Volunteer in Koh Samui Thailand
Volunteer in Koh Samui Thailand with Abroad Escape! Experience this amazing island as a volunteer with our 7 volunteering projects in Koh Samui Thailand and with us you have the opportunity to create your schedule. You can start from 1 week up to 8 weeks for an amazing experience!
FROM ONLY 485£
Create Your Own Unique Schedule In Koh Samui Thailand!
With us, you have the power to create your own tailor-made volunteer program that aligns with your passions and interests. You have the flexibility to start any Monday and stay for anywhere between 1 to 8 weeks.
Location: Koh Samui, Thailand
Start Dates: Start every Monday (except for the Culture Week)
Duration: 1 week – 8 weeks
Why Join With Abroad Escape
Abroad Escape is committed to providing you with the highest-quality and most meaningful travel experiences possible. With our international volunteer abroad projects and immersion internships, you’ll have the chance to make a real impact in the lives of local communities. With our immersive volunteer programs, you’ll have the chance to engage with local communities and make a real impact in the lives of those around you. But that’s not all – you’ll also be creating lifelong friendships with fellow international travelers who share your passion for travel and making a positive impact.
Projects
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Years Experience
We are Loved ♥️ by our Trusted Customers
I volunteered with Abroad Escape, which was definitely the best trip and the best experience of my life!
The program was a great experience for me. The kids I taught were very smart and happy. They were very willing to learn which was amazing.
I had an amazing time in volunteering. I was happy with the whole experience and would love to go back in the future!
Your Arrival
Get ready for a warm welcome to Thailand! Your adventure begins the moment you arrive, with our airport pick-up on Sunday. You need to arrive at Koh Samui Airport (USM) on Sunday between 08.00 and 17:00. Full details will be provided when you book. The local team will be waiting for you, ready to transfer you to your accommodation where you’ll meet fellow volunteers from around the world.
Your Orientation
On Monday of your first week at this location, you will join our orientation day, to familiarize you with the surroundings as well as local culture. Your program will continue as usual from Tuesday onward throughout the rest of the week.
Schedule
Introduction meeting, House rules, Setting Expectations, Health and Safety Advice and handling of documents, and Signing of Documents.
Thai Do’s and Don’ts, Thai Culture Lessons and Thai Language Lessons.
Lunch
Project Meeting, and preparation
Visit Lamai Beach, and on the way visit local shop/supermarket/buy sim card
Dinner
Your Accommodation
Your accommodation is included in your package from Sunday night until Saturday morning of your last week, so you can rest assured that you’ll have a comfortable place to call home throughout your journey.
You’ll be staying in shared rooms with other volunteers, giving you the perfect opportunity to make lifelong friends from around the globe. You’ll be accommodated in single-gender dorm-style rooms, ensuring maximum comfort and privacy.
The volunteer house is located in Koh Samui with easy access to all daily necessities so that the participants can be at ease. The house includes standard shared rooms and private rooms. There is a swimming pool and living areas.
If you want to have a single room, then this is available at an extra cost. There is limited availability for single rooms so please contact us for this.
But that’s not all – we’ve got your meals covered too! You’ll enjoy three delicious meals per day from Monday to Friday, and two meals per day on weekends. All the meals served inside the accommodation are homestyle, vegetarian-friendly and you can expect that they will be typically Thai, including plenty of rice or noodle dishes with vegetables and occasionally some meat will be provided as well, along with seasonal fruits for dessert.
Volunteer Projects in Koh Samui
Culture Week Koh Samui Thailand
Get ready for an epic week packed with adventures and cultural trips where you’ll dive deep into Thai culture!
Over the week, you’ll pick up some basic Thai language skills, explore Koh Samui and its nearby spots, and really experience Thai culture by connecting with local communities and seeing how people live firsthand. It’s all about having fun while learning and immersing yourself in a new vibe!
The Culture Week has fixed start dates.
2024: 4 November, 18 November, 2 December, 16 December
2025: 6 January, 20 January, 3 February, 17 February, 3 March, 17 March, 7 April, 21 April, 5 May, 19 May, 2 June, 16 June, 7 July, 21 July, 4 August, 18 August, 1 September, 15 September, 6 October, 20 October, 3 November, 17 November, 1 December, 15 December
Koh Samui, Thailand’s tropical paradise, is famous for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush green forests. Beyond the beauty, it’s also a hub of rich culture and traditions, which is why the **Culture Week** program in Koh Samui is highly recommended for those looking to dive deep into the island’s heritage.
