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Participant, CLF 2022-2023 Director, CLF 2023-2025 Harvard College Class of 2029
August 7, 2025
June 19, 2025
Two great programs connect for more fun
Are you ready to experience the ultimate adventure in Thailand?
Imagine trekking through the misty green mountains of northern Thailand and feeling the earth tremble beneath your feet as you walk with majestic elephants. Get lost in the intoxicating smell of nature and gaze into the wise and knowing eyes of these gentle giants. Swim in crystal clear waterfalls, navigate down rivers on thrilling rafting trips and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Thailand.
The thrilling adventures continue as you make your way to the beautiful southern islands of Thailand. Climb towering limestone cliffs, snorkel in the sparkling waters and relax on some of the world’s most stunning beaches. Embrace the local customs and traditions as you become a part of the rich history of this country. You’ll feel a sense of fulfillment and satisfaction like never before.
You’ll get to experience the best of Thailand and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Thailand Adventurer
Temples, beaches & elephants
Age 14-18
$5495 plus Airfare
Thailand: Marine and Rainforest Conservation
Rich ecosystems & cultural immersion
$4995 plus Airfare
You’ll depart from the US today in order to arrive in Thailand on time for the start of the program. Arrange travel to Bangkok where you’ll meet the program leaders and other students.
We lose this day as we go over the international date line, but, don’t worry, we’ll get it back when we return!
Sawat dee kha and welcome to Thailand! Your Rustic Pathways program leaders, will be eagerly awaiting your arrival in the exotic and bustling capital city of Bangkok. Have a delicious Thai meal, meet the rest of your group and take an afternoon flight to the forested mountains of Chiang Mai, the capital of the ancient Lanna Kingdom and the “Rose of the North.” Get an orientation into Thai lifestyle and language, and settle in for a good night’s rest as you prepare for your big day tomorrow with Thailand’s biggest inhabitants!
Rising early we will make the 1.5 hour drive south to the elephant conservation center that you will call home for these 3 days. Meet the dedicated staff and get a safety briefing before meeting the precocious pachyderms that call these mountain forests home. This program does not include elephant riding but gives you a unique and unforgettable opportunity to work up close and bond with Thailand’s most iconic and magnificent mammals. Help with daily tasks including bathing, feeding and cleaning as your work with the elephant and their caretakers, learning about their ancient bond and symbiosis that exists only in this part of the world.
Get an early start this morning working as a true conservationist with a happy herd of elephants that spend their days roaming the large open meadows and forests at the conservation center. Take the herd to a nearby lake for a bath and swim session. Get insight on the intricate communication and personalities of each elephant. Visit the onsite nursery and learn about elephant mating and efforts to conserve a diverse gene pool across Thailand’s isolated elephant populations. Work with the team to track the herd in their natural forest setting and help collect data on behavior and phenology. In the evenings, enjoy traditional Thai games and karaoke.
On your final morning at the sanctuary, help plant elephant food at an onsite restoration plot and visit the male Tusker elephants. These rare Asian elephants have a recessive trait that gives them long majestic ivory tusks, but can make them a target for poachers. Stop by the onsite elephant hospital, the first in the world, which free of charge treats any Thai elephant that is sick or wounded. Meet the veterinary team and learn about the elephants currently residing in the hospital and some of the creative solutions needed to treat these gigantic patients. After lunch, say an emotional goodbye to your new trunked friends and drive back to Chiang Mai. Freshen up and get a swim in before visiting the Saturday Market.
Spend the day focusing on the biggest issue facing elephants, habitat loss through deforestation. Work with local ecologists on ongoing reforestation projects to protect the unique upland forest ecosystem that supports elephants and countless other species in this biodiversity hotspot. Ascending Chiang Mai’s famous Doi Sutep mountain, you’ll learn about the different forest types and ongoing efforts to protect and restore fragile environments. Learn how to identify and propagate different seeds and work in the onsite nursery. Have lunch in the cool mountain air and on your way back down the mountain stop at Doi Sutep Temple to take in the views from this sacred mountain-top sanctuary. In the evening visit the Sunday Night Market, the highlight of Chiang Mai’s weekly events calendar, when the main street in the historic old city becomes a giant open air market, with music, food and plenty of shopping.
