from 692€

Excellent 4.8rating (240)

Wildlife Rescue Centre

location
1 - 12 weeks  ·  Age 18 - 50+

rating  Excellent 4.8  · 
  Verified by Volunteer World
  Very high response rate

Volunteer project with the highest quality. This project sets unprecedented standards in quality - an unparalleled level of excellence.

Highlights

  • Thailand is known as the "Land of Smiles" due to the friendly and welcoming nature of its people
  • Relax at the Cha-am Beach: Enjoy the tranquil beach and warm water perfect for swimming and sunbathing, along with a variety of water sports activities.
  • Explore the Kaeng Krachan National Park: Experience the untouched wilderness of Thailand, featuring jungle trekking, rafting, and bird watching.
  • Thailand is home to numerous stunning temples. There are approximately 40,000 temples in the country, each with its own architectural design and religious significance
  • Thailand is famous for its cuisine, known for its bold flavors and unique combination of sweet, sour, and spicy tastes. For example; Pad Thai, green curry, and mango sticky rice

Especially suitable

Age 18+
Singles
Couples
Families
Groups
50+

About the program

Our Rescue Centre is the perfect place for volunteering with animals. Rescuing and rehabilitating a range of animals saved from the tourism and pet industry.

About

At the Wildlife Rescue Centre, we currently have over 800 animals, most of which have been rescued from horrible conditions or have been abandoned after becoming unwanted pets. We mainly look after primates such as gibbons, macaques and slow lorises, although we also care for a wide variety ...

About the program

About

At the Wildlife Rescue Centre, we currently have over 800 animals, most of which have been rescued from horrible conditions or have been abandoned after becoming unwanted pets. We mainly look after primates such as gibbons, macaques and slow lorises, although we also care for a wide variety of other animals, including Asiatic black bears, sun bears, small cats, birds, reptiles and many other species. This is a strictly hands-off program for volunteers. There is no physical animal interaction as we hope to release as many as back to the wild.         


Why this program
Since its inception the, Wildlife Rescue Centre has given shelter to 1000’s of wild animals. Many of these animals are rehabilitated and released back to the wild. Those that cannot be released are provided with shelter for the rest of their lives.

The Wildlife Rescue Centre is the perfect place for volunteering with animals. We require a team of dedicated volunteers throughout the year. With us, you will have the amazing opportunity to volunteer in Thailand working with animals and helping us to care for a wide variety of rescued wildlife.

Thailand has rich biological diversity. However, sadly increasingly, human pressures such as over exploitation, habitat loss and habitat degradation, are pushing many of Thailand creatures to the brink of extinction. Young gibbons, macaques, lorises, bears and other wild animals are commonly illegally poached from the wild to be sold as pets, photo-props and are used in other inhumane tourist attractions. We are trying our best to get those animals out of the miserable conditions they are living in, and to educate both local and international communities about animal welfare and wildlife conservation.

At the rescue centre you will find 6 species of gibbon, 6 species of macaque, lorises, 2 species of langur, 2 species of bear, large and small wild cats, various civet species, reptiles, otters, birds and many more. All the animals you will see around the center have been rescued from poor living conditions, saved from the illegal wildlife trade, the pet industry, the tourism and entertainment industry, or directly from the wild, where they may have been victims of road traffic accidents, dog attacks or other human caused accidents.

Where feasible we try to provide the rescued animals within our care an environment as close to “nature” as possible. Our overall objective will always be to rehabilitate and release these animals back to the wild. Unfortunately for some of the animals you see around the center, this is often difficult and in some cases not feasible at all.

At the Wildlife Rescue Centre volunteers usually work long days, around 8-9 hours; without the invaluable contribution from volunteers the center would simply not be able to function. Although difficult at times the volunteer work at the centre is highly rewarding.

We take our rescue and rehabilitation work very seriously. Please be aware the centre is strictly hands off. Volunteers will have no physical interaction with animals but will provide the essential daily and long-term needs of the animals, such as feeding, cleaning enclosures and providing stimulation in the form of behavioral and environmental enrichments.