Throughout the week, you’ll get fully immersed in Koh Samui’s culture through fun activities and events. The program is all about experiencing the real Thailand, giving you a chance to learn the basics of Thai language, take part in local customs, and even cook delicious Thai dishes. You’ll also get to explore the island’s famous spots while interacting with the local community and learning about their way of life.
This experience isn’t just about discovering Koh Samui’s past—it’s also a way to help preserve and promote its unique traditions. The Culture Week program is designed to educate participants while building an appreciation for the island’s cultural identity. You’ll visit local markets, try authentic Thai foods, and get a real taste of the vibrant local lifestyle.
Most importantly, soak up the experience, make memories, and enjoy every moment of your cultural adventure on Koh Samui!
Schedule
Monday
Breakfast
Program introduction, registration, and general information. Overview of Thai culture, including key Do’s and Don’ts.
Lunch
Project meeting and preparation.
Visit to Lamai Beach, with stops at local shops/supermarkets to buy essentials (e.g., SIM card).
Dinner
Tuesday
Breakfast
Participate in offering food to monks and learn about the principles of Buddhism.
Lunch
Thai culture and language class.
Dinner
Wednesday
Breakfast
Create coconut shell keychains and visit Na Mueang Waterfall.
Lunch
Explore the waterfall and spend time at Chaweng Beach.
Dinner
Thursday
Breakfast
Visit an elephant sanctuary and feed the elephants.
Lunch
Visit Big Buddha Samui at Wat Phra Yai, followed by a trip to Fisherman’s Night Market.
Welcome and farewell dinner.
Friday
Breakfast
Thai cooking class.
Lunch
Relax at Lipa Noi Beach (transport provided for pick up and drop off).
Dinner
This schedule can be changed and/or amended depending on weather conditions, local conditions and unforeseen circumstances
Kindergarten Koh Samui Thailand
As part of this program, you’ll be helping out with lesson prep for kids, assisting them with daily tasks, and even putting them down for naps. You’ll also have the chance to keep engaging with the children in the afternoon, alongside local teachers and staff.
In Thailand, early childhood education and childcare have become a big deal. The government is working hard to improve access to education for all kids, which means there’s a growing need for quality kindergarten and childcare programs. These programs create a safe space for kids to learn and grow, playing a huge role in their overall development.
One reason kindergarten and childcare are so important is that early childhood education is key. Research shows that the first five years of a kid’s life are critical for their cognitive, social, and emotional growth. Enrolling them in good programs during these years can have a major impact on their future success in school.
During your time here, you’ll be working with kids aged 2 to 5 at a local children’s development center in Koh Samui. Your day will run from 8:30 AM to 11:30 AM, and you’ll be supporting teachers who often face large class sizes and a shortage of staff. Some classes have up to 30 kids, making it tough for one teacher to give each child the attention they need.
Your role will be super important. You’ll help local educators by using creative methods like songs, games, and fun activities to help the kids learn and enjoy their intro to basic education. You may also help with meal supervision, plan playtime, organize events, and occasionally assist with light cleaning tasks. Basic hygiene care, like brushing hair or trimming nails, might be part of your day too, along with prepping and feeding the little ones.
You’ll also be making a big impact by helping Thai teachers introduce English to kids early on. Since most local teachers aren’t fluent in English, you’ll be giving kids a chance to hear different accents and practice speaking, which helps boost their confidence when interacting with foreigners.
You’ll also collaborate with local coordinators to review lesson plans, activities, and resources before heading to the classroom. Most importantly, dive into the experience, have fun, and make the most of your time helping these kids learn and grow!
Schedule
Monday
Introduction meeting, House rules, Setting Expectations, Health and Safety Advice and handling of documents and Signing of Documents.
Thai Do’s and Don’ts, Thai Culture Lessons and Thai Language Lessons.
Lunch
Project Meetings, Preparation, Visits and Observation alongside Local Coordinator
Dinner
Tuesday to Friday
Breakfast at the Center
Assist the teacher and teach English activity
Lunch
Lesson plan and free time
Dinner at the Center
This schedule can be changed and/or amended depending on weather conditions, local conditions and unforeseen circumstances
Teaching Koh Samui Thailand
Give back to the local Thai community by teaching in schools around Koh Samui, and spend your free time soaking up the sun on the island’s stunning beaches!
In the mornings, you’ll be teaching local students, and in the afternoons, you’ll prep lessons for the next day. It’s an awesome way to make a positive impact while having a rewarding cultural exchange. You’ll help students expand their horizons with your creative ideas, games, songs, and fun activities, all while assisting local teachers.
This teaching program in Thailand is an incredible opportunity for young adults from all over the world. Whether you’re here for a short or long stay, you’ll dive into Thailand’s vibrant culture while gaining valuable experience. Plus, you’ll leave knowing you made a real difference in the lives of the kids you worked with.
