Gail:
It was so comforting to find someone waiting for us at the airport with our names on a card. It completely eliminated any worries. Our host family was lovely, and getting to know them was a special part of our stay. The food was delicious.

The tuk-tuk rides gave us a unique chance to see the city waking up in the morning — sights we could never have experienced otherwise. Our driver was always prompt and had a smile on his face. The project staff members were great, and it felt very secure having someone with us at the worksite to explain and interpret things.

We chose to volunteer with VWI because we wanted to be part of the country, not just a tourist. We picked the elephant project because we love animals. I would give the experience a full 10 out of 10.

Stanley:
Our arrival pick-up service was great! Accommodation and food were excellent. They did a great job accommodating my special diet, and the host family was very helpful. Our driver was always punctual, and the project staff members were friendly and supportive.

We chose VWI because it sounded like a well-run organization with great programs. I would give 10 out of 10+++ for the experience. This is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and I would recommend this program to everyone.

Brenda:
Excellent pick-up service. The host family was lovely, and the food was very good. Our transportation service was excellent, and the project staff members were very friendly.

I decided to join the program based on a recommendation from my friend Gail. I would also give 10 out of 10 for the experience. It was very interesting and rewarding to see and share in the care of the elephants alongside the hardworking mahouts.

The project coordinator, Mr. Raj Soni, was very attentive and ensured we were well taken care of. It was a pleasure working with this organization, and yes, I would recommend this program to everyone.

Ane:
Our pick-up service was good. Before joining the program, we were traveling around India and were driven to the VWI office by our own driver. Then, a VWI team member picked us up from there. The accommodation was nice — a very welcoming family, especially their daughters. The food was okay, though during our stay there was a wedding at the host family’s home, which made the meals a bit irregular for a couple of days.

Our transportation service was good. The taxi driver was very kind and took great care of us. Our program coordinator was great — spoke good English and always had a happy face. I decided to volunteer with VWI because I wanted to work with elephants in India and found their website online. The information on the site was clear, and it seemed like a well-organized organization. Other volunteers had also written great reviews about the project.

I would give VWI 10 out of 9 marks — I deducted 1 mark because our breakfast was irregular for 2 days 🙂.

Our daily routine was good. We got up at 4:30 a.m., got dressed, and met the driver at 5:00 a.m. Then we drove to the elephant village. The first meeting with the elephants was exciting. They were sleeping when we arrived and lying down. When they got up, we realized how big they are — truly magnificent creatures. They have the kindest eyes and almost seem like people. They understand what you say to them.

After sorting out sugarcane and cleaning their areas, we washed them. Then they went to the fort, and we enjoyed chai 🙂. We reached home around 9 a.m., breakfast was at 9:15, and then the rest of the day was free. Lunch was around 1 p.m., and dinner at about 8 p.m. Two days a week, we returned to the elephants at 1 p.m. to prepare food and chapattis for them.

All the mahouts are funny and loud; a few speak English, but our program coordinator was always there to help. On weekends, we got to go sightseeing — the City Palace, Monkey Temple, forts, etc.

The other volunteers become your best friends, and there’s a great feeling of being at home! I would highly recommend the project, but make sure to stay longer than one week — it’s not enough time to fully enjoy being with these amazing animals.

Elise:
We were driven to the VWI office by our own driver, then picked up by a VWI team member. Throughout the week, our taxi driver Totaram was always on time. The food was good, and the host family was very nice. The project staff members were very helpful, and I had no complaints.

I decided to volunteer because I wanted to visit India and work with, and get to know, the beautiful elephants.

I give VWI 10 out of 8 marks. This is a great way to experience India from inside — living with an Indian family, contributing to Indian society, and making friends from all over the world.

The family house where I stayed was lovely, and the whole family was very welcoming. Before I started the project, all my emails were answered quickly and professionally. During my stay, both the program coordinator and the tuk-tuk driver were friendly and helpful. Visiting their homes was a great experience—many thanks to them for their hospitality.

However, I was a bit disappointed during the first few days because I had to wake up very early in the morning. But after a few days, it became a habit as I understood that caring for the elephants starts early, when they wake up. I worked every day from 5 a.m. to 9 a.m. and also came in the afternoons twice a week to help make chapatis for the elephants.