What is included
Your program fees cover:
  • Accommodation (See below for detailed information)
  • On Site Support Staff
  • Airport Collection (See below for detailed information)
  • Food & Water (3 Meals per day)
  • Contribution to the rescue centre towards the animal's care and food
  • Wifi
  • Welcome Orientation
  • Registration Fee
How do I get to the placement
You will stay on site at the volunteer base area of the elephant refuge. Surrounded by lush foliage and amazing views.

What will I be doing
Throughout the working day, you will be covering the core tasks of the centre to keep it running. Including; Preparing and distributing food, Creating and sharing behavioral enrichments, assisting with environmental enrichments, cleaning of enclosures and animal pools as well as general site and forest maintenance and upkeep. 

The working day starts at 6:30, volunteers will normally finish work around 17:00, with several breaks throughout the day for breakfast, lunch and water and toilet breaks. Volunteers are expected to work 6 days a week with one day off. The work can be quite physically demanding but the end result is always well worth it.

Volunteers will be assigned to work groups each day by the volunteer coordinators, and work with team leaders who are longer-term experienced volunteers who assist and guide their teams throughout daily tasks. Each person has their own pace, their own strengths and weaknesses. You are kindly asked to respect that not everyone has the same abilities and may work at a different pace to yourself. Everyone is here to help the animals and makes their contribution in their own way. Please speak to the volunteer coordinators if you feel you have been given too much or too little work for your personal abilities, as there are plenty of tasks to suit all. 

All volunteers during their time will be asked to assist in additional tasks to help us run the volunteer house such as Doggie Duty. Typically, two people per day are chosen to help with each. Doggie Duty involves caring for some of the dogs that live at the volunteer house. This involves washing, feeding and walking the dogs. Volunteer coordinators will be around to answer any questions, and monitor and observe each group throughout the day. You, the volunteers help a lot around the center with daily tasks and large ongoing projects. Without you, it would not at all be possible.

Who will I be working with
Volunteers at the Wildlife Rescue Centre will spend their time with the Centre team and fellow international volunteers from around the world.

What should I bring
We suggest; Lightweight work clothes you do not mind sweating in and getting dirty (shorts and t-shirts), Long sleeve top(s) and trousers to protect you from mosquito bites in the evenings, Sunhat, cap or bandana, Torch/flashlight, Alarm clock, Power adaptor, Your own towels (can be bought locally although choice is limited), Comfortable shoes or sandals (your feet will get wet no matter what time of year due to the nature of some of the work), Lightweight rainproof clothing (e.g. poncho - cheap quality ones can be bought locally), Ensure your mobile phone is unlocked if you wish to buy a Thai sim card, Simple first aid kit with plasters, bandages, antiseptics and various medications for gastric bug, Working gloves are recommended when harvesting food for the animals, and essential when composting and High-factor sun-cream/sunglasses are recommended.

What you can expect from us
Our Volunteer Coordinators are able to help whenever you need assistance. They can help with scheduling issues, animal issues, illness, emergencies back home, as well as personal support while you are away from home. Our coordinators can be very busy, but we have an open door policy so you can come and talk to us any time you need. Each week our volunteer coordinators hold a volunteer meeting to provide updates on the animals, and to resolve any work related issues that have arisen during the week prior, as well as to allow volunteers the chance to ask questions about the animals or their volunteer experience.

What we expect from you
Volunteers are very much appreciated and are essential to the proper running of the rescue center; however, in all that we do the animals must come first. We encourage you to make friends and socialize after work in the evenings. However please always be respectful to the animals, other volunteers and staff that live here. There is a limit to the amount of noise and disturbance that can take place at the rescue centre, and any unruly partying or reckless behaviour will not be tolerated.

