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The Great Elephant Project

  (24 reviews)

Encounter the beautiful Asiatic elephant deep within the heart of the Sri Lankan jungle!

Located on the outskirts of Sri Lanka's Wasgamuwa National Park, The Great Elephant Project offers the chance to become part of a mission to protect one of the country's most iconic species. Experience life alongside local communities while contributing to vital elephant conservation efforts in one of Sri Lanka's richest wildlife regions.

For generations, elephants have been deeply respected in Sri Lanka, but as human and wildlife territories have increasingly overlapped, conflict has become a growing challenge. Around 400 elephants and 150 people lose their lives each year due to human-elephant conflict, highlighting the urgent need for projects like this. Through initiatives such as 'Project Orange', this project works with communities to reduce conflict, protect elephant populations and create new opportunities for local livelihoods.

As a volunteer, you'll observe wild elephants from tree huts and reservoirs, collecting valuable data on their movements, behaviour and interactions with their surroundings. You'll also take part in wildlife surveys, set up camera traps, analyse animal tracks and signs, and help monitor the incredible biodiversity of Wasgamuwa National Park, from elephants and leopards to sloth bears, pangolins, birds and butterflies.

Working alongside researchers and local communities, you'll help support conservation solutions that allow people and wildlife to thrive together. More than a chance to witness elephants in the wild, this is an opportunity to become part of the efforts protecting their future and contribute to one of Sri Lanka's most important conservation stories.

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From $1,209.00

  • Up to 30 Persons
  • All Meals Included
  • 6 - 83 Nights
  • Every Sunday throughout the year
  • Minimum Age 17 (Or From 6 Years Old With An Adult)
The Great Elephant Project - Project Video - 2023

Speak To A Travel Expert

Lauren Mackinnon

Activities

The following are some of the activities you may get involved in while volunteering with elephants in Wasgamuwa. You may not take part in all of these activities as they are dependent on the requirements of the project at the time you are volunteering and also on your length of stay. Looking to volunteer as a family? Take a look at The Great Elephant Project - Family Programme. 

Elephant Observation & Data Logging
Elephant Observation & Data Logging Most afternoons and evenings on this project are spent in the heart of the ‘Elephant Corridor’, watching and waiting as wild elephants move through their natural habitat. From the safety of a jeep or a tree hut, you’ll help record data on each sighting, including its size, sex, age, and unique physical features. Your observations will contribute to vital research on Asian elephant populations and help identify potential risks of human-elephant conflict, all while surrounded by the incredible wildlife of the Wasgamuwa ecosystem.
Elephants in Wasgamuwa National Park
Wasgamuwa National Park During your time on the project, you will take a trip to the nearby Wasgamuwa National Park, a species-rich location which is also home to a number of wild elephants. This is an incredible opportunity for you to witness a range of animals in their natural habitat, from bird species to boars, sloth bears and even leopards! You will definitely want to take a camera with you on this part of the project, as it really is the perfect opportunity to capture some amazing moments.
Sustainable Land Use & Livelihood Project Monitoring
Sustainable Land Use & Livelihood Project Monitoring Agriculture plays a major role in human-elephant conflict, with elephants often entering farmland in search of food and damaging valuable crops. As a volunteer, you’ll support community-based conservation efforts like ‘Project Orange’, where citrus trees are planted around villages to deter elephants while providing an additional source of income. Through hands-on activities such as harvesting oranges and planting trees, you’ll connect with the community and learn how sustainable solutions can help both people and elephants coexist.
Trail Transects on The Great Elephant Project
Trail Transects & Water Reservoir Monitoring During transects, you’ll explore trails and water reservoirs outside the national park in search of elephant dung. While it may seem like an unusual task, analysing dung provides valuable insights into elephant ecology, helping the team understand an elephant’s diet, movements, size, age, and sex. Mapping the location of dung along trails also helps identify movement patterns and assess potential areas of human-elephant conflict.
Electric Fence Monitoring
Electric Fence Monitoring Rather than restricting elephants by fencing them into specific areas, the project focuses on protecting local communities by using solar-powered electric fences around villages. As a volunteer, you’ll help monitor and assess the condition of these fences, recording any information that needs to be shared with local fence committees. This helps communities maintain and improve these systems, reducing crop damage and dangerous conflicts.
Bird & Butterfly Surveys
Bird & Butterfly Surveys Volunteers support long-term research into the birds and butterflies found across Wasgamuwa’s diverse habitats, including both resident and migratory species. By helping collect data on species numbers, diversity, behaviour, and distribution, you’ll contribute to a better understanding of these important ecosystems. You may also assist in monitoring bird activity in paddy fields, observing feeding patterns and interactions among different species within agricultural landscapes.
Sand Traps
Camera/Sand Traps & Species Scat Analysis Camera traps provide a unique window into the hidden lives of wildlife, capturing the movements and behaviours of species such as pangolins, sloth bears, leopards, and elephants. As a volunteer, you’ll help set up and monitor these cameras and create ‘sand traps’ on the forest floor to record animal footprints. By identifying tracks, scats, scratches, burrows, dens, and hair samples, you’ll contribute to research that helps the team better understand the diverse wildlife living in the area.
Free Time
Free Time Weekends are free for you to spend as you wish, and depending on the length of your stay, you may wish to explore more of what Sri Lanka has to offer. Consider the ‘cultural triangle’, situated within the centre of the country and consisting of numerous ancient or World Heritage sites across Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa and Dambulla. Alternatively, you may wish to relax at the volunteer site itself, taking in its stunning surroundings from the infinity pool and getting some well-earned rest.