I took care of five elephants and really wish I could bring all of them home with me. I’m sad that my project has finished and I need to return home to continue my studies, but I will definitely come back next time. I also visited the children’s project for two days, and that was great—I truly felt I was contributing to something meaningful. I would recommend all the projects that VWI offers.

I spent 4 wonderful weeks working on the elephant project. My start was a bit tough due to some baggage problems at Delhi airport, but Sukret was incredibly helpful throughout the whole situation. No matter what happens, just take it easy—you’re in safe hands with VWI.

I’ll admit there were times when everything felt new and overwhelming because of the big cultural differences. Since I was here for 4 weeks, I used my first days to learn how to get around the city. Transportation in India is very affordable, and I managed to visit many tourist spots on weekend sightseeing tours and did a lot of shopping.

The staff members were very kind—they introduced me to their families and took me to various places, which made the experience even more special.

Working with the elephants was truly amazing. On a typical day, I was picked up from the host family at 5:00 a.m. and returned around 8:30 a.m. Most days, I cleaned the elephants’ area, washed and scrubbed the elephants, and prepared food for them. I also had the unique experience of bathing an elephant in the lake. The program coordinator was always with us at the project site, so I never felt alone and always had someone to talk to and answer my questions. This made me feel safe and comfortable.

Overall, I had an amazing time volunteering and would definitely love to visit again. It was hard work, but the elephants are incredible. Everyone I met was very welcoming and sweet.

I would give VWI a big 9 out of 10. The project staff members were fantastic—I couldn’t have wished for better support. It was great communicating with Sukret, who always responded quickly. I’m quite picky with food and don’t like spicy dishes, but the host family was very thoughtful and always made sure there was something I could eat.

The Indian people I met were very friendly and always willing to help. Working with the elephants is hard but incredibly rewarding—these animals are truly amazing. I would love to come back and do this project again. They will always hold a special place in my heart.

VWI is the best volunteering organization in India. I would give them an A+ for all their services — from airport pick-up, accommodation and food, to transportation, the project itself, and the staff members. They also arranged sightseeing in Jaipur, which helped me learn more about Indian people, history, and culture.

We are a husband and wife team and both of us truly enjoyed the project. Working with the elephants—feeding them, cleaning their living area, and assisting the mahouts in their daily tasks—was a fantastic and eye-opening experience on how to care for these magnificent animals.

The host family’s house was in an excellent location, and they were very welcoming and helpful. When we mentioned our bed was too hard, they kindly found a better one for us. Everyone involved in the project took great care of us and was very kind.

We’re already planning to come back next summer with our kids!

I had a very nice and interesting experience with wonderful and welcoming people, and of course, with beautiful elephants! I chose VWI because I wanted to do an elephant project while traveling in India, and I found this one online. It seemed trustworthy, well-organized, and located in a great place. Jaipur is a beautiful city to explore in the afternoons and on weekends.

The pick-up service was punctual, the accommodation was perfect with a very nice room, and the food was good. The project staff members were very kind and helpful. I would rate my overall experience with VWI as 10 out of 8.

I really enjoyed the project. My approach to life and volunteering is to travel and learn as much as I can, so my advice to everyone is: don’t expect anything — just be open and absorb everything that comes your way. I would like to give VWI 10 out of 9 marks!

I’ve wanted to work with elephants for a long time, and after researching many organizations online, I found that VWI stood out. Their flexibility and hands-on approach made it the best choice. The project transportation, weekend sightseeing, and staff members — everything was perfect.

I’m really looking forward to coming back again, hopefully with my friends and family.

I had a wonderful time during my elephant program in Jaipur with VWI. Being with the elephants was truly a lovable and memorable experience for me. I worked with five elephants over four weeks, and although working with them is quite hard, it was incredibly enjoyable. My days started early as I washed the elephants, cleaned them, gave them massages, scrubbed their bodies with brushes, and prepared bundles of hay for them to eat.

The elephant village is huge and absolutely adorable to see, with many elephants grouped together, especially when they play in the lake. The village really needs volunteers to help care for the elephants and support the mahouts in their hard work, as there aren’t enough people to assist them.

