Stay Longer: The Volunteer Experience

Go beyond the typical tourist path and become part of our family.

 

If you are looking for a deep, meaningful connection with nature and culture, we invite you to stay a little longer. While our minimum stay is two days, many of our guests find themselves staying for weeks or even months.

At the Elephant Freedom Project, you aren't just a visitor—you are a member of our team and a guest in our home. You will live with our family, bond with our elephants, and experience the authentic rhythm of everyday life in Sri Lanka.

Your Home in Sri Lanka: Accommodation

 

You will stay in the beautiful, spacious home of Ananda, Malie, and their daughter Shashini. We provide a clean and welcoming environment where you can relax after a rewarding day of work.

Room & House Features:

  • Comfortable Bedrooms: Equipped with bed sheets, towels, and A/C.

  • Private Facilities: Attached bathrooms with Western-style toilets.

  • Shared Spaces: A large living area with a TV, a cozy seating area, and a peaceful veranda.

  • Stay Connected: WiFi is available in the living areas.

 

Meaningful Activities: How You’ll Help

 

Staying with us is a hands-on journey. You’ll gain a deep understanding of elephant conservation and Sri Lankan culture through a variety of daily tasks:

 

Elephant Care & Conservation

 

  • Daily Cleaning: Assist in cleaning the elephants' sleeping areas and clearing the local river of plastic and debris to keep the environment safe for Kumari and Menike.

  • Nutrition: Help prepare elephant meals, feed them, and plant new food sources like banana plants and sugar cane.

  • Exclusive Time: Enjoy peaceful, unrushed moments with Kumari and Menike during special morning and afternoon hours, away from the day-visitors.

 

Culture & Community

 

  • Traditional Cooking: Join Malie in the kitchen to learn the secrets of authentic Sri Lankan spices and recipes.

  • Community Outreach: Visit a local school in Rambukkana to help students practice their English conversation skills.

  • Creative Projects: Long-term guests are invited to leave their mark by painting elephant-themed murals on our project walls.

 

Exploration & Discovery

 

  • Local Industry: Visit the nearby Tea Factory or the fascinating Elephant Dung Paper Factory.

  • Adventure: Climb Saradiel’s Hill (the "Sri Lankan Robin Hood") for breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

 

Your Schedule & Arrival

 

To ensure you get the most out of your time and meet the elephants during their early morning routine, we ask that you arrive the evening before your first full day.

Example 2-Day Itinerary:

  • Day 1: Arrive at 17:00 for a warm welcome, dinner, and your first overnight stay.

  • Day 2: A full day of activities and elephant time + overnight stay.

  • Day 3: A full day of activities, departing at 17:00.

 

All-Inclusive Fees

 

We believe in transparent, all-inclusive pricing. Your fee covers accommodation, all meals, and all activities.

Duration Price per Adult
2 Days / 2 Nights €140
3 Days / 3 Nights €200
5 Days / 5 Nights €320
7 Days / 7 Nights €430
14 Days / 14 Nights €790

 

 

Family Discounts:

  • Children (0–1): Free of charge.

  • Children & Teens (2–17): 50% Discount.

Frequently asked questions

Q: Do I need prior experience to volunteer?

A: No prior experience with elephants is required. Our team will provide all the necessary training and guidance to ensure you are comfortable and safe while helping with the elephants' care.

Q: What kind of work will I be doing?

A: Volunteers assist with a variety of tasks including preparing food (fruit baskets), cleaning the stables, observing elephant social behavior, and assisting with maintenance projects around the sanctuary.

Q: Is there a minimum stay requirement?

A: While we welcome guests for any duration, we recommend staying at least 3–5 days to truly immerse yourself in the project and build a connection with the elephants and our mission.

Q: What is the accommodation like?

A: We provide clean, comfortable, and authentic but modern accommodation near the sanctuary. You will experience the peaceful atmosphere of the Kegalle countryside with traditional Sri Lankan meals provided.

Q: Will I be allowed to ride the elephants?

A: No. Our philosophy is strictly "no-riding." Our long-term stays are focused on ethical observation, care, and respecting the elephants' natural behaviors.

Q: Can I volunteer alone, or do I need a partner?
  • A: You are more than welcome to come alone! Many of our volunteers are solo travelers. You will be joining a friendly, like-minded community of staff and other guests, so you will never feel truly alone unless you want some quiet time to yourself.

Q: When is the best time to visit Sri Lanka?

A: Sri Lanka is a year-round destination. For the Kegalle area, the best weather is typically from December to April. However, the lush green scenery is beautiful even during the "inter-monsoon" periods.

Q: What languages do you speak?

A: We are fluent in English and Sinhala. We are very experienced in hosting international guests and ensuring everyone feels at home.

Q: Do I need a special Visa?

A: Most visitors enter on a standard tourist visa (ETA). If you plan to stay longer than 30 days, you can easily extend your visa online or at the Department of Immigration in Colombo.

Is there internet access?

A: Yes, we provide Wi-Fi access. While the connection is generally reliable for emails and messaging, please remember we are in a rural setting, so it may be slower than what you are used to at home.

Q: Is Sri Lanka safe?

A: Yes, Sri Lanka is known for its warm hospitality and is generally very safe for travelers. Like any destination, we recommend using common sense and respecting local customs.

Q: Should I have Travel Insurance?

A: Yes. We require all long-term guests and volunteers to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and personal accidents.

Q: Will I have time for extra activities?

A: Absolutely. We encourage volunteers to explore! We are located near beautiful temples, tea plantations, and local markets. We can help you arrange afternoon trips or weekend excursions.

Q: Can I read reviews anywhere?

A: Yes! We encourage you to check our reviews on TripAdvisor and social media to hear directly from previous guests and volunteers about their experiences.

 

Ready to join us?

We would love to welcome you to our home and introduce you to Kumari and Menike. Spaces can fill up quickly, especially during holidays, so we recommend booking in advance.

To reserve your stay, simply contact us through the contact form below or send an email to efpsrilanka@gmail.com

We can’t wait to meet you!