Kaya Environmental Volunteering in Thailand

  Thailand

• Chiang Mai: 
Chiang Mai

Durations of Program: 1-2 weeks, 2-4 weeks, 5-8 weeks and 9-12 weeks
Typical Duration of Program: 2-4 weeks
Dates: The first Saturday of every month

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.

Environmental Education in Thailand:
Environmental Education volunteers join local NGOs in grassroots efforts to protect the environment. Volunteers join the international schools' education program, where they work with education staff to coordinate and implement project modules at school events at the project nurseries. Volunteers help staff to organize project workshops, assist with presentations, and report on workshop outcomes.

Conservation Research and Monitoring in Thailand:
Rebuilding a lost forest and other eco-projects are the focus of this placement, where Kaya environmental volunteers join local NGOs in their grassroots efforts to protect and preserve natural resources. Volunteers mainly participate in forest conservation and environmental education programs designed to teach locals sustainable practices, habits and pursuits.

Many of the project placements take place within Doi Suthep National Park and the surrounding area to rebuild deforested lands.

Volunteers have opportunities to engage in various environmental projects, as well as provide insight into developing small-scale eco-projects. Please be advised environmental projects and conservation efforts are restricted to certain seasons of the year.

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.

Experience Required: no

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

Participants Travel to Thailand Independently or in Groups

Typically Participants Work Independently or in Groups

Application Process Involves:

• Online Application plus Application Assessment

Post-Program 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