Culture Volunteering 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 147,000 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.

Volunteer on this marine conservation project on the stunning island of Koh Tao and contribute to vital marine conservation. This project is suitable for those with diving experience as well as those wishing to learn how to dive. It is committed to sustainable development for the sea and its surrounding communities. Hence, education is a big part of the project and volunteers help spread awareness of the importance of marine conservation. You will work with local schools, teaching children to swim, dive and snorkel responsibly. This project has been so successful in its work that the Thai government and environmental agencies have used data gathered to make policy decisions. The program includes diver Scuba Schools International (SSI) training from beginner to advanced level. Conservation Diver certifications can also be included, depending on the duration of your placement. We welcome volunteers with a range of skills. The most important is the ability to swim a minimum of 2 lengths of a 25-meter swimming pool. You must also love water and be interested in sea life. You must also have a moderate level of fitness as everyone will be required to carry tanks and equipment.

Take on an 8-month trip of adventure, community service, and community development across the globe. Join a gap year program that will take you to enchanting destinations filled with cultural immersions, impactful volunteering, and an unforgettable summer experience. Your journey will begin in Costa Rica, where you will work with local communities in addressing social and economic challenges. You will then travel to South Africa to help lead sports development, followed by a summer of learning and practicing the Spanish language in Spain. Finally, you will volunteer in teaching and community building and development in Thailand and Cambodia while enjoying the sun, sand, and sea. Eligibility requirements: - Must be in good physical and mental health - At least 18 years old during travel - Have a fluent understanding of English - Have a clean background check if working with minors Don't miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the communities you will serve. Visit our website or inquire today for complete details about this program.

Find out why more and more people are choosing to become a Love Volunteer! Love Volunteers is the most affordable way to volunteer and help local communities in developing countries! Why are we cheaper than other organisations? Firstly, we are just a handful of passionate people working hard to help volunteers and local communities around the world. We don't have huge overheads - no company cars, no downtown office - we're just volunteers who knew we could do a better job. Secondly, we work with local organisations wherever we can to keep administration costs to a minimum and also to feed as much money and skills into the local communities where we operate. All of Love Volunteers partner organisations have been fully vetted to ensure that, not only does a genuine need for assistance exist, but that the environments that we place our volunteers are safe and of high quality. Choose from one or more of our 200+ amazing community-based programs in 37 developing countries around the world. Every program has been personally visited by one of our dedicated staff members and is regularly audited to ensure it meets our high standards in terms of safety, sustainability, and local impact.

Thailand offers more than just picture-perfect beaches and flavorful cuisine. Behind the tourist hotspots, many communities are in need of hands-on support, particularly in education, conservation, and community development. As a volunteer with World Endeavors, you'll get to contribute meaningfully to grassroots efforts while learning what daily life is truly like in Thai communities. Programs are based in Hua Hin and other select areas and are open year-round with flexible durations from 1 to 12 weeks. Whether you’re planting mangroves, assisting in classrooms, or helping local organizations grow, you’ll receive personal support every step of the way. With affordable weekly rates and shared housing provided, this is a great opportunity to create impact while growing personally and professionally in one of Southeast Asia’s most dynamic countries.

Earn certificates from the University of Richmond and GVI, such as your Biological Survey Techniques certificate when you join this conservation internship in Northern Thailand. You’ll live in a remote village among local Karen communities, where you can learn about the diversity of culture, and gain cross-cultural skills. Support mahouts to reintegrate elephants relieved from the tourism industry into a natural forest habitat. Increase your conservation skills and enhance your résumé by learning how to record elephant behavioral data. You’ll also gain skills in biodiversity management while conducting insect and stream surveys and learn camera trapping techniques. The northern and southern parts of the province offer a variety of contrasting experiences. From opulent golden temples to wild jungle landscapes, and jagged mountain surroundings, this is a diverse destination travel opportunity. It’s also a great way to improve your own conservation knowledge and skills, learn how to travel in a way that supports ethical best practices, and contribute directly to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs).

