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Forest Nature Project with Wildlife in Vientiane, Laos

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    ALVH0000
    Asia/Laos/Vientiane
    • Program Period: Available Year-Round
    • Application Period: Open Year-Round
    • Number of Participants: Unlimited
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    Program Creator / Olive
    I recommend this project to those who want to spend time with animals in nature. The facility is located in a densely wooded forest, offering a relaxed and peaceful atmosphere. It cares for over 200 species of animals, allowing you to observe and help man
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    5.0
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    • Learning & Growth
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    Program Introduction

    Enjoy your own life in the forest while caring for a variety of wildlife at an animal protection center in Laos! This project is a volunteer program run by an animal-protection NGO that rescues animals from illegal capture, treats them, and cares for themIt is. Spend time in a beautiful forest living with various animals, taking time to reflect on yourself and recover.

    Laos borders several countries such as Thailand, Vietnam, and China, and as a result many of Southeast Asia’s major wildlife species are frequently traded illegally.The organization rescues wildlife that are traded illegally, treats and cares for animals injured in the process, and works to return them to the wildThe organization treats and cares for around 200 different species — including crocodiles, monkeys, bats, and deer — so participants have the chance to observe and help rare animals that are not commonly seen in Korea.Spend time personally helping and caring for various animals.

    The project goes beyond simply caring for animals; it offers systematic learning about wildlife conservation activities. The volunteer organization was the first registered animal protection group in Laos and has accumulated know-how through cooperation with many international wildlife organizations, the Lao government, NGOs, and animal experts. The organization also has hospital facilities with an operating room and medical equipment to treat animals, and a team of veterinarians who treat wildlife and perform emergency surgeries. Participants with relevant experience and knowledgecan gain experience assisting with animal treatment and supporting surgeries in the in-house hospitalYou can also build this experience. Check the animals’ health and experience all the steps involved in returning them to the wild. Learn the real importance of wildlife protection and its practical challenges, anddiscover how animal protection can serve as an opportunity to grow into related professions such as zookeepers and veterinarians.


    One important purpose of a gap year is to take time for yourself to reflect on the path you've taken and consider the direction you should go next. The wildlife volunteer area islocated in a pleasant, spacious forest, making it an exceptionally beautiful place to stay and focus entirely on yourselfIt is.
    Escape the busy, hectic routine and spend quiet, peaceful time here. Wake up each morning to the beautiful songs of birds, and end the day gazing at the twinkling stars under a clear, open sky.Time spent in the fresh air of the forest will comfortably restore your tired body and mind.

    Recommended Duration by Participants

    13.1 Week

    Based on past participants’ experiences, we’ve organized the common themes of learning, reflection, and growth by time period.

    4Week
    Discover
    8Week
    Learn
    Recommended 12Week
    12Week
    Grow
    16Week
    Move Forward
    20Week
    Transform

    Why This Project

    What makes this project special

    #Knowledge & Skills#Career & Direction#New Experiences & Passion#Top Animal Protection Organization#Rare Animal Observation and Protection#Medical Field Experience#Psychological Recovery#Wildlife Protection#Animal Rescue#Rehabilitation Therapy#Veterinary Activities#Hands-on Experience#Environmental Conservation#Understanding of Ecological Environment#Professional Experience#Animals You Would Never See#Really Good#Self-reflection#Recovery in Nature#Volunteer Experience
    3 Step

    12Week

    Grow

    Gain practical experience by participating in specialized projects such as animal rehabilitation and research. Communicate with keepers to learn in-depth knowledge about conservation activities. Volunteering brings peace of mind and offers new learning experiences. Feel an immersive sense of being one with nature. Helping and caring for others brings confidence and fulfillment. Beyond simple tasks, you learn to respect life and take responsibility. Working with local people and other volunteers improves interpersonal skills. It provides a valuable time to reflect on life’s values and consider new directions. Participate in animal rescue, treatment, and first aid activities to increase practical experience and expertise. Observing a variety of animals deepens your understanding of ecology and the environment. Through self-reflection before and after the project, you gain insight and contemplate your career and life direction. Team activities and international cooperation experiences foster global communication skills. Through long-term activities, you establish your own daily rhythm and develop self-direction.

