Visit the Chiang Mai Elephant Nature Park to learn about the conservation efforts to protect elephants in the region. This sanctuary also has a rescue and rehabilitation program for elephants that have experienced abuse from the tourism industry. Take a tour to learn about natural elephant behavior and observe them roam in their natural habitat.
At Thai Elephant Home, experience the daily life of the mahouts or elephant caretakers. Learn how to prepare food and take care of the elephants by walking them, giving them water, and giving them a mud bath. The knowledge you will gain will help you understand the daily life of these magnificent creatures as well as the people who live and work with them.
Travel to Surin Elephant Project to volunteer for several days, working alongside locals to care for elephants. This project helps elephants and their mahouts collaborate together to create a sustainable lifestyle. Camp overnight and immerse yourself in the rural and laid-back life of the Surin province. Learn how to take care of the elephants, participate in their daily routines, and help with maintaining the project.
Attend the annual Surin Elephant Festival to witness a grand parade of decorated elephants, music, and performances. The festival highlights the rich cultural history of the area and honors the vital role of elephants in their society. There are various activities throughout the day, including elephant soccer, a tug-of-war contest, and an elephant breakfast bowl.
Visit Boon Lott’s Elephant Sanctuary, a safe haven for elephants that were previously forced to work in the tourism industry. The sanctuary provides a comfortable natural habitat for elephants to roam freely. Observe the everyday life of these gentle giants and learn how the sanctuary's community and staff work together with them for long-term sustainable habitats. Stay overnight in a traditional Thai bungalow.
Volunteer and assist with daily activities at Elephant Conservation Center. Help contribute to the center’s conservation efforts to provide a safe and sustainable habitat for domesticated elephants. Activities include observing, feeding, and assisting with bathing the elephants. You will also learn about the history of elephant domestication in Thailand and take part in training programs for mahouts.
Spend multiple days at Elephant Nature Park learning about natural elephant behavior and how the park provides a home for rescued and retired elephants. Explore the park and get to know each elephant personally while helping them with their daily routines of eating, cleaning, and exercising. Make new friends with people from different cultures and learn valuable lessons about elephant conservation.
Visit the ethical Elephant Jungle Sanctuary and immerse yourself in the daily life of the elephants. Feed, bathe, and play with the elephants while getting a deeper understanding of the culture and history of the region. The sanctuary also teaches visitors how to use natural medicines made from plants, which have been practiced in Thailand for centuries.
Wrap up the volunteer journey at Elephant Haven, a sanctuary that provides a home for retired and injured elephants. Participate in their daily care like feeding, mud bath, and walking with them through the natural habitat. Expand your knowledge with a course about elephant behavior and all of the factors that affect it, including the social environment, communication, nutrition, and health.
Most locations can be reached by car rental, taxis, or public transportation. Plan ahead for shorter flights between destinations.
Estimated total transportation cost: $350
Estimated total travel time: 35 hours.
If you have more time, consider visiting more elephant sanctuaries or other volunteering opportunities outside of the city. If you have less time, consider visiting only a few locations to maximize your volunteering experience. When packing for your trip, bring comfortable athletic clothes and shoes, swimwear, sunscreen, hats, and insect repellent.
Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX) serves most of the locations on this itinerary. The airport is located approximately 10 km southwest of the city center.