During the project, I stayed with another volunteer in an Indian host family, which was very helpful for us to learn about Indian life and culture. The food was delicious, and our Indian mother was an amazing cook who made a new dish every day. She even taught me a few recipes during my stay. Interacting with the host family was a great experience.

Indian culture is very different from the U.K., and it was fascinating to learn about various aspects such as religion, festivals, traditional clothing for men and women, and everyday life. There are so many beautiful moments to capture on camera, write about in blogs, and cherish as lifelong memories.

In conclusion, I highly recommend volunteering with elephants — these incredible animals are truly a part of our lives.

Our host family was wonderful, providing delicious Indian food and comfortable accommodation. The transportation service was good, and the taxi driver was a very lovely person. The project staff members were also very helpful. I decided to volunteer with VWI because I wanted to spend time with elephants and contribute in some way while in India. I would give the organization a 10 out of 8! These projects offer great opportunities for Westerners to experience many aspects of India and Jaipur. I hope we were helpful to the projects, the people, and the elephants.

Rita:- The Project itself was very enjoyable. It was cool to get to know the elephant. The work was not too challenging. The Mahouts were friendly and joking with us. Raj the project coordinator was pleasant to have with us. Govind and Sukret were very accommodating too. Totoram the driver was kind and caring and we enjoyed his presence.
Nina:- Project was good, all mahouts that I worked with were friendly and tried to talk to me even limited English. Elephant work was good. It was good to be up close and personal with the elephants. All were well trained and I felt 100% safe when working closely with them. The Transport was reliable, on time and friendly. Project coordinator Raj was great to show us around and answer our question about elephants, the project, Indian culture. His English is really good which enabled us to communicate with him and the mahouts. Project was great, everything associated with the elephants was amazing, such a great experience.
Justine:-The elephant project is incredible! The mahouts were very friendly and obviously we devoted to their elephants. Being able to wash and bathe the elephants was a highlight! The Project coordinator was amazing , very helpful and lovely to talk to. Totoram was the best driver. He was so friendly and accommodating & took us every morning for chai!

The arrival pick-up service was very good. The host family and food were fine. The transportation service was punctual and reliable, always taking us where we needed to go. The project staff members were very helpful and supportive. I decided to volunteer with VWI because I liked the detailed information on their website and wanted to experience REAL India while working with elephants. I would give VWI a perfect 10 out of 10. I truly enjoyed the experience and would recommend it to anyone seeking an authentic and rewarding adventure. The elephants were fantastic — hard work, but absolutely worth it!

It was great to see a VWI staff member waiting for me as soon as I got off the bus. The host family was really wonderful — always ready to help whenever we needed anything. The transportation service was excellent, and the friendly taxi driver made the trips even better. The project staff members were very helpful, especially the program coordinator, who was always around to translate and assist.

I decided to volunteer with VWI because their website was clear, communication was great, and there was no payment required before arrival. I would rate my experience 10 out of 8! Volunteering in India was one of the best experiences I’ve ever had. I met so many people and experienced India in the best possible way.

Overall Excellent Experience with VWI Elephant Project

Arrival went smoothly, though there was some confusion about the bus drop-off point due to misinformation from the private bus company. Accommodation was clean and comfortable, and the food was good. Transportation service was excellent, with additional transport available upon request after the project.

The staff members, Sukret and Govind, were both excellent—very helpful and informative throughout. I would rate my overall experience a 10 out of 9!

We found the work enjoyable and gained excellent insight into the life of a mahout and the daily care of elephants. Bathing the elephants was a highlight, and all the mahouts were very friendly and supportive.

“Amazing Arrival and Unforgettable Elephant Experience!”

The arrival pickup was fantastic—Govind was waiting for me at the train station at 5 a.m., making my arrival smooth and stress-free. The accommodation and food with the host family were absolutely wonderful, and they treated me like one of their own.

Transportation was great too, with a friendly and reliable driver. Everyone I met at the project, including the staff, was generous and incredibly helpful.

I chose to volunteer with VWI because I was already teaching in Jaisalmer for two months and wanted to work with elephants on my way back home to the States. I’m so happy I did!

I give VWI a full 10 out of 10 for overall experience and satisfaction.

To future volunteers:
Skip the usual sightseeing on weekends—the real India and authentic experiences with people and elephants are way more rewarding than forts or palaces. Everyone should do this at least once!