Looking to apply your talent and expertise to a good cause? Find a program that matches your interests and skills through Volunteer World! We are the largest volunteer abroad comparison platform around the globe, enabling you to seek and compare offers from major travel agencies as well as smaller grassroots NGOs and local specialists in more than 80 countries. All these with just one click! Find projects in wildlife, teaching, community development, and several other areas. Simply choose your desired destination and desired travel date, and our search engine will compare the best volunteer abroad programs on your behalf. Whether you wish to gain experience at a wildlife sanctuary in South Africa or teach English at a monastery in Nepal, we've got you covered. Volunteer World guarantees a quick and easy application. We will guide you through this process, as well as help plan your next meaningful trip. We provide free access to quality-checked projects and flexible options. And if anything goes wrong, we've got your back with our qualified support team and our refund guarantee.

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.

Thailand is an exciting country to travel too. Not only is is cheap, easy to get around, with friendly locals, it’s also an adventure lovers playground! Theres so much to do here, from exploring the capital city of Bangkok, trekking in the jungle, swimming in natural waterfalls, relaxing on the beach or any number of adreneline pumping activities. A lot of our projects are concentrated on conservation, as this is a big problem, now more than ever. You will get to experience the ‘real’ Thailand, for a true authenic travel experience, and with the knowledge that you are helping underprivilaged communites and the environment! Volunteer with IVI for authentic, affordable and life changing projects in Thailand. We have over 35+ years of experience as a charity and non profit org and are passionate about helping those less fortuanate than ourselves.

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.

Adventure, Purpose, and Connection: Grow, Explore, and Make an Impact in Thailand Discover the heart of Thailand through adventure, service, and self-discovery on this six-week journey. Explore ancient temples, bustling cities, and remote villages while volunteering at an elephant sanctuary, learning Thai cooking, and practicing Muay Thai. Kayak hidden lagoons, cycle past historic ruins, and experience homestays in northern communities for authentic cultural immersion. Designed for growth and connection, this program blends challenge with support: guided reflection for a gap year adventurer, hands-on learning for the study abroad alternative seeker, ethical and sustainable travel for conscious explorers, skill-building and service for career-minded participants, and deep cultural engagement for immersion seekers. Through mentorship, conservation projects, and a supportive small group, you’ll gain confidence, resilience, perspective, and lifelong friendships. Whether you’re seeking clarity, meaningful impact, or personal transformation, this journey helps you grow into who you’re becoming. This isn’t just a journey, it’s a step toward your future self. Reach out to learn more.

Length: 4-6 months | Intakes: January 2026 Join the Global Leadership Programme, designed to provide you with hands-on experience supporting the work of an international development charity. We are looking for passionate graduates, who are keen to learn about global challenges, work with youth and define their own purpose. After an initial period of training, you will be placed in one of our overseas hubs as a Group Mentor and Project Implementor, you will be supporting our in-country team through coordinating group projects and supporting our project participants on their journey to becoming global citizens. Your days will be filled with exciting challenges and fulfilling experiences, including: 1. Coordinating and delivering impactful project activities with our local partners. 2. Embark on a leadership role as you guide your group of project participants through immersive and exciting cultural activities. 3. Engage your group in reflective discussions and interactive sessions to foster personal growth. 4. Reporting on the progress and success of all international project participants and community development project delivery activities.

Experience the true colors of Thailand! GIVE’s Thailand Immersion Excursion places you in the heart of colorful hill tribe communities throughout Northern Thailand. This unique program enables you to connect with rural villagers by immersing yourself in their culture and way of life, living like a local. Positively impact their communities through participation in our volunteer initiatives and make life-long connections with the incredible people you’ll meet along the way! The trip culminates with a bamboo rafting journey down the Mae Tang River, stopping along the way to learn about elephant conservation and trek through the jungle to find these majestic giants. Thailand is the perfect introduction to this fascinating region of the world; take it one step further by adding the Elephant Experience add-on for an additional week. Note: All Southeast Asia programs and add-ons can be combined for the ultimate Southeast Asia Experience (travel up to 7 weeks!)

Learn, serve, and lead with Bright Light Volunteers in a country of your choice. Our Global Service Learning (GSL) program is designed for passionate middle and high school students, exposing them to various aspects, including cultural and social, of their host community. Participants not only broaden their knowledge but also develop a deeper understanding of local, national, and global issues. They gain insight into the interdependency and interconnectedness of people and communities, becoming equipped to act responsibly and effectively toward a more just and peaceful world. Additionally, they develop a range of skills outside a conventional classroom environment. If you’re interested in joining our movement and becoming a global citizen, get in touch with us today for more information.

