Thailand: Nature & Beach

Discover the lifestyle and traditions of the Thai people on this full-day guided trip of Bangkok, using public transport. Start early with a ride on the air-conditioned elevated Sky Train (BTS). Disembark at BTS National Stadium Station and take a short walk to Jim Thompson House. Explore the idyllic gardens and traditional buildings, showcasing the life of this famous, mysterious American silk merchant. Next, board a ‘bus boat’ that takes you along the city’s canals, giving you an insight into the lives of locals. On arrival at the terminal station, hop on one of Thailand’s famous three-wheeled ‘tuk tuks.’ Whiz through quieter city streets to Soi Ban Batra to visit the family-run workshop that produces monks’ alms bowls. Watch the artisans at work as you learn about the daily lives of Buddhist monks. Finally, visit the outstanding temple of Wat Pho and the Grand Palace, before heading back to the hotel. (Duration: Full Day; Time: 0800 hrs; Private Activity; Included: Use of Public Transport; Meal not included; Fitness Level: Moderate; Please dress appropriately for visits to palaces and temples. Wear comfortable walking shoes; Important Note: Shorts, mini-skirts, tight fitting trousers, sleeveless shirts or vests, and sandals are not allowed)

Explore the poignant War Cemetery, the infamous Bridge on the River Kwai and visit the JEATH War Museum that holds artifacts related to the notorious Death Railway, constructed by Prisoners of War in World War 2. Take a train ride up this line through stunning jungle scenery and historic sites to the Nam Tok terminus, where by late afternoon you will reach your accommodation.

Drive to Erawan National Park with the jaw-dropping seven-tiered Erawan waterfall dropping down over 1,500m. This 550-sq-km park includes the impressive cascading and pooling waterfall that feeds into Mae Nam Khwae Yai. It is said that the uppermost fall appears to resemble the three-headed white elephant of Hindu mythology – Erawan. Weather permitting, you can enjoy a leisurely swim in one of the seven pools created by this beautiful waterfall. Alternatively, take a walk uphill to the seventh tier to truly admire this amazing place.

Post breakfast at your hotel, heads towards the Kui Buri community village. Choose to walk around or hop onto a local farmer’s truck to learn about the local way of life, and observe their sustainable craft making processes. Try your hand at making paper from pineapple! Learn how rubber gets tapped from the tree and how fertilizers are made. Meet wood craftsmen and get a chance to watch their meticulous process of making handcrafted goods. Relish a local lunch at the village before you head back to your hotel or continue with your afternoon activities. (Half Day; Times: 0800 hrs; Private Activity and Transfer; Lunch included; Fitness Level: Easy.)

Set out in your private vehicle for one of the best places in Thailand to spot elephants – the Kui Buri National Park. At the park gates, an open safari jeep will be waiting to take you deep into the forest, which is one of the few places in all of Thailand to spot elephants in their natural habitat. Accompanied by a local expert, you may spot some gaur, cheetahs and sambar deer as well! Drive on the main dirt road north to the grassland areas where the animals are known to congregate. Keep your eyes peeled for any wildlife sightings, along the route as well as in your designated stops. Learn about the habitat, wildlife and history of the park courtesy your informative guide. (Half Day; Private Activity & Transfers; Time: 1430 hrs; Duration: 3.5 hrs; Fitness Level: Easy; Please bring rain gear, insect repellent, sunblock, and a hat).

Day 1- Kick off an exciting safari that takes you through wondrous scenes on land and water. This morning you will be met at the airport or your beach hotel for approximately 1 to 2.30 hours (depending on the location) transfer to Khao Sok National Park. Be sure to look out the window as you travel into the park, you will begin to see towering limestone cliffs emerging over the small local farms and homes. Meet up with your guide at the office of our local partner in Khao Sok, where you may drop off your luggage if you wish. Continue on to your first stop to visit the village of Khao Pang and get a glimpse of rural village life. Enjoy a tour around the village and organic farm. Have a local lunch in the village prepared by a resident family before departing for nearby Wararam Village. Here, try your hand at making a traditional Thai dessert at a local family’s home, followed by an easy walk or short drive to the river passing local fruit farm. Afterwards, board your inflatable canoe for a ride down the river passing small homes and jungle. Half way through your journey make a stop to enjoy the local coffee served in traditional bamboo cups. At the end of your ride you will be transferred to your hotel for the evening. Thai Dinner is included at the accommodation. Overnight stay at Cliff & river Jungle Resort, Khao Sok. Day 2 – After a hearty breakfast, set off for Ratchaprapa Dam, located on the edge of Cheow Larn Lake, which is set amid spectacular and dramatic limestone scenery. Stop by at the visitor center located at the pier, where you can glean information about the lake and its stunning surrounds and how they were formed! After this, embark on a boat ride on that will take you through the towering karats towards your magical floating accomodation for your overnight stay – the Greenery Panvaree Floating Resort. Enjoy a delicious dinner in a stunning ambiance, surrounded by the craggy cliffs. Day 3 – Day two of your lake adventure begins with a scenic 30-minute hike and a guided longtail boat ride to the Coral Cave located in the middle of a lake. Embark on a longtail boat with your guide, spotting wildlife as you head towards the Coral Cave. The cave is enclosed in its own natural lake, requiring approximately 30 minutes’ hike before you reach the water. From here board bamboo rafts with small engines attached, a unique transport method of the region. Your guide will explain the background of the cave as well as point out some of the most interesting stalactites and stalagmites. Return to your accommodation for lunch before visiting a cluster of limestone karsts known as Guilin Noi (little Guilin). Bring the exciting tour to a close by heading back to Ratchaprapa dam for your onward journey. (Private Activity & Transfer; Meals Included; Fitness level: High. Please note that this tour may not be suitable for elderly guests and guests who have problems walking as the activities involve climbing steps to get on the boats and a high degree of fitness. Please do carry a backpack with: sunglasses, hat, trainers, swim suit, towel, sunscreen, bug spray, headlamp, camera, and toiletries.)