Thank you, VWI! 🙏🐘

“Unforgettable Days at the Elephant Project!”

The arrival pickup was smooth and on time, making me feel comfortable from the very beginning. The food was delicious, and the accommodation was clean and just right for a volunteer stay.

A big shoutout to our amazing driver—truly the best ever! The transportation was always safe and on schedule, which made the experience even more enjoyable.

The VWI project staff were fantastic—warm, welcoming, and even invited us into their home, which made us feel like family. I’d easily give 10 out of 8 for my overall experience and satisfaction with Volunteering With India.

To future volunteers:
You are in for something truly special at the Elephant Project. It’s incredible to be part of caring for these majestic animals. The VWI team takes care of every detail—from early morning chai to fun weekend plans.

I loved the elephants. I loved the people. And I’m truly going to miss both. ❤️🐘

“A Heartwarming Elephant Experience with VWI!”

It was a bit confusing at first when I arrived, but Sukret quickly found me—and I’m so grateful he did! He even went out of his way to help me exchange currency, which made me feel really taken care of from the start.

The rooms were comfortable, and the food was absolutely lovely. Our tuk-tuk driver, Totoram, was amazing—a kind soul who made every ride enjoyable. I genuinely looked forward to our daily journeys!

Our project coordinator was welcoming, easy to talk to, and his family was just as warm and lovely.

I’d easily give 10 out of 8 for my overall experience with VWI.
Being so close to the elephants was unforgettable—a unique, hands-on experience that I’ll always treasure. It was not just travel, but something real, personal, and deeply memorable.

“A Safe, Supportive & Memorable First-Time Experience in India!”

The arrival pickup service was smooth and efficient—such a relief when traveling alone to a new country for the first time. Knowing someone would be there waiting really put my mind at ease.

The accommodation, food, and host family were all great. Clean rooms, fulfilling meals, and a wonderfully helpful family that made the stay feel comfortable and welcoming.

The project staff were supportive and always ready to assist, whether it was helping with translations, offering local recommendations, or adjusting plans to suit individual needs.

I’d give 10 out of 8 for my overall experience and satisfaction!
While things didn’t always go exactly to plan (as expected in real-life travel!), the VWI team was flexible, attentive, and truly focused on giving each volunteer a fun, safe, and meaningful experience.

This was a valuable and enriching journey—I’d absolutely recommend it to anyone considering volunteering in India.

“A Last-Minute Decision That Turned into a Life-Changing Week!”

We joined the program last minute after our original tour fell through — and I’m so glad we did. VWI stepped in with incredible service. The accommodation, food, and host family were all excellent. I can’t handle spicy food, and they adjusted everything perfectly for me. The host family was so warm and welcoming — it felt like home away from home.

The transportation was flawless — our driver was super safe and always on time. As for the project staff, they were absolutely lovely — always smiling, cracking jokes, and keeping the chai flowing!

I’d give 10 out of 9 for overall satisfaction! Yes, the 4:30 a.m. starts were tough, but after a breezy tuk-tuk ride, you’re wide awake and ready for the day. The work — scrubbing, sweeping, feeding — is physically demanding but incredibly rewarding. Every elephant has a distinct personality, and my favorite was Kajal — such a gentle soul.

This is a really special program. You get to witness firsthand the deep bond between the mahouts and their elephants.
If you’re even thinking about it — just go for it. You’ll come away with memories (and muscles!) you’ll never forget.
Loved every second of it!

“An Unforgettable Experience – I Wish I Stayed Longer!”

From the moment we were picked up from our hotel and taken straight to the elephants, everything felt smooth, welcoming, and well-organized. The host family was absolutely lovely—so friendly and helpful, they made me feel completely at home. And the food? Hands down, the best curry I’ve had in India!

Our tuk-tuk driver was incredibly kind and thoughtful, even helping Megan clean up after she spilled coffee on her new top—such a sweet gesture. The project staff were super friendly, spoke great English, and were always happy to answer our questions about elephant care and daily routines.

I’d give 9 out of 10 for my overall experience and satisfaction. The early mornings were totally worth it. You really get to understand the daily life of a mahout and connect deeply with the elephants. Plus, there’s plenty of chai to keep you energized!

