The mere mention of travel often fills our hearts with excitement, especially when we see stunning images from various destinations. This desire to explore has driven us to embark on countless journeys, capturing memories through photographs like countless others. However, we have increasingly opted to travel with groups dedicated to environmental conservation, incorporating meaningful activities into our itineraries. These trips offer a unique blend of adventure and purpose, allowing us to experience the joy of travel while contributing to a greater good.

"We believe we have found our path."
"Volunteers just want people to get more out of their travels than just sightseeing."

Returning to a familiar place evokes a sense of comfort, allowing for reflection on the changes that have occurred since the last visit. This trip held particular significance, as it involved contributing to the well-being of wildlife by constructing artificial salt licks within the Thungyai Naresuan Wildlife Sanctuary's Eastern Zone in Tak Province. Extensive preparation was required for this expedition, leading to a period of considerable busyness. Nevertheless, everything proceeded smoothly until the day of departure.

Unfold the map.

The journey from Bangkok took longer than usual due to heavy traffic and rain. Upon arriving at our accommodation and having lunch, we immediately set off. We reached the meeting point at the Thungyai Naresuan Wildlife Sanctuary East late in the day. After submitting documents, attending a briefing, and taking photos with various animals presented to us, we continued our journey by pickup truck for some time.

Step by step... step by step.

The pickup truck slowly drove us along the path until we reached the animal lick, which was an existing one. The lick here only needed salt to be added all over it, as it would soon rain and the salt would dissolve and mix with the soil. The officers explained the steps to us, which were not complicated, as the process of making a lick varies from place to place. After the explanation, they demonstrated the process for us. The bags of salt were gradually unloaded from the truck. Those who were strong helped carry them, while those who were not able to waited to sprinkle the salt.

Sacks of salt were placed at various points. After they were opened, we worked together to scoop up the salt and spread it on the ground. Those with less strength sprinkled the salt, while those with more strength lifted the sacks and poured them out. We worked as if we were playing, but we always listened to the instructions from the officials. We tried to spread the salt evenly and thoroughly over the entire area so that it would be absorbed as quickly as possible.

In the blink of an eye, the salt grains were scattered all over the red earth and puddles, turning the entire area from red to white. The salt they brought was just enough. After having fun scooping and throwing the salt, when they went to wash their hands, they all felt a burning sensation. The salt had caused small wounds all over their hands.

After quickly completing the salt lick, as the area was not very large, we got into the car and drove to the observation tower, which was not far away but quite tall. We could feel the tower swaying as we all climbed up. From this vantage point, we could see the salt lick we had made and the surrounding area as far as the eye could see. We saw green trees contrasting with the blue sky and white clouds. A gentle breeze blew, refreshing us. Afterwards, we took a car ride to Pa La Ta Waterfall. The journey was long and bumpy, making us sore. Upon arrival, we stopped for lunch before walking to the waterfall. The water was still flowing strongly and was brown in color, but the surrounding atmosphere was peaceful and quiet. We soaked in the beauty of the place until almost dusk. We hurried back to our accommodation before it got dark. By the time we arrived, we were exhausted. After dinner, we went our separate ways.

The next day, we woke up early and prepared to travel to the raft launch point. After boarding the rafts, which were divided into two groups, we paddled along. The current was strong, and the rafts glided swiftly downstream. We enjoyed ourselves on the rafts, listening to the birdsong and gazing at the scenery. The towering cliffs, including Pha Ho, Pha Ngaen, Pha Phueng, and Pha Lued, captivated us with their beauty and grandeur.

After a while, we arrived at Tee Lor Jor Waterfall, also known as the "Rain Curtain Waterfall." The cascading water forms a curtain-like veil, inviting rafters to pass through and get soaked. If you're lucky and the timing is right, sunlight filtering through the mist might reveal a beautiful rainbow.

The fun continued on the raft as the scenery changed around us. We eventually reached a hot spring where we disembarked. There were restrooms and food available, and we indulged in everything on offer, including grilled sweet potatoes, grilled eggs, and ginger tea with honey. After satisfying our hunger, we headed towards the hot spring, only to be disappointed as it was undergoing repairs.

After a long journey on a raft, it was time to disembark and continue by car. We were instructed to keep our life jackets on, which initially seemed unnecessary. However, as we drove along the bumpy, muddy road, we realized the wisdom of this precaution. The terrain, primarily composed of dirt, was slippery and wet due to recent rainfall. Despite a prior road survey, the journey took a considerable amount of time. Upon exiting the vehicle, we took a lunch break before embarking on a 1.5-kilometer walk to the waterfall. The path leading to the waterfall was paved and lined with diverse vegetation, providing a pleasant and scenic walk.

