South Thailand Adventures

DAY 1: Arrive in Bangkok

Sa-wat dee! Welcome to Bangkok, the “City of Angels” and one of Asia’s most cosmopolitan cities!

As the capital of Thailand, Bangkok is renowned for its stunning temples and palaces, charming canals, bustling markets, and vibrant nightlife that caters to all tastes.

Upon arrival, you’ll be picked up from the airport and transferred to your hotel (check-in time is at 2:00 PM).

The rest of the day is yours to explore at your own pace. Immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and smells of this dynamic city. You might explore the lively Khao San Road, a hotspot for tourists, indulge in a relaxing Thai massage, or sample delicious street food.

Summary of inclusions

• Private airport transfer
• Hotel in Bangkok

DAY 2: Sightseeing Bangkok

Enjoy a relaxed morning with a late breakfast and take your time at leisure. If you prefer, consider some optional activities. You might venture out of the city for a leisurely bike ride through Bang Krachao, Bangkok’s green oasis. Alternatively, explore the vibrant and bustling streets of Chinatown via a riverboat, where you can also enjoy some shopping. Another option is to embark on a long-tail boat journey down the Chao Phraya River, navigating the famous ‘klongs’ (canals) of Thonburi, often referred to as the ‘wild Venice of the East,’ offering a unique escape from the city’s chaos.

Check out of the hotel around noon. In the afternoon, embark on a guided tour of Bangkok’s majestic Grand Palace, a stunning example of ancient Siamese architecture that once served as the residence of Thai kings. Within the palace grounds, visit the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, Thailand’s most sacred Buddhist temple, housing the revered jade statue of Buddha. Next, explore Wat Pho, renowned for its impressive 46-meter-long gold-plated reclining Buddha.

Your final stop is Wat Trimit, home to the iconic Golden Buddha, a landmark by the Chao Phraya River with a solid gold statue weighing over 5.5 tons.

Enjoy some free time for dinner before boarding an overnight train to Surat Thani, where your adventure through Thailand’s southern national parks, islands, reefs, and beaches begins.

Overnight on the train.

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Summary of inclusions

• Private vehicle
• Sightseeing Bangkok
• Breakfast
• On train

DAY 3: Khao Sok National Park

Upon arrival in Surat Thani in the morning, you’ll be greeted and transferred by private vehicle to Khao Sok National Park. Known as Thailand’s wettest region, this park boasts some of the world’s oldest rainforests, dramatic limestone formations, waterfalls, natural lakes, trails, caves, and rivers. It’s a true haven for nature enthusiasts, home to a rich diversity of flora and fauna, including rare and endangered species like the Rafflesia kerrii, one of the largest flowers in the world.

Check into your hotel and unwind amidst this breathtaking natural setting.

In the afternoon, embark on a canoeing adventure along the Khao Sok River, or, if the river levels permit, experience the thrill of tubing on a rubber ring. Enjoy the stunning natural surroundings, and if you’re fortunate, you might spot elephants, exotic birds, langurs, monkeys, and other wildlife. Take a refreshing swim in the river, relax on the sandy banks, or enjoy the view from your wooden deck.

In the evening, you have the option to join a jungle night safari to search for nocturnal wildlife. The best time for spotting animals is from December to April during the dry season, while the wet season from June to October can make trails slippery and leeches more common.

Summary of inclusions

• Private vehicle
• Khao Sok NP canoeing
• Hotel in Khao Sok

DAY 4: Cheow Lan Lake & NP trekking

Transfer to the pier on Chiew Lan Lake, where you’ll board a traditional long-tail boat for a leisurely one-hour cruise to your floating raft house, nestled among stunning water and rock formations. Check into your room and take some time to relax before enjoying a traditional Thai lunch.

In the afternoon, embark on a guided hike through the Khao Sok National Park rainforest. Depending on the season, you may trek to the park’s highest viewpoint or explore an alternative route. During the wet season, you’ll witness the impressive cascading waterfalls in full flow.

