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Outstanding 4.97rating (206)
  • Life On Land

Elephant Welfare

location
1 - 2 weeks  ·  Age 17 - 50+
Verified

Highlights

  • Duration from 1 to 12 weeks.
  • Includes volunteer-house accommodation in Chiang Mai, meals, airport pick up, orientation and 24/7 in-country support.
  • Volunteer up to 6 hours a day helping care for elephants at a sanctuary near Chiang Mai with IVHQ - the world's leading volunteer travel organization.

Highlights

  • Duration from 1 to 12 weeks.
  • Includes volunteer-house accommodation in Chiang Mai, meals, airport pick up, orientation and 24/7 in-country support.
  • Volunteer up to 6 hours a day helping care for elephants at a sanctuary near Chiang Mai with IVHQ - the world's leading volunteer travel organization.
  • Tasks may include feeding, bathing, walking with elephants in the forest, caring for their sleeping areas, helping with shelter upkeep, and learning elephant behaviour and welfare techniques.
  • Join IVHQ for an opportunity to contribute to elephant conservation, support rescued elephants’ wellbeing, and experience life in Thailand while immersing yourself in local culture.
    • You don't have to pay anything yet

    Especially good for

    Age 17+
    Singles
    Couples
    Families
    Groups
    50+

    About the program

    Support ethical elephant care and conservation efforts in Chiang Mai with IVHQ - the world’s leading volunteer travel organization.

    Volunteer in Thailand with IVHQ, the world’s leading volunteer travel organization trusted by more than 155000 volunteers since 2007.

    Make a meaningful impact by supporting ethical elephant care in the peaceful rural areas surrounding Chiang Mai. Northern Thailand is known for its deep cultural ...

    About the program

    Volunteer in Thailand with IVHQ, the world’s leading volunteer travel organization trusted by more than 155000 volunteers since 2007.

    Make a meaningful impact by supporting ethical elephant care in the peaceful rural areas surrounding Chiang Mai. Northern Thailand is known for its deep cultural roots, lush mountain scenery, and longstanding connection to elephants, making it an inspiring location for volunteers passionate about animal welfare.

    You will help improve the wellbeing of rescued elephants by assisting local caretakers with their daily routines and supporting efforts that promote ethical, humane treatment. This fully hosted experience allows you to contribute to wildlife protection while immersing yourself in one of Thailand’s most beautiful natural environments.

    Your Role and Impact: The primary goal of this project is to support sanctuaries that provide safe, cruelty free living conditions for elephants previously used in trekking or tourism. Volunteers help reduce the workload of staff and contribute to long term welfare initiatives that prioritize natural behaviors and freedom of movement.

    As an Elephant Welfare volunteer in Chiang Mai, your duties will be hands on and meaningful:

    • Elephant Care Support: Preparing food, feeding elephants, and observing their behaviors to ensure they remain healthy and relaxed.
    • Sanctuary Maintenance: Assisting with cleaning enclosures, maintaining walking paths, and helping with general upkeep around the sanctuary.
    • Environmental Tasks: Collecting food, planting vegetation, or supporting activities that improve the natural habitat.
    • Responsible Interaction: Walking alongside elephants in forested areas and learning about ethical care practices without riding or intrusive contact.
    • No previous experience is required, but volunteers should enjoy outdoor work and have a genuine interest in animal welfare and conservation.

    Program Details and Accommodation: This program offers a fully hosted experience with accommodation in a volunteer house and three meals each day. Transport to and from the sanctuary is provided. You will work closely with local mahouts, learn about the cultural significance of elephants in Thailand, and spend weekends exploring Chiang Mai’s temples, markets, and nature reserves. The program operates year round and provides a rewarding opportunity to support ethical wildlife care in a serene environment.

    Typical day

    The daily schedule for the Elephant Welfare program in Chiang Mai typically centers on animal care, environmental maintenance, and cultural learning Monday through Friday.

    • 7:00 AM: Enjoy breakfast at the volunteer accommodation.
    • 8:00 AM: Travel to the elephant sanctuary located in the surrounding ...

    Typical day

    The daily schedule for the Elephant Welfare program in Chiang Mai typically centers on animal care, environmental maintenance, and cultural learning Monday through Friday.

    • 7:00 AM: Enjoy breakfast at the volunteer accommodation.
    • 8:00 AM: Travel to the elephant sanctuary located in the surrounding hills of Chiang Mai.
    • 8:30 AM to 11:30 AM: Begin morning duties. Tasks may include preparing elephant food, feeding, observing behaviors, cleaning enclosures, maintaining forest trails, or assisting local mahouts with daily care routines.
    • 11:30 AM to 12:00 PM: Return to the accommodation.
    • 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM: Lunch.
    • 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM: Continue with elephant care activities, environmental upkeep, or learning about elephant behavior, local conservation practices, and traditional caretaking methods.
    • 3:00 PM to 5:30 PM: Free time to relax, shower, rest, or explore the local area.
    • 5:30 PM onwards: Dinner is served at the accommodation, followed by free time for socializing or personal activities.