Deep dive into the ancient art of making Thai cuisine! Start by getting familiar with the unique and delicious ingredients of Thai cooking. You’ll learn how to identify the various herbs and spices and what you can use to easily replace these items at home. After trying some cooking techniques, put your skills into practice as you learn how to make your favorite Thai dishes! In the afternoon enjoy a Muay Thai class. Thai kickboxing, is an ancient martial art, infused with culture and practical ways of blocking and striking using kicks, elbows, punches, and knees. Practice the basics with professional trainers, as you work up a sweat and take out your aggression on the punching bag.
Some of your new friends will depart today as they leave the Elephant Conservation Project portion of your program. You’ll add more new friends into the group as you now prepare to embark on the Thailand Adventurer leg of this adventure. Today we’ll help you do laundry and explore more of the wonderful charm of Chiang Mai before we head south tomorrow.
Hop on a quick afternoon flight to Krabi in Southern Thailand, a natural wonderland of towering limestone cliffs and vivid aquamarine waters. You will spend the next 3 nights in Krabi province, famous for its white sand beaches, dazzling coral reefs, and the best rock climbing in Asia.
Students will stay in a comfortable hotel with shared rooms, separated by gender, and will have access to Western-style toilets and hot showers.
Wake up to the sound of waves crashing against breathtaking limestone karsts on the beach in southern Thailand. This region is famous in the rock climbing world, and today you will get a chance to scale some of the rock faces yourself! Don’t worry if you aren’t an experienced climber, because your guides will teach you everything you need to know. Seasoned climbers will not be disappointed by the next level challenge to be found here either! After lunch, take some time to swim, play frisbee or soccer on the beach, and enjoy the sunshine. Tonight, watch the sunset with a fruit shake and a delicious Thai meal by the ocean.
Leave the beach behind aboard a private longtail boat to nearby islands that dot the coast. Hop on and off the boat to swim, snorkel, and explore small deserted beaches. Southern Thailand is home to many fish and coral species, and the crystal blue water and stunning scenery will make for some amazing memories. Enjoy a delicious seaside meal with your group,
Travel by van into the mountainous spine of the Malay Peninsula to Khao Sok National Park. The park is home to diverse flora and fauna that inhabit the dense jungle covering towering cliffs and mountains. Take a night hike with guides to learn about one of the world’s oldest tropical rainforests and the nocturnal life that explodes into action once the sun goes down. Finish the day with a bonfire, BBQ, s’mores, and live music from a local guitarist.
Spend the day touring the aquamarine water wonderland that is Cheow Lan Lake. Take longtail boats deep into the heart of the lake’s vast complex of cliff-lined bays and inlets. Swim in the refreshing water and hike through lush rainforests. Be on the lookout for many unique and endemic species that are found only in this natural paradise.
Hop on a quick flight to the emerald mountains of the north and the city of Chiang Mai. Then drive to the Grand Canyon Water Park for an unforgettable afternoon swimming and playing in the giant floating jungle gym. In the evening, head to the Na Mo Market, located in front of Chiang Mai University. This is a popular open air market and hang-out spot for high school and college students.
Head out into the mountains to spend the day with the iconic and sacred Asian elephant. We’ll return to the conservation center we got to know so well earlier in this program and see old friends (human and animal). It will be refreshing to return to some of the tasks we learned earlier and get the chance to reconnect with these gentle giants. Prepare herbal treats for the elephants that aid in their digestion and finish the day with a mud scrub, which the elephants use as a natural sunblock and insect repellent.
Today we have a white water rafting adventure on the Mae Taeng River. This is the perfect way to experience Thailand’s amazing river ecosystems as these waterways are home to many endemic species of birds, fish, and reptiles. The tranquil stretches of river are interspersed with exciting rapids and you are guaranteed to get a little wet and have a lot of fun. In the evening you will head to Chiang Mai’s famous Night Bazaar for a chance to shop at the city’s largest open-air market. Explore the many alleys and side streets of this bustling market, the perfect place to get souvenirs for all of your friends and family back home.
