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!
