Join an eco-village in Thailand
Gaarawe Eco-village is located in Khao Sok, Thailand. It is a not-for-profit village. Everything that we make and do is invested back into the project. Gaarawe distinguishes between qualified volunteers (skills-based, usually free stay) and trainee volunteers (learning-based, with a participation fee).
Listing summary: An eco-village and permaculture-style project near Khao Sok National Park (Thailand). Volunteers help with maintenance and practical tasks, or join with specific professional skills (bamboo building, carpentry, water systems, mechanics). Trainee volunteers pay a fee that covers meals, accommodation and training; qualified volunteers are usually hosted with food and accommodation included. Always confirm current availability, conditions and prices with the host.
Last content update provided by the host: October 2022. The project appears to still have an active online presence, but details can change quickly, so please verify directly with the host before planning your trip.
About the project
This project aims to create a community based on the economy of sufficiency, able to produce food and basic necessities for internal consumption and to offer hospitality to visitors. The community aims to operate in harmony between living beings and the surrounding environment, and promote a culture of sharing, empathy, and respect for nature.
Volunteer options
Important: Trainee volunteers contribute a participation fee (see “Trainee volunteers” below). Prices are indicative and may change, so always check the official website/FAQs for the most up to date rates and what is included.
Travel experience (short tasks, seasonal)
Example schedule shared by the host: 8:00 to 10:00 in June and July, with general maintenance tasks. The rest of the day is free time to visit the surroundings.
Example inclusions mentioned by the host (may vary): dorm bed (often in a bamboo hut), fast internet, laundry, a forest tour with a local guide, and a welcome dinner on the first day.
Qualified volunteers
Qualified volunteers are usually hosted with food and accommodation included for the duration of the project, depending on the role and current needs. The host also mentions that families can be welcome (please confirm conditions and space availability).
Skills currently requested
- Carpenter (experience with bamboo preferred)
- Builder (experience with bamboo and/or clay construction preferred)
- Expert in water filtration systems (potable and/or greywater)
- Motorbike mechanic
- Native Thai speaker
What the host asks
- Qualified, experienced volunteer (no apprentices)
- Assistance in gathering the necessary resources
- Time commitment for the duration of the project
- Compliance with immigration requirements and the right visa
Trainee volunteers
If you have not worked on a permaculture project for at least one month, the host explains that you may need guidance and training before you can contribute effectively. In that case, trainee volunteers are asked to contribute financially.
What the host gives (trainee volunteers)
- Three meals per day*
- Training in tasks needed by the garden and the village
- Sheets, blankets, pillows and mosquito net
- High-speed wifi and electricity
- Full access to training and facilities
- Free laundry
What the host asks (trainee volunteers)
Prices are indicative and may vary over time. For exact pricing, please visit the official website.
- 1 week: 3,500 THB per person, 6,000 THB per couple
- 1 month: 9,000 THB per person, 16,000 THB per couple
- 3 months: 21,000 THB per person, 35,000 THB per couple
Approximate currency conversion (indicative): based on mid-market reference rates around mid December 2025. Rates change, so this is only a quick guide.
3,500 THB ≈ $111 / €95
6,000 THB ≈ $190 / €162
9,000 THB ≈ $285 / €244
16,000 THB ≈ $507 / €433
21,000 THB ≈ $666 / €568
35,000 THB ≈ $1,110 / €947
*Food note (shared by the host): their chef is Thai, so much of the food is what she would make for her family. Vegan/vegetarian options are available, and they use mostly organic products from the garden or local sources. Let the host know if you have dietary requirements.
CONTACT DETAILS 🔍📧
Please note: This volunteer project listing may be outdated. Information regarding availability, dates, tasks, requirements, and prices might no longer be accurate. Contact the hosts directly to confirm the current status, total costs (if any), and what is included.
Website: garawe.com
Facebook: facebook.com/gaarawevillage
Instagram: instagram.com/gaarawevillage
Video: youtu.be/iipgyq45Qfw
See more volunteering opportunities in Thailand 🇹🇭
Voluntouring reminder:Local rules: visa conditions and requirements vary. Please check what applies to your destination before confirming an exchange. Always confirm duties, hours, accommodation details and any fees in writing before you travel. If a host asks for payments, make sure you understand exactly what the fee covers, ask for a clear breakdown, and trust your instincts if anything feels unclear.