Return to your raft house for a refreshing swim and some relaxation. Later, take a long-tail boat deeper into the jungle for a wildlife safari. As twilight descends, the scenery becomes enchanting and atmospheric. Stay alert for wildlife, as this is when many animals are most active.

Conclude your day with a traditional southern Thai dinner at the base and drift off to sleep, accompanied by the soothing sounds of nature.

Summary of inclusions

• Private vehicle
• Boat
• Khao Sok trekking
• Breakfast, lunch & dinner
• Raft house on Cheow Lan lake

DAY 5: Khao Sok NP – Ao Nang

Awaken to the sounds of the jungle, floating on the lake within the world’s oldest rainforest. Board a boat for a morning mist safari and marvel at the breathtaking views of mist swirling over the lake. Glide along the dramatic lake, where limestone cliffs rise almost 1000 meters into the sky, mirrored in the serene waters. Delve deeper into the park to spot gibbons, macaques, and dusky leaf monkeys, and with some luck, catch a glimpse of elephants.

Return to the raft house for breakfast and spend some time relaxing, swimming, or kayaking on the lake. After checking out, transfer to the pier and then drive to Ao Nang Beach. Check into your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure, soaking up the sun, sea, and sand.

Ao Nang, a vibrant tourist hub on Krabi’s mainland, features a picturesque, palm-fringed beach with gentle slopes ideal for swimming and sunbathing. The area offers a variety of restaurants, bars, shops, and cafes along the beachfront, creating a lively atmosphere, especially at night. The sunset at Ao Nang Beach is renowned as one of Krabi’s most spectacular natural displays.

Summary of inclusions

• Private vehicle
• Boat
• Khao Sok morning safari
• Breakfast & lunch
• Hotel in Ao Nang

DAY 6: Ao Nang cycling

 After breakfast, you’ll be transferred by vehicle to a rural village north of Ao Nang. From there, hop on your bike and cycle along tranquil back roads, navigating some uphill and downhill stretches as you pass through picturesque landscapes of mountains and lush palm and rubber plantations, heading towards Khao Phanom Bencha National Park.

Upon arrival, visit the Huay Toh Waterfalls, cascading down from Khao Phanom Mountain to form several tiers of pools. Spend time exploring the falls, swimming in the crystal-clear pools, or tackling a hike to the upper levels for stunning panoramic views. Enjoy sunbathing on a sandy spot at the base of the falls, observe colorful butterflies fluttering amidst the verdant surroundings, and listen to the soothing sounds of songbirds.

After a snack break, continue your bike ride along local roads, passing charming villages and observing daily life in the area. Return to your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure, relaxing on the sun-soaked shores of Ao Nang.

Summary of inclusions

• Cycling Ao Nang
• Jungle & waterfalls visit
• Breakfast
• Hotel in Ao Nang

DAY 7: Railay rock climbing

After breakfast, board a long-tail boat for a transfer to Railay, where you’ll embark on an exhilarating half-day rock climbing adventure. Railay Peninsula is renowned for its stunning scenery – white sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and dramatic limestone cliffs. It’s a premier destination for rock climbers, offering routes ranging from beginner to advanced, ensuring a challenge for climbers of all skill levels.

Before you start, your instructor will brief you on safety procedures, including top rope climbing techniques, knot tying, and climbing protocols. This hands-on introduction will prepare you for the climb. Depending on your experience, you’ll be guided to suitable routes that will either push your limits or provide a fun, leisurely climb. During breaks, you can take refreshing swims in the crystal-clear water or relax on the soft sandy beaches, with the added reward of breathtaking views from the top.

Return to the hotel in the afternoon and enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure.

Summary of inclusions

• Boat
• Railay rock climbing
• Breakfast
• Hotel in Ao Nang

DAY 8: Phi Phi Island

After breakfast, head out to explore the Phi Phi Islands. Known as a tropical paradise, Koh Phi Phi features spectacular rock cliffs, pristine white beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and crystal-clear waters.

