Elephant conservation in Chiang Mai

Our partner organization in Thailand is a member of the United Nations Commission on Sustainable Development.
In the Chiang Mai province, in northern Thailand, lies the small town of Huay Pakoot, home to our elephant sanctuary. Rescued from the tourism industry, the elephants are placed in a refuge where they are well-treated, well-fed, and able to roam freely in a natural environment. Our partner works closely with local mahouts (traditional elephant caretakers) to ensure the well-being of animals often traumatized by past abuse.

EXPERIENCES AND MISSIONS ON THE ELEPHANT PROJECT IN THAILAND
• Daily forest hikes with project coordinators to observe and study elephants living in semi-wild conditions. These animals were rescued from unethical tourist attractions where they were forced to work under harsh conditions.
• Data collection and behavioral analysis of the elephants at the sanctuary. Volunteers work in teams with mahouts and local communities to explore alternatives to elephant exploitation. Project coordinators train volunteers in research techniques, animal behavior studies, biodiversity, and Thai culture.
• Volunteers work Monday to Friday; weekends are free.

Chiang Mai and Northern Thailand

Volunteers on the elephant protection project live fully immersed in Thai culture, surrounded by forests and mountains in northern Thailand. Accommodation is provided in an indigenous community within a small village nestled in the forest. On this project, everyone pitches in—you might help at the local school or lend a hand where needed... This program offers real-world training in environmental and animal protection, all within a culturally rich setting. Volunteers will gain firsthand insight into the challenges and importance of such a commitment, while being in daily contact with the elephants.

NGO INTERNSHIP IN THAILAND
The elephant conservation project in Thailand can also be undertaken as a long-term internship (6 months), offering a deeper experience for volunteers who wish to receive comprehensive training on the environment, animals, and local culture alongside their volunteer mission.