The trail led us through bamboo forests and mixed deciduous woodlands, with informative signs identifying various trees along the way. We ambled along, eventually reaching a viewpoint offering a distant glimpse of the waterfall. Eager to get closer, we quickened our pace. Upon reaching the designated viewing area, we were met with a breathtaking panorama of the cascading falls. The mist from the waterfall, carried by the wind, enveloped us in a refreshing coolness. After capturing some photos, the sky began to darken and raindrops started to fall, prompting us to pack away our cameras.

We ventured to the right, seeking a shallow pool to play in amidst the pouring rain. The waterfall roared, its water icy cold. The rain was equally relentless, yet no one retreated. We continued to frolic, becoming thoroughly soaked. After some time, with no sign of the rain abating, we hurried back through the downpour, fearing nightfall would catch us on the trail. However, upon reaching our campsite, the rain ceased, and the sky cleared. We could only exchange glances, imagining the breathtaking sight of the waterfall now illuminated by the sun's rays. While we felt a pang of regret, we acknowledged the inherent unpredictability of nature.

On our last day, we woke up early to catch the sunrise at Doi Huamod. We had been hoping to see the view since the day before, and when we arrived and started climbing, we were speechless. The sky cleared, revealing a sea of mist flowing along the mountain ridge, carried by the wind.

Soon, the mist began to drift past us, gradually enveloping the sky in a white veil. The view around us disappeared, but we continued to soak in the atmosphere until the sun began to rise. The mist slowly dissipated, revealing the view once more, though not as foggy as before. We continued to enjoy ourselves, taking in the sight of the dayflower plants, which were scattered throughout the area.

After navigating the winding roads of Umphang, several of us began to feel dizzy and nauseous. We stopped to rest at the Pa Charoen National Park, which features a multi-tiered limestone waterfall. We hiked up to the higher levels, but did not reach the top. The water was cold and slippery, requiring careful navigation. The park also boasts an abundance of orange ginger lilies, creating a vibrant and eye-catching display.

Not just... the destination

Every journey offers more than just companions. It presents encounters with people along the way, trees, blades of grass, and countless other living beings. These seemingly insignificant encounters unveil hidden beauty that has existed for ages. Without being present, we would miss these wonders. It is only natural to be captivated and take time to appreciate them. After all, nature's creations often possess an astonishing beauty that leaves us in awe.

Gleanings

This trip was another one where the accommodation was beautiful, the food was delicious at every meal, and the portions were incredibly generous. The tables were laden with food, and refills were unlimited. We ate until we were about to burst. There was also tea, coffee, and ingredients for making our own papaya salad, which added to the fun of our meals. Many people showed off their culinary skills by making their own dishes and sharing them with their friends, which brought laughter to every meal.

We are all quite individualistic, so it takes a lot of effort to get everyone on the same page for a beautiful, unified shot. We give each other directions and explanations, sometimes with agreement, sometimes with confusion, and sometimes with laughter. But there are also many times when, out of the blue, everyone cooperates seamlessly as soon as the camera turns on. However, in terms of readiness, we definitely need more practice. We jump so much that our knees are about to give out, and we're still not ready.

We are a group of people who are easily influenced by marketing. Whenever someone buys something, we all rush to get it, and we end up buying one or two things each. Every time we come back, our wallets are empty.

This trip will undoubtedly be one we never forget, from the moment we set off from Bangkok until our return. The laughter from old friends we've met on many trips before, combined with the laughter from new friends, meant we were in stitches every day we spent together. Let's go on another trip together soon!

For those interested in visiting Ti Lo Su Waterfall, you can inquire for more information at

Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Tak Office, Tel. 0-5551-4341-3 or 1672, one number to travel throughout Thailand.

Accommodation Information

Tu Ga Su Cottage Resort, Tel. 055-561295, 081-825 8238, 081-819 0304

Thank you, volunteers.

Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Tak Office

Thungyai Naresuan Wildlife Sanctuary (Eastern Part)

Umphang Wildlife Sanctuary

Tuka Su Cottage

and all the volunteer trip participants

For those interested in participating in activities with volunteer travel, please visit the facebook fanpage rsatieow for more information.

Thank you for the additional images.

Worapot Juntaranil / Wirot A Chanrit / Som Kulthida / Skhonpol Guy