Board a speed boat to Phi Phi Leh and visit Maya Bay, famously featured in the film “The Beach.” Enjoy swimming and relaxation in the clear waters before proceeding to Loh Samah Bay and Pileh Lagoon for fantastic snorkeling among coral reefs and exploration of rock formations. A beachside lunch will be served.

In the afternoon, visit Monkey Beach to interact with the monkeys and then continue to Bamboo Island for more relaxation and swimming in the tropical waters before returning to Ao Nang for the night.

Summary of inclusions

• Boat
• Phi Phi island tour
• Breakfast & lunch
• Hotel in Ao Nang

DAY 9: Koh Yao Noi Cycling

After breakfast, transfer to the pier for a scenic boat ride to Koh Yao Noi, located in the heart of Phang Nga Bay. This island is a geographic marvel with its rugged karst mountains, lush rainforests, vertical rock stacks reflecting in green waters, and palm-fringed secluded beaches. Koh Yao Noi is also home to traditional fishing-farming villages where local customs and lifestyles are preserved.

Upon arrival, check into your hotel and, after a short break, set off on a cycling tour of the island. Pedal through rice paddies, rubber plantations, mangrove forests, and traditional stilt fishing villages. Make stops to visit local farms and interact with residents, capturing wonderful photos along the way. The route includes flat stretches, uphill and downhill sections, and scenic beachside paths. A picnic lunch will be served at a secluded beach where you can swim in the cool waters.

Return to the hotel in the afternoon, check in, and enjoy the remainder of the day at your leisure.

Summary of inclusions

• Boat
• Yao Noi cycling
• Breakfast & lunch
• Hotel in Yao Noi

DAY 10: Phang Nga Bay

Spend the entire day exploring the stunning Phang Nga Bay within Ao Phang Nga National Park, enjoying a boat cruise, canoeing, and swimming. The bay boasts a myriad of small islands, dramatic limestone formations rising from the emerald waters, white sandy beaches, caves, vibrant marine life, and pleasant weather year-round.

Transfer to the pier and board a boat to embark on an adventure through the bay. Apply sunscreen and paddle your canoe to discover the scenic Panak Island, renowned for its breathtaking views and intriguing rock formations. Explore Hong Island’s impressive mangroves, navigate through caves into mystical lagoons, and keep an eye out for monkeys, bats, and mudskippers.

Throughout the day, visit other notable islands such as James Bond Island, Lawa Island, and the picturesque Koh Panyi fishing village, known for its stilt houses. Enjoy swimming and snorkeling in the turquoise waters teeming with colorful coral and fish. Lunch is included.

Return to the hotel in the late afternoon, and enjoy a free evening at your leisure.

Summary of inclusions

• Boat
• Phang Nga Bay canoeing
• Breakfast & lunch
• Hotel in Yao Noi

DAY 11: Phuket Beach

The next day, relax until check-out, then transfer to the pier for a boat ride to Phuket, Thailand’s largest island and your final destination. Renowned for its pristine white sand beaches, emerald waters, and vibrant town atmosphere, Phuket offers a diverse range of activities.

Upon arrival, check into your hotel and spend the rest of the day unwinding with sun, sea, and sand, perhaps with a refreshing cocktail in hand. In the evening, dive into Phuket’s lively nightlife, with neon lights, open-air restaurants, bars, and nightclubs. Consider visiting a night market or enjoying a thrilling cabaret show.

Summary of inclusions

• Private vehicle
• Boat
• Beach relax
• Breakfast
• Hotel in Phuket

DAY 12: Phuket Departure

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel, then spend your time relaxing and soaking up more sun and sea until check-out at 12:00 PM. Afterward, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your departure flight.

Safe travels and see you next time!

Summary of inclusions

• Private airport transfer
• Breakfast