Mae Wang District, Thailand
Elephant trails & cultural immersion in the jungles of Northern Thailand
Step into the jungle of Chiang Mai and connect deeply with nature and culture. Travelers will walk alongside elephants, learn Karen traditions, and discover sustainable ways of living. With a balance of hikes, community exchanges, and mindful downtime by the fire or under the stars, this journey offers both impact and meaning. Meals, pick-up, and guided support are all included for a safe and transformative experience.
- Jack
- Worldpackers host since Aug/2024
- Reserve your spot now from US$ 407.50
Starting from
US$ 1,350 for 7 days (US$ 192.86/day)
US$ 1,450 for 7 days
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Join 36 worldpackers who've loved having this experience
Available dates
Mar/24/2026 Mar/30/2026
- Available
đđ Thailand Elephant Immersion with Maria Hashmi
An ethical conservation adventure led by a NatGeo Explorer Join Maria Hashmi (@rebelzoologist) for a once-in-a-lifetime journey into the heart of Thailandâs elephant conservation efforts. Over the course of this immersive experience, youâll connect deeply with elephants, learn from local conservationists, and participate in hands-on fieldwork while living in one of the most breathtaking landscapes on Earth. What makes this trip special? đż Science & Storytelling Maria brings her expertise as a National Geographic Young Explorer and childhood educator to guide you through the ecology, behavior, and cultural significance of Asian elephants. She blends scientific insight with storytelling in a way thatâs engaging, accessible, and unforgettable. đ Ethical Elephant Encounters This is conservation work â not tourism. Youâll spend time observing natural behaviors, assisting with daily care routines, collecting data, supporting enrichment, and learning about the challenges elephants face in human-dominated landscapes. đ¤ Community-Led Impact Work alongside local experts who dedicate their lives to elephant protection. Youâll contribute directly to ongoing conservation initiatives, from habitat restoration to sustainable community education programs. đĄ Immersive Cultural Experience Live in a rural Thai community surrounded by mountains and forests. Experience traditional meals, learn local practices, and form meaningful connections with the people protecting Thailandâs wildlife. đ Nature, Connection & Growth Expect peaceful mornings, meaningful conversations, and moments that reconnect you with nature and yourself. This trip is designed to foster empathy, purpose, and a deeper understanding of our role in global conservation. Who is this trip for? ⨠Nature lovers ⨠Aspiring conservationists ⨠Students ⨠Adventure seekers ⨠Anyone wanting ethical elephant experiences ⨠People craving connection, purpose, and field experience ⨠Spots open November 28th. đŹ Group chat reopens November 24th for all official details. đ¸ Start dreaming â Thailand is coming.
Show more- Reserve your spot now from US$ 232.60
Starting from
US$ 1,036
US$ 1,236
-16%
5 spots left
Mar/31/2026 Apr/06/2026
- Available
Hang out at an Elephant Sanctuary with us!
Spend a week with me in northern Thailand getting up close to elephants and immersed in Karen village life. Weâll hike jungle trails, observe the gentle giants, learn how to make their herbal snacks, and cool off at waterfalls. Expect chill campfire nights, good food, and a whole lot of laughs with an awesome crew. Itâs the perfect mix of adventure, culture, and giving backâan easy vibe, epic memories, and an experience youâll never forget.
Show more- Reserve your spot now from US$ 407.50
Starting from
US$ 1,350
US$ 1,450
-7%
4 spots left
Apr/21/2026 Apr/27/2026
- Available
Travel with Britta
Hi, itâs Britta! I am so excited to be hosting my first group trip with worldpackers and get the chance to learn more about our beautiful world and different cultures! Wildlife conservation is a huge passion of mine so this trip is extra special to me as we get to work with these elephants. I am looking forward to meeting like-minded people who love to travel while making a positive impact and really immerse themselves in different cultures đđ
Show more- Reserve your spot now from US$ 395.15
Starting from
US$ 1,129
Itinerary
Day 1
Morning
Pick-up time!
Touch down in Northern Thailand and meet your dedicated driver at Chiang Mai (CNX) or the local station.Relax and enjoy a smooth, worry-free transition as we handle all the logistics to get you safely to the heart of the project.
Afternoon
Lunch & Rest
Settle into your new home with a light, authentic meal and take a moment to breathe after your journey. This is your time to decompress, wander through the serene surroundings, and get a feel for the local rhythm. Relax, connect with your fellow travelers, and begin your Thai adventure with a sense of peace and curiosity.
Evening
Welcome Dinner & Game Night
Break the ice over your first authentic meal as a group. This is where the journey truly beginsâsharing flavors and stories with fellow travelers. Afterward, jump into some optional games designed to spark laughs and build early bonds. Itâs the perfect, low-pressure way to turn strangers into your new travel tribe.