Bid Northern Thailand farewell and take a morning flight to Bangkok. Arriving in the bustling metropolis is always exciting. Walk through the historic Rattanakosin district, home to the Emerald Buddha, and Royal Palace. Eat dinner at the riverside Asiatique market and head back to the hotel after an unforgettable day taking in the charms of Thailand’s capital city.
After dinner, tie everything together with Rustic Pathways’ signature closing ceremony. At the end of each program, students reflect on their experiences and the issues they engaged with and talk about how to apply this new understanding to their own worlds.
Your Program Leaders will take you to the airport for your flight home or to your next Rustic program as you say goodbyes and reflect on your adventure.
Here is a detailed packing list for your time in Southeast Asia this summer. Packing the right gear (and not too much of it) is the first step to an incredible travel experience. Remember that you’ll be responsible for carrying your belongings everywhere you go, so PACK LIGHT! If your bag weighs more than 35 pounds, you’ve overpacked!
Weather in Southeast Asia
Summer in Southeast Asia is known as the “rainy season” or the “green season”—days are generally hot and humid, with brief and refreshing showers that keep the land very lush and green. Temperatures sometimes cool off once the sun goes down, making for more pleasant evenings. Because of the heat, you’ll need to drink a lot more water than you’re used to drinking to stay hydrated! Your clothes should be able to get wet, dirty, and / or destroyed during service work and program activities.
Important Notes About Your Luggage
Airlines in Southeast Asia have weight restrictions for checked and carry-on luggage. Please limit your checked luggage to no more than 33lbs (15kg) and your carry-on luggage to 15lbs (7kg). For your one checked bag, a backpacking backpack or a duffel bag that is easy to carry are perfect. Make sure everything you pack in your carry-on bag complies with the carry-on regulations of the TSA. Lastly, remember to leave your valuables or prized possessions at home. It’s easier for things to get lost, stolen, or damaged while traveling.
Our Dress Code Expectations in Southeast Asia
Southeast Asian cultures are very conservative. Despite the hot climate, people in these parts of the world show less skin than in many Western cultures, and you’ll rarely see low-cut shirts or short shorts in rural communities. As we seek to respect and preserve the culture of the communities we work with, we ask that our students dress conservatively while in country. If you’re not wearing proper attire, we’ll ask you to change your clothes or abstain from the service project of the day.
To dress respectfully in Southeast Asia, please bring loose-fitting pants or shorts that cover just above the knees (think basketball length). Bring basic t-shirts that cover your shoulders, and please leave all tank tops, cut off shirts, low-cut, see-through, or crop tops at home. As mentioned in our packing lists, yoga pants and leggings are not appropriate because they are too form-fitting. The key is to show less skin and to stay cool by wearing loose-fitted clothing.
Temple Visits
Personal hygiene is important in Southeast Asia, so when visiting temples we want to clean up more than while doing service. Wearing modest, clean clothes that cover the knees and shoulders is a must, as per usual. Being respectful is the name of the game!
Laundry
We’ll find access about once a week. Laundry can be up to $10 – $20 per load.
A school backpack is ideal as it will be used for daily activities and outings.
A 40-50 liter duffel bag or backpack is ideal.