In order to become an elephant volunteer with us you need to fulfill the following criteria:
• You must be in good physical and mental condition
• You must be able to tolerate hot and humid climate
• You must be able to speak English or Thai
• You must be 18 years old or over
• You must have a positive and practical attitude towards animal welfare and wildlife conservation

Typical day

The working day starts at 6:30am, volunteers will normally finish work around 17:00pm, with several breaks throughout the day for breakfast, lunch and water and toilet breaks.

Tasks during the day include;
  • Prepare and distribute food
  • Create and share behavioral enrichments
  • Assist with environmental ...

Typical day

The working day starts at 6:30am, volunteers will normally finish work around 17:00pm, with several breaks throughout the day for breakfast, lunch and water and toilet breaks.

Tasks during the day include;
  • Prepare and distribute food
  • Create and share behavioral enrichments
  • Assist with environmental enrichments
  • Clean animal enclosures and scrubbing of animal pools
  • General site maintenance including forest area maintenance and upkeep.

Free-time activities

There are many locations at the centre for you to relax, read, or get in touch with home. There is a temple close by that you are welcome to visit, and a river to swim in, and of course socializing with other volunteers from around the world. Most weeks we have a group activity night for volunteers ...

Free-time activities

There are many locations at the centre for you to relax, read, or get in touch with home. There is a temple close by that you are welcome to visit, and a river to swim in, and of course socializing with other volunteers from around the world. Most weeks we have a group activity night for volunteers and staff, including educational talks, soccer matches or trivia nights! In the local village there are markets, restaurants and small shops for you to explore. There is also a night market mid-week in the nearby town of Cha-am (30 minute taxi ride), where there are also some bars and restaurants. A wider choice of shopping, larger night markets and restaurants can be found in the city of Hua-Hin (45 minute taxi ride). The volunteer coordinators will organize taxis upon request.

You can also visit Cha-am and Hua-Hin and explore the cities and surrounding areas during your day off. Some volunteers visit the temples in Phetchaburi (45 minutes taxi ride) or go nature trekking in one of the nearby national parks. We can also organise trips to Kaeng Krachan National Park and Kui Buri National Park.

Requirements

Requirements

Minimum Age: 18 years

In order to join the program you need to be at least 18 years old on the program start date. There might be exemptions if you can provide the permission of your legal guardian(s) or if your are accompanied by your parents.

Language Skills

You need to speak English (basic level)

Nationality Restrictions

No restrictions. Helping hands from all over the world are welcome.

Other Skills

• You must be in good physical and mental condition • You must be able to tolerate hot and humid climate • You must be able to speak English or Thai • You must be 18 years old or over • You must have a positive and practical attitude towards animal welfare and wildlife conservation

Time Commitment

Your helping hand will be required on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 06:30 - 17:00

What's Included

What's Included

Services by Atlas Volunteers

Your program fees cover;
  • Pre Departure Support & Guidance
  • Airport Collection
  • Welcome Orientation & Tour
  • Food (3 Meals per day)
  • Drinking Water
  • On Site Support Staff & Volunteer Coordinator
  • Wifi at camp
  • Weekly fresh bed linen
  • Contribution to the elephant refuge to cover running costs such as food and medical care for the elephants

Airport Pickup at Suvarnabhumi Airport

We are able to collect volunteers from either Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK), Don Mueang Airport (DMK), or a hotel. We are able to arrange transfers from Bangkok between 6AM and 2PM.

The best time for a hotel pick-up from Bangkok is 9AM.

Our volunteer programs start on a Sunday which means the departure day will also be the Sunday of the volunteer’s final week.

Accommodation

Volunteers stay in European style, concrete and brick bungalows. Most accommodation is 2 to 4 people per room in single sex rooms, with the exceptions of couples, friends and families. Your pillow, blanket and bedsheets are provided to you during your stay. You are welcome to change your bedsheets weekly if you would like fresh linen. The room generally have shared bathrooms with a western style toilet and cold showers.

