Another major victory for animal rights campaigners with Bali’s only internationally certified elephant park banning rides.
Mason Elephant Park has announced it will end the practice following the Indonesian Government’s nationwide ban on elephant riding earlier this month.
The government’s decision follows widespread public criticism and is part of a broader effort to strengthen animal welfare standards across the country. The ban applies to all elephant riding attractions at zoos and conservation institutions.
Bali Zoo has already banned the practice and now Mason Elephant Park has followed suit.
“We congratulate the Indonesian Government on taking this world-leading step to safeguarding the dignity of wild animals,” said Suzanne Milthorpe, head of campaigns for World Animal Protection ANZ.
“In December 2025, the Indonesian Nature Conservation Agency called for respect for elephants and for tourism attractions to shift away from elephant riding.
“The ending of elephant rides in Indonesia sends a strong signal to the wider tourism industry that we’re entering a new chapter of more responsible wildlife tourism.
“This wonderful win for elephants comes after years of tireless advocacy and on‑the‑ground engagement including the 10,000+ Indonesians, Australians and New Zealanders who signed our petition calling on Mason Elephant Park to end elephant riding.”
In a statement, Mason Elephant Park said that for 30 years they had rescued and provided lifelong care to elephants displaced by deforestation and poaching in Sumatra.
“Guided by elephant health and welfare above all else, we are evolving towards a more natural experience without elephant rides,” the statement continued.
“Our commitment remains unchanged: to protect the world’s only critically endangered elephant species while building a sustainable future together with the Balinese community, who have supported us every step of the way.”