Clothing
• 2-3 pairs of lightweight pants, jeans (too hot to wear often) or capris; leggings are not culturally appropriate as they are too form-fitting • 4-5 pairs of long, loose-fitting shorts/skirts, which must go to the knees or longer. Used for service work where you want to keep cool, covered, and protected. • 7-10 tops (t-shirts and sports shirts) – they can be cotton, or quick-dry shirts like capilene or polypropylene; tank tops are generally not acceptable unless for time at the pool or beach; keep in mind you’ll find cool t-shirts and other clothing at markets you’ll visit throughout the summer, which can supplement the tops you bring over • 1-2 light, long sleeve t-shirts – breathable is best for the sun and certain areas of the region can get buggy or chilly (if you’re lucky!) at night • 1 lightweight hoodie – most likely needed on flights, in movie theaters, or in airports. Most people will be fine without one • 7-10 pairs of underwear – quick-dry material is best • 4-7 pairs of socks – lightweight cotton or quick dry athletic socks are best • 2 swimsuits – one piece swimsuits are appropriate, quick dry shorts you can swim in are also great. We also recommend a swimming shirt for coverage and sun protection. We’ll get a chance to get in the water frequently. • 1 sarong / shawl / lightweight towel (not white!) – many accommodations will have towels for you to use, but it is handy to have something of your own for sitting poolside or visiting a waterfall • A nice casual outfit – for special end of program dinners.
Important Items
• Flashlight or headlamp – rechargeable batteries are preferable • Ultra-lightweight rainproof jacket – fear not if you don’t have one; ponchos are widely available and do a better job! • Hat – for the sun • Strappy sandals – like Tevas or Chacos • Comfortable flip-flops or crocs – footwear that is easy to clean and easy to take on and off (you’ll be amazed at how often you’ll be taking your shoes off and on!); cheap flip-flops and crocs are widely available in Asia for a fraction of the cost • Closed-toed athletic shoes – shoes that dry quickly, that you can hike short distances in and that protect your feet are best; shoes will get muddy and dirty, so don’t bring your favorite pair. • A color photocopy of your passport
Toiletries
Most general toiletries are available throughout the region at a fraction of the cost. We suggest packing all items that could leak in a plastic or ziploc bag.
• Deodorant • Shampoo and soap – you may want to bring biodegradable or natural soap and shampoo, but they’re not required • Toothpaste and toothbrush • Lip balm • Insect repellent – we suggest a natural option or something with DEET • Hydrocortisone/anti-itch cream or after bite • Hand sanitizer – 1 small bottle; we don’t want you getting sick this summer! • Contact lenses and solution • Oxybenzone-free sunscreen (reef-safe) and aloe vera – good quality sunscreen is not readily available in Southeast Asia and is expensive! • Feminine hygiene supplies – tampons aren’t widely available in Southeast Asia; past staff have suggested trying a diva cup; we recommend you bring what you think you will need for the duration of the program
Additional and Optional Items
• Local language phrasebook • Deck of cards, portable games • Digital camera – waterproof style shock resistant cameras are great for our programs; again, do not depend on your phone – we encourage our students to disconnect from their phones while on program. • Pictures of family and friends
• Please cover your shoulders and knees while in Southeast Asia.
• Dressing respectfully is very important. Southeast Asian culture is conservative, with ancient customs based mostly on Buddhism. Regardless of gender, Rustic students should be wearing loose Bermuda or basketball length shorts or pants. Please leave short-shorts at home, as well as leggings, which are too form-fitting. T-shirts should cover the chest and shoulders, nothing low cut, and no undergarments should ever be showing.
Elephant Sanctuary: Students stay in simple cabin-type rooms in the jungle. Each room has two beds, screened windows, and an en suite bathroom. These are “no frills” type rooms, but they do have air conditioning.
Thailand Hotels: In Thailand, the group will stay at a 3 or 4 star hotel with Western-style toilets and showers.
Elephant Sanctuary: Students will be helping out with an ongoing program designed to help reforest the property and grow more food for elephants. They will also participate in some of the daily routines for elephant care along with trained mahouts.
This program involves adventure activities and sports that require students to be physically active.
Students will be eating food prepared by our team of chefs at the Elephant Sanctuary and at restaurants. Students should expect breakfasts including fresh fruit, yogurt, and cereal, with hot options like eggs, pancakes, and Thai rice soup available on a rotating basis. Food is served family-style–which is also Thai style–so students will have the chance to try several dishes like spring rolls, stir-fried noodles, soups, curries, mixed vegetables, and more at each meal. Special dietary requests can be accommodated.
Dietary Requirements/Food Allergies: Most restaurants feature a wide variety of dishes, so most diets can be accommodated. However, because of how difficult it is to control what is happening in each kitchen, this program may not be suitable for some severe food allergies.