    Weekends are free for travel and exploration throughout Chiang Mai and northern Thailand.

    Free-time activities

    Free-time activities
    As volunteer work typically concludes around 5:30 PM, you’ll have evenings free for socializing, relaxing, and exploring the local area near your accommodation outside central Chiang Mai.

    City Exploration:
    Take a stroll into the heart of Chiang Mai to enjoy its lively streets, ...

    Free-time activities

    Free-time activities
    As volunteer work typically concludes around 5:30 PM, you’ll have evenings free for socializing, relaxing, and exploring the local area near your accommodation outside central Chiang Mai.

    City Exploration:
    Take a stroll into the heart of Chiang Mai to enjoy its lively streets, night markets, boutique shops, cafés, and vibrant local atmosphere.

    Dining:
    Chiang Mai is known for its incredible food scene, offering everything from traditional street food to cozy restaurants and modern cafés featuring northern Thai specialties.

    Cultural Immersion:
    The city is considered the cultural hub of Northern Thailand, with countless temples, local traditions, and community events. You’ll often find opportunities to observe ceremonies, explore craft markets, and experience daily Thai life up close.

    Wellness:
    Evenings can be spent unwinding, taking a yoga class, visiting a spa, or simply relaxing at your accommodation after a rewarding day of volunteering.

    Weekend and Tour Options (Saturday and Sunday):
    Weekends provide plenty of time to explore more of Chiang Mai and the surrounding region.

    Popular activities and destinations for volunteers include:

    Trekking and Nature:
    Trekking through forest trails in the northern mountains
    Visiting scenic viewpoints and hillside villages
    Exploring nearby waterfalls for a refreshing swim
    Joining nature or eco tours in the countryside

    Cultural and Historical Sites:
    Visiting Chiang Mai’s ancient temples and historic landmarks
    Exploring traditional villages to learn about local customs
    Attending cultural performances or craft demonstrations
    Walking through the Old City to discover its heritage gems

    Markets and Evening Activities:
    Enjoying Chiang Mai’s famous night markets
    Trying local street food and seasonal fruit
    Browsing stalls for handmade crafts and souvenirs
    Relaxing in cafés or socializing with fellow volunteers

    Optional Cultural Activities:
    Volunteers can choose to participate in an optional Culture Week for deeper immersion. Activities may include:
    Thai language lessons
    Traditional cooking classes
    Craft workshops such as umbrella painting or weaving
    Learning how to create cultural offerings
    Guided visits to temples, villages, or cultural sites

    Requirements

    Requirements

    Minimum Age: 17 years

    In order to join the program you need to be at least 17 years old on the program start date.

    Nationality Restrictions

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

    Time Commitment

    Your helping hand will be required on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from 08:30 - 17:30

    What's Included

    What's Included

    On-site Services

    Your fully hosted program includes the following benefits and services:

    Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
    Accommodation: Your program accommodation with optional private room upgrades available
    Airport Transfer: Airport pick up service
    Project Transport: Transport to and from your volunteer project
    In Country Support: Comprehensive in country day to day support and guidance
    Emergency Support: 24/7 in country emergency support
    Orientation: In country program orientation
    Pre Departure Support: Pre departure support from your dedicated Program Manager
    Preparation Tools: Personalized preparation tools, guides, and check lists
    Travel Discounts: Discounts on travel and tour add ons
    Insurance and Flights Access: Access to IVHQ’s preferred insurance and flights partners
    Certificate: Certificate of International Volunteer Service upon completion

    Airport Pickup at Chiang Mai International Airport

    • Arrival Day: Volunteers should arrive in Chiang Mai on the Sunday before their program orientation begins.
    • Orientation Start: Program orientation begins every Monday.
    • Arrival Airport: Volunteers should book flights to arrive at Chiang Mai International Airport during the designated Sunday arrival window.
    • Airport Pick up: Airport pick up is included as part of your Program Fee.
    • Arrival Process: After landing, volunteers will be met by a member of the local team and transported to the volunteer accommodation.
    • Accommodation Coverage: Accommodation from the night before program orientation is included in your Program Fee.
    • Alternative Pick up: Volunteers already in Chiang Mai may arrange pick up from central meeting points on Sunday.
    • Departure: Check out is on Saturday.
    • Under 18s: Volunteers under 18 are recommended to travel with a notarized letter from their parents to support their international travel documentation.