Day 2
Morning
Breakfast
Start your morning with a delicious and energizing breakfast before heading out for the day's adventures.
Elephant Hike
Experience the raw beauty of the jungle on an elephant-led hike. Instead of just watching, the traveler will join these majestic creatures on their daily journey through the wilderness. This immersive trek is all about observing their natural behaviors and forming a genuine, ethical bond while surrounded by Thailandâs breathtaking greenery.
Afternoon
Lunch
Recharge for the day with a nutritious and fresh meal.
Elephant Food Preparation
Roll up your sleeves and get hands-on with the daily care of these gentle giants. The group will help chop fresh sugarcane, bananas, and local grasses to prepare nutritious, high-energy meals. Itâs a rhythmic, grounding task that brings the traveler closer to the elephants' well-being and the heart of sanctuary life.
Waterfall time
Trek into the lush Thai jungle to discover a hidden oasis. Cool off from the tropical heat with a refreshing swim in crystal-clear natural pools, surrounded by the sights and sounds of the wild. Itâs the ultimate moment to reset, disconnect from the world, and fully immerse yourself in the raw beauty of the islandâs interior.
Evening
Dinner & Campfire
Gather under the starlit Thai sky for a communal dinner that celebrates local flavors and connection. After the meal, the group will head to the campfire to share stories, reflect on the dayâs impact, and bond over the crackle of the flames. Itâs the perfect, high-vibe ending to a day of meaningful immersion in the heart of nature.
Day 3
Morning
Breakfast
Start your morning with a delicious and energizing breakfast at the camp.
Elephant Hike: Deepening the Bond
Return to the jungle for an even more intimate experience. Now that the initial introductions are over, the traveler will walk alongside these gentle giants with a deeper sense of connection. Observing their natural interactions in the wild offers a profound perspective on conservationâthis isn't just a walk; itâs about becoming part of their world.
Afternoon
Lunch
Recharge with a nutritious and fresh meal.
Herbal Remedies for Elephants
Go beyond observation and become an active caregiver. You'll learn the ancient art of crafting natural herbal supplements, using local ingredients to support elephant digestion and health. Itâs a hands-on, aromatic experience that connects you deeply to Thai traditions and the well-being of these gentle giants.
Elephant Food Preparation
Back by popular demand! Get hands-on with the fresh, tropical harvestsâsugarcane, bananas, and wild grasses. Itâs more than just a meal; itâs about understanding the specific nutritional needs of each elephant and showing love through the care you put into every basket.
Evening
Cooking Class & Dinner
Food is the heart of culture. Join this hands-on session to discover the secrets of Thai cuisine using sustainable, local produce. The traveler will gain new skills while bonding with the group over a self-made feast. This is the perfect time to slow down, share stories, and connect deeply with the local heritage through every bite.
Day 4
Morning
Breakfast
Start your morning with a delicious and energizing breakfast at the camp.
Day trip to Doi Inthanon National Park
Journey to the "Roof of Thailand" for a day of pure wonder. Breathe in the crisp mountain air as you explore lush forest trails, stand before roaring waterfalls, and witness the unique wildlife of Doi Inthanon. From the highest peak in the country to the serene Twin Pagodas, this is where you truly connect with the power of nature.
Afternoon
Lunch
Recharge your energies with a meal provided during the excursion.
Park's Pagoda Visit
Journey to the summit to witness the iconic National Park pagodas, where ancient architecture meets the sky. Beyond the spiritual heritage, the traveler will be rewarded with breathtaking, 360-degree views of the mist-covered mountains. Itâs the perfect moment for the group to pause, reflect, and capture the raw beauty of Thailand.
Evening
Dinner & Campfire
As the sun sets, savor a delicious dinner prepared with local heart. The evening continues around the campfireâa space for deep conversations, laughter, and shared experiences. Feel the warmth of the flames and the tropical breeze as you unwind from the day's adventures, making memories that go far beyond the typical tourist path.
Day 5
Morning
Breakfast
Start your morning with a delicious and energizing breakfast at the camp.
Elephant Hike
The bond becomes second nature. Trek through the lush Thai jungle alongside your rescued companions, moving beyond observation into true connection. This hike is about the subtle detailsâunderstanding their rhythms and feeling like a trusted part of the herd in their natural habitat. A truly grounding experience.
Afternoon
Lunch
Recharge with a nutritious and fresh meal.
Get to know the surrounding area
Step off the beaten path and into the heart of rural Thailand. The group will wander through lush, golden rice paddies, learning the rhythms of daily life directly from the local community. Itâs more than a walkâitâs a deep dive into the landscapes and traditions that define this region, offering a rare, soulful connection to the land.
