Nature Tours Programs in Thailand

At International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ), we unite people from over 96 countries who want to make a meaningful difference while exploring the world. With 300+ projects in 40+ destinations, IVHQ offers the widest selection of volunteer programs globally from Teaching and Childcare to Wildlife Conservation, Medical Outreach, and Environmental Sustainability. Since 2007, IVHQ has supported over 155,000 volunteers on life-changing journeys. We specialize in fully-hosted volunteer trips that are safe, affordable, and accessible—starting from just $20 per day. Your experience includes airport pick-up, accommodation, meals, and round-the-clock support from our local teams. With flexible booking options and no change fees, planning your volunteer adventure has never been easier. Our programs run year-round and are available for 1 to 24 weeks across Africa, Asia, Europe, the Pacific, South and Central America, North America, the Caribbean, and the Middle East. Volunteering with IVHQ is about more than giving back; it’s about growing, learning, and building genuine global connections.

GoEco is one of the world’s top volunteer organizations, with award-winning and ethical programs selected by sustainable travel experts. Since 2006, tens of thousands of volunteers have taken part in projects and internships worldwide, focusing on wildlife and marine conservation, education, and medical initiatives. GoEco operates in over 50 countries, providing unique cultural immersive experiences that aim to make a positive impact on the environment and society. The organization also offers internships and academic programs for students. GoEco provides safe and meaningful experiences while promoting sustainable travel and reducing carbon emissions.

Play games with Asian elephants, snorkel in crystal blue waters, and immerse yourself in village life as you explore a country known for its warm people. Our programs take you off the beaten path for an unforgettable journey through Thailand. This includes: Thailand Adventurer – Travel from the mountains to the beach and Chiang Mai to Bangkok as you go rock climbing, snorkeling, and rafting. Plus, interact with Asian elephants. Thai Elephant Conservation Project – Learn how to be an elephant trainer while doing hands-on tasks at an animal sanctuary. Come with Nothing – Dive into service projects at three remote villages in Northern Thailand, and then spend time with your host families as you learn about local life in this culturally immersive program.

Explore Southeast Asia on a 10-week journey through Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam—where travel becomes transformation. Volunteer at ethical elephant sanctuaries, trek to remote mountain villages, explore ancient temples, and engage with communities through meaningful, culturally respectful exchange. This program combines adventure, service, and immersion to help you grow personally and globally. Learn traditional crafts, share meals with host families, and experience resilience and hospitality in every community. Conservation work, ethical travel practices, and local partnerships ensure your impact is responsible and real. With leadership training, guided reflection, and mentorship built into the experience, you'll return more confident, connected, and prepared for what’s next. Whether you're taking a gap year, earning credit, building your resume, or seeking clarity and purpose, this journey meets you where you are—and helps you grow beyond it. Travel deeper. Grow bolder. Reach out to Learn More!

Our all-encompassing program, designed for high school students, showcases the best parts of Thailand. Begin your trip with an enriching service project at a local school at a hill tribe in Northern Thailand. During your service work, have the opportunity to interact with the school children and form meaningful connections with the people in the community. Upon project completion, you will feel a sense of accomplishment knowing your hard work helped make a difference in the lives of the children you grew to know and love! From the hustle and bustle of the capital of Bangkok, to hill tribe villages nestled in the jungle near Chiang Mai and the picturesque white sandy beaches of Koh Phi Phi and Krabi, you’ll experience it all! Swim with sharks and dive world-class reefs in the world’s bluest waters, meet saffron-cloaked Buddhist monks, gaze in wonder at golden Buddhas and temples, and learn how to cook your own mouth-watering cuisine — all while enjoying the warm hospitality and gentle smiles of the Thai people. Please note, we do not ride elephants on any of our programs. TFT is one of the only teen tour operators to take this stance and support ethical tourism.

This program goes beyond ordinary high school travel programs and build cross-cultural community service summer trips perfectly geared to your interests and curiosities. Whether you’re looking to contribute to authentic service projects, experience exhilarating adventure, or develop your language skills, GoBeyond will immerse you in a new culture where you can make a meaningful difference while on the journey of a lifetime. Our high school community service summer programs proudly serve in many under-resourced communities and environments throughout the world. Explore our journeys in the British Virgin Islands, Costa Rica, Galapagos & Ecuador, Peru, Iceland, Spain, China, Thailand, India, Sri Lanka, and Australia. Beyond experiencing the adventure of a lifetime and creating lasting memories, we believe our community service summer trips enable lasting positive change in the world. For over forty years, we’ve been transforming communities, environments, and students’ lives through meaningful, collaborative adventures and service that develop skills and a more sophisticated worldly outlook—ultimately shaping the person you become.

This 10-day program is open to Loop Abroad alumni (students and staff) and their partners, family, and friends. We are so excited to show you our favorite people, places, foods, and activities in Chiang Mai, Thailand. We first offered this trip for our 15th anniversary, and it was such a hit that we’re doing it again! We offer this trip at a VERY discounted price, hoping it can be accessible for most people. You can stay and travel on your own after, or skip activities and do your own thing (at your own expense). You will still need to fill out enrollment forms, including the medical form that needs to be signed by a doctor. This program is for alumni of Loop Abroad or CELA Belize programs (in-person or virtual, students or staff, any location). Alumni enrolling in this trip may also bring their partner, friends, or family members. Please note that many activities are outdoors, in hot weather, and require participants to be able to walk moderate distances on their own. Some activities may not be accessible to young children. If you have questions about particular activities for your family, please ask!

Help care for elephants at an elephant nursery, living the life of a mahout, and helping to protect Thailand’s vulnerable population of these magnificent creatures. Explore the ancient temples, buzzing markets of Chiang Mai, and the unspoiled beauty of the northern Thai countryside. At the elephant sanctuary, where you’ll spend the bulk of your trip, rescued elephants are cared for by expert mahouts, who you’ll work alongside and learn from. You’ll immerse yourself in the life of a mahout, rising early to walk and bathe the elephants, collecting grass for meals, and feeding them. As you work, you’ll learn about these beautiful, intelligent creatures and gain a deeper respect and appreciation for their relationship with humans. In addition to our interactions at the elephant sanctuary, we’ll delve into the ancient history and culture of Chiang Mai, exploring beautiful monasteries and savoring Thai cuisine at food markets. We’ll also venture into the beautiful countryside of Northern Thailand, experiencing all that the country has to offer.

Looking for a progressive gap year experience that blends travel, adventure, and skill-building? Our six-week Rock Climbing Program in Thailand is designed for those who want more than sightseeing. It's about pushing boundaries, learning leadership, and gaining certifications that set you up for future outdoor careers. • Climb epic crags in Railay, Chiang Mai & Tonsai • Earn internationally recognized climbing & first aid certifications • Immerse yourself in Thai culture & adventure travel • Turn your passion into skills that last a lifetime If you are looking for an experience that will have you meeting new people from all over the world while trying new food and experiencing a new culture, this program is the perfect choice.