    Accommodation

    You will be staying in a comfortable volunteer house located in Chiang Mai. The neighborhood provides easy access to shops, cafes, and transportation.

    • Bedrooms: Volunteers share dormitory style rooms with up to six people of the same gender. Bedding is provided.
    • Private Room Upgrade: Private room upgrades may be available for an additional cost and can be requested once registered.
    • Comfort: Living conditions are simple but comfortable, with fans or air conditioning depending on room assignment. Storage is limited, so volunteers should pack lightly.
    • Bathrooms: Shared bathrooms include showers and western toilets.
    • Internet: WiFi is available at the accommodation but may be slow or unreliable. Purchasing a local SIM with data is recommended.
    • Security: Secure lockers are available in the accommodation. Volunteers must bring their own padlock.

    Food & Beverages

    Meals provided during the Elephant Welfare program showcase the flavors and ingredients of traditional Thai cuisine.

    Primary Cuisine: Meals reflect local Thai cooking styles and ingredients

    • Ingredients: Expect fresh vegetables, rice, noodles, herbs, tofu, eggs, and light proteins
    • Thai Favorites: Meals may include
    • Khao Pad: Thai fried rice with vegetables
    • Pad See Ew: Stir fried noodles
    • Stir Fried Vegetables: Seasonal produce cooked in local spices
    • Curries: Mild Thai curries with coconut milk and vegetables
    • Variety: Weekly rotating menus include Thai dishes and occasional Western inspired meals
    • Breakfast: Options may include eggs, toast, fruit, cereal, or simple Thai dishes

    Meal Schedule and Dining Out:

    • Weekdays: Volunteers receive breakfast, lunch, and dinner
    • Weekends: Brunch and dinner are provided
    • Dining Out: Chiang Mai offers a wide range of affordable restaurants and street food options for volunteers wishing to explore local food

    Drinks and Dietary Requirements:

    • Beverages: Tea and coffee are available
    • Water: Safe drinking water is provided at the accommodation
    • Dietary Needs: Vegan, vegetarian, gluten free, and lactose free diets can be accommodated with advance notice
    • Flexibility: Volunteers should remain flexible, as meal styles and flavors may differ from what they are used to at home

    Internet Access

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

    Add-ons & Experiences
    Private Room Upgrade
    Enjoy your own private space in comfort during your volunteer  duration, with IVHQ’s affordable accommodation upgrade. This add-on is for a private ...
    $25 / per day

    What's NOT included?

    What's NOT included?

    Flight Tickets

    The nearest airport is Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX) in Chiang Mai. 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

    Start Dates:
    Programs start every Monday and are available year round.

    Arrival and Orientation:
    Designated Arrival Day: Sunday.
    Arrival Airport: Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX), Thailand.
    Arrival Notes: Airport pick up is included as part of the fully hosted experience. Volunteers are met at the airport by a member of the local team and taken to their accommodation, which is approximately a 15 minute drive from the airport.
    Orientation: A 1 day Orientation is included and typically begins on your selected Monday start date. This session introduces you to local staff, Thai customs, safety guidelines, and program expectations. An optional 5 day Culture Week is also available for volunteers who want additional cultural immersion before beginning their placement.

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

    Program Fees

    $861 per week 1 - 2 weeks Age 17 - 50+

    Payment methods

    Visa Master Card Maestro American Express PayPal

    NO CREDIT CARD FEES

    Duration

    1 - 2 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
    5.0
    Top Pick
    One of the top picks on Volunteer World, according to travelers
    •
    2025
    I found the guidance and preparation resources from IVHQ really helpful overall. The pre-departure checklist and online training modules ...
    Channy R.

    Elephant Welfare

    •
    2025
    I absolutely loved my time in Thailand and was able to see so many different things while working at my placement. The elephant welfare ...
    Sophie E.

    Elephant Welfare

    •
    2025
    From this experience I gained patience, to be creative, confidence to speak in front of people in public and definitely a lot of knowledge ...
    Cybelle G.

    Teaching Experience

    Location

    Asia > South East Asia > Thailand > Chiang Mai

    Meet your project coordinator

    Renee
    206
    reviews
    4.97
    Outstanding
    2007
    Founded

    Verified

      Moderate response rate
    Spoken languages: Ukranian, French, Portuguese, Chinese (Mandarin), Polish, 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.

    You might also be interested in

    Volunteer Abroad  >  Animals  >  Wildlife Conservation in Thailand
    Contact Renee
      Moderate response rate
    Ukranian, French, Portuguese, Chinese (Mandarin), Polish, Spanish, English

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    Travel dates

    1. - 1. Jan 1

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