Evening
Dinner
Taste traditional dishes and share stories from the day's activities.
Cinema Under the Stars
Wind down your day with an immersive movie experience in the heart of the outdoors. The group will gather for a curated film screening under the vast Thai night sky, creating the perfect atmosphere to relax and connect. Itâs more than just a movie; itâs a moment of pure chill and community connection after a day of purposeful adventure.
Day 6
Morning
Breakfast
Start your morning with a delicious and energizing breakfast at the camp.
Elephant Hike: One Last Journey Together
For the final time, the group will walk alongside these gentle giants through the heart of the jungle. After days of connection, this hike is more than a walkâitâs a moment of profound gratitude and reflection. Soak in the silence of the forest and cherish these last steps with your new companions before saying your goodbyes.
Afternoon
Lunch
Recharge with a nutritious and fresh meal.
Bracelet Beading
Master the art of traditional beadwork under the guidance of skilled Karen artisans. This isnât just about making jewelry; itâs a slow-living experience where youâll learn the symbolism behind the patterns and colors used by the community. Create a unique, handmade keepsake that carries the story and soul of the village with you.
Free Time
Use this time to wander through our lush surroundings, recharge in the common areas, or share stories with fellow travelers. Whether you're journaling in a quiet corner or connecting with the group, this is your space to fully decompress and integrate the magic of the Thai wilderness at your own pace.
Evening
Farewell Dinner
Celebrate your final night under the Thai stars with a soulful communal feast. The group will gather around a crackling campfire to reflect on the journey, share laughs, and honor the deep connections made with the land and each other. Itâs more than a mealâitâs a final moment of gratitude before you head home with a new perspective.
Day 7
Morning
Breakfast
Enjoy one last breakfast with the group.
Departure
As your journey in Thailand comes to a close, take a final moment to soak in the beauty of the community. The group will depart from the homestay at 12:00 PM (noon) via shuttle, reflecting on the impact made and bonds formed. Expect to arrive at the airport around 2:00 PM, carrying home memories of a truly purposeful immersion.
What's included
What's not included
Requirements
- Intermediate English
- Over 18 years old
Activities
See the activities that will make your trip into an epic adventure.
Learning opportunities
Contribute to your project and make a positive impact while developing new skills.
Morning elephant walks
Walk alongside elephants in their natural habitat and learn about their behavior and routine.
Elephant food preparation
Prepare sugarcane, bananas and grasses for elephant meals.
Cooking classes
Cook Thai and Karen dishes with local ingredients and the host's help.
Herbal remedies for elephants
Learn how to make traditional herbal medicine to care for elephants.
Immersion activities
Get to know the local culture and have an authentic travel experience with activities included in your itinerary.
Rice planting
Join locals in planting rice fields the traditional way.
This activity is seasonal, with its peak season running from May to July.
Hand-harvesting
This activity is seasonal, with its peak season running from October to November.
Seasonal
Stargazing
Relax under clear jungle skies and watch the stars above.
This activity is seasonal, with its peak season running from November to February.
Extra activities
Additional activities for you to enjoy this adventure even more in your free time.
Visit Doi Inthanon National Park
Discover Thailandâs highest peak and take time to do hikings along its waterfalls and forests.
INCLUDED in the price
Beaded bracelet making
Design a colorful bracelet guided by Karen artisans.
This activity has an extra cost, please contact the host to schedule it.
Karen and Thai Class
Learn basic Karen and Thai phrases to connect locally.
This activity has an extra cost; please contact the host to schedule it.
Videos
Sierra
United States
I really enjoyed my stay at Jack's place! I loved spending time with the two elephants, the food was great, accommodations were cozy, and the location of the home stay is right next to the river and is so beautiful. There is plenty of free time to spend as you choose, whether that's laying in a hammock with a book or swimming in the river and laying in the sun. Jack really cares about his two elephants and it shows in how well he takes care of them. I would definitely recommend this experience to anyone looking to get out of the city, spend time in nature, and see some elephants.
2 months ago
Jente
Belgium
Jack made us feel at home at this beautiful place in the jungle. He knows a lot about elephants in general and takes care of Khao and Pailine very well. He runs a homestay for visitors and has volunteers coming at the samen time. The food is very good, they separate spicy and non spicy :). There is a waterfall next to the homestay where you can swim. The main job is to bring food (corn, Sugar cane...) to the elephants, walk with them and watch them. In the afternoon, you are free to do what you want. Jack is a lovely and funny person. I would definately recommend this stay !
