GVI Chiang Mai - Best Experience of my Life

GVI Chiang Mai was truly the most unforgettable experience of my entire life. I’m 26 years old and have experienced quite a bit so far but the four weeks I spent in Huay Pakkoot were the best of my life. The scenery is breathtaking and the people and elephants are even better.
I’m pursuing a career in conservation and initially signed up to gain experience in the area. I learned more than I could imagine, gaining invaluable insight into real conservation efforts and ethical animal experiences. The programme is run fantastically with a perfect balance of elephant and community activities. Each day was exciting, informative and rewarding - I have truly never felt so fulfilled in my life.
Working with the programme managers, Jonny & Kat, was the greatest pleasure and to see their genuine passion and the tireless work they do for the elephants and the village of Huay Pakkoot inspired me every day.
Despite signing up for conservation purposes, living in Huay Pakkoot is what makes the programme so special. The relationship between the elephants and their mahouts is beautiful to see. The homestay was the ideal accommodation which provided privacy with our own rooms but also further immersed us into the beautiful Pakinyaw culture. The relationship Jonny and Kat have built with the villagers is heart-warming and they always put what is best for the village and the elephants at the forefront of everything they do. This is exactly how a conservation/community project should run.
There is an amazing sense of community between GVI participants and also with the villagers and I've definitely made friends for life. Almost immediately, I felt a part of the village and I was absolutely heartbroken to leave. I’m already planning on when I can return.
Whether you’re passionate about elephants/conservation, want to immerse yourself in a lovely authentic culture or want to make a meaningful impact on the world, this will be a life changing experience which I could not recommend enough. The only thing I would have done differently is stay longer!