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Great 4.45rating (27)

Elephant Conservation Worker

location
2 - 12 weeks  ·  Age 18 - 50+
Verified

Highlights

  • Experience the Thai way of life and live in 'the land of smiles'.
  • Contribute to the protection of an endangered species and play your part in their conservation.
  • Further your career working with animals by making a difference in another country.

Highlights

  • Experience the Thai way of life and live in 'the land of smiles'.
  • Contribute to the protection of an endangered species and play your part in their conservation.
  • Further your career working with animals by making a difference in another country.
  • Engage with elephants in an environment created to ensure they most comfortable life possible.
  • Have the opportunity after your placement to discover one of the most popular countries to visit in the world.

  • You don't have to pay anything yet

    Especially good for

    Age 18+
    Singles
    Couples
    Groups
    50+

    About the program

    Help make a difference to elephants who had previously been kept in poor conditions around the country, by creating a safe and comfortable environment for them.

    Of the 50,000 elephants once living in Thailand, there are only around 2,000 left today. Both free-living and domesticated elephants are threatened with extinction, which makes it so hard to believe that only sixty years ago, more than 50,000 roamed free. Wild elephants are hunted for their ivory ...

    About the program

    Of the 50,000 elephants once living in Thailand, there are only around 2,000 left today. Both free-living and domesticated elephants are threatened with extinction, which makes it so hard to believe that only sixty years ago, more than 50,000 roamed free. Wild elephants are hunted for their ivory and their habitats are cleared and converted into plantations, whilst other illegal trades also affect their numbers. Domesticated elephants are mainly used as tourist attractions, and the lack of adequate care and appropriate living conditions has caused them to become just as threatened as those in the wild.

    Unfortunately, there is no law for the protection of these animals, which is why they urgently need the help and support of our volunteers!

    The sanctuary for endangered elephants is in the southern part of central Thailand. The sanctuary is set across 7 acres of safe habitat, for them to roam freely and recover from the poor conditions they've lived in previously. The facility is actually the first chain-free elephant protection organisation in Asia! The elephants living here were rescued by the sanctuary after being captured or raised as livestock, mostly for use in the tourism or construction industry. Many of them are elderly, blind, or suffering from ill health. The oldest elephant onsite is 75 years old!


    Typical day

    Your exact working hours are discussed when you start the project, but you will normally be able to contribute for 6 days a week with the wildlife, for between 6 and 7 hours. Your lunch break will vary but you'll be able to share it about midday with the other volunteers. There is a variety of ...

    Typical day

    Your exact working hours are discussed when you start the project, but you will normally be able to contribute for 6 days a week with the wildlife, for between 6 and 7 hours. Your lunch break will vary but you'll be able to share it about midday with the other volunteers. There is a variety of different things you may be involved with on a daily basis. Your input is massively appreciated, as, without volunteers, there are a number of roles that would be hard to complete for the team on their own. This includes:


    • Monitoring/Reporting
    • Food Prep/Delivery
    • Maintenance
    • Cleaning and Prep
    • Assisting Existing Team


    Free-time activities

    At the heart of our project site, you’ll find yourself surrounded by a stunning and diverse landscape. To the east lies the Gulf of Thailand, while the Tenasserim Hills rise to the west. Nestled in the rolling countryside—covered in forests and shrubs—sits the wildlife project, set beside a ...

    Free-time activities

    At the heart of our project site, you’ll find yourself surrounded by a stunning and diverse landscape. To the east lies the Gulf of Thailand, while the Tenasserim Hills rise to the west. Nestled in the rolling countryside—covered in forests and shrubs—sits the wildlife project, set beside a small, peaceful lake.

    In the shaded areas of this lush environment, you may encounter colorful chameleons and many other fascinating species. The project is home not only to elephants and monkeys, which live in spacious enclosures, but also to tigers, wildcats, and other remarkable animals. Located in Central Thailand, this slightly remote site offers a rare opportunity to immerse yourself deeply in nature. The nearest village is just a ten-minute walk away, while the closest town can be reached by taxi in about 30 minutes.

    This is truly a paradise for nature and animal lovers! You’ll live right in the wilderness, surrounded by spectacular scenery and a variety of wildlife, while actively contributing to animal conservation efforts.

    Nature lovers, in particular, will feel right at home. The region is dotted with national parks, including Khao Yai National Park, where you can observe wild animals and discover exotic plants. Erawan National Park is famous for its stunning waterfalls and crystal-clear waters, while Phra Nang Klao Wildlife Sanctuary lets you explore the beauty of mangrove forests.

    If you have a bit more time, a visit to the historic city of Ayutthaya is highly recommended. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to ancient temples and ruins from Thailand’s glorious past. Highlights include Wat Phra Si Sanphet, Wat Mahathat, and Wat Chaiwatthanaram, all offering a glimpse into the country's rich cultural history.

    For those craving adventure, the region offers plenty of outdoor activities. Go cycling through the rural landscapes of Central Thailand, or take on the rapids during a rafting trip on the Mae Taeng River. If you're looking for an adrenaline rush, try skydiving or take a climbing course in the dramatic surroundings of Tham Lot.

