Description

Forty-five minutes outside of the bustling city of Chiang Mai, in the lush hills to the north, is a thriving elephant camp. Come learn about the endangered Asian elephant, help with conservation efforts, and become a part of this community!

The park has been open for 20 years, has over 70 elephants and roughly 250 workers. It is surrounded by lush mountains and is divided down the middle by a river. This is a relaxing atmosphere, and a great place for volunteers who also want some downtime to soak in the Thai countryside! Volunteers assist and work alongside elephant trainers and other park staff from 7:00 am to 5:00 pm (Monday through Friday). Many of the workers are of minority ethnic hill tribe decent.

Some volunteers teach an hour or two of English at the local hill tribe school. Other volunteers will stay at the park and teach English to the elephant trainers and other staff. Volunteers may be asked to help out with other areas of the elephant camp during their volunteer service. Any little bit helps in the development of the camp.

Late in the afternoon/early evening, volunteers will be able to spend more time with the elephants and elephant trainers. This is when volunteers will really begin to bond with these lovely creatures, get to know their different personalities, and learn how to best care for them.

Highlights

Orientation includes a city tour, language class, visit from a Thai travel nurse, assistance in setting up a Thai cell phone, and a chance to meet all the other new ELIers.

Volunteer housing is provided on-site in amazing treehouses that are fully equipped with a flushing toilet and hot water. Please note that internet is not accessible, but local cell phones do get service.

Qualifications

Volunteers do not need any specific qualifications, but should be able-bodied, enjoy working outside and with animals. As in any cross-cultural context, those involved are asked to be sensitive, flexible and open to other customs and traditions.

Languages

• English

Cost in US$:

2 Weeks is USD 900

Cost Includes:

• Food
• Housing
• In-country orientation/Training
• In-country staff support
• Pre-departure orientation/Training
• Registration fees
• Written materials abroad
• Written materials pre-departure

Program Fees Include:

The program includes pre-departure assistance, airport pick-up, orientation and nurse consultation when you first arrive, accommodations at the sanctuary, 2 meals a day, and 24 hour assistance by our in-country team. Volunteers purchase their own plane tickets and travel insurance.

It is best if volunteers arrive in Chiang Mai on a date below before 8pm, so orientation can take place over the weekend and volunteers can start their program bright and early on Monday.

2011: January 7, January 14, February 4, February 18, March 4, March 18, April 1, April 15, April 29, May 13, May 27, June 10, June 24, July 8, July 22, August 5, August 19. For dates after this please inquire.

Experience Required

no

Volunteer Types

Typical Volunteer

ELI volunteers come from all over the world, but they have many traits in common: They are interested in other cultures, they are looking for an immersion experience, they are flexible, they enjoy meeting new people, and they are passionate about their programs.

Age Range

18-83

This Program is open to

Worldwide Participants. This Program is also open to Couples and Individuals.

Typical Living Arrangements

• Other

Participants Travel

Independently

Typically Participants Work

Independently

Application Process Involves

• Other
• Phone/Video Interview
• Resume
• Written Application

Post Services Include

• Exit Debriefing Abroad
• Re-Entry Debriefing at Home

ELI-Experiential Learning International's Mission Statement

ELI's full name, Experiential Learning International, reflects our philosophy. We believe that the most compelling life lessons come through experience, and that international experiences are among the most profound influences on our sense of self and our view of the world. ELI facilitates flexible international learning programs for independent travelers by partnering with local organizations to give participants the opportunity to experience and contribute to sustainable ongoing local projects throughout the world.

Year Founded

2001