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    Program Activities

    This project, carried out about 70 km from the center of Vientiane, Laos, conducts a range of activities to end illegal wildlife trade and to rescue, rehabilitate, and release wild animals back into the wild. Participants join various activities with the organization's staff and can learn about the harmonious coexistence of nature, animals, and people.

    Project activities

    Examples of main activities

    1. Feeding shelter animals: supporting the provision of food and water for the animals.

    2. Shelter animal health checks: monitoring for abnormal behavior or signs of disease.

    3. Facility maintenance: maintaining animal enclosures, the animal hospital, the education center, and other onsite facilities.

    4. Wildlife rescue operations: assisting staff with rescue activities when reports are received.

    5. Education and campaigns: supporting education and campaigns on the importance of animal protection.

    6. Shelter animal hospital support: assisting with wildlife treatment and emergency surgeries (relevant degree or experience required).

    Sample daily schedule

    - Volunteer hours are generally 6 days a week, including a mid-day break,07:00 to 16:00 you will be working.

    Time Schedule
    07:00 ~ 10:00 Feeding, cleaning, and meal preparation for newly rescued and resident animals.
    10:00 ~ 10:30 Break time (refill water bottles and rest out of direct sunlight)
    10:30 ~ 12:00 Improve existing enclosures and install new fences/enclosures.
    12:00 ~ 13:00 Lunch and rest
    13:00 ~ 15:00 Conduct animal health checks and individual animal care projects.
    3:00 PM – 4:00 PM Assist with providing the animals' afternoon meals.
    4:00 PM onward Break time (rest at the accommodation, observe nocturnal animals at the center, etc.)

    *The above schedule and activities are examples and may be adjusted depending on the organization's circumstances.

    *Volunteering is not a job, so participation can be flexible according to the schedule.

    Additional information

    • For the safety of participants and the protection of animals, direct contact with the animalsis prohibited.
    • Outside activity hours, you have free time for rest, personal projects, etc.
    • There is also a swimming pool near the accommodation where you can cool off and enjoy swimming during the hot summer.
    • If you need to buy a local SIM card or exchange money, the organization's staff can assist you.
    • Since many activities may take place outdoors, appropriate clothing and supplies are necessary. It's recommended to bring comfortable clothes.
    • The project site is located in a forest, so outings are limited.
    • Each week, you can go shopping with the staff or visit nearby villages to participate in activities.
    • The organization places great importance on participants' health and safety and takes all possible precautions to prevent accidents.
    • All participants will receive a safety briefing before working with animals. Rules are clear, and if a participant does not follow safety procedures or behaves recklessly, they may be asked to leave the center immediately.
    • For safety, the organization recommends receiving diphtheria, tetanus, and polio (DTP) vaccinations and purchasing travel insurance at least 3 months before participation.
    • Participants are generally advised to receive the DTP (diphtheria, tetanus, polio) vaccine before the project starts. In addition, we recommend consulting medical personnel in advance about vaccinations and preventive measures for rabies, malaria and dengue fever, hepatitis A and B, tuberculosis, etc.

    English requirement: ★★☆☆☆

    • Communicate with local staff and volunteers in English. Basic conversational ability is required.

    Physical fitness requirement: ★★★☆☆

    • Most activities take place outdoors in the forest. It is recommended to assess your physical fitness before participating in the project.

