Mason Elephant Park & Lodge Ubod Bali

Nestled in the thickly forested highlands of central Bali, Ubud has long been celebrated for its pristine beauty. Its rivers and waterfalls of crystal-clear waters, the lush flora that cover its jungles and gullies, and its ancient temples adorned by intricate carvings of gods and mythical creatures have attracted visitors from all over the globe. It seems so apt, therefore, that within this tropical enclave, Sumatran elephants on the verge of extinction have found a home where they are cared for with utmost concern for their health and safety.

At Mason Elephant Park and Lodge, Sumatran elephants can interact peacefully with guests, take them for a ride, paint, get fed, and have their own "me" time swimming in the lake

A Haven for the Endangered Sumatran Elephant

Initiated by Nigel Mason, the Mason Elephant Park & Lodge has emerged as a beacon of hope amidst the devastating situation unfolding in Sumatra, where the once-thriving native elephant population suffered at the hands of rampant deforestation and heartless poaching.

“The history of Mason Elephant Park and Lodge started in 1997 when we rescued the first nine elephants and brought them into this area. It’s now a jungle area, but when we first came here, these were empty rice fields. There was not even one tree here. So it has changed a lot in the last 27 years,” Mr. Mason says. He adds, “The park was made primarily as a rescue facility for critically endangered Sumatran elephants. The Sumatran elephant now is in a very bad position. It only has probably, we’re not really sure, but less than 700 individuals in the wild.”

Spread across 4.5 hectares of carefully curated landscape, the Mason Elephant Park has been thoughtfully designed to recreate the elephants’ native home in Sumatra. It is no coincidence that the park is nestled in central Bali, for its cooler climate and lush surroundings create an idyllic haven, offering respite from the tropical heat and embracing the elephants with a tranquil ambiance. It is heartening to know that six of these gentle giants (numbering to 31 individuals today) were actually born within the sanctuary itself, signifying a legacy of survival and the promise of a brighter future for the herd.

One of the most awe-inspiring aspects of the Mason Elephant Park is the unwavering commitment to treating these mammoths with the utmost compassion and respect. The sanctuary’s elephant trainers, affectionately known as “mahouts,” have adopted a philosophy based on kindness and understanding. Gone are the days of oppressive and excruciating training methods. Here, they guide and teach the elephants through repetition, reward, and patience, nurturing a bond built on trust and mutual companionship.

But the Mason Elephant Park is not only a sanctuary—it is an educational haven, inviting guests to embark on a journey of discovery and enlightenment. Visitors are granted a rare opportunity to interact with these majestic creatures, fostering a deeper understanding of their plight and their integral role in our ecosystem.

Riding an elephant on the way to dinner.

In the Company of Mammoths

On my first evening in the resort, I found myself face to face with one of the sanctuary’s remarkable female elephants. To my surprise, she was there to escort me and another writer to the restaurant for dinner.

It was a surreal experience, perched upon a bench securely fastened to her back, feeling both excitement and trepidation. Our mahout assured us that her immense strength made our weight insignificant, for she was accustomed to hauling logs weighing tons in the jungles of Sumatra, her original home before she was rescued. So, with a mix of regality and adventure, we made our way to the restaurant perched atop this gentle giant.

The following day would prove to be equally extraordinary. Early in the morning, I found myself by the side of an elephant, armed with a hose in one hand and a tough brush in the other. It was time for the elephant’s bath and I was assigned to indulge her love for the ritual early morning cleansing. Gently, I scrubbed her sides, feeling the texture of her tough, wrinkled hide beneath my fingertips.

The mahout, a constant presence ensuring the well-being of these magnificent creatures, cautioned me to be careful near her face. As I approached her chubby cheek, I couldn’t help but be overcome with tenderness. With utmost care and affection, I caressed her as one would a beloved pet. Perhaps, mirroring the gentleness I felt, she responded with a joyful display, opening her mouth wide and raising her trunk, as if expressing her delight and contentment.

In the late morning, I had the privilege of witnessing one of the more mature female elephants, showcase her artistic prowess. With a brush delicately grasped by her trunk, she dipped it into vibrant hues of paint and skillfully stroked the canvas before her. Later, she would use the same adept technique to create a mesmerizing painting on a man wearing a white t-shirt. It’s astonishing to witness an animal so immensely powerful demonstrate such grace and finesse.