You’ll teach primary and secondary students aged 6-18 years, with your day typically involving 2-3 classes, each lasting 2-3 hours, plus an hour for lesson planning. Your journey to school will take 10-45 minutes by local taxi, giving you a chance to take in the beauty of the island as you travel.
The program offers lots of teaching options, so you can choose what suits your style best. Whether it’s teaching English, math, science, or even sports, you’ll get the chance to broaden your skills while making an impact in different areas. Since most local teachers don’t speak fluent English, you’ll be giving these students a rare opportunity to hear and practice the language.
This isn’t just about teaching—it’s also about experiencing life in Thailand. You’ll get to know the Thai education system, form bonds with students and teachers, and be part of the local community. And when you’re not in the classroom, Koh Samui has plenty to offer—think pristine beaches, jungle adventures, and cultural landmarks.
During school holidays, there are even more opportunities to engage with the community through English camps and special classes. If you’re placed at a child development center, your creativity will come in handy, with songs, dances, and games helping younger children grasp basic concepts in a fun way.
Before each school day, you’ll work with local coordinators to review lessons and activities, making sure everything runs smoothly for the students. Join us in Koh Samui to make a real impact, experience Thai culture, and create unforgettable memories!
Schedule
Monday
Introduction meeting, House rules, Setting Expectations, Health and Safety Advice and handling of documents and Signing of Documents.
Thai Do’s and Don’ts, Thai Culture Lessons and Thai Language Lessons.
Lunch
Project Meetings, Preparation, Visits and Observation alongside the Local Coordinator
Tuesday to Friday
Teaching sessions can be in the morning or afternoon, depending on the school and its requirements. A regular day in the program would be like this.
Breakfast at the Center
Preparing the Teaching Materials & Games
Lunch
Lesson plan and free time
Dinner at the Center
This schedule can be changed and/or amended depending on weather conditions, local conditions and unforeseen circumstances
Construction & Renovation Koh Samui Thailand
Get ready to make a real impact and have an unforgettable experience with the Koh Samui Community Renovation Program! You’ll be diving into projects that help improve housing, schools, and temples in the local community, so roll up your sleeves and let’s get to work!
Your day kicks off at 8:00 AM with a quick orientation, and then it’s off to the job site from 8:30 AM to 1:30 PM. You’ll be working hard, but don’t worry—there’s a one-hour lunch break to recharge and bond with your fellow participants!
Your tasks will vary from painting and mixing cement to more hands-on work like plastering and roof repairs. Don’t worry if you’re new to this; our experienced coordinator will be right there to guide you and ensure everything is done safely.
One of our main focuses is renovating schools. Education is key to a thriving community, and by improving school facilities, you’re helping create better learning environments for future generations. Whether you’re sprucing up classrooms, fixing desks, or tidying up the grounds, every effort counts!
We’ll also be working on local temples, which are super important to the community’s culture and spirituality. By enhancing these sacred spaces, you’ll be honoring local traditions and strengthening the cultural heritage of Koh Samui.
While you’re on the job, remember to be mindful with tools and materials—safety first! If something feels tricky, don’t hesitate to ask your local coordinators for help. Most importantly, make the most of your time here and enjoy the experience of working alongside locals who are dedicated to keeping their community clean and vibrant. You’ll learn so much about Thai culture while making a difference!
Join us in Koh Samui for a rewarding adventure where your hard work truly matters!
Schedule
Monday
Introduction meeting, House rules, Setting Expectations, Health and Safety Advice and handling of documents, and Signing of Documents.
Thai Do’s and Don’ts, Thai Culture Lessons, and Thai Language Lessons.
Lunch
Project Meetings, Preparation, Visits, and Observation alongside Local Coordinator
Dinner
Tuesday to Friday
Breakfast
Community renovation
Lunch
Community renovation
Dinner
This schedule can be changed and/or amended depending on weather conditions, local conditions and unforeseen circumstances
Elephant Care Koh Samui Thailand
Immerse yourself in an unforgettable experience while playing a vital role in the well-being of majestic elephants. Join our Elephant Care Program, where you’ll get up close and personal with these incredible creatures. You’ll learn all about their behavior and needs while discovering how to care for them responsibly. Our mission is to create a nurturing environment tailored to the unique requirements of each elephant based on their age and health.
For thousands of years, elephants have been essential to human life, helping us with various tasks. However, despite their significance in Thai culture and religion, many elephants face serious challenges, including abuse and habitat loss, leading to a decline in their population. Right now, Asian elephants are classified as an endangered species, and they need our help!