This program offers amazing value for money and a truly authentic experience.
My only regret? Not booking an extra week!
If you’re thinking about it — just do it. You won’t regret it.

“Authentic and Heartwarming Experience with Elephants”

The arrival pickup service was very good — efficient and friendly, which made me feel comfortable right from the start. The accommodation and food were great, and the host family was absolutely wonderful — so kind and always ready to help with anything I needed.

The transportation service was smooth and accommodating, making daily travel hassle-free. The project staff members were always helpful and supportive, creating a welcoming and respectful environment.

What I loved most was the opportunity to work so closely with the elephants. It felt real, hands-on, and authentic — not just a tourist encounter but a chance to truly understand and be part of the daily care and connection with these gentle giants.

It was a meaningful and unforgettable experience. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a deeper, more immersive way to engage with India’s culture and wildlife.

“A Truly Meaningful 2-Week Experience in Jaipur”

I was really happy to be picked up from the airport — it made my arrival so much smoother and stress-free. The project coordinator was there shortly after my flight landed, and from that moment on, everything was well-organized and welcoming.

The accommodation, food, and host family were wonderful — very kind, helpful, and always ready to assist. The transportation service was amazing, and our driver was always on time and very kind. Anytime I had questions, the staff members were easy to reach and extremely helpful.

I spent two weeks in Jaipur — one week with the Elephant Project and one with the Women Empowerment Program. Both were incredible experiences that made my time in the community deeply meaningful.

The Elephant Project was fun and enjoyable — I especially loved working alongside the mahouts and being up close with such majestic animals.

The Women Empowerment Program was challenging at first, as the women had different skill levels, but things became smoother as the classes progressed.

The children’s classes were amazing — the kids were adorable, full of energy, and a real joy to work with.

I would definitely give 10 out of 9 for my overall experience and satisfaction with Volunteering With India. These projects allowed me to give back, learn, and form lasting connections. I’ll always carry these memories with me!

“Rewarding Elephant Experience in Jaipur”

Working with elephants is definitely hard work, but the moment you get to sit on top of one of these majestic creatures, it feels incredibly rewarding. I absolutely loved my week in Jaipur — it was a perfect mix of adventure, culture, and connection.

The accommodation and food were great, and I really enjoyed staying with the host family, who made me feel completely at home. The transportation was reliable and we always arrived safely, which made the experience smooth and stress-free.

The Mahouts were amazing — always friendly and open, letting us try new things and get hands-on with the elephants. I truly appreciated their kindness and openness.

I would happily give 10 out of 9 to Volunteering With India for my overall experience and satisfaction. This program is a perfect opportunity to connect with elephants, experience real Indian hospitality, and make memories that last a lifetime.

“Unforgettable Bond with Elephants & Heartwarming Hospitality”

Volunteering with VWI gave me the rare chance to form a genuine bond with the elephants, while also gaining a deep appreciation for the hard work and dedication of their Mahouts. It was a truly humbling and unforgettable experience.

The host family was absolutely amazing — warm, welcoming, and without a doubt, exceptional chefs! Every meal felt like it was cooked with love.

From the reliable transportation to the supportive project staff, everything was organized seamlessly. I always felt safe, supported, and part of something meaningful.

I’d happily give 10 out of 9.5 😊 to Volunteering With India for my overall experience and satisfaction. If you’re looking for a once-in-a-lifetime volunteer opportunity with elephants and authentic cultural immersion, this is it!

“A Heartwarming Experience – Elephants, Children & Culture in Jaipur”

From the moment I arrived, Volunteering With India (VWI) took excellent care of me. The arrival pick-up was smooth and punctual, making me feel instantly welcome.

The accommodation and food were wonderful — tasty, plentiful, and always served with warmth by a very welcoming and helpful host family. It truly felt like a home away from home.

Transportation was handled with great care — our tuk-tuk driver was always on time, extremely safe, and courteous, making every journey enjoyable.

The project staff were attentive, supportive, and passionate, creating a positive environment for volunteers. I had the amazing opportunity to work both with elephants and children, making this a deeply rewarding and unforgettable experience.

From sightseeing around Jaipur to meaningful project work, everything was well-organized. I felt cared for, valued, and truly part of something special.

