Chiang Mai, Thailand

Volunteer in Chiang Mai

Live and work with traditional elephant-keeping communities in the lush mountain forests of Northern Thailand.

Our Chiang Mai research station offers the incredible opportunity to observe elephants in their natural habitat. You will contribute to vital conservation efforts that are aimed at promoting ethical elephant tourism and establishing a viable, sustainable ecotourism program in the local community.

Critical science

Critical science

You'll contribute to vital conservation research targeted at protecting the earth's most valuable ecosystems.
Ethical engagement

Ethical engagement

Using the UN's SDGs as a framework, we've made a commitment to positive, constructive and sustainable impact.
Beautiful adventures

Beautiful adventures

You'll spend your days exploring some of the world's most breathtaking, exhilarating and remote wildernesses.

Chiang Mai volunteer projects

Overview

Surrounded by breathtaking mountainous scenery in Northern Thailand, volunteers will quickly ease into a very peaceful way of life here. Project work itself takes place in Mae Chaem District, a 5-hour journey into the mountains, where the famous Karen elephant-keeping communities reside and who have shared a unique and sacred relationship with elephants for hundreds of years. 

Join us in Thailand and play an important part in our critical wildlife conservation efforts. Have a look at this interesting blog post related to our Chiang Mai elephant conservation project: How to work with elephants.

New epic locations, habitats & species!

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Included in your program, at no extra cost

Make the most of our unique programs with these exclusively curated local adventure and wellness experiences.

Offered once a month, expand your adventure with GVI Experiences. These are just some of the activities offered on your program!
Learn traditional Karen cooking
Connect with the Karen people's culture
Forage for forest medicine with a village elder
Visit Thailand's highest peak
Explore Thailand's elegant and mysterious waterfalls
See amazing biodiversity on a night trek
Take a sunrise hike up Two Tree Hill
Sleep under the stars alongside Asian elephants