Description

If you are an outdoors adventurous type and conscious about the problems facing the earth then an environmental project is for you. Our projects from around the world range from forestry development, ecosystem preservation, national park development to botanical research. Not only will you be involved in education and research but also hands on activities within national park development and maintenance of ecosystems.

*Work with Rescued Elephants, Reforestation and Rural Communities in Thailand

Based in a rural region outside Chiang Mai, this project works with three elements of the local community to build this fascinating project. The elephant camp is an ecotourism project supporting sick and old elephants who are not able to work as well as unemployed Mahouts(elephant trainers) to provide both with better opportunities, homes and food. A reforestation project works to restore and maintain the local jungle damaged by local practices, and work with the community to change their behaviour to make better use of their resources. And work in the local schools provide this rural community an opportunity to develop english, environmental and leadership skills to build a future works with local children - training them how to work as environmental guides and educate them for a future in eco-tourism.

*Elephant Welfare Project in Eastern Mahout Communities

Since the countrys ban on logging and prevalence of machinery, work for elephants is limited and with no other opportunities, the people of these communities and their elephants often starve. The government has developed initiatives that aim to encourage communities to use elephants to help attract tourists to the area. This project works alongside these communities to encourage tourism development to be shaped by ethical and responsible eco-tourism approaches.

*Island Marine Conservation with PADI Certification

This marine conservation project is perfect for divers or those wishing to learn to dive. The local community of Koh Tao, in association with the best dive schools, developed a project to help and protect the coral reefs within the Koh Tao national park from the damage caused by tourism and global warming. Building artificial reefs, culturing a giant clam nursery and undertaking regular monitoring activities in the waters surrounding the island, volunteers can spend every day diving and familiarising themselves with the marine life of Thailand. The success of this project to date has seen government environmental agencies use the data gathered to make policy decisions.

This project includes PADI Open water, advanced and SSI Ecological diver certification. Prices vary depending on level of existing certification.

Highlights

Exotic temples, thick green jungle, crystal clear blue water, ancient ruins and spicy, tasty cuisine are some reasons why so many overseas travelers come to the 'Golden Land.'

Around 10% of the Thai population is in serious poverty and less than 30% are living in poverty. Even so, Thailand is not as impoverished as many of its neighboring Asian countries. The main problem is the huge difference in income between the upper 30% of the population and the rest, especially those living in rural areas, such as the Hill Tribes around Chiang Mai.

*Beaches of Krabi and Trang:
Krabi and Trang are the best places in Thailand to experience tropical paradise. Both beaches have soft white sand, warm turquoise water, towering limestone cliffs, and small coves and offshore islands to explore.

*Hot air ballooning in Chiang Mai:
Setting off as the sun begins to rise over a river of mist flowing through the tree tops is a great way to start your breathtaking balloon ride. Panoramic views of distant mountains, terraced rice paddies, the lush green Ping River valley and rural villages, are sure to take your breath away.

*Scuba Diving on Manta Ray expeditions:
The best place to see these legendary 'devil fish' is the nutrient-rich waters of Koh Bon, an island north of Similan. Surround yourself with swirling mantas as they pass close by blocking the sunlight with their elegant mass. Best encounters are between November and April.

Volunteers bring an international perspective to the work of reforestation, conservation, education and awareness passing along their knowledge and enthusiasm to local residents who will benefit the most from these projects.

Qualifications: Participants must possess enthusiasm and a willingness to learn about the environment and the people. Additionally, a love of working in the community and interacting with people is essential.

Qualifications

Experience and passion for working in the community and interacting with the people are needed. Participants must also possess enthusiasm and a willingness to learn about the environment and the place's culture.

Languages

• English

Cost in US$:

Please visit the website for more information.

Cost Includes:

• Excursions
• Food
• Housing
• In-country orientation/Training
• In-country staff support
• Language instruction
• Pre-departure orientation/Training
• Registration fees

Program Fees Include:

* Accommodation: Single or shared room in a Thai Huts
* Food: 3 meals per day  Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
* Airport pick up in Bangkok
* Transfer from Bangkok to the project
* Training: Pre-departure information pack and onsite orientation provided
* Support: 24 hour support
* Excursion Planning: staff will help organise activities and excursions
* Certificate of Mahout Training

Experience Required

no

Volunteer Types

Typical Volunteer

A Kaya volunteer shows enthusiasm, spirit and life to stimulate and bring something new to the residents; love, patience and a listening ear for the people; and a good motivator with a positive and optimistic attitude.

Age Range

Must be more than 18 years old

This Program is open to

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

Typical Living Arrangements

• Home-stays

Participants Travel

Independently or in Groups

Typically Participants Work

Independently or in Groups

Application Process Involves

• Online Application plus Application Assessment

Post Services Include

• Alumni Network

Kaya Responsible Travel's Mission Statement

Kaya's mission is to promote sustainable social, environmental and economic development, empower communities and cultivate educated, compassionate global citizens through responsible travel.

Year Founded

2008