For visitors, the rare opportunity to ride bareback upon these magnificent beings while they frolic and play is an experience that transcends the ordinary. Here, coconut stalks are freely offered as nourishing treats, and baskets of fruits can be purchased to provide them with a special, sweet indulgence. Within the sanctuary, rescued elephants find a second chance at life.

Take a breather in one of the open huts.

Havens of Luxury and Comfort

For visitors who choose to extend their stay, the Mason Elephant Lodge provides the luxury and comfort of a haven designed to provide an enchanting experience. Nestled within the sprawling expanse of the elephant park, the lodge boasts 30 meticulously crafted rooms, each exuding a harmonious blend of contemporary amenities and an organic safari aesthetic.

Inside, our room reflected an interplay of warm wood and gleaming marble. Adorning the walls are captivating images of elephants, serving as a constant reminder of the park’s magnificent inhabitants. The Garden View room, nestled amidst the lush embrace of a botanical wonderland, presents a cozy retreat surrounded by the tranquility of an oasis. The Paddy View Room offers a private balcony affording breathtaking vistas of Bali’s emerald rice fields.

The Lake View rooms, on the other hand, are quaint elevated wooden bungalows that grant guests a front-row seat to the elephants’ playful antics in their bathing rituals. The Park View Room is an inviting deluxe retreat, featuring an elephant-inspired room adorned with stylish touches. Those seeking total indulgence will find satisfaction in the Taro Suite. This safari-style luxury room envelopes guests in an atmosphere of grandeur, boasting a private wrap-around veranda where one can savor moments of serenity.

Beyond its impressive accommodations, Mason Elephant Park & Lodge offers a range of attractions. Visitors can explore the Art Gallery, which houses a remarkable collection of elephant-inspired artworks. Notable pieces include a limited edition animation cel from Disney’s classic film Dumbo (1941), Ganesha painting by renowned artist Yan Suryana, Leo Rijn’s bronze statue of Horton, a sculpture by Salvador Dali featuring an elephant carrying a crystal obelisk, and glamorous photos of Yanie Mason with one of the park’s elephants captured by celebrated photographer Nelly Putnan.

Moreover, the Elephant Museum showcases ancient decorative representations of elephants from diverse sources, along with antique ivory carvings crafted from elephant tusks. At the heart of the museum lies its most compelling attraction: the world’s sole complete skeleton of a prehistoric mammoth.

Robust Flavors

Mason Elephant Park & Lodge prioritizes offering visitors a comprehensive experience, and food plays a pivotal role in this endeavor. The Park Restaurant, with its spacious setting, provides a delightful opportunity for guests to relish the chef’s delectable culinary creations while observing the majestic animals lounging in their secure enclosures or engaging with tourists in the elephant lake.

Here, our taste buds were treated to a delightful feast comprising a selection of expertly grilled prawns atop a bed of mashed potato, succulent salmon accompanied by sautéed spinach, and gindara with a delectable garlic cream, collectively known as the “Trilogy of Seafood.”

To offer a genuine taste of the island’s authentic flavors, the chef presented Bebek Betutu, a traditional Balinese dish featuring tender braised duck infused with classic spices, served alongside long beans and steamed rice. Additionally, our culinary journey included the mouthwatering, robustly grilled Black Angus tenderloin. Cut thickly, the meat was nonetheless easy to slice and tender to the bite.

An Unforgettable Encounter

As my time at the Mason Elephant Park & Lodge drew to a close, I couldn’t help but contemplate on the extraordinary experiences I had encountered within this magnificent sanctuary. From feeding and bathing the elephants to witnessing their artistic prowess, every moment spent in their company was nothing short of awe-inspiring.

Within the park, I was immersed in a world where the grandeur of nature and the spirit of conservation intertwined seamlessly. Without a doubt, the park is a clear demonstration of the unwavering dedication and care that Nigel and Yanie Mason, and their children, have shown towards the endangered Sumatran elephants. Mason Elephant Park & Lodge is a testament to the enduring power of compassion and the profound connection we share with the magnificent creatures that inhabit our world.

In the Land of the Giants

A Haven for the Endangered Sumatran Elephant

In the Company of Mammoths

Havens of Luxury and Comfort

Robust Flavors

An Unforgettable Encounter

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