Life of an Elephant Caretaker

When one of your closest friends decides to pack up and move across the world to work with elephants in the lush heart of Sri Lanka, you take it as a sign from the universe: it’s time for an adventure. Amanda, our fiercely compassionate and globe-trotting friend, had committed to two years at the Millennium Elephant Foundation. So my friend Heidi and I did what anyone would do with such a golden opportunity—we booked our flights and set out for a little over a week of volunteering, exploration!

Millennium Elephant Foundation:
a sanctuary dedicated to the care, rehabilitation, and advocacy for elephants. The Foundation, nestled among the rolling hills of central Sri Lanka, provides a safe haven for elephants rescued from labor or entertainment industries. Their mission blends conservation with education, allowing visitors to learn about these gentle giants in an ethical, hands-on way.

Our days began with an authentic Sri Lankan breakfast. I love curry and food from the regions of Asia. The cooks on the property did not disappoint! Fueled and ready we'd head out for the morning chores. The first task of the day? Cleaning the elephants’ beds. Their feet are incredibly sensitive, so it’s vital that their sleeping areas are kept clean and dry—free from feces, urine, and rough debris. After laying down fresh bedding, we’d roll up our sleeves for a rotating list of duties that supported the broader property: scrubbing public areas, helping at the little food stall, or assisting the staff with the tourists who came for the chance to ride or observe the elephants.

One of the most memorable parts of each day was heading to the river to bathe the elephants. We’d wade into the water, coconut husks in hand, gently scrubbing their thick skin as they lay patiently, clearly enjoying the pampering. It was a meditative, humbling experience—being so close to these intelligent, soulful creatures in such a peaceful setting.

The Foundation was also home to about a dozen resident pups, each more affectionate than the last. They’d trot along beside us during our chores, curl up near our feet during breaks, and generally make the place feel even more like home.

Our afternoons were often free, giving us the chance to wander into the nearby town, hop into a tuk-tuk for a spontaneous outing, or relax poolside at the hotel next door. And on weekends, we ventured farther. One weekend took us to Trincomalee, where we soaked up the sun on pristine beaches and dipped our toes into the turquoise sea. Another brought us to Kandy, a bustling cultural hub where we shopped for local crafts, visited ancient temples, and wandered through a maze of markets and streets brimming with color and life.

It wasn’t just a vacation—it was an immersive, unforgettable glimpse into a world far from our own. Being surrounded by nature, culture, animals, and kind-hearted people gave the entire trip a sense of grounding and purpose!