In Mason Elephant Park (Taro, Gianyar), elephant rides have finally come to an end. The management company officially stopped this practice as of January 25, 2026, following two written warnings and an on-site inspection.
In 2025, the Directorate General of Natural Resources and Ecosystem Conservation of Indonesia's Ministry of Forestry issued Circular Letter No. 6 on the cessation of elephant ride demonstration programs in institutions that keep animals in captivity. This requirement is mandatory for all such institutions in Indonesia.
Mason Elephant Park markets itself as a sanctuary, home to a large herd of Sumatran elephants, and includes a museum and an education center. The park claims to provide long-term animal care and runs a herd management program, with mentions of 27 rescued elephants and the birth of calves.
Previously, the park's founder and director, Nigel Mason, publicly insisted that "properly organized rides" and other activities were supposedly beneficial for elephants: they provide exercise, "keep them in shape," stimulate them, and help the park earn revenue to maintain the herd.
He described the ban as an overly drastic measure, emphasizing that elephant care is very expensive and without visitor income, the park risks not being able to cover expenses. Nonetheless, ignoring the circular would have risked sanctions for the park, up to revoking the license.
Bali Zoo was the first to cease elephant rides in Bali as of January 1, 2026. Subsequently, other elephant-keeping centers followed suit. Now, Bali can officially be considered free of elephant rides.
Sources: travel.detik.com, mataram.antaranews.com
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