Your rooms are cleaned before your arrival, and we ask all volunteers to look after their own space by keeping your personal area tidy. Keys for rooms are provided, you will need to pay a deposit until safe return of the key. All rooms have electrical outlets for you to use. In Thailand we use two flat pins, or two round pins, of 220v. There are 2 communal areas where volunteers eat meals, socialize and where all your work and life at the Wildlife Centre is coordinated.

Free use of Wi-Fi is available at certain areas of the facility for basic use such as; check emails, social media and for booking flights or hotels. We politely ask that this facility not be used to download large files such as movies.

Food & Beverages

All your meals are provided during your stay and cooked by our staff. For breakfast we provide an assortment of rotating items including bread, jams and butter, eggs, seasonal fruit, pancakes, milk, tea and coffee. Lunch and dinner are predominantly traditional local Thai cuisine. However we do have Western dinners twice a week. At all meal times there are clearly labeled ‘meat’, ‘vegetarian’ and ‘vegan’ options.

Clean drinking water is also provided in a number of locations on site for volunteers.

There is also a small bar (Not part of the catering package) where you can buy soft drinks, coffee, smoothies and snacks. The bar is open after work from 5PM to 7PM for volunteers who would like to socialize, and there are alcoholic beverages available.

Internet Access

Good access at the project site

What's NOT included?

What's NOT included?

Flight Tickets

The nearest airport is Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) in Bangkok. We assist you to find cheap flights to Thailand. FIND CHEAP FLIGHTS

Travel Insurance

Going abroad is an adventure and it is always best to be prepared. Sudden illness or injury, cancellation or theft - a travel insurance for Thailand provides security and is a plus to have. GET A QUOTE

Vaccines

If you are intending to volunteer in Thailand you should seek medical advice before starting your social journey. Check your required vaccinations for Thailand. VACCINE CHECKER

Details on arrival

This program is available all throughout the year.

Our volunteer programs start on a Sunday which means the departure day will also be the Sunday of the volunteer’s final week.

We are able to collect volunteers from either Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK), Don Mueang Airport (DMK), or a hotel.  We are able to arrange transfers from Bangkok between 6AM and 2PM. The best time for a hotel pick-up from Bangkok is 9AM.
Availability
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

Program fees

1 week (min. stay) 692€
2 weeks 1,034€
3 weeks 1,223€
4 weeks 1,428€
5 weeks 1,588€
6 weeks 1,755€
7 weeks 1,914€
8 weeks 2,081€
9 weeks 2,248€
10 weeks 2,408€
11 weeks 2,575€
12 weeks (max. stay) 2,611€
Average fees 454€/week

Program fees

454€ per week 1 - 12 weeks Age 18 - 50+

Payment methods

Visa Master Card Maestro American Express PayPal

NO CREDIT CARD FEES


Duration

1 - 12 weeks

Deposit

The deposit is simply to reserve your volunteer placement. Payments are handled by PayPal, our trusted global payment provider. If you don't have a PayPal account, you can also pay using a credit card.


Final Payment

Your final payment will be agreed with Atlas Volunteers during the application process. Common solutions are either via bank transfer or a cash payment at the project site.


Meet your organization

Atlas Volunteers

Excellent 4.8 rating (240 reviews)

Non-profit - founded in 2017

Verified by Volunteer World

  Very high response rate

Coordinated by

Sam

Spoken languages: English

About the project

Atlas Volunteers is an NGO providing affordable & meaningful volunteer placements in rural Ghana, Thailand & Cambodia. Created by volunteers, for volunteers.

Meet your organization

Who We Are?

We're a team of volunteers that wanted to startup a volunteer organisation truly by volunteers for volunteers. The initial founders of the team met whilst volunteering in Ghana from 2010 onwards. After becoming the largest volunteer organisation in Ghana in 2023 where we focus on development within our rural areas, we answered the call in 2024 to help our partners on the ground elsewhere in the world whilst still maintaining the same Atlas standards of creating meaningful & affordable volunteering programs for people from all over the world to come lend a hand so that we can leave the world in a better place whilst getting to experience new people, countries and cultures from a meaningful travel experience.

