Chiang Mai, Thailand

Elephant Conservation Program

Introduction

What to Expect

Basic Itinerary

Gallery

Goals

Discover Chiang Mai

Dive into the vibrant culture and breathtaking landscapes of Northern Thailand, where you’ll have the chance to connect with elephants and actively contribute to preserving the sanctuary they call home.

Location:

Chiang Mai, Thailand

Arrival Airport:

Chiang Mai International Airport

Seasonality:

All Year Round

Duration:

5-9 days (standard 7 days)

Age Range:

12-18 years old

Program Balance:

Service

Adventure

Cultural

Service

Adventure

A group of people watching elephants walk by.

What To Expect

Embark on an unforgettable journey starting in Chiang Mai, where you’ll venture into the heart of Mae Win District, just an hour and a half outside the city. For this program, WV has partnered with ChangChill – a sanctuary that prioritizes the well-being of elephants above all. This “hands-off” sanctuary offers a truly ethical approach, ensuring the elephants’ care and freedom are at the forefront. In Mae Win, you’ll not only help support the sanctuary and local community but also gain insight into the complexities of running a sustainable and ethical sanctuary, while learning about sustainable farming practices and immersing yourself in the rich local culture.

Expect a journey filled with unforgettable experiences – bonfires under a starry sky, hands-on cooking and weaving classes, visits to temples and museums, and even learning to create eco-friendly paper from recycled elephant dung. This program has a bit of everything –  service, adventure, and nature – all set in the breathtaking landscapes of Northern Thailand.

Sample Itinerary

Day

Activities

More Details

Day 1
Welcome to Chiang Mai!
Arrive in Chiang Mai, explore Wat Chedi Luang, engage with monks, welcome dinner.
Day 2
Elephant Introduction
Visit Chang Chill Elephant Sanctuary, prepare elephant snacks and supplements, check-in & dinner, bonfire.
Day 3-4
Project work
Morning activity, farm visit, community land work, grow and harvest food for elephants, seed collection, team building games and bonfire.
Day 5
Nature and Nurseries
Observe elephants at the sanctuary, learn from mahauts, collect seeds for propagation, dinner with the community
Day 6
The journey back
Hike to waterfall, visit Elephant PooPooPaper Park to learn and make eco-friendly paper, drive back to Chiang Mai, dinner, visit to night market
Day 7
Chiang Mai Day and Departure
Visit Chiang Mai museum and enjoy lunch before heading to the airport

Addressing the UN Sustainable Development Goals

SDG #11. Sustainable Cities and Communities: This project strengthens regional development planning by providing sustainable income for an ethnic minority community, while supporting an ethical local employer.
SDG #12. Responsible Consumption and Production: Students have the opportunity to learn from leaders in this community and observe organic sustainable farming principles in practice.
SDG #15. Life on Land: Students will protect, restore and promote sustainable use of ecosystems, sustainably manage forests and combat deforestation

Customise Your Program

All of our programs are fully customizable. Co-create your program together with WV to match your curriculum, educational goals, and travel plans. Contact us with your requirements and and will be in touch to assist.