About The Green Lion

Who is The Green Lion?

The Green Lion is a global community of tourism operators, changemakers and travellers ourselves, who believe in exploring the world with purpose. For over 25 years, we’ve been creating authentic travel and volunteer experiences that go beyond the ordinary. Unlike many travel providers that simply resell programs, we design and operate every experience ourselves, working closely with local communities to ensure meaningful impact and deep cultural connection.

Our HQ is based in Thailand and we operate travel programs in over 100 destinations across 40 countries in Asia, Africa, Latin America, Europe and the Pacific. In every location, our grassroots teams work closely with local people to design and run programs that are safe, meaningful and truly connected to the community. Wherever you join us, you’ll be welcomed by dedicated teams who know and love their home and are eager to share it with you.

Whether you’re drawn to cultural immersion, volunteering, adventure travel or wellness, you can combine different styles to shape a trip that’s uniquely yours. Every experience is designed to be meaningful, safe and impactful — giving you the chance to discover the true nature of a place, connect with like-minded people and even learn more about yourself along the way.

The Green Lion story

The Green Lion began in 1998 in Thailand under the name Greenway, with a simple idea: to create travel programs that truly support local communities. We started with a focus on a blend of responsible tourism and grassroots volunteer project, then quickly became known for meaningful, hands-on experiences.

As we grew into new countries, we evolved into The Green Lion, a name that reflects our bold, adventurous spirit and our commitment to positive social and environmental impact. Over the years, we expanded across Asia, Africa, Latin America, Europe and the Pacific, always staying true to our family-run roots and close community connections.

Along the way, we launched the Wyld Orange Foundation to directly give back, funding schools, kindergartens and animal welfare projects in the communities we call home. Even during tough times, like the 2020 pandemic, our focus on supporting local people never wavered.

Today, The Green Lion is powered by passionate teams around the world, welcoming travellers who want to explore with heart and purpose.

Our mission

Our mission is to invest in people and communities by fostering cultural understanding, social awareness and meaningful development. We believe in changing lives on both sides — empowering travellers through transformative experiences, and supporting local communities through volunteer projects and real partnerships. At The Green Lion, we’re here to build genuine, reciprocal connections and create a positive impact that lasts long after the trip ends.

Where are we?

The Green Lion is based in Thailand and operates in over 100 destinations across 40 countries in Asia, Africa, Latin America, Europe and the Pacific. In every location, our grassroots teams work closely with local people to design and run programs that are safe, meaningful and truly connected to the community. Wherever you join us, you’ll be welcomed by dedicated teams who know and love their home — and are eager to share it with you.

Who makes it all happen?

A global network of passionate local teams bring each experience to life on the ground.  These local teams aren’t just staff — they’re hosts, mentors and community champions who know their home inside out and are excited to share it with you. Together, we make sure every journey is safe, meaningful and truly unforgettable.

Our Leadership Team

Behind all of our programs is a small but dedicated headquarters team, working from different corners of the world to keep everything running smoothly. 

Chelsea Green

CEO

Hemantha Abeysinghe

Head of Operations

Chanjira Khadseesai

Head of People & Culture

Francis Altena

Head of Business Development

Tukkie Khadseesai

Regional Manager