Temples, islands and transformative journeys

Destination: Thailand

Quick Info

Name: Thailand
Population: approx. 71 million
Capital: Bangkok
Language: Thai
Currency: Thai Bhat (THB)
Time Zone: Indochina Time (ICT), UTC +7

Introduction to Thailand

Thailand has a way of pulling you in — with buzzing street markets, peaceful temples and golden beaches that look straight out of a dream. But beyond the iconic photos, there’s a whole other side to discover when you choose to volunteer in Thailand.

The Green Lion’s programs are based in Chiang Mai, Koh Samui and Hua Hin, each offering a different vibe and chance to make a real impact. You might support Education and Kindergarten programs, help with Construction & Renovation, join Healthcare Education, or lend a hand with Animal Care and Community Development. Starting with Culture Week is a great way to get familiar with Thai customs, basic language and daily life before diving in.

Free time means exploring jungle waterfalls, hopping night markets, or relaxing on white-sand beaches with your new travel crew. Whether you’re teaching in the north, helping out on a southern island or working on community projects, volunteering in Thailand lets you experience the country with more purpose and a lot more heart.

The Green Lion Thailand

We are here

Chiang Mai

The Green Lion in Chiang Mai

Hua Hin

Koh Samui

Discover our Thailand travel programs

More Information
Participant Stories
Testimonial Videos
Group Travel

What Can I Do in My Free Time?

In Thailand, your free time is full of temples, beaches and local adventures. In Chiang Mai, you can visit temples, explore night markets, try cooking classes or hike to mountain viewpoints. In Hua Hin, enjoy long beaches, local seafood markets and weekend night bazaars. On Koh Samui, relax on white-sand beaches, join snorkeling trips or explore waterfalls and small fishing villages. Weekends are perfect for day trips, island hopping or exploring nearby national parks.

How Much Should I Budget Per Day?

Thailand is very budget-friendly. Plan for around THB 300–600 per day (about €8–€16 or US$9–$18) for local transport, snacks and extras, since meals are included in your program. Street food and local cafés are cheap and filling, and songthaews, tuk-tuks and ferries keep travel affordable. Budget more for weekend activities or tours.

When’s the Best Time to Travel to Thailand?

The best time to visit is during the cool, dry season (November to February) when it’s pleasant and easier to explore. March to May is hotter, while June to October is the rainy season with short, heavy showers but lush scenery. Even in the wet season, mornings are often clear and activities still run.

Food in Thailand

Meals are included in your program and often feature fresh local dishes like rice, noodles, curries and stir-fries. Favorites include pad thai, green curry and mango sticky rice. Vegetarian options are easy to find, and street markets offer tasty snacks and fresh fruit if you want to try more local treats.

Getting Around in Thailand

Getting around is easy and flexible. In Chiang Mai and Hua Hin, you can walk, rent a bicycle or use songthaews and tuk-tuks. On Koh Samui, shared taxis and local trucks make it simple to reach beaches and villages. Your local team can help arrange safe, trusted transport for day trips or weekend adventures.

Culture in Thailand

Thai culture values respect, kindness and calmness. You’ll see Buddhist temples, spirit houses and daily rituals everywhere. Dress modestly when visiting temples and remove shoes before entering certain spaces. Locals are friendly and welcoming, and learning a few Thai phrases goes a long way.

Climate in Thailand

Thailand has a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round, usually 28–35°C. The cool season (November to February) is ideal for travel, March to May is very hot and June to October is the rainy season. Pack lightweight clothes, sun protection and a rain jacket if visiting during wet months.

We can arrange customised group travel experiences in this destination, tailored to schools, universities, families, friends or corporate teams. Whether your group is interested in learning, volunteering, adventure, cultural immersion, wellness — or a mix of them all — we’ll help design a safe, meaningful journey that fits your goals.

More Information
Participant Stories
Testimonial Videos
Group Travel

What Can I Do in My Free Time?

In Thailand, your free time is full of temples, beaches and local adventures. In Chiang Mai, you can visit temples, explore night markets, try cooking classes or hike to mountain viewpoints. In Hua Hin, enjoy long beaches, local seafood markets and weekend night bazaars. On Koh Samui, relax on white-sand beaches, join snorkeling trips or explore waterfalls and small fishing villages. Weekends are perfect for day trips, island hopping or exploring nearby national parks.

How Much Should I Budget Per Day?

Thailand is very budget-friendly. Plan for around THB 300–600 per day (about €8–€16 or US$9–$18) for local transport, snacks and extras, since meals are included in your program. Street food and local cafés are cheap and filling, and songthaews, tuk-tuks and ferries keep travel affordable. Budget more for weekend activities or tours.

When’s the Best Time to Travel to Thailand?

The best time to visit is during the cool, dry season (November to February) when it’s pleasant and easier to explore. March to May is hotter, while June to October is the rainy season with short, heavy showers but lush scenery. Even in the wet season, mornings are often clear and activities still run.

Food in Thailand

Meals are included in your program and often feature fresh local dishes like rice, noodles, curries and stir-fries. Favorites include pad thai, green curry and mango sticky rice. Vegetarian options are easy to find, and street markets offer tasty snacks and fresh fruit if you want to try more local treats.

Getting Around in Thailand

Getting around is easy and flexible. In Chiang Mai and Hua Hin, you can walk, rent a bicycle or use songthaews and tuk-tuks. On Koh Samui, shared taxis and local trucks make it simple to reach beaches and villages. Your local team can help arrange safe, trusted transport for day trips or weekend adventures.

Culture in Thailand

Thai culture values respect, kindness and calmness. You’ll see Buddhist temples, spirit houses and daily rituals everywhere. Dress modestly when visiting temples and remove shoes before entering certain spaces. Locals are friendly and welcoming, and learning a few Thai phrases goes a long way.

Climate in Thailand

Thailand has a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round, usually 28–35°C. The cool season (November to February) is ideal for travel, March to May is very hot and June to October is the rainy season. Pack lightweight clothes, sun protection and a rain jacket if visiting during wet months.

We can arrange customised group travel experiences in this destination, tailored to schools, universities, families, friends or corporate teams. Whether your group is interested in learning, volunteering, adventure, cultural immersion, wellness — or a mix of them all — we’ll help design a safe, meaningful journey that fits your goals.