Indonesia makes world‑first move to end elephant rides
News
Elephants in Indonesia are one massive step closer to a life free from exploitation after the Government issued a world‑leading directive to end cruel elephant rides, including in Bali.
Image credit: World Animal Protection / Andito Wasi
The Government of Indonesia is asking tourism operators to discontinue elephant rides and to respect the welfare of elephants, a move that is already influencing major captive wildlife venues in Bali.
One of the most significant shifts has come from Bali’s notorious Mason Elephant Park and Lodge, a venue long criticised by animal welfare groups. After government warnings and pressure to comply with the new directive, the park has announced they will end elephant rides at the venue.
This massive win for elephants comes a little after more than 10,000 Indonesians, New Zealanders and Australians signed our petition calling on the venue to end this cruel practice and give elephants a life worth living. Thank you for your support!
We applaud the Indonesian Government in their call for elephants to be treated with respect and support any efforts they make to reduce the suffering of wild animals in the tourism industry.
Elephant riding is one of the cruellest captive animal entertainment offerings. Most holidaymakers don’t realise their once-in-a-lifetime encounter with an elephant can mean a lifetime of misery for that animal.
The Government’s decision to end this cruel practice in Indonesia and Bali sends a strong signal to the wider industry that we're entering a new chapter of more responsible wildlife tourism.
The development comes just days after Bali Zoo announced they would end elephant rides. It follows similar decisions by Taman Safari Bogor and Taman Safari Prigen, who stopped the practice at the end of 2024.
With your support, we have been working for years to shine a light on elephant suffering at Mason Elephant Park, Bali Zoo and other popular tourist venues through our 2018 Wildlife Abusement Parks and our 2023 Holidays that Harm reports.
If you love elephants, the best way to see them is from a safe distance in the wild or at a genuine sanctuary. Travellers are also encouraged to book through tour operators that take animal welfare seriously.
Together, we’re making this the last generation of elephants to suffer for rides in the name of tourism.
Bred to Entertain report
Read our 2026 assessment capturing 15 years of Thailand’s elephant tourism industry to find out more.
Donate to protect elephants
Will you donate to protect elephants from the clutches of tourism?
No more elephant rides at Bali Zoo!
This huge win for elephants comes after years of tireless advocacy and on‑the‑ground engagement made possible by you.
Sign up
Join thousands of animal lovers fighting to protect wildlife and give farmed animals good lives. Sign up now to receive emails with all the ways you can help.
Sign up