Animal Care
Volunteer and Adventure
Wildlife Conservation

Three reasons to volunteer with elephants in Thailand

Daniela Boullosa

Posted: December 5, 2019

Original photo: “Elephant trunks” by nickharder is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0

If you are interested in immersing yourself in Thai culture, interacting with elephants in a natural setting and enjoying the benefits of volunteering abroad, then volunteer with elephants in Thailand for the opportunity of a lifetime.

There are so many reasons to volunteer in Thailand with elephants, and hopefully, by reading our top three, we’ll inspire you to do so.

You can make an impact as you experience a new culture, a new country, and form new friendships!

A temple beyond a bougainville archway in Thailand

1) Enjoy the benefits of volunteering abroad

Thailand has become an extremely popular travel destination. With beautiful temples, incredible scenery and delicious food, it comes as no surprise that every year, millions of people take trips to Thailand. That number is steadily rising.

During the program, you will have the opportunity to get to know like-minded volunteers that are eager to make a change. It’s a unique chance to make friends that don’t share your age or home country, but will have a lasting impact on your life.

You will experience the challenge of adapting to an unfamiliar place, a different language and new traditions. You’ll be surprised at how much you’ll grow and learn from putting yourself out there.

volunteers hiking alongside a river in Phang Nga

2) Immerse yourself in Thai culture

Being a volunteer in Thailand gives you the opportunity to truly immerse yourself in the culture.

As a volunteer, you will go beyond the known destinations, famous restaurants and key places to visit. You can learn Thai, try tons of new food, and get to know the local Karen community and how they care for the elephants in Thailand.

3) Interact with elephants in their natural habitat

Imagine walking along the lush forests of Northern Thailand with elephants as your companions. These gentle giants, that have been exposed to unsuitable conditions in the tourism industry, are being reintegrated into their natural habitat.

A volunteer sitting in the forest watching an elephant at a distance

As you work with the elephants in Thailand, you can learn about their history and behaviour and bear witness to their quirky habits. You will also work in close proximity to elephant keepers and learn from their close bonds with the elephants.

When volunteering with the elephants in Thailand, you’ll be directly involved in the well-being of these breathtaking creatures. You will help promote ethical elephant tourism as well as the conservation of their natural habitat.

Check out our volunteer programs in Thailand to see what life on base is like and how you can make an impact in the lives of amazing elephants.

Daniela Boullosa is an intern at the GVI Writing Academy. The Writing Academy is a skills-development program that pairs development editors with budding travel writers. Learn more about the program here.

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