Itinerary

The itinerary below is an example of a two-week stay at The Great Elephant Project and is subject to change. Please be advised that although we are able to offer a 6-night option, a minimum duration of 13 nights is recommended for a more in-depth experience. If you take part for only 6 nights, there is no guarantee that you will be involved in all the activities listed.

Day 1 - The Adventure Begins: Upon arrival at Colombo Airport, you’ll be met and privately transferred to the project site. You’ll arrive in the evening, with the rest of the night set aside to relax, enjoy dinner, and ease into your surroundings before your adventure begins.
Day 2-6 - Project Days: These days will form the core of your first week on the project. Depending on how many volunteers are in the group, you may be split into smaller teams and rotated through different activities. One day, you could see yourself tracking wildlife through the jungle, another day observing elephants in their natural habitat, or contributing to community-focused work with local initiatives. The schedule is flexible, shaped by factors such as animal movements, weather, and the project's evolving needs, so each day brings something new.
Day 7 & 8 - Weekend: Your weekends are free to spend however you choose. Relax back at the field house, or take the opportunity to explore more of Sri Lanka, from its stunning landscapes and rich culture to its remarkable wildlife. If you’d like to venture further afield, the team can help organise a range of optional trips and experiences (please note this will be at your own expense).
Day 9-13 – Project Days: As the next week begins, you’ll dive back into project life and continue supporting the team’s conservation work in the field. From wildlife monitoring and research tasks to community-focused initiatives, you’ll gain an even greater insight into the challenges and rewards of protecting Sri Lanka’s ecosystems. Along the way, you’ll strengthen your connection with the local community, fellow volunteers, and the elephants that make this experience so unforgettable.
Day 14 - Final Day: After saying goodbye to the project staff and the friends you have made here, it's time to depart. Your departure transfer is not included, but the team will assist you with arranging a transfer back to Colombo or to your onward destination if you will be staying in Sri Lanka. Wherever you may be heading, you can be sure to be walking away with unforgettable memories of your conservation adventure!

Durations & Prices

To secure a place on this project, a deposit of $245 is required at the time of booking. The remaining balance is due 60 days before your start date.

Flexible Payment Options: If you select a start date more than 3 months in advance, we offer convenient payment plans, allowing you to pay off your balance in instalments.

Select a duration below to see the available start dates and book your place today!

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Accommodation

Volunteer Accommodation Dorm Room
Volunteer Accommodation Outside Volunteer Accommodation Bathroom Volunteer Accommodation Infinity Pool

Volunteer Accommodation

While on the project, you will stay in a rustic field house which can accommodate up to 30 people. The accommodation is basic yet authentic, offering views of the surrounding area through partitioned walls and a high roof. The design of the house is ideal for Sri Lanka’s climate, allowing air to circulate and keep the building cool, but still providing shelter in the event of rain.