    Food lovers will also find plenty to enjoy in Central Thailand. The region is a haven for culinary experiences, with famous Thai dishes like Pad Thai, Tom Yum, and Massaman Curry. Be sure to sample the local street food too—dishes like Som Tum (papaya salad), Gai Yang (grilled chicken), and Khao Soi (curried noodle soup) are must-tries.


    Requirements

    Requirements

    Minimum Age: 18 years

    In order to join the program you need to be at least 18 years old on the program start date. There might be exemptions if you can provide the permission of your legal guardian(s) or if your are accompanied by your parents.

    Language Skills

    You need to speak English (basic level)

    Required Documents

    CV, letter of motivation, criminal background check and visa document

    Nationality Restrictions

    No restrictions. Helping hands from all over the world are welcome.

    Other Skills

    No relevant background or experience with animals is required, however it is essential that our applicants have a passion for working with animals.

    Time Commitment

    Your helping hand will be required on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday

    What's Included

    What's Included

    On-site Services

    What's Included

    • Organization of the entire stay including placement in the project
    • Non-binding flight consultation
    • Individual advice from the RGV team in Munich
    • Support with travel preparations (vaccinations, insurance, safety)
    • Extensive RGV Travel-ABC for your travel preparation
    • RGV T-Shirt
    • Personal contact person in your project
    • Introduction by the RGV team on site
    • Three meals a day
    • Accommodation at the project side
    • 24/h emergency number
    • Certificate of participation/ internship
    • Introductory course in personal development

    Accommodation

    You'll live in a bungalow with one or two other participants. At the main house, there is a large terrace with a table where you can eat and spend time with the other volunteers. It's also a great place to rest up, or even catch a bit of sun! In the main house there is also a kitchen, where your lunch and dinner are cooked. For your breakfast, there are various foods available. Once a week, the cleaning staff will come to change your bedding and clean the bungalow. There are plenty of power outlets in the bedrooms and you can use the Wi-Fi in the elephant kitchen. To make it easier for you to explore the dream beaches, it is possible to buy or rent a scooter near the location and get to know the area.

    Food & Beverages

    You'll eat in a similar way to the locals and the local cuisine, so expect to get to know new foods and delicacies! You're provided with breakfast, lunch and dinner in a buffet style throughout the work week, and there's also a communal kitchen available if you ever fancy a little nibble! If you do have any dietary requirements, please let us know about them as far in advance as possible, and we will do our best to accommodate them, or we will inform you if the local area can't.

    Internet Access

    Limited access at the project site
    You don't have to pay anything yet

    What's NOT included?

    What's NOT included?

    Airport Pickup at Suvarnabhumi Airport

    An airport pickup isn't included within the program fees either.

    Flight Tickets

    The nearest airport is Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) in Bangkok. We assist you to find cheap flights to Thailand. FIND CHEAP FLIGHTS

    Travel Insurance

    Going abroad is an adventure and it is always best to be prepared. Sudden illness or injury, cancellation or theft - a travel insurance for Thailand provides security and is a plus to have. GET A QUOTE

    Vaccines

    If you are intending to volunteer in Thailand you should seek medical advice before starting your social journey. Check your required vaccinations for Thailand. VACCINE CHECKER

    Details on arrival

    Before you even depart, our team in Munich will take you through every step of the process, from answering your questions about the programme, through to advising you where to go for your visa. We are here to help you and to ensure that you feel totally comfortable (and prepared!) before departing.

    You can fly into one of the two international airports in Bangkok. For the Wildlife Conservation Project or Elephant Animal Shelter Project, you can be picked up by a member of the team in Bangkok (for an additional fee). The project takes arrivals every Sunday. The taxi ride then takes about three hours. You can also travel there independently if you wish. You will receive a detailed handout in which you will find helpful details on how to get there by bus. You can start every Sunday

    As soon as you arrive at the centre, you will be welcomed by the local team. The team will show you your accommodation as well as introduce you to the house rules, your work, local health facilities and safety rules. You will receive a comprehensive tour of the area, an introduction to the tasks involved, and get to know your co-workers on site. You will receive background information about the site and find out how to get involved in animal welfare in Asia.

    Availability
    Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

    Program Fees

    $604 per week 2 - 12 weeks Age 18 - 50+

    Payment methods

    Visa Master Card Maestro American Express PayPal

    NO CREDIT CARD FEES


    Duration

    2 - 12 weeks

    Deposit

    Reserve your spot with just a few clicks and a small, secure deposit. You can pay by credit card, PayPal, or other convenient methods.


    Final Payment

    You’ll agree on the final payment method with your local organization during the application process. This final payment is only due closer to the start of your trip.

    You don't have to pay anything yet
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    Location

    Asia > South East Asia > Thailand > Phetchaburi

    Meet your project coordinator

    RGV
    27
    reviews
    4.45
    Great
    1999
    Founded

    Verified

      Moderate response rate
    Spoken languages: German, Spanish, English
    Travel safely by using Volunteer World for your communication and bookings. This way, you can benefit from the Flex Option, Refund Guarantee, and Resolution Support.

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    Contact RGV
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    German, Spanish, English

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    Travel dates

    1. - 1. Jan 1

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