Nestled in the heart of Thailand, the Wildlife Friends Foundation Thailand (WFFT) serves as a beacon of hope for abused, neglected, injured and endangered animals. Since its establishment in 2001 by Dutch-born Edwin Wiek, the foundation has been at the forefront of wildlife conservation and animal welfare in Southeast Asia. Wiek, a former fashion entrepreneur, turned his childhood dream into reality after a life-altering car accident in 1999. Inspired by his motto, “The only difference between a dream and a target is the existence of a plan,” he created WFFT to rescue and rehabilitate wildlife while fostering global awareness about their plight.
A Haven for Rescued Animals
WFFT has grown into Thailand’s largest wildlife rescue and rehabilitation center, offering sanctuary to thousands of animals. The facility is home to a diverse range of creatures, including six species of gibbon, six species of macaque, two species of bear, langurs, lorises, civets, otters, reptiles, and countless birds. Additionally, the foundation operates a dedicated Elephant Refuge and Tiger Rescue Centre, addressing the pressing needs of these iconic animals.
The foundation’s ethos revolves around providing rescued animals with conditions that closely mimic their natural habitats. While many animals are rehabilitated and released back into the wild, others, due to injuries or prolonged captivity, remain at the center for lifelong care. Tigers, for example, rescued from unethical zoos and tiger farms, now roam freely across forested enclosures, where they can swim, run, and interact with other tigers. Similarly, elephants rescued from abusive situations enjoy expansive enclosures, fresh air, and the companionship of other elephants, far removed from the harsh environments of city streets or exploitative tourist camps.
The Plight of Elephants and Tigers
Thailand’s elephants and tigers face significant challenges, from habitat loss to exploitation in the tourism industry. Wild elephant populations have dwindled to an estimated 4,000 individuals, and many domesticated elephants endure abuse in tourist camps or as street beggars. WFFT’s Elephant Refuge provides these majestic creatures with a new lease on life, offering them natural surroundings, proper nutrition, and compassionate care.
Similarly, tigers in Thailand face the dual threats of habitat destruction and illegal poaching. The Tiger Rescue Centre at WFFT has become a haven for these big cats, particularly those rescued from unethical facilities like Phuket Zoo. Many of these tigers spent years in cramped, barren cages, but now they thrive in near-natural habitats, where they can finally experience freedom and dignity.
Volunteer Opportunities: A Chance to Make a Difference
Integral to WFFT’s operations is its volunteer program, which attracts wildlife enthusiasts from around the globe. Volunteers play a vital role in the foundation’s mission, working long but rewarding hours to care for the animals. Tasks include feeding, cleaning enclosures, and creating enrichment activities to stimulate the animals’ physical and mental well-being. Although the work is hands-off to ensure the safety of both the volunteers and the animals, it offers an unparalleled opportunity to contribute to wildlife conservation.
Volunteers can choose to work across WFFT’s four key projects: the Wildlife Rescue Centre, the Elephant Refuge, the Wildlife Hospital, and the People and Animals Thailand (PAT) Clinic, which focuses on spaying, neutering and vaccinating stray dogs and cats. In 2024, the PAT Clinic successfully spayed and neutered 3,167 animals. Since re-opening in early 2023, their total sterilizations to date number 7,820 animals as of the end of June 2025.
Day Tours: An Educational Experience
For those unable to volunteer, WFFT offers immersive day tours that provide a glimpse into the lives of rescued animals. Visitors can choose between full-day and half-day experiences, both of which include guided tours of the Wildlife Rescue Centre and Elephant Refuge. Guests learn about the animals’ individual stories and the broader issues of wildlife conservation in Thailand.
The tours conclude with a unique opportunity to prepare and feed special treats to the elephants, all while maintaining a safe, cruelty-free distance. The Full Day Experience also includes a safari-style ride through WFFT where visitors can observe tigers, bears, and other animals in their expansive enclosures. A delicious Thai buffet lunch, offering vegan, vegetarian, and meat options, is served overlooking the elephant enclosure, adding to the memorable experience.
Dining and Accommodation: Stripes Restaurant and Cabanas
To enhance the visitor experience, WFFT offers on-site dining and accommodation options. The Stripes Restaurant, located within the center, serves a variety of Thai and international dishes, catering to diverse palates. Guests can enjoy their meals in a serene setting, with views of the tiger habitats.
For those wishing to extend their stay, WFFT provides cozy cabanas nestled in the tranquil surroundings of the sanctuary. Staying overnight allows visitors to fully immerse themselves in the foundation’s work, waking up to the sounds of nature and the sight of rescued animals thriving in their new home.
Supporting WFFT: Donations and Sponsorships
WFFT’s invaluable work is sustained through donations, sponsorships, and volunteer contributions. The foundation’s day tours, restaurant, and accommodation fees directly support the care of over 800 rescued animals. Additionally, WFFT encourages individuals and organizations to sponsor specific animals or make one-time or recurring donations to ensure the continuation of its rescue and rehabilitation efforts.
A Vision for the Future
As Thailand’s leading wildlife rescue organization, WFFT is committed to raising awareness about animal welfare and conservation. Through education, advocacy, and hands-on rehabilitation, the foundation strives to create a future where wildlife can thrive without fear of exploitation or harm. Its long-term goal includes reducing human-wildlife conflict, promoting ethical and sustainable tourism practices, and supporting legislation that protects Thailand’s rich biodiversity.
In a world where wildlife faces increasing threats, WFFT stands as a powerful reminder of the difference that compassion, dedication, and collaboration can make. By visiting, volunteering, or donating, individuals can play an active role in this noble mission, helping to secure a brighter future for Thailand’s wildlife.
For more information or to book a day tour, visit WFFT’s website or contact the team at stay@wfft.org. Every visit, donation, or moment spent volunteering helps make a lasting impact on the lives of these incredible animals.
Wildlife Friends Foundation Thailand
108 Moo 6, Tambon Thamairuak,
Amphoe Thayang,
76130 Phetchaburi, Thailand.
+66 (0)32-706906 or +66 (0)97-024-1133
The Wildlife Rescue Centre is open to visitors 7 days a week BUT ONLY ON APPOINTMENT or a booked day trip.