Without a doubt, I’d give 10 out of 9 for my overall satisfaction. I highly recommend volunteering with VWI — if you want to make a difference while immersing yourself in Indian culture, this is the place to be!

“An Unforgettable Experience with Gentle Giants – The Elephant Project in Jaipur”

From the moment I arrived in India, Volunteering With India (VWI) made me feel welcomed and supported. The arrival pick-up service was excellent — I was greeted by a friendly coordinator holding a sign with my name, which instantly made me feel at ease.

The transportation service throughout the week was absolutely amazing. Our tuk-tuk driver was always punctual, patient, and polite, which made our daily commutes easy and enjoyable.

Accommodation with the traditional Indian host family was a great cultural experience, giving me valuable insight into daily life in India. While basic, it was all part of the immersion — and the food was definitely a highlight!

The project staff were outstanding — very knowledgeable, friendly, and always ready to help. It was a great bonus to have the project manager accompany us during work hours, adding an extra layer of support and connection. We even got to see a Bollywood movie, which was so much fun and added a playful cultural touch!

Working on the Elephant Project in Jaipur was surreal. Being up close and caring for these gentle giants was an experience like no other. I learned so much not only about elephants and their mahouts, but also about the depth and warmth of Indian culture.

I’d give this experience a 10 out of 7 — because it went far beyond my expectations! I highly recommend this project to anyone who’s even slightly considering it. You will not regret it.

“A Week I’ll Always Remember – Volunteering with Elephants in India”

My one-week volunteering experience with Volunteering With India (VWI) was everything I hoped for — and more!

The arrival service was smooth and punctual, setting a positive tone from the start. Our driver was kind and helpful, making every journey easy and pleasant.

The host family was lovely, offering comfortable accommodation and delicious home-cooked meals. I felt truly welcomed into the local culture.

I chose VWI because I wanted to work with elephants and needed a flexible short-term option. They delivered exactly that — a tailored, meaningful experience packed into just one week.

The project staff were approachable and supportive, and I felt well-guided throughout. It was also a bonus that the program includes a 2-day sightseeing tour of Jaipur, giving a great balance between volunteering and cultural immersion.

I give this experience a solid 10 out of 9 — because it exceeded expectations! I’ll always remember the wonderful people I met and the unforgettable moments I shared with them. I’m really going to miss it.

“A Dream Since I Was 3 – Finally Fulfilled!”

I’ve dreamed of working with elephants since I was just three years old — and thanks to Volunteering With India (VWI), that dream finally came true.

I discovered VWI online and decided to take the leap. I’m so glad I did. This program offers an authentic, hands-on experience where you care for elephants daily and work closely with their mahouts. It’s not just observation — it’s real, meaningful interaction.

The host family made me feel like a welcome guest, not just a paying visitor. The meals were delicious, the home was comfortable, and the entire experience felt genuine and heartfelt.

The VWI staff were fantastic — always friendly, supportive, and easy to communicate with. Their English is great, which made everything smooth and comfortable from day one.

If you’re passionate about animals and want an up-close, ethical experience with elephants, I highly recommend this program. It’s been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life.

“10 Out of 8 – A Truly Unforgettable Experience!”

I chose to volunteer with Volunteering With India (VWI) because it offered something far more meaningful than the usual tourist experience — a genuine opportunity to connect with local families, communities, and incredible animals. It felt like a unique and purposeful way to truly experience India, and it absolutely lived up to that promise.

I would honestly rate this experience 10 out of 8! It was beyond expectations in every way.

If you’re looking to taste the “real India”, this is the place to be. Your time, energy, and presence will not only be appreciated but will also reward you with memories that stay with you forever.

The host family was wonderfully warm, friendly, and always helpful. My room was comfortable, and the home-cooked food was simply delicious — a real highlight of the stay. The project staff were equally fantastic — always attentive, professional, and incredibly kind. They went out of their way to make us feel safe, welcome, and comfortable throughout the journey.

This wasn’t just a volunteer trip — it was a life experience, and I feel truly grateful to have been part of it.

A Heartwarming and Unforgettable Experience with Elephants and Indian Culture

It was an amazing and truly heart-filling experience to be so closely connected with the magnificent elephants, their dedicated caretakers, and the warm local family at Prity Guesthouse. From day one, the guidance and communication were excellent — I felt supported and safe throughout the entire stay.