There are several rooms that are shared among volunteers on a same-sex basis, with enough bunk beds in each room to accommodate 8-16 volunteers at a time. Rooms are complete with electric fans, mosquito nets, pillows, and clean bed sheets, while the bathrooms, which are also gender-separated, have western-style toilets and hot showers.

Volunteer Upgrade Accommodation
Volunteer Upgrade Accommodation Volunteer Upgrade Accommodation Volunteer Upgrade Accommodation

Accommodation Upgrade

If you're looking for a little more comfort during your stay, there is an option to upgrade to a nearby modern hotel. This hotel offers stunning views, a pristine swimming pool, and spacious rooms. You can choose a single room at an additional cost of $68 per night, or a double room at $75 per night. All rooms have river views, are air-conditioned, feature en-suite bathrooms, and offer free Wi-Fi. A member of the project staff will provide daily pick-up and drop-off services. If you're interested in upgrading, please reach out to the travel team.

Meals & Beverages at The Great Elephant Project
Meals & Beverages at The Great Elephant Project Meals & Beverages at The Great Elephant Project Meals & Beverages at The Great Elephant Project

Meals & Beverages

Three fresh meals are provided on each day of the project and are prepared by members of staff who live in nearby villages. Food is prepared in the local style, using a range of spices, but if you would prefer a little less heat there is always a plain option available. Most meals will be vegetarian, consisting of rice, bread and dhal, while fish and chicken dinners are available once or twice per week. Fruit is also available and you will find British-style tea and ground coffee here too. A kettle, toaster and fridge-freezer will be available for you to store extra snacks and drinks in. (Please note, while alcohol is not permitted during the working week, you are welcome to purchase alcoholic beverages from the local shop or liquor store to enjoy on a Friday or Saturday evening.)

Project Details

When Is The Best Time To Volunteer?

While elephant and other wildlife sightings, and all volunteer activities occur year-round, there are a few factors that may guide your choice of which month to travel.

November to March sees the bird migration period, so those who wish to spot some of Sri Lanka’s incredible bird species may wish to volunteer then. If it’s culture you’re after, then April to September is an excellent time to visit due to the Sinhala New Year taking place (April) and two of the largest Buddhist festivals, the Wesak and Poson festivals, happening in May. The Esala Perahera (the Temple of the Tooth celebration festival) falls in August and can be observed in nearby Kandy.

As for the weather, the most pleasant months fall between January and May, with January being the coolest month of the year and April the warmest. There are two annual monsoons in Sri Lanka, with the Yala monsoon bringing rains between May and August, though this is mostly in the southwest of Sri Lanka. The Maha monsoon falls between October and November and affects most of Sri Lanka, with October being the wettest month of all. That said, volunteer activities will take place come rain or shine, and some fantastic sightings still take place during the monsoon season.

Average Monthly Weather in Wasgamuwa National Park, Sri Lanka

If you are travelling during the Christmas period or the Sinhala and Tamil New Year (13–15 April), please note that your itinerary may be subject to changes or disruptions.

Getting There

You will need to arrive at Colombo Airport on Sunday before 2pm. From there, you’ll travel directly to the project site by private transfer, a journey that takes around 5 hours.

Return transfers are not included in the programme fee but can be organised at an additional cost.

Visa Requirements

All visitors to Sri Lanka require a visa. Short-stay visas of up to thirty days can be obtained online via the Electronic Travel Authority, and can be extended for up to three months at the Department of Immigration and Emigration in Sri Lanka. Please note, your passport must be valid for at least six months from the date you arrive into Sri Lanka.

Fitness & Skills

This project does not involve much in the way of physical labour, but you will usually be working in fairly humid conditions. Therefore, all volunteers should have a basic level of fitness when taking part. No specific skills or experience are required, just commitment to the project and its aims. You must be prepared to work alongside other members of the team and to bring an upbeat, positive attitude to the endeavour as a whole.

Vaccinations

There are no specific vaccinations required to join this project; therefore, we recommend consulting your GP/doctor or a travel clinic and following their advice on vaccinations for travel. You can also find helpful advice and information on the Travel Health Pro website.

