About Us
Stand Up 4 Elephants (SU4E) is a Belgian and Nepalese non-profit organization that has been working in Chitwan, Nepal, since 2013. The organization was founded after its founders witnessed the poor conditions endured by captive Asian elephants in the local tourism industry. Since then, SU4E has worked directly with elephant owners and mahouts (caretakers), providing free veterinary care, foot treatments, vitamins, and other support to approximately 50 elephants in the region.
In 2018, SU4E began building its own sanctuary near Chitwan National Park—a model camp demonstrating how captive elephants can be cared for more ethically with minimal resources. Beyond elephant welfare, SU4E runs community programs that support local mahout families, promote eco-farming, provide educational opportunities for children, and care for street dogs. The organization also promotes environmentally responsible tourism through sanctuary visits and awareness campaigns.
Run by a small, dedicated team in Nepal alongside its co-founders based in Belgium, SU4E puts the welfare of elephants first. The organization aims to create lasting, sustainable change through education, compassion, and community partnerships rather than short-term solutions.
Program at a glance
Why choose us?
At SU4E, you will experience genuine, hands-on involvement rather than spectator tourism. We host only two volunteers at a time, ensuring that your work has a direct and meaningful impact. Volunteers assist with the daily care of elephants, maintain camp facilities, monitor and record health data, and engage with visitors.
You will live alongside our Nepali team and mahouts, gaining an authentic and immersive understanding of elephant welfare and local life in Chitwan.
We are an organization built on volunteerism, not voluntourism. We promote responsible, low-impact tourism where animal welfare always comes first. Your participation directly supports the care of the elephants, the maintenance of the sanctuary, and our community development programs. Whether you have experience in animal care, veterinary medicine, or simply a strong passion for conservation, you will leave knowing you have made a genuine and lasting contribution to the welfare of captive elephants and the community that cares for them.
Requirements
- Commitment: Volunteers are expected to commit to the agreed dates and duration of their placement. Please note that elephants are wild animals and, by nature, can be unpredictable and potentially dangerous.
- Insurance: Valid travel insurance covering hospitalization and medical repatriation is mandatory for all volunteers.
- Liability: Volunteers are responsible for their own safety and agree to release SU4E from liability for any accidents or injuries that may occur during their stay.
- Code of Conduct: Volunteers are expected to behave professionally, respect local culture and customs, and dress modestly throughout their stay.
Volunteer experience
Life at the sanctuary follows the natural routine of the elephants, so days begin early. A typical day starts between 5:30 and 6:00 a.m. with the morning feeding and care of the elephants, followed by a variety of daily tasks that help keep the sanctuary running smoothly. Throughout the day, volunteers may assist with elephant care, prepare food, maintain and clean camp facilities, monitor and record elephant health and behavior, and support general conservation and maintenance activities. Depending on the day's needs, volunteers may also help welcome visitors and share information about the sanctuary's mission and ethical elephant welfare practices.
Work usually finishes around 5:00 p.m., with breaks provided throughout the day, including time for lunch and rest. Volunteers have one full day off each week to relax or explore the surrounding area. Accommodation is shared with fellow volunteers at the sanctuary, offering a unique opportunity to live alongside the Nepali team and mahouts while experiencing daily life in a peaceful, natural environment. Each day is different, and flexibility is essential, as the well-being of the elephants always remains the sanctuary's highest priority.
225 euros / week
Huts
- Three traditional Nepali meals per day (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
- Breakfast provided daily
- Tea, coffee, and biscuits available throughout the day
- Authentic home-cooked Nepali cuisine
- Vegetarian, vegan, and non-vegetarian meal options available
- Meals prepared using fresh, locally sourced ingredients whenever possible
Rest :)