Caring for the elephants was incredibly rewarding. Being up close with these gentle giants, helping with their daily routines, and sharing countless cups of chai made the experience even more special. The caretakers were so enthusiastic and welcoming, and even introduced me to other animals on site — making me feel like part of the team.

Staying with the host family was a highlight in itself. They were incredibly kind and made me feel completely at home. They even took me to local places and events, including dancing at the vibrant Navratri festival — an amazing way to immerse myself in Indian culture! The food was absolutely delicious, and every day felt like a new adventure.

I enjoyed it so much that I even extended my stay — I didn’t want it to end!

A Truly Memorable Elephant Experience!

This was such a fun and fulfilling project — a rare opportunity to see and interact with elephants up close! The communication prior to our arrival was clear and helpful, and having a pickup arranged from the train station made the start of our trip smooth and stress-free.

Our guesthouse was in a great location, very clean, and the food served was absolutely delicious — a real bonus!

During the program, we had hands-on experiences with the elephants — feeding, bathing, and cleaning their space. The mahouts were incredibly supportive, knowledgeable, and clearly had a deep bond with the elephants, which made the experience even more meaningful.

Our weekend sightseeing around Jaipur was also well-organized. With many attractions spread across the city, having our own driver for the day was a huge convenience and made exploring stress-free and enjoyable.

Highly recommend this program for anyone looking for a unique and rewarding volunteer adventure in India!

My flight arrived early, but within 5 minutes, a VWI staff member was there to pick me up. Great service! The accommodation was very good — the guesthouse had everything I could need, including WiFi, laundry facilities, and a nearby shop with everything I might require. The food was delicious, always available on demand, and plentiful — they were happy to offer more whenever needed.

The taxi driver who took me around was awesome! Most of the time, I hopped into the tuk-tuk not knowing exactly where we were going, but it always turned out to be somewhere exciting. I will miss our samosa parties in the tuk-tuk a lot. He was punctual, a great driver, and his friendly greetings at 5:00 a.m. made the early starts much more pleasant.

Govind was my project supervisor and truly made my trip amazing. He was helpful with every question I had — and I still haven’t found one he couldn’t answer! He also included me in activities outside the project with his friends and family, and I loved every minute of it. Sukret was also extremely helpful, promptly answering all my questions and regularly checking in to make sure everything was okay.

I would give VWI a full 10/10. I had an awesome time and want to thank everyone involved. I highly recommend this company to future volunteers and will definitely come back next time I am in India.

I did the elephant project for 3 weeks. Every day, we left at 5:00 a.m. and started by cleaning the elephant enclosure — picking up after them with a shovel, washing and scrubbing the elephants, then dressing them to get ready for their walk to Amber Fort. Once the elephants left, we made bundles of food for them to eat later. Some afternoons, we made chapattis for the elephants. The mahouts were great fun, always involved in everything, and the elephants were truly amazing.

I was a bit nervous about going to India with VWI, but there was absolutely no need to be. The staff at VWI were professional, friendly, and couldn’t have been more accommodating. They were very inclusive, and I really enjoyed getting involved and learning about Indian culture firsthand. I was treated so well — I loved meeting the families and their friends. My sari will always remind me of the great times I spent with them.

The project itself was really enjoyable, with a highlight being washing the elephant in the elephant pool on my last morning. The weekend sightseeing trips were very well organized and included everything. Jaipur is a wonderful city to live in.

I got to experience all the projects offered by VWI, and this organization does a wonderful job. All projects are well-run, and because transportation, food, and accommodation are organized for you, all you have to do is enjoy every minute of the experience. The end of my time in India came a bit too fast!

I was warmly welcomed at the airport upon arrival and promptly transported to the guest house. The host family was very humble and welcoming. The food was delicious, and the family was always happy to serve more if we wanted.

Transportation to the project each day was punctual and reliable, with a very friendly driver. The project staff were equally friendly and welcoming; each member was helpful in every way, which made my trip to India much more enjoyable.

I would give this experience a full 10 out of 10. The elephant project provided great insight into the different lives people lead. Working with the elephants was a truly enjoyable experience — they were very gentle, and the workers were friendly and supportive.

I would love to return and take part in this project again.