International Volunteering
in Sri Lanka

Many volunteers

have already taken the plunge…

Discover the satisfaction of participating in actions that bring about change!

Without being a professional in international solidarity, whether you are still studying, in active life or retired, everyone has skills, professional or personal know-how that is useful to others.

Depending on your fields of expertise, we will place you on one of our missions, but none of the activities require a special level of qualification. We are committed to your commitment and your interpersonal skills. However, if you speak alone, basic English is essential.

During your mission, you will experience a cultural immersion with the Sri Lankans and discover the country’s lush nature.

Together, let’s learn to know each other and respect nature for a common future.

The mission location

Millenium Elephant Foundation

The Millennium Elephant Foundation (MEF) was created in 1999 in Kegalle with the aim of protecting wild and domestic elephants in Sri Lanka. Sick domestic elephants and those mistreated by their owners are taken in.

More than 60 elephants have been housed there. Today, 4 females, aged between 21 and 65, are temporarily or permanently at the centre.

In Sri Lanka, there are approximately 5,000 wild elephants and 200 domesticated elephants. The latter mainly participate in Buddhist religious festivals and tourist walks. The number of domesticated elephants is decreasing because Sri Lanka’s objective is to leave them free (also for financial reasons because the animal is expensive to maintain…).

The role of the volunteer

Managing the daily care of elephants.

Upon arrival, you will be assigned an elephant and under the guidance of the Mahout your daily tasks will be to work for the well-being of the elephant. This comes down to daily care such as feeding, medical treatment if necessary, bathing and grooming.

As you get to know your elephant, you will also learn to recognize its sounds, movements, moods and feelings, individual traits and personality.

You will also participate in the maintenance of the organic garden, planting fruit trees and medicinal plants.

A typical day with elephants

7.30 Preparation of elephants’ medicines and vitamins.

8.00 Feeding of elephants and veterinary examination.

8.30 Cleaning of enclosures

9.00 Breakfast at the Colonial house

10.00 Bathing of elephants

11.00 Cleaning of litters

12.00-14.00 Lunch break

14.00 Visit of the Ecomaximus paper factory or the garden, learning of Ayurveda medicine and plants.

15.00 – 17.00 Work in the sanctuary (Gardening, painting, recycling)

17.00 – 18.00 Free time (shower etc.)

18.00 Dinner

The cost of the mission

The total cost of a mission includes:

- mission costs including on-site transport, accommodation, supervision, food on site, between €1,100 and €1,300

To which are added in addition:
- membership of the association(€25)
- plane tickets(around €800), cancellation option strongly recommended.
- travel insurance
- VISA (€52)
- Vaccination and pharmacy

In total, 66% of the amount committed is deductible from your taxes at the time of your declaration.
Article 200 and 238 bis of the General Tax Code.
We will issue you a tax receipt at the outcome of your mission.

The costs of weekend activities and any travel outside the program are your responsibility.

Mission departures are open all year round, it is up to you to choose your departure dates.

1) First of all, you must make sure that the Paris > Colombo flights match your availability and your budget! Use flight comparators: Skyscanner, Kayak, eDreams.

2) Contact us by email (contact@sensolidaire.org) or by filling out the form HERE indicating your name, first name, telephone number, email, choice of destination and any questions you may have. We will contact you to discuss the mission.

3) Book your plane tickets and send them to us by email.

4) Pay the mission fees and join the association.

5) We send you the terms of commitment to sign.

6) We send you practical advice on preparing for the mission.

7) We send you the mission sheet based on your skills, to be completed upon your return from the mission.

Practical information

You will need your valid passport (more than 6 months). Visa required to enter the country.

Advice for airlines to find you the best price: Air India, Emirates, Qatar Airways.

Good physical condition is recommended. A medical certificate from your doctor will be required.

Mandatory vaccinations up to date, hepatitis A recommended.

For any questions, here is the Practical Advice, a complete file that you can consult and download.

volontariat-sri-lanka-elephant-environnement

Testimonials

"A dream come true"

International Volunteeringin Sri Lanka