What is Voluntourism?

Voluntourism is a relatively new concept, defined by our friends at Voluntourism.org as follows -

Very simply, VolunTourism is a combination of the words volunteerism and tourism. VolunTourism integrates the best of travel and tourism – arts, culture, geography, heritage sites, the natural environment, and recreation – with the opportunity to serve and enhance the destination – its people, places, and things.

Or to put it even MORE simply... a really great way to have a holiday AND actively contribute to the destination you are visting.

We starting running our first voluntourism tours in 2005 in response to the demand for both physical assistance (volunteering) and business support (through staying in local hotels, using local services etc.) generated in the aftermath of the Asian tsunami in Thailand. The feedback from both voluntourists and local communities alike was overwhelmingly positive and we have since resolved to further develop this unique style of travel.

Below, you will find a few ideas but if you can't see what you're looking for, please do drop us a line or check back soon as we have several other itineraries currently under-development...

Thailand Homestays
Duration: Anything from 1 day to 2 weeks The North Andaman coast of Thailand is an extraordinary region of ecological and cultural diversity and interest. Compared to other areas of natural beauty in the region, it is remarkably undeveloped and many communities still survive by their traditional livelihoods... Stay with a local fishing family, learn about their way of life, explore deserted islands and mangroves, enjoy sunsets on the beach and also help to support those finding alternative ways of making a living in the aftermath of the tsunami. (More)

Surin Elephant Festival
This is definitely one for the elefans amongst you! A one-off itinerary which combines visiting the annual Elephant Festival in Surin with a week spent volunteering at our elephant mahout camp in Pattaya. Along the way, we'll also visit the sites of Bangkok and maybe even catch a glimpse of some wild elephants in the jungles of Khao Yai National Park. (More)

Voluntourism Tour
Travel with a higher purpose. See the stunning sights of Bangkok, as well as areas well off the beaten path. Assist in villages still recovering from the tsunami and relax on the beach. A total package for relaxation as well as helping to make a real difference... (More)