    Program Inclusions

    • On-Site Orientation
      On-Site Orientation
    • 24/7 Emergency Contact Support
      24/7 Emergency Contact Support
    • Personal Growth Support (Missions / Scholarships / Consulting)
      Personal Growth Support (Missions / Scholarships / Consulting)
    • Official Certificate of Completion
      Official Certificate of Completion
    • International Admin Support
      International Admin Support
    • Orientation Materials
      Orientation Materials
    • Program / Travel Tips
      Program / Travel Tips
    • Local Area / City Tours
      Local Area / City Tours
    • Accommodation Included (See Details)
      Accommodation Included (See Details)
    • Common Lounge & Shared Spaces
      Common Lounge & Shared Spaces
    • Round-trip Airport Transfer
      Round-trip Airport Transfer
    • Host Institution Certificate
      Host Institution Certificate
    • Welcome Pack / Goods
      Welcome Pack / Goods
    • Local Support / Inquiries
      Local Support / Inquiries
    • Partner Discount Benefits
      Partner Discount Benefits
    • Live Support Service
      Live Support Service
    • Swimming Pool
      Swimming Pool
    • Pre-Departure Orientation (Korea GapYear)
      Pre-Departure Orientation (Korea GapYear)
    • Daily Meals (3 per day)
      Daily Meals (3 per day)
    • Shared Kitchen
      Shared Kitchen

    Support Details

    Support details

    Accommodation and meals

    • Accommodation where you can interact with volunteers from around the world and relax comfortably.
    • Local vegetarian meals prepared with local ingredients.
    • Common spaces where you can make friends with international participants.
    • For volunteers visiting institutionsWelcome T-shirt

    Project activities

    • Safe transfer from the airport to the accommodationPickup service (round trip)
    • Thorough local orientation
    • Enjoy with international volunteersNational park, nearby village, and temple tours
    • Reliable local dedicated manager
    • Available 24 hours! Contact immediately if anything happens.24-hour emergency contact
    • To help you live like a localTravel tips provided
    • Discounts on activities such as ziplining and canopy walks operated by the eco-friendly resort
    • Unlimited access to the infinity pool

    Care services

    • Participant dispatch procedures: handling project registration and dispatch processes
    • Orientation provided: offering various orientation information to help you have a successful gap year
    • Orientation (OT) materials: materials containing the planner's know-how so even first-time international travelers can go safely.
    • Gap Year Note: A notebook for self-reflection during the gap year(▶ View details)
    • Gap Year Mission

    Certificates and Recommendation Letters

    • Issuance of Volunteer Activity Certificate from Local Organization
    • Issuance of Korea Gap Year Participation Certificate and Activity Completion Certificate

    * 현지기관 인증서 및 추천서 발급은 프로젝트 종료 후 참가자의 요청에 의해 발급됩니다. 또한 현지기관 인증서 및 추천서는 현지기관에 양식에 따라 형식이나 발급상황이 달라질 수 있습니다.

    * 인증서 및 추천서는 프로젝트를 제대로 수행한 후, 후기 제출 시 발급됩니다.

    Items Not Included

    • Round-trip airfare
    • Other local living expenses (overnight stays, meals, transportation, etc.)
    • Individual travel insurance fee
    • Visa fees for stays over 30 days

    * Please book flights and transportation after your project participation is confirmed and you receive the final departure schedule.

    About the Provider

    About the Organization

    We are a Lao NGO established to protect Laos' wildlife and prevent illegal wildlife trade. The organization conducts various projects in cooperation with the government, the UN, and other national and specialized agencies for the emergency rescue, treatment, and release of Laos' wildlife.

    We also run various education programs and campaigns for global environmental and animal protection, and monitor emerging wildlife diseases and the impact of wildlife ecosystems on public health. The organization strives to eradicate illegal wildlife trade, conserve wildlife, and address animal and human health issues worldwide.

    A message from the organization's representative

    Leading an environmental protection center has been my lifelong dream. I am glad to be able to save endangered wildlife while inspiring young environmentalists in Laos.

    - Jeremy -

    Accommodation

    Accommodation layout (bungalow) - 2-person room / shared kitchen and living room / shared laundry room

    Participants will stay in bungalows located inside a shelter operated directly by the organization. Rooms are shared by two people and will be used together with other foreign volunteers. Each bungalow is equipped with insect screens and fans, and there are hammocks that can be hung at the entrance. There is also a shared kitchen, lounge area, communal toilets, showers with hot water, washing machines, and lockers. Meals are provided daily—breakfast, lunch, and dinner—and are vegetarian; if desired, participants may cook in the shared kitchen.

    The facilities are basic but peaceful and quiet. Located away from the city, it may be difficult to access amenities, but for those who want to rest in nature, it will be an opportunity to take slow, personal time. The accommodation is also situated near a bird sanctuary, so you can enjoy the lovely sound of birds each morning.

