 20 minutes before arriving at the sanctuary, the skies opened and there was a torrential downpour soaking us all!! - but Wan Mai remained completely unfazed and we arrived safely just before midnight.

Wan Mai is incredibly gentle and sweet natured and upon writing this on 2nd July 2025, she has been with us for nearly one month. She is settling in well, slowly gaining weight, and has already formed a very close bond with Wassana, Nong Fai and Boon Yen, joining their herd. Ton Oi is also caressing her and showing an interest too. Wan Mai has started to bathe in the pond as she is literally right by Wassana’s side, following her everywhere, gaining confidence and reassurance from her new best friend. 

Every elephant’s rehabilitation is different as they need time to adjust and feel safe. If you would like to follow Wan Mai’s rehabilitation, we post regularly on social media with updates of Wan Mai and all our gorgeous elephants enjoying their lives in our beautiful forest sanctuary.