Videos

The Great Elephant Project - Project Video - 2023
Discover The Great Elephant Project

See what your life as a volunteer could be like at The Great Elephant Project in Sri Lanka - A project that works closely with Asian elephants and the local farming community to reduce human-animal conflict around the wildlife-rich Wasgamuwa National Park.

The Great Elephant Project - Project Orange - 2023
Project Orange - Tackling human-elephant conflict

Operations Manager of The Great Elephant Project, Chinthaka, explains how volunteers actively contribute to mitigating human-elephant conflict in Sri Lanka and support local communities through the cultivation of orange trees.

The Great Elephant Project - Weekend Activities - 2023
Weekends at The Great Elephant Project

With weekends free, you can explore iconic landmarks in the cultural triangle including Sigiriya Lion Rock, Pidurangala, and the Dambulla Cave Temple.

Filipa's Experience Of The Great Elephant Project!
Filipa's Experience Of The Great Elephant Project!

Check out how Filipa found her experience of volunteering on The Great Elephant Project! From wild elephants to lifelong friends, see it all here. 

Reviews

Eleanor Watters, 2026
         

The Great Elephant Project was quite different to my previous volunteering experiences, and I loved it! As well as observing Elephants, we did butterfly surveys, bird nest surveys and fence monitoring. We also talked to the local people about living in close proximity to Elephants. It gave me a brief glimpse into life in this remote part of Sri Lanka. The Field House was much more comfortable than I expected. The dormitories have three-quarter walls so air can circulate and you wake to the sounds of bird song and monks chanting. The bathrooms are inside the building (so no scary night trips to the loo) and the showers have recently been up graded, you can have a warm shower any time of day. The very best bit about Field House was the food. Three ladies cook amazing traditional Sri Lankan food, be sure to try the beetroot curry, pumpkin curry and sweet and sour aubergines. I had a wonderful 3 weeks and I am hoping to return soon.

Bob Chamberlain, 2025
         

I arrived after a Cyclone had just crashed through the area. 112 bridges damaged, roads and rails up, landslides and no power. The team joining me from Australia cancelled so i was on my own. 10 hour road journey from Columbo trying to find open roads and bridges did not stop us from arriving. Ravina and her team were brilliant and nothing daunted them. Chezer was the man who kept the house on track. providing candles, preparing food with his ladies, making sure we were all ok. A top man. We got out working every morning, helping the local farmers and doing surveys and then later watching for Elephants. The whole experience was a massive adventure and left a mark on me forever. My dealings with the beautiful local people was humbling and a great personal pleasure. What an amazing project run by dedicated and conscientious young people for a brilliant cause. Well done to them and i cannot thank them enough for showing me the way. Loved it. Bob Chamberlain North Wales

Elaine Brookfield, 2025
         

This adventure taught me an incredible amount, especially about data collection to help animals in the wildlife sanctuary and how to resolve the human elephant conflict. The guide, Ravina, was knowledgeable, patient and empathetic. Her excitement about observing elephants never waned. She explained every step of our mission and answered all questions thoroughly and with a smile. The food that was served at the volunteer house was abundant and delicious, the other volunteers amiable and the location was truly in the wilderness and exemplified the lifestyle of a typical farmer in Sri Lanka. I opted to stay in the hotel nearby for an extra sum and was truly satisfied with the decision because I come from a cooler climate and the scorching days left me dizzy, so going to a hotel with AC made for a truly comfortable experience. Sri Lanka and the project will remain a positive and eye opening experience for me and I recommend the trip to anyone who wants to learn the ins and outs of how to preserve wildlife conservation and resolve the human elephant conflict.


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What's Included

  • Accommodation
  • Arrival airport transfer
  • Three meals per day
  • Full orientation and support from the project managers
  • A contribution to the project

What's Not Included

  • Flights
  • Travel Insurance
  • Departure airport transfer

Speak To A Travel Expert

Lauren Mackinnon Call us on +44 208 885 4987 Submit an Enquiry
From
$1,719.00€1,074.00£895.00$1,209.00
  • Up to 30 Persons
  • All Meals Included
  • 6 - 83 Nights
  • Every Sunday throughout the year
  • Minimum Age 17 (Or From 6 Years Old With An Adult)
Download Project Guide Image Download Project Guide