Welcome to the “Land of Smiles,” where every moment is an invitation to explore, learn, and make a difference. Dive into Thailand’s natural beauty and culture as you work on impactful marine and wildlife conservation projects, gaining hands-on experience in preserving these fragile ecosystems. Journey by traditional longtail boat to explore hidden caves and immerse yourself in mangrove conservation practices that protect coastal life. Discover the vibrant underwater world through SCUBA diving and snorkeling in the turquoise waters of Phang Nga Bay. On Koh Yao Noi, embrace eco-friendly practices, and then uncover the rich culture of Phuket, where Thailand’s unforgettable charm truly shines. Explore this tropical paradise for an equal parts discovery and conservation adventure.
Thailand
Waves & Wilds
21 days
Trip duration
9th - 12th
Grades
21 days
Jun 24 - Jul 14, 2025
Jul 18 - Aug 7, 2025
Los Angeles, CA
Arrival & Departure
$5,995
Tuition
21 days
Trip duration
Jun 24 - Jul 14, 2025
Jul 18 - Aug 7, 2025
9th - 12th
Grades
*Airfare for group flight from Los Angeles additional
Overview
Highlights
- Let the Sights, Sounds, and Flavors of Thailand Sink in as the “Land of Smiles” Welcomes You
- Learn to SCUBA Dive in the Mesmerizing Underwater World of Phang Nga Bay
- Discover the Essential Skills of Reef First Aid and Reef Monitoring, Empowering Yourself to Protect and Preserve our Precious Coral Reefs
- Learn Eco-Friendly Practices and Upcycling Techniques on the Beautiful Island of Koh Yao Noi
- Navigate Thailand’s Unique Waterways on Traditional Longtail Boats
- Scale the Limestone Cliffs of Krabi for an Unforgettable Rock Climbing Adventure
- Uncover the Cultural and Natural Wonders of Phuket
- Complete 10 Hours of Service Learning
Want to learn more about traveling with ARCC or have more questions about this program?
Schedule a Call with Marisa Abrahams
Reef Conservation in Phang Nga Bay
Immerse yourself in the vibrant marine ecosystem of Phang Nga Bay with a STEM-focused Reef First Aid and Monitoring Course. While you use your new (or improved) SCUBA certification, develop essential skills in coral health assessment and restoration. Glide across turquoise waters by traditional longtail boat, enjoying lunch on pristine beaches, and hidden lagoons for an unforgettable blend of science, adventure, and discovery.
SCUBA
Reef First Aid
Explore the Best of Thailand: Phuket, Krabi, and Bangkok
Venture through Thailand’s most iconic destinations, each offering a unique experience. In Bangkok, explore vibrant streets and cultural landmarks like the Grand Palace and Wat Pho, while soaking in the city’s blend of modern energy and ancient tradition. Unwind on Krabi’s stunning beaches, surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and crystal-clear waters, with activities like rock climbing, island-hopping, and snorkeling in vibrant coral reefs. Finally, discover Phuket’s rich history, serene temples, and lively markets, where you can stroll through Old Phuket Town and sample fresh street food.
Culture
Rock Climbing Adventures in Krabi
In our semi-private climbing spot, we spend a day learning the fundamentals of putting on a harness, tying climbing knots, and belaying. Whether you're a seasoned climber or new to the sport, Krabi’s unique limestone cliffs offer a thrilling and dynamic climbing experience. Immerse yourself in the raw beauty and challenge of these iconic rock formations, where each confidence-building climb can leave you with an unforgettable sense of accomplishment.
Climbing
Common Questions
All food, lodging, transportation, and activities are paid for with your trip tuition. Group airfare is additional and the cost depends on the program.
In order to be sure there are enough seats available on international group flights, ARCC books the international tickets in advance and families are invoiced for the cost of the international airfare.
Families are also responsible for booking flights or arranging transportation for students to meet their leaders and other group members at the program’s arrival airport. The leaders and students then fly internationally together as a group.
Each program has a specific packing list that has been designed to fit the program’s activities, length, climate, and cultural differences.
Most of Thailand can be described as hot and humid. Daytime temperatures in the summer months usually fall in the mid-80s (26°C), with an average humidity of 66% to 82%.
ARCC has been operating programs in Thailand for many years, and we have built close relationships with a variety of individuals, small communities, and organizations who enjoy hosting ARCC student groups.
Thailand is a relatively clean and safe place to travel. However, ARCC does recommend that you take some health precautions before your trip to Thailand. When you enroll in the program, you will receive more complete information on pertinent travel vaccinations and immunizations. Please also refer to the Traveler’s Health section of the CDC website. Our leaders carry a full first aid kit and are all certified Wilderness First Responders (WFR).
During this program, we mainly sleep in hotels. In Khao Sok National Park we will stay in huts on floating rafts.
We use a variety of transportation in Thailand. We travel by private vans, buses, coaches, and long boats.
We will have the opportunity to sample traditional Thailand cuisine such as noodles (like Pad Thai), curries, spring rolls, and fresh fruits. We will also be taking a cooking class to learn how to cook all of our favorite dishes!
ARCC recommends that you bring an additional $150 of spending money. You should bring this money in the form of cash (small bills are best) and also bring an ATM/debit card with you. Thailand uses the “baht” as currency and there are approximately 34.6 Thai baht for every US $1 (as of Feb. 2023).
As with any international program, we strongly recommend talking to your bank about its international withdrawal policies to avoid any surprise fees or card cancellations.
Yes, all students traveling to Thailand need to have a valid passport. Please make sure the passport expiration date is at least six months after you travel. Passport applications are available at the post office. If you do not already have a passport, you should apply for one as soon as you enroll in this adventure. It normally takes six weeks to process a passport application.
No. US and Canadian citizens do not need a visa for this program (unless you plan on staying in Thailand before or after the program).
All of Thailand falls within a single time zone. While on your program in Thailand, the time will be 11 hours later than New York (Eastern Time), 12 hours later than Chicago (Central Time), and 14 hours later than San Francisco (Pacific Time).
Although you will not be doing traditional backpacking on this program, it is important that you bring a backpack as your main piece of luggage. During the program, the group will be navigating through airports, on and off buses, up and down stairways, and taking short hikes on unpaved paths. The group will be able to move much more efficiently if everyone is carrying their belongings on their back.
We have the chance to live amongst some people who have the very basics for survival. With education being a tool to better their lives, basic school supplies are welcomed with open arms. Pens, pencils, notepads, and books are widely accepted. Soccer balls are also an incredible way to cross the cultural border and share smiles. Because of limited space on our vehicles, ARCC would ask that every person bring no more than a gym bag of goods to donate.
Have questions? Speak to one of our Program Directors, give them a call at (415) 332.5075 , they love talking about their trips!
