Our Family’s Wild Adventure at Mason Elephant Lodge
Waking Up to the Sounds of Elephants
There’s nothing quite like waking up to the gentle rumble of elephants just outside your room. The kids would rush to the porch every morning to catch a glimpse of them, and it became our favorite way to start the day. Mason Elephant Lodge isn’t your typical resort—it’s a haven for rescued Sumatran elephants where families like ours can experience nature up close. During our Thanksgiving break, we packed up the kids and ventured into this unforgettable jungle sanctuary.
Getting to Mason Elephant Lodge
The Long Haul Made Easier
Traveling from Los Angeles to Bali is no small feat. It felt like a marathon of patience and snacks, but the promise of an unforgettable adventure kept us motivated. Twenty hours in the air with three kids might sound daunting, but with a little prep, it’s doable. We stocked up on snacks, pre-downloaded favorite shows, and brought a mix of activities to keep everyone entertained. For Olivia, simple toys and storybooks were a lifesaver during layovers. Layovers were a blessing—a chance to stretch and let the kids reset. After the flight, a private transfer took us on a scenic two-hour journey to the lodge. When we arrived, the warm welcome from the staff instantly melted our travel fatigue.
What to Bring for a Jungle Adventure
If you’re planning a trip, pack light but smart. Here are a few essentials:
-
- Clothing: Lightweight, breathable outfits (and a couple of nicer options for dinner).
-
- For Kids: Entertainment, snacks, and a sturdy stroller for little ones.
-
- Adventure Gear: Comfortable shoes, swimsuits, and waterproof bags.
-
- Jungle Must-Haves: Bug spray, sunscreen, and reusable water bottles.
Staying at the Lodge: Comfort Meets Wilderness
A Room with a View
We stayed in the Taro Suite, and let me tell you—it’s worth the splurge. The spacious layout meant we weren’t stepping over each other, and the little touches like fresh flowers added to the charm. The room had everything a family could need: two bathrooms (a lifesaver), cozy beds, and even a jacuzzi. The best part? A wrap-around porch overlooking the elephants. Morning coffee will never be the same after watching these gentle giants roam below.
A Cozy, Intimate Escape
The lodge only has about 20 rooms, which makes the experience feel personal and exclusive. It’s peaceful and surrounded by lush greenery. Each morning, we were greeted by the distant sound of elephants—pure magic.
Getting Up Close with Elephants
Hands-On Experiences for All Ages
There’s no shortage of ways to connect with these incredible animals. It’s not just about watching them from afar—you get to be part of their world, even if only for a little while. Every evening, we’d get picked up by elephants from our suite’s staircase to head to dinner—talk about arriving in style! From feeding them to splashing around in the lagoon, every moment felt like a dream.
Bath Time Adventures
Bathing the elephants was a family favorite. Getting up close and feeling the rough texture of their skin while they playfully splashed us was an experience we’ll never forget. Armed with brushes and hoses, we got to scrub them down while learning about their care. The staff were amazing at answering questions and snapping pictures for us. Olivia, our youngest, couldn’t stop giggling at the splashes.
Swimming and Safari Rides
Swimming with elephants was everything we hoped it would be—fun, playful, and oh-so memorable. Safety was a priority, and the staff made sure we felt comfortable. Jake, our oldest, even pulled off a backflip into the water from one of the elephants—something he’s still bragging about! Later, we took a 20-minute safari ride through the jungle. The views were stunning, and seeing Olivia’s wonder-filled face made it all the better.
Dining Like Never Before
Dinner with Elephant Chauffeurs
Imagine being chauffeured to dinner by an elephant. Each night these gentle giants would show up to our doorstep, and we would hop into the little saddle (seat belt included!) and off to dinner we went! We loved every second of it, and made sure to snap a ton of photos along the way to ensure we captured this memorable ride! And even though we enjoyed this special chauffeur every evening, it was still just as magical as the first day and never got old! Plus it always helps when the dinner is fabulous as well! Having a nice mix of both Balinese and International dishes to choose from. All in all, the dining setup was magical—lantern-lit pathways, delicious local dishes, and the sounds of the jungle in the background. It felt like something out of a storybook.
Breakfast with a View
Mornings at the Mammoths Head Bar & Lounge were equally special. Fresh fruit, Balinese coffee, and elephants grazing nearby made for a perfect start to the day. Breakfast options were both a buffet and an ala carte option off the menu, but either way you couldn’t go wrong! Unless you decided to pass up the banana bread french toast!
More to Explore
Other Resort Amenities
The lodge offers more than just elephant encounters—it’s also a haven for relaxation and exploration. The pool quickly became our go-to spot, with its serene setting surrounded by jungle greenery. While the kids splashed around, Mat and I enjoyed rare moments of calm. The on-site spa was another highlight, where I indulged in a rejuvenating Balinese massage that melted away all the travel fatigue.
For those looking to stay active, the lodge has a small but well-equipped gym, perfect for keeping up with a routine even while on vacation. The museum was a pleasant surprise, offering deep insights into the elephants’ histories and the conservation efforts behind the sanctuary. We were particularly moved by the stories of rescue and rehabilitation. The art gallery was a creative touch, featuring beautiful pieces, including paintings crafted by the elephants themselves. Bringing home one of these unique artworks was the perfect way to remember our trip.
Practical Tips for Visiting
When to Go
We visited in November, which is the start of Bali’s rainy season. Luckily, we barely saw any rain, and the Thanksgiving holiday meant the lodge was quieter than usual. If you’re after fewer crowds, this is a great time to visit. The resorts noted busy season is around December and January due to all of the holidays, so expect larger crowds if you go then.
Making the Most of Your Stay
The inclusive packages are worth it. Not only do they cover the essentials, but they also make planning stress-free—something every parent can appreciate on vacation. For one price, you get breakfast, access to the park, and key activities like bathing and safari rides. Plus, staying overnight gives you early access to the elephants before day visitors arrive. It should also be mentioned that because you were staying at the park, resort guests get 20% off all activities that would normally be more expensive as a guest with just a day pass.
Why Your Family Will Love It
Thoughtful for Kids
The staff here are incredible. They went out of their way to make Olivia comfortable, even helping us with babysitting one afternoon, so the older kids and us could go ATVing! We also felt that the activities were great for all of our kids and their age ranges. The activities were something that all of us loved, and was memorable for each of us. Keep in mind that Olivia wasn’t able to go into the lagoon and ride bareback like the rest of us, but all other activities she was able to do, and might have even had the best time out of all of us!.
Memories to Last a Lifetime
From riding elephants to splashing in the lagoon, every moment was unforgettable. It felt like we were living a dream, and we couldn’t stop snapping photos to capture it all. The kids are still talking about it, and as parents, we’re grateful for the time we spent together in such a magical place.
Final Thoughts
Mason Elephant Lodge is so much more than a place to stay—it’s an experience that leaves a lasting impression. If you’re looking for a family adventure that’s equal parts relaxing and exhilarating, this is it. Would you swim with elephants? Let us know in the comments—we’d love to hear your thoughts!
FAQs
How much does it cost?
Room rates range from $250 to $600 per night, with family packages starting at around $1,000.
Are the activities safe for kids?
Yes! Activities like safari rides are perfect for young children, while swimming and bathing are better for older kids.
What’s included in the packages?
Packages usually include breakfast, access to the park and museum, and key activities like an elephant safari ride.
Can you visit without staying overnight?
Yes, day passes start at $24, and you can add on activities like bathing and safari rides.
What’s the best time to visit?
November through March is quieter, though you’ll need to prepare for warm, humid weather.
