THAILAND
ELEPHANTS, EDUCATION & CULTURAL DISCOVERY
Formerly known as Elephant & Education Initiative
Split your time between caring for gentle Asian elephants and teaching English to children.
Highlights
FOR THE THAILAND: ELEPHANTS, EDUCATION & CULTURAL DISCOVERY PROGRAM
- Responsibly care for elephants living in a peaceful sanctuary
- Learn about cultural, social and environmental issues related to elephant tourism
- Meet enthusiastic Thai youth and contribute to their education goals
- Volunteer by supporting the educational needs of a primary school classroom
- Visit colorful night bazaars filled with local cuisine and handicrafts
Program Menu For
Elephants, Education
& Cultural Discovery
THAILAND
ELEPHANTS, EDUCATION & CULTURAL DISCOVERY
Program Overview
Journey to enchanting Chiang Mai in northern Thailand, where you’ll have the chance to engage with both Thai youth and Asian elephants. Build meaningful connections with Thai students through community service at a primary school, and take part in a cultural exchange at a local high school. Then, live alongside elephants at a sanctuary, learning how to care for these animals that play a vital role in Thai culture, conservation and tourism. Cook your own fabulous cuisine, shop at bustling markets and explore the rich history and culture of Thai temples.
Featured Theme
Featured Destinations
THAILAND
ELEPHANTS, EDUCATION & CULTURAL DISCOVERY
Community Service
Split your time between volunteering at an elephant sanctuary and teaching English to local children in schools. The goal of the sanctuary is to help these rescued animals live as naturally as possible. Work with experts, harvest organic elephant food, feed the elephants, and assist with the daily tasks of the sanctuary. Then, teach English to primary school students eager to improve their language skills. Get to know Thai culture through your peers at a local high school, sharing and learning from each other’s cultures during a cultural exchange.
Hands-On Learning
After decades of exploitation, there is much work to be done to restore the natural behaviors of Asian elephants. Raising awareness among travelers is a key part of supporting elephant welfare. Discuss complex issues regarding captive elephant welfare, tourism, and conservation, and listen to experts speak on these topics. Then, reflect on the similarities and differences in education systems and culture between East and West. Discover how practicing English with native speakers can help young learners build language skills and confidence.
Adventure
There’s adventure to be found everywhere in Chiang Mai. You’ll visit Thai markets, local parks and attractions, and the famous mountain temple of Doi Suthep. Learn the art of Muay Thai boxing and visit a local hill tribe. Get ready for a hiking adventure to Thailand’s highest mountain, Doi Inthanon, where you can explore lush gardens and magnificent viewpoints.
Lodging
Students travel to two different Home Bases on this program. At the elephant sanctuary, the group stays on the premises, in a beautiful and serene setting. During the rest of the program, students stay at a boutique resort in Chiang Mai. At both Home Bases, students share rooms with roommates and have access to shared bathrooms.
THAILAND
ELEPHANTS, EDUCATION & CULTURAL DISCOVERY
Dates & Tuition
Everything you need to know before you apply.
14-Day Program
Ages 14-18
| 2025 Dates |
|---|
| JUN 16 – JUN 29, 2025 |
| JUL 03 – JUL 16, 2025 |
| JUL 20 – AUG 02, 2025 |
Tuition Includes All In-Country Expenses
- Airport pick-up/drop-off
- In-country transportation
- Lodging
- 3 meals per day
- Professional full-time staff and experts
- 24/7 parent support hotline during the program
- Secondary medical and evacuation insurance
- Cultural activities, lectures and excursions
- Pre-departure materials and support
- Educational materials
To save your spot, an application fee and $600 deposit are required.
Backed by our 5-Point Safety System™
GLA HOME BASE:
SAFE & SECURE LODGING
CARING SUPERVISION &
EXPERT LOCAL KNOWLEDGE
SAFE
TRANSPORTATION
HEALTHY MEALS
& PURE WATER
24/7 SUPPORT &
EMERGENCY RESPONSE
Speak with the GLA Admissions Team
Admissions
Phone Number
1-858-771-0645
USA Toll-Free
Phone Number
1-888-358-4321
Admissions
Email Address
info@experienceGLA.com
THAILAND
ELEPHANTS, EDUCATION & CULTURAL DISCOVERY
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