Cooking 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.

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. Ocean and Rainforest Service – Explore Thailand’s vibrant ecosystems as you snorkel pristine reefs, learn conservation techniques in ancient rainforests, and immerse yourself in the rich culture of a unique seaside community. 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.

We will explore the historical city of Chiang Mai, basking in the down-to-earth charm of this northern gem, shopping at local markets, enjoying a traditional Thai massage, and seeing lavish historic temples. Get ready to spend a day white water rafting down the mighty Pai River, taking in the scenic mountain surroundings and enjoying each other's company on the quiet river banks. Next, get ready for the Southern islands as we swap the jungle for the beach! We will swim, snorkel, scuba dive (optional), trek, and relax through this idyllic part of the world on the tropical island paradise of Koh Phi Phi and Krabi. Finally, jump into the bustling hub of Southeast Asia, Bangkok. Explore culturally historic icons, including the Royal Palace, Emerald Buddha, and Ayutthaya, before immersing yourself in the fast-paced street food scene, savoring pad Thai, and hunting for a bargain on Khao San Rd.

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!

Experience a transformative journey as a volunteer in Hua Hin, Thailand, where you can teach English to local students aged between 6 and 18. This program allows you to bring your unique strategies and ideas to the table, complementing the local Thai teaching style and enhancing the children's prospects. You'll gain a deep understanding of the Thai education system and build lasting friendships with students and teachers. Your role will also involve creating lesson plans and organizing classroom activities in collaboration with other teachers and participants. The schedule is flexible, with teaching hours ranging from 2 to 3 hours, either in the morning or afternoon. During school holidays, you can participate in special classes and English camps for young students organized by the local community.

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.

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!

Volunteer with us and make a lasting difference in our partner communities. The hill tribe people of Thailand are welcoming and respectful. We guarantee a truly meaningful and life-changing experience while working alongside them. Our mission is to enhance the lives of children, youth, women, and vulnerable people and to strengthen culture, family involvement, and community engagement. - Promote and educate communities about basic human rights to ensure equitable access to resources from government and private organizations. - Strengthen families and communities through self-help groups, to share knowledge and promote unity in their communities. - Engage community members in educating their children and youth; saving for their future; livelihood development; caring for the environment; and cultural preservation. Collaborating with local community members, NGOs, and donors, we make sure the hill tribe children in our care – most of whom are stateless – have a safe place to live, with access to health care, education, food, and clothing.