About Us
Kindred Spirit Elephant Sanctuary (KSES) is a non-profit foundation working alongside Karen communities in Northern Thailand to support elephant welfare, sustainable livelihoods and the protection of the forests they depend on.
Our elephants live in the forest, where they are able to move, forage, socialise and rest according to their own rhythms. Our approach prioritises autonomy, space and natural behaviour. Visitors do not touch, feed, bathe or ride the elephants. Instead, they hike through the forest and observe them from a respectful distance, learning to appreciate elephants as individuals with their own needs, relationships and behaviours.
Alongside our elephant welfare work, we contribute to behavioural research, community initiatives, environmental projects and education. We work closely with the local Karen community, recognising and valuing the knowledge, experience and long-standing relationships that exist within the community. Our work is based on collaboration, with initiatives developed alongside the people who live and work here.
KSES is a small organisation, and collaboration is at the heart of what we do. Our visitors, interns, mahouts, community members, researchers and partner organisations all contribute to the work we share: supporting elephant welfare, community life and the forest environment in ways that are respectful of the people and place at the heart of KSES.
Program at a glance
Why choose us?
This internship is an exciting opportunity for current or recently graduated science university students who want to gain more practical scientific work experience. It is also perfect for anyone with an interest in research, fieldwork, or collecting data on animal behaviour.
At Kindred Spirit Elephant Sanctuary, you'll gain hands-on experience observing elephants in their natural environment, collecting and recording behavioural data, and developing your understanding of field research.
If you want to have a unique experience hiking in the forest to observe the elephants record their natural behaviours in their home environment, then Kindred Spirit Elephant Sanctuary is the right place for you.
Alongside our work with elephants, we are closely connected with the local community and the people of Ban Naklang. Interns have the opportunity to experience life in a rural Thai village, learn about the local environment and culture, and become part of our small team during their stay.
Come and join us for the experience of a lifetime, while gaining valuable field experience and learning more about elephant behaviour, the environment and life in a rural Karen community.
Requirements
- You must be at least 18 years old on the programme start date to join our internship programme. In some cases, we may be able to accept applicants under 18 if they are accompanied by a parent or guardian.
- Be fluent in English
Volunteer experience
A research volunteer's tasks vary from day-to-day. Our days begin with early morning hikes through the forest to find the elephants, staying with them while observing and collecting in their natural behaviour. Hikes will usually return to the village around early afternoon but the day doesn't end there. The afternoons will consist of completing project work with some evenings being spent giving talks and presentations on elephant research or conservation to create awareness and educate our guests.
- 1 week (6 days / 5 nights): US$475
- 2 weeks: US$950
- 3 weeks: US$1,250
- 4 weeks: US$1,550
- 5 weeks: US$1,700
- 6 weeks: US$1,850
- 7 weeks: US$2,000
- 8 weeks: US$2,150
Volunteers stay with local host families, providing a direct source of income for the community while offering an authentic cultural experience.
Each homestay is unique and may include a private room inside the family home or a separate wooden hut nearby. Accommodation is simple but comfortable and includes a Western-style toilet, cold shower, mattress, bedding, mosquito net, fan, extension cord for charging electronics, and filtered drinking water.
- Three meals per day
- Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options available
- Other dietary requirements can be accommodated
We are based in a small, peaceful Karen village in the mountains of Northern Thailand. The area is quite remote, but weekends are free for volunteers to relax and explore. Transport to nearby attractions or further destinations can be arranged at an additional cost.
Photos (14 total)
Showing 5 of 14 photos