Students will be drinking bottled water throughout the program. In order to limit waste, we recommend bringing a refillable water bottle with you.
It is rainy season in Southeast Asia, so students should be prepared for hot, humid weather in the 90s (Fahrenheit) during the day with occasional rain showers. The weather does not vary much between June and August. Umbrellas and ponchos are readily available, so there is no need to pack bulky rain gear. Evenings in the mountains do cool down a bit in the mountains, but students won’t need more than a long-sleeved t-shirt. Synthetic fiber (dry-fit) clothing is recommended, because it dries quickly. One or two long sleeve shirts and lightweight breathable pants are great for preventing mosquito bites.
Flights: Please arrive to Bangkok (BKK) to begin the program. The entire group will meet in Bangkok and travel together from there.
Visas: Rustic Pathways will arrange visas on arrival for all students traveling on United States passports. Students traveling with Rustic Pathways on passports not issued by the United States are responsible for determining their own visa requirements. Please check with the appropriate consulate or embassy.
Internal Travel: This program includes 5 internal flights, Bangkok to Chiang Mai, Chiang Mai to Bangkok, Bangkok to Krabi, Krabi to Chiang Mai, and Chiang Mai to Bangkok. These are included in the program price.
We want to encourage students to disconnect in order to fully immerse themselves in the experience and get the most out of their program. That being said, students will have access to wifi during this itinerary while in the larger cities or when visiting some cafes. During the day when you are out adventuring wifi will not be available. Parents will have access to our 24/7 emergency number and will also receive updates from our staff once your student is in country.
Personal gifts, internet, phone calls, and snacks are not included. All other costs (accommodation, meals, in-country transportation, and activities) are included in the program price.
We recommend $150 per week to cover souvenirs and incidentals. We highly encourage students to change money to local currency prior to their departure date. Any money that needs to be changed back is best done in the airport on the return home.
Students will have the opportunity to do laundry twice in the program. The average cost per load–washed and folded–is about $10.
While working with elephants each day, you will be wearing a traditional mahout suit which will be supplied by the camp. The Thai Elephant Conservation Project does visit temples where women are required to dress very conservatively. Short shorts, low-cut tops, and tank tops are unacceptable while you are in rural places and at temples, so students are expected to dress accordingly. During the portions of the program which are not visiting temples or rural areas, normal attire (and bathing suits, while at hotel pools) can be worn without issue.
In general, Southeast Asia dresses modestly and as polite visitors, we will dress accordingly. It is important that we show respect at all times, particularly when touring and when in rural communities. The requirements are fairly straightforward and the same for both any gender:
Shorts: Basketball-style only; no running or soccer-style shorts unless at the beach in Thailand. Rule of thumb elsewhere is that the bottom of the shorts should be approaching the kneecap. Leggings or yoga pants: Only at the beach, as they are too form-fitting. Better to leave at home. Loose-fitting pants, capris, and long skirts: Acceptable and preferred. Tops: Shoulders must be covered – No tank tops or spaghetti straps. Please do not bring low cut, transparent, or crop tops.
If you arrive and your clothing is deemed unacceptable by your Program Leaders, you’ll have to purchase appropriate clothing at a local market. We enforce this!
Ensuring the safety of your teen as they travel with Rustic Pathways is a top priority. Please review our Health and Safety measures.
Our Travel Protection Plan helps protect our participants, their belongings, and their travel investment in those unforeseen circumstances that may arise during travel. Learn more about the plan offered through our partner.
This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to get to spend some hands-on time with Thailand’s most revered animal, the elephant. Learn about them, play with them, and care for them at a leading ethical conservation site. You may have seen elephants at the zoo before, but there are not many opportunities in the world to see AND interact with elephants in their more natural environment. Like a lot of the majestic wildlife in the world, the number of Asian elephants has been drastically reduced in recent decades. This is a chance to work with one of the most well-known elephant facilities in the world, and get up-close and personal with one of the most intelligent and social mammals on earth.