Sri Lanka – Head to the heart of Wasgamuwa National Park for a unique experience in elephant and wildlife conservation, within a community committed to the sustainable protection of its environment. See all wildlife projects here.
Wild Elephant Conservation Programme
Founded over 23 years ago, our partner organisation is a pioneering body that develops sustainable conservation programmes by involving local communities.
The project is not limited to animal observation: it aims to strike a harmonious balance between the needs of local residents and the conservation of natural ecosystems, particularly with regard to the protection of wild elephants.
Our partner invites volunteers to play an active role in several areas of the programme:
- Data collection on wild elephants and their habitat
- Projects to reduce human-elephant conflict
- Reforestation and habitat restoration initiatives
- Monitoring of other local wildlife species
The experience on offer is a truly immersive one, far removed from mass tourism.
The work of the eco-volunteer
A typical day
Activities usually begin early in the morning and in the late afternoon, which are the best times for wildlife spotting. The days include fieldwork, data collection, educational workshops and, at times, free time to relax or explore the area.
Your main responsibilities:
- Records and observations of wild elephants
- Taking part in safaris in Wasgamuwa National Park
- Monitoring wildlife corridors and assessing environmental impacts
- Community activities: raising local awareness, sustainable coexistence projects
- Reforestation and natural habitat restoration work
All assignments are accompanied by induction sessions, practical training and ongoing support from our partner.
Dates and prices
Minimum duration: 1 week (can be extended up to 12 weeks)
Price:
- Shared accommodation (Field House):
- 1 week: €790
- 2 weeks: €975
- 3 weeks: €1,160
- 4 weeks: €1,
350 (etc., with a sliding scale of prices up to €7,200 for 12 weeks)
- Private room with en-suite bathroom:
- 1 week: €950
- 2 weeks: €1,840
- 3 weeks: €2,670
- 4 weeks: €3,
440 (etc., with a sliding scale of prices up to €9,600 for 12 weeks)
- Family package (10 days / 4 people):
- Shared hosting: €4,000
- Private family room: €4,600
The price includes:
- Transport for the field project.
- Safari in Wasgamuwa National Park.
- All meals and refreshments (vegetarian and vegan options available).
- Full board (separate dormitories and bathrooms for men and women).
- Orientation and briefings.
- Support and training.
- Field programmes.
The price does not include:
- Return flight to the destination airport and visa fees.
- Transport on departure (volunteers can arrange this upon arrival).
- Comprehensive medical and travel insurance.
- Bring all the necessary equipment for the research work if a volunteer or intern intends to carry out an independent project.
- Personal expenses, nights out and travel before and after the project.
- Personal expenses (soap, washing powder, snacks, etc.).
Please note:
Volunteers must arrive on a Sunday to start the programme on Monday.
- Minimum age: 5 years (family programme); 18 years for standard programmes
- English level: intermediate recommended (B1)
- Fitness: in good shape for outdoor activities
- Profile accepted:
- Adults, families (children aged 5 and over), senior citizens (tailored programmes available)
- No scientific background is required
- A unique project combining conservation and community support
- Direct observation of wild elephants in their natural habitat
- A mission open to everyone, suitable for families, young adults and senior citizens
- A genuine immersion, far removed from conventional tourism
A lasting positive impact, combining on-the-ground action with local awareness-raising
- Accommodation: in single-sex dormitories or private rooms (at an additional cost)
- Meals: three freshly prepared meals are served every day, with vegetarian and vegan options available.
- Swimming pool: available on site
- Access: airport transfer available on arrival; must be booked in advance
Language spoken on site: English
In your free time, you can enjoy the surroundings of Wasgamuwa National Park, relax by the camp’s swimming pool, explore the local villages or arrange additional excursions on request. The weekend is largely free.
About the partner
The Sri Lanka Wildlife Conservation Society (SLWCS) is a non-profit organisation established over 23 years ago. A pioneer in developing solutions for coexistence between rural communities and wildlife, it runs internationally recognised sustainable conservation programmes. SLWCS collaborates with a number of scientific and environmental partners and works every day to protect Sri Lanka’s biodiversity through education, research and community engagement.