Join us for the adventure of a lifetime! Volunteers For Peace (a Vermont-based nonprofit) can place you on a team of international volunteers who contribute to a meaningful community service project designed, planned, and hosted by local partners. We offer the most affordable projects and the best way to meet people from all over the world. Work project types vary by country but may include environmental and wildlife conservation, historic preservation, educational and language learning, archaeology, organic farming, and arts and festivals. We also have social services projects, which could involve working with children, the elderly, or refugees. Projects are designed to combine service with recreational activities and cultural exchange – whether by visiting local beaches, learning local dances, meeting local officials, or volunteering with residents at the place you’re visiting. Each project is unique, but all bring people together for the most meaningful travel experience imaginable. Please note that VFP can only place US Citizens. This is due to our agreements with our international partners.

Thailand is well known for its great hospitality and foreigner-friendly people. It is one of the major travel destinations in Asia due to its beautiful natural resorts, everlasting summer, and mystical history. An internship in Thailand will enhance your career by giving you a foothold in one of the quickest growing economies in Southeast Asia. Learn what it means to gain real-life work experience in a completely different culture. From meditating in an ancient Buddhist temple to overlooking the modern city skyline, your senses will be overwhelmed by experiences: ・Go jungle trekking in Chiang Mai. ・Party like there’s no tomorrow at a Full Moon Party. ・Bathe an elephant in Chiang Mai. ・Try Snorkeling in Koh Phi Phi
. As your gateway to Asia, Meiji Internships will accompany you throughout your journey. Kick-start your international career with an unforgettable internship adventure in your industry and destination of choice. We work with an extended network of 400+ partner companies in 8 countries to help pave the way for your future! You create your journey! Broaden not just your horizon, but also your professional network in the Far East!

Kindred Spirit is looking for volunteers to come out and help its new elephant sanctuary in northern Thailand. The sanctuary has just rescued four elephants from the tourism industry, and it has brought them home to live out their lives in the forest, in semi-wild conditions. The sanctuary needs volunteers to help keep these elephants happy and healthy in their natural habitat. Volunteers will carry out health checks, perform research on their natural behaviors and the surrounding forest, and take part in community projects, such as teaching English at a school and to other locals, cutting grass for the elephants during the dry season, helping out in the fields, planting and harvesting crops, and educating both locals and tourists on the captive elephant situation in Thailand to help combat illegal trade. Days begin with early morning hikes through the forest to find the elephants, staying with them while observing and taking data on their natural behaviors until lunch. Some days, lunch is eaten with the elephants in the forest. Upon returning to the village, community projects are carried out.

Volunteering with ICYE UK is a transformational experience with real impact. Our ethical programmes promote peace, intercultural awareness and equality of opportunity, encouraging young people from around the world to live, learn and work together. UK residents can apply now to join us on our six or 12-month placements starting in either January or August, and work with locally run NGOs in Asia, Latin America, Africa, and Europe on impactful projects that matter, such as: - Human rights projects - Women’s empowerment projects - Supporting people with compromised health and/or disabilities - Environmental and wildlife conservation - Sustainable agriculture projects - Providing education, care, and support for children from under-resourced communities - Sports, art, or cultural projects - Community development programmes - And many more Additionally, short-term placements of 3 to 5 months with flexible start dates are available in some of our partner countries. Whether you join us on our long-term or short-term programme, you’ll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in a new culture and language, learn, grow, and make an impact! Get in touch to find out more!

Get involved in building and gardening at a home for single mothers in Chiang Mai, Thailand. Volunteers help single mothers acquire the skills needed to survive and prosper. For starters, the mothers, children, and staff need a place their they can learn, eat, and sleep how to improve the lives of young women in need. Volunteers will be building, sweating, smiling, and laughing alongside the Thai construction staff, fellow volunteers, and employees at the Single Mother’s Home. This project is perfect for those interested in hands-on physical work for the improvement of an amazing organization dedicated to improving the lives of young women who really need a helping hand. Assisting in the hands-on construction, of mostly bamboo structures, that will act as dormitories and work spaces for staff, volunteers and the women and children that reside at the home is the basic role of volunteers in this project. Volunteers will be working outside and assisting in all phases of the construction (the treatment and sealing of the bamboo, laying the cement foundation, assembling the frame and walls, etc.) for training areas, housing for volunteers, staff and the women and children, along with communal areas for the women that reside at the home. The Single Mother's Home has recently moved to a beautiful new, rural location surrounded by rice paddies, gardens and mountains.