The Experience
Southern Thailand has it all – tropical islands dotted amongst calm turquoise waters, a thriving traditional culture and some of the best food on the planet. On this journey of wildlife immersion and cultural exploration, temples, swaying palm trees and gentle elephants will be the backdrop of your experience.
The first days will be spent exploring the cultural melting pot of Phuket and the islands sprinkled in the bay just offshore. Then travel to a sanctuary set amongst the lush rainforests of Phuket where rescued elephants are free to roam, graze and swim in their natural surroundings. Lend a hand alongside elephant caretakers, known as mahouts, and staff at the sanctuary to learn exactly what it takes to care for an elephant. Then venture out to the majestic Phi Phi Islands for two days of relaxation amongst swaying palms and white sand beaches. There is no better way to end a trip to Thailand than taking in ocean breezes from a beachfront resort.
Care for Elephants in a Remarkable Jungle Sanctuary
Mahouts, or elephant caretakers, will be by your side as you learn the daily routines of these majestic creatures in a jungle sanctuary. It is not only a once-in-a-lifetime experience, but is truly educational and will show you just how central elephants are to Thai culture.
Our Impact
Like many creatures, elephants are under threat from a variety of forces, including deforestation, illegal trade & logging. This inspired a local group to create a place where elephants can thrive in their natural habitat. This sanctuary promotes the highest of standards in elephant welfare, retiring, re-homing and rehabilitating elephants that have formerly worked in the logging and trekking industries, and mimics their native habitat.
To achieve our purpose, join mahouts, or elephant caretakers, to feed and learn about these gentle giants, clean their living areas, learn basic elephant commands, and watch them thrive in their natural habitat as you learn first-hand how elephant conservation and tourism intertwine in present day Thailand.
*This trip involves activities that require a moderate level of physical ability. It may not be suitable for guests with limited mobility, as it includes significant walking during the Elephant Sanctuary activities. Please consider these factors when determining if this trip is appropriate for your needs.
Where You’ll Stay
The journey begins at a charming hotel just steps to the tropical beaches of Phuket Island. Relax after your long flight by the hotel’s pool, venture into the nearby beachside markets or simply take in the stunning seaside views. The next three nights will be spent at a high-end 5-star boutique resort a short drive from the elephant sanctuary where we’ll be lending a hand. Perched up on one of the island’s highest points, you’ll have access to an award winning spa, pool and one of the best places to catch the sunset in Thailand. End the journey with two nights on the world famous Koh Phi Phi Island. From the 4.5 star resort located on the turquoise waters of Phi Phi, explore the best of Southern Thailand or simply relax by the resort’s pool and spa.
Itinerary Overview
Arrive in Phuket and settle into our charming hotel just steps from town and local beaches. We’ll spend the next few days exploring Phuket and the surrounding islands. Visit the famous Wat Chalong Temples, sample tasty Thai cuisine and experience traditional island village life in Koh Yao Noi Island.
The next three days will be spent at a local elephant sanctuary learning the ins and outs of elephant welfare. Relax each afternoon from the comfort of your 5-star resort. End the trip with an excursion to Koh Phi Phi island and explore the reefs and relax along the warm turquoise waters.
Your Expert Local Guide
Discover Corps’ expert family of guides around the world are by your side throughout the journey. Please note that the actual guide may vary from date-to-date.
Tom Siwarkorn
Tom is our dedicated guide in tropical Phuket. Born and raised on the island, Tom studied English and is a certified tour guide in Thailand. He prefers the simple life and loves taking our groups behind-the-scenes to see his favorite corners (and places to eat!) throughout Phuket.
Optional post-trip extensions
Discover Corps’ post-trip extensions allow you to extend your experience beyond the core itinerary and explore unique corners of the destination.
Angkor Wat (4 Days/3 Nights)
Venture to the majestic Angkor Wat Temples deep in the Cambodian jungle and relax in a gorgeous 4-star hotel & spa.
Chiang Mai Extension (4 Days/3 Nights)
Experience the beauty of Thailand’s cultural hub visiting iconic Buddhist temples and distant hill tribe villages.
Bangkok Extension (3 Days/2 Nights)
Visit the must-see sights of Thailand’s bustling capital city. Enjoy an evening cruise, tuk-tuk rides and the city’s impressive floating markets.
Traveler’s Journal
Georgia L.
Edmonds, WA
Read More Discover Corps Reviews
Rating: 5/5 stars
Dates and Prices
Our trips are inclusive of all activities, lodging, transport and most meals to make your experience hassle-free.
$4,495 Adult
$3,995 Child
- Double Occupancy Price. Children’s pricing applies to travelers 16 years old and younger sharing a room with an adult
- Single Room Supplement = $950. This will guarantee you your own, single occupancy room for the entirety of the trip. If you are a solo traveler and would like us to match you with a roommate of the same gender, please book as double occupancy. See full details here.
What’s Included:
- All meals included: 9 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 7 dinners
- 3 nights lodging at boutique hotel in Karon Beach
- 3 nights lodging at a 5-star coastal resort near the elephant sanctuary
- 2 nights lodging at 4.5 star Koh Phi Phi Island resort
- Expert local guides that are there to support, inform and guide you throughout the trip
- Reliable in-country transportation with experienced drivers
- Admissions and entrance fees to national parks, historic sites and other scheduled events throughout the trip
- An active daily itinerary including lectures, day trips and an interactive volunteer assignment alongside a local elephant sanctuary
- All gratuities for hotels, meals, baggage & transportation
- $50,000 emergency medical evacuation insurance
- 24-hour Discover Corps emergency hotline & turnkey service
What’s Not Included:
- International airfare
- One dinner and one lunch on your own
- Tips for your guide and driver
- Optional activities during time on Koh Phi Phi Island (snorkeling, long-tail boat tours, sea canoeing, cooking classes, hiking on the island & more). Your guide can help you book these adventures!
Dates
Our intimate, small-group departures consist of like-minded travelers. Don’t see a date that works? Want to make it private? Schedule a personal travel consultation and we’ll make it happen.
2025 Dates
September 7-15, 2025
October 12-20, 2025
November 2-10, 2025 FULL
November 23- December 1, 2025
December 7-15, 2025 $250 Holiday Supplement
December 21-29, 2025 $250 Holiday Supplement
December 28-January 5, 2026 $250 Holiday Supplement (LIMITED)
2026 Dates
February 1-9, 2026
March 29-April 6, 2026
April 26-May 4, 2026
May 10-18, 2026
June 7-15, 2026
June 28-July 6, 2026
July 5-13, 2026
July 26-Aug 3, 2026
August 2-10, 2026
August 30-September 7, 2026
September 6-14, 2026
October 11-19, 2026
November 22-30, 2026
December 20-28, 2026 $250 Holiday Supplement
Want to learn more?
Alumni & Family Discounts, Monthly Payment Plans, and More
Repeat travelers and groups are eligible for discounts. Looking for a payment plan to help manage your trip? Learn more here.
Customized Private Trips
Let us create a custom trip for your group. Learn more about custom group travel.