What We Do?

Our volunteer team and support coordinators work directly with our local community partners to help make an impact and leave the world a better place than we found it. Our team work across

  • Education - including school support, tutoring sessions, reading clubs and vacation classes.
  • Sports - Football academy, physical education lessons and school sports days.
  • Renovation - Constructing and maintenance of unsafe school buildings as well as decorating and improvements.
  • Eco Projects - including reforestation, plastics upcycling and community cleanups.
  • Community - farm assistant and health insurance drives.
  • Conservation - Sea Turtle & Elephant conservation programs.

Where We Work?

Our main flagship program is based at the Abetifi district in the Eastern Region of Ghana. It holds the highest habitable town in Ghana upon a mountainous area so we have the benefit of a cooler overall temperature especially on the evenings and mornings. The volunteer house is in one of the towns close to Abetifi called Aduamoah. Abetifi is our closest larger town just a few minutes drive where there are banks, shops, market etc. The volunteer programs you will be visiting will be spread from the towns to just twenty minutes down the road on the road to Lake Volta (the largest man made lake in the world) where we work with remote villages to strengthen their facilities and improve their way of life. Life is fairly laid back in the area and time is soon spent chatting with people in passing and visiting friends. The Kwahu area has an extremely low crime rate and volunteers are given the chance and encouraged to explore the local towns alone or in groups with our team.

We also run our sea turtle conservation project at Cape Three Points between September - March each year during the nesting season. Cape Three Points is a complete contract to Abetifi where it's a tiny rural village but benefits from the most amazing beach and forest views. In 2024 we have also launched programs in Thailand and Cambodia with really exciting programs that are genuinely making a difference to conservation, education and community development efforts on the ground.

Our History

Our Mission


Who Are We Looking For?

We are looking for flexible, caring volunteers who have the drive to not only help but to familiarise themselves with the local culture and characters. The ability to work outside of your usual comfort zone will not make your trip easiest but help towards our social impact goals.

240 reviews · rating4.8

Anna H rating5

2024 at Wildlife Rescue Centre

An absolutely amazing place and people that really care about the animals and make sure that not only they are safe, healthy and have lots of space, but also make friends and don't feel alone. Proper rescue center where the animals are finding a good place to live, as close as possible to their ...
Sarah B rating5

2024 at Wildlife Rescue Centre

Incredible place focused of rehabilitating rescued and abused animals. Worked there for a week with all the amazing volunteers and they work their butts off to keep these animals well fed, engaged and clean. The systems and structures in place are first rate and the animals in their care receive ...
Chiara Di rating5

2024 at Wildlife Rescue Centre

An intense and unforgettable experience, which I recommend to anyone visiting Thailand. We saw animals saved and cared for, treated with respect, we listened to their stories that we will not forget. Highly ...
Hugh rating5

2024 at Wildlife Rescue Centre

An amazing organisation, Volunteered here for 2 weeks and loved every minute of it. I never knew so much went into the daily runnings of a sanctuary / rehabilitation centre - But after working here I have a deep respect for the selfless work provided by both the staff and the volunteers. You really ...
Steven S rating5

2024 at Wildlife Rescue Centre

Our visit to the centre was inspirational concerning its activities in regard to conservation. But so sad when the explanations are detailed throughout the day on how badly the animals were treated before they were rescued. If you travel to Thailand and decide that you want to take the opportunity ...
Lila B rating4.8

2024 at Wildlife Rescue Centre

The overall experience was very good. I can tell from my time there, that the animals are well looked after, and although they might look sad in the cages, they are given the best space and habitat within their possibilities. They have special diets and have feeding schedules. So, don’t think that ...

Location

Asia > South East Asia > Thailand > Amphoe Thayang

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Contact Sam
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