    Location Overview

    Region: Laos, Vientiane

    Vientiane is the capital and largest city of Laos, known for its quiet and relaxed atmosphere. Located on the border with Thailand, it sits along the Mekong River and boasts beautiful riverside scenery. The city is deeply infused with Buddhist culture, and there are many historic temples such as the ornate golden stupa That Luang and Wat Sisaket, where monks pray. Traces of the French colonial era remain, creating a unique blend of European-style buildings and traditional Lao architecture. The Mekong riverside night market is also popular with travelers for sampling local food and buying souvenirs.

    Recommended destinations

    1. That Luang (That Luang)

    That Luang is the most sacred Buddhist monument in Laos, notable for its large golden stupa. Built in the 16th century, it is an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists and one of Laos's national symbols. Every November the That Luang Festival is held, attracting numerous pilgrims and visitors. During the day you can admire the grandeur of the golden stupa, and in the evening it presents a beautiful sight against the reddened sky.

    1. Vang Vieng (Vang Vieng)

    Vang Vieng is a place where you can enjoy various activities in nature. You can go tubing or kayaking along the emerald-hued Nam Song River, or explore the surrounding limestone hills and caves. In particular, the Blue Lagoon is famous as a relaxing spot with clear, blue water. Recently it has become popular as a peaceful nature retreat rather than for party culture, and it is loved by backpackers.

    1. Luang Prabang (Luang Prabang)

    Considered the most beautiful city in Laos, Luang Prabang is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its ornate temples and French colonial-era architecture create a distinctive atmosphere. The sight of monks receiving alms at dawn is one of the city's signature attractions, and the night market offers a variety of handicrafts and local foods.

    Dates & Fees

    Every Sundayis a project that starts.

    The minimum participation period for this project is 4 weeks.

    ■ The cost of this project is at the top of the current pagewhere you can easily check detailed amounts by duration and options.

    Eligibility and Qualifications

    - People who can communicate at a basic level in English

    - Adults aged 18 and over

    - People who like animals or are interested in animal welfare

    - People with a positive attitude and an open mind who can get along with various people

    - People who want time for themselves in a quiet and secluded place

     

    Installment Payment Information

    For those who find it difficult to pay in full, if you prepay a registration fee of 500,000 KRW and pay the balance within 2 weeks, the process to confirm participation will begin from the date the registration fee is paid, and availability and openings will be checked. To participate on your desired date and for your desired period, securing your spot quickly is important! (Non-refundable once participation is confirmed)

    * However, if the start date is imminent, the schedule for paying the remaining balance may vary depending on the situation.

    Early Bird Discount and Emergency Application Information

    We recommend applying for all Gap Year projects at least 3 months before the start date to allow for normal processing and preparation; as a rule, applications should be submitted no later than 2 months in advance. However, if you have unavoidable reasons or urgently need to join a project, we offer an emergency application service for an additional fee to expedite the process as much as possible.

    * We assist with the fastest possible processing, but there is a basic amount of time required for communication with local organizations and to confirm participation, and since all procedures are processed the same as for regular participants, participants using the emergency application service must actively cooperate with the Korea Gap Year operations team.

    ** Those who apply in advance at least 180 days before the start date can receive an early bird discount.

    *** The urgent application service can be requested from the selection options at the top. For inquiries about the urgent application service, please contact koreagapyear@gmail.com.

    - Included: Automatic enrollment for gap year missions and notes / All orientation materials provided in full immediately upon confirmation of participation / Additional deployment of emergency staff / Support in preparing documents if necessary, etc.

    * If you have difficulty calculating dates, please refer to Naver's date calculator >>Go to Naver Date Calculator

    ** Note: For ultra-urgent applications, there may be no availability depending on local conditions, and subsequent procedures will proceed according to the Gap Year refund policy. Additionally, any issues caused by a participant's non-cooperation are the participant's responsibility.

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    For any additional inquiries about the project, please contact our operations team via email (program@koreagapyear.com )
    or consult with one of our program consultants via KakaoTalk.

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