This foundation for gibbon and wildlife preservation occupies a large site just off Highway 1090 between Mae Sot and Umphang, and it works with rescued gibbons and other primates that come from a background of abuse and mistreatment.
The center was founded by a Thai-American couple in the early 1990s. It started out as a simple retirement plan when the two bought 35 acres of stripped land in the highlands and set about reforesting it. The first gibbon was rescued after her mother was shot by a hunter, and since then the project has grown exponentially.
Today, Highland Farm has an army of rescued animals that includes over 60 gibbons, a bear, jackals, geese, peacocks turtles and many other animals. The primates live out the rest of their lives on the compound, as they are unable to forage or adapt to a wild environment.
The distinctive whooping of the gibbons echoes around the enclosure, and despite being caged, these creatures seem genuinely content with their lot, perhaps because they have lots of friends to play with.
Everybody is welcome to have a look at the compound during regular business hours, and no fee is collected, though clearly many visitors are moved to help in some way. One way is to adopt a specific gibbon, or have a complete enclosure built and outfitted with a plaque acknowledging the donor. A recent addition to the farm was a small clinic for treating sick animals.
Minimum three-day home-stays are possible, and Highland Farm also welcomes long-term volunteers. This requires a stay of at least one month and can be tailored to the volunteer’s specific skills. There is plenty of routine that volunteers can help out with, but the center also receives visits from academics and students who are carrying out research.
Getting There
The center can be reached by turning left off of Highway 1090 (between Mae Sot and Umphang) where you see a sign after the 42km marker. Either take a songthaew from Mae Sot and ask to be let off at the gate, or drive yourself. Note: The gate to the farm is usually closed, but if you hang around, someone will let you in.
Need to Know
- What is it? A sanctuary for abandoned gibbons and other animals
- When to go: Any time
- Nearest town: Mae Sot is 42km to the north.
- Opening hours: 09:00-17:00 daily
- Entrance fee: no admission fee, but donations welcome; homestay US$25 per day
- Website: www.highland-farm.org/