3 months ago
Tuanny
Brazil
5 starts are not enough for Jack and his family! I feel so proud of them, it made me start off my journey in Thailand on the right foot. Jack is an incredible human being, absolutely generous, patient, sensitive and understanding about everything. Not only he was effortless in explaining us every detail of how the beautiful elephants live and need, but also tried his best to make every volunteer feel comfortable in each period of the day. These 7 days I spent on this project had a great impact on my personal development, which I am and will always be fully grateful for Jack and his peers â¤ď¸
4 months ago
Nick
United States
Wow. I've been here one day and I can tell you in full confidence, that this is one of the greatest experiences of my life. Jack is so kind and welcoming and always makes sure we're well fed. The rooms are great and private showers. You wake up and step out of your room onto a porch looking out o na waterfall. There's hammocks, a fire pit, kitchen, and everything you could need. It's beautiful, peaceful, quiet, and beautiful. The experiences with the elephants is amazing. You get to feed them and go into the water with them as well. I am so happy and 100% recommend this to everyone
4 months ago
Renske
Netherlands
I really enjoyed my 4 days stay in the homestay and with the elephants. Jack is a very good host and has taught us a lot about the elephant's behaviour and his mission to make them live in nature. I was nice to help out with the feeding, hiking and observe them. I would recommend this place to anyone who wants to see the elephants in a ethical, natural, and peaceful environment.
4 months ago
Madison
United States
This experience was such an amazing experience! Jack is super sweet and funny and took us around the area and to the national park/ villages on our off days. I had some stomach issues while I was there but he was super accommodating whenever I asked for it. Khao and Pailin are so cute and still playful since they're younger but the work was exactly what is stated. Super laid back and you have plenty of free time!
4 months ago
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Connect with others who will also be there
Exchange ideas with other confirmed worldpackers before your trip.
Accommodation options
Cozy shared dorms
Travelers stay in simple yet comfortable dorm-style rooms, with a maximum of four same-gender people per dorm. Amenities include beds with mattresses, blankets, towels, soap, and shampoo. A kitchen and dedicated workspace are also available. Bathrooms have flush toilets and showers, with six total bathrooms on-site. Showers are cold only, adding to the authentic jungle immersion.
- Free to use laundry machine
- Internet (under 50 Mbps)
- Use our equipped kitchen
- Dedicated Workspace
Meals
Meals blend Thai and Karen cuisine, with options for meat, vegetarian, and vegan travelers. Expect fresh rice, vegetables, local herbs, and traditional dishes. Breakfast is simple and energizing, while lunches and dinners highlight regional flavors. The host family often cooks, but travelers are welcome to join in, learning recipes firsthand. Dietary needs such as lactose-free and vegetarian are accommodated with care.
Arrival orientation
Pick-up is available from Chiang Mai Airport (CNX), bus station, train station, or local hotels. Travelers can pre-arrange a time and place, and the shuttle driver will provide clear details, including the vehicleâs license plate. On the way, there can be a quick stop at a local market or supermarket before heading directly to the project. A short orientation is given upon arrival to introduce the group to the schedule, safety guidelines, and the local culture.
About the project
This project is a community-based wildlife conservation initiative dedicated to protecting elephants and preserving Karen culture. The hosts work with local elephant caretakers and farming families, ensuring sustainable tourism benefits both animals and people. With years of experience living in the region, they integrate travelers into daily lifeâthrough cultural exchanges, conservation efforts, and local support initiatives that empower the surrounding community.
-
Top host
- This host receives a lot of worldpackers and has a high average rating.
- Languages spoken in this project
- English, Thai
- How long does it exist
- 5 years
- Worldpackers host
- Since Aug/2024
About the destination
Located in the lush mountains outside Chiang Mai, the project sits in a serene jungle setting surrounded by rice fields, waterfalls, and traditional Karen villages. Travelers can enjoy the quiet of nature, with solar and hydroelectric power providing a sustainable stay. Though remote, itâs just a couple of hours from Chiang Mai cityâperfectly balancing immersion in rural life with access to cultural landmarks, markets, and natural wonders like Doi Inthanon National Park.
Impact & Purpose
This journey empowers travelers to support elephant conservation while strengthening Karen communities. By joining daily walks, preparing natural food, and learning local practices, the group contributes directly to sustainable livelihoods. Every activityâfrom buying fruit locally to sharing traditionsâcreates positive impact, helping preserve culture, protect elephants, and promote a responsible future for tourism in the region.
This host contributes to Sustainable Development Goals
Partnerships for the goals
Collaborating with local farmers, artisans, and conservationists fosters meaningful Partnerships for the Goals.
Decent work and economic growth
Through supporting local jobs for elephant keepers and caretakers, this experience advances Decent Work and Economic Growth.
Sustainable cities and communities
By engaging with Karen traditions and sustaining rural livelihoods, travelers contribute to Sustainable Cities and Communities.
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