Throughout the week, you’ll be actively involved in keeping their living space clean and healthy. On your first day, get ready for an eye-opening introduction to Asian elephants! You’ll learn to prepare Thai herbal medicine for them alongside the I Love Elephant team—an awesome way to kick off your journey and understand our goals.
From Monday to Friday, you’ll dive into daily tasks like cleaning the elephant habitats, observing their behaviors, and preparing their meals. You’ll even help buy food, chop grass, and plant veggies to ensure they get the healthy diet they deserve.
By joining the Elephant Care Program, you’ll not only contribute to the well-being of these amazing animals but also gain invaluable knowledge about their care. Together, we can make a real difference in the lives of these gentle giants! Are you ready to take action and create lasting memories in Thailand?
Schedule
Monday
Introduction about Asian Elephants
Learn about and prepare Thai herb medicine for Elephants by the I Love Elephant team (Only for first-time participants)
Tuesday to Friday
Clean the elephant habitat and assist the team with the cleanup.
Take care of the elephants’ living conditions by cleaning wells, adding water, and assisting with repairs or construction work.
Help with the elephants’ health by bathing them, observing their eating habits, and monitoring their feces for any signs of parasites or digestive issues.
Observe and learn about elephant behavior.
Prepare food for the elephants or assist in purchasing items from the market.
Plant, water, and maintain the elephant food area by growing grass, vegetables, bananas, pumpkins, squash, cucumbers, or other plants that elephants enjoy.
This schedule can be changed and/or amended depending on weather conditions, local conditions and unforeseen circumstances
Program Prices
All Programs (except for Elephant Care)
1 Week: £ 485
2 Weeks: £ 585
3 Weeks: £ 765
4 Weeks: £ 925
+1 Week: £ 220
* The Culture Week has an extra fee of £ 65
Elephant Care
1 Week: £ 980
2 Weeks: £ 1450
3 Weeks: £ 1975
4 Weeks: £ 2500
+1 Week: £ 585
With us there are NO registration or administration fees!
Plus you can easily combine the different projects.
What’s included:
Program as per the itinerary
Accommodation
Meals as per the itinerary
24/7 in-country support
In-country program orientation
Pre-departure support
Airport pick-up
Not included:
visa, flight, travel insurance, vaccinations, criminal background check, return trip to the airport, 5% international banking fee
Requirements to join:
– Participants need to be minimum 18 years old
– Participants under 16 need to join with a parent/guardian
– Participants aged 16 to 18 need to have parental consent
– Participants are required to provide a criminal background check (if unable to obtain a criminal background check, you can provide two character reference letters instead)
– Participants are required to have their own travel insurance
– You need to be able to speak and understand at least basic English
How to Book
Fill out the online Application Form
We will get back to you within 48 hours
Book your program by paying a deposit
Frequently Asked Questions Thailand
When should I start to apply?
It is best to apply as early as possible as we have limited placements available in our programs, especially during summer.
You can apply up to 1 year in the future to guarantee your placement.
We do however accept late applications up to 2 weeks before the start date, let us know and we will check the availability for you!
How long does the application process take?
Very fast with us! You fill out the application form, and we go to work for you within hours! For most placements, you will get an answer within 1-2 days.
Can I get a certificate after the program?
Yes, we will provide you with the Certificate after the successful completion of the program. This certificate is provided on request, so just let us know if you would like this!
How does my airport pickup work?
Your airport pick-up is included, and we will arrange this for you on Sunday.
For Chiang Mai, you need to arrive at Chiang Mai Airport (CNX), and for Hua Hin, you need to arrive at Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) on Sunday. Full details will be provided when you book. Do not book your flight until you receive the full arrival details from us.
Can I volunteer with a friend or a group?
Yes you can! We can organize your program together with a friend, just let us know this in the comment section on the application form.
We can also organize. a family trip or a group, jst contact us, and we will be happy to help you!
How many hours per day do I volunteer?
Volunteers usually work for about 4 to 6 hours a day depending on their program type, and there can also be extra preparation time.
You have the weekend off so you can explore the area, go traveling, or just chill and relax on weekends.
Any More Questions?
We’re always here to help. Get in touch now!
The volunteering was mind expanding and rewarding. The local are the most friendly people I have met anywhere in the world.
The program was good and the support from the coordinator was wonderful. These were the best 2 weeks ever, feeling helpful and special to be part of this program. I enjoyed every minute of it. Thanks!
I had a really nice time, I learned a lot about the culture and people. It was actually starting to feel like home. The people and children were very nice to me and I loved doing things with them. Thanks for a great time!