Journeys: Explore Southern Thailand - 8 Days
Who is this trip for
Genders
- Female51%
- Male49%
Average age
Start / End
- Bangkok
- Bangkok
Physical rating
Group size
1 - 16Meals included
10Highlights
- Cross the scenic Krabi River aboard a longtail boat
- Take your seat on a motorized tricycle tuk-tuk to be whisked through Krabi’s bustling villages
- Explore Hong Island on a traditional Longtail Boat
- Spot elusive wildlife in the pristine rainforest of Khao Sok National Park
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Summary
Discover the laid-back culture and stunning natural treasures of southern Thailand on this sojourn to tropical shores, from Ko Samui to Krabi. Stroll along white-sand beaches, trek through lush rainforest, and snorkel crystalline waters in the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea. Whether navigating mangrove forests by longtail boat or winding between traditional villages in a motorized tuk-tuk, experience the lesser known side of Thailand’s idyllic coastal escapes.
Map
Itinerary
Days 1-0: BangkokArrival Day
Arrive at any time; your arrival transfer is included. You will be met on arrival at Bangkok Airport and transferred to your hotel. You are welcome to arrive at any time on day 1, but please note that hotel check-in time is 14:00.
Days 2-1: Bangkok/Ko Samui
This morning, transfer to the airport in Bangkok and catch a flight to the tropical island of Ko Samui, bordered by the sapphire waters off Thailand’s southeast coast. Settle into your hotel and enjoy a free afternoon to relax by the pool, stroll along a white-sand beach, or explore the local village. Off of Thailand’s east coast in the Gulf of Thailand, Ko Samui offers everything you could possibly want in a seaside retreat: white sandy beaches, coconut palms, fresh seafood, and warm, clear waters.
Our resort is nestled in tropical gardens with a private beach leading into crystal clear waters. The property also has three freshwater swimming pools and the resort is just 15 minutes by road to Lamai Beach’s bustling nightlife district.
Days 3-2: Koh Samui
Enjoy a full day of free time to relax in Koh Samui. Opt for an island tour or a visit to Ang Thong Marine Park.
Days 4-3: Ko Samui/Khao Sok
Catch the ferry back to the mainland and drive to Kao Thep Pitak, a community-owned farm supported by the tour operator. Enjoy a lunch of local specialties and take a stroll through the surrounding fruit orchards. Continue to Khao Sok National Park, where you will settle into a lovely resort overlooking the riverside and tucked beneath the rising cliffs in the distance.This evening, venture into the rainforest park on a nighttime walk with a community guide, then gather for a campfire dinner surrounded by the music of the jungle. Khao Sok is a stunning location with one of the oldest evergreen rainforests in the world, surrounded by limestone karst cliffs.
Days 5-4: Khao Sok
Khao Sok National Park is southern Thailand’s largest area of virgin rainforest, encompassing a breathtaking wilderness of karst peaks, turquoise lakes, and tropical rainforest that stretch along the southwest coast. Explore the park on your own today, choosing between a variety of optional jungle activities. Head out for a hike in search of monkeys and tropical birds inhabiting the dense canopy. Glide down the sparkling Sok River aboard a canoe or take a boat tour in the beautiful scenery of striking limestone cliffs.
Days 6-5: Khao Sok/Krabi
This morning, drive south to Krabi, situated on Thailand’s tropical southwest coast. Cross the Krabi River by private longtail boat, gliding past mangrove forests and limestone peaks. Venture into the Khao Khanap Nam cave to view prehistoric paintings and fascinating rock formations. Later, head to Ko Klang island and board motorized tricycle tuk-tuks to explore local communities and traditional industries, including a rubber plantation, rice fields, and a batik workshop. Chat with villagers and learn about timeless agricultural and artisanal techniques passed down over generations.
Days 7-6: Krabi
Hop on a traditional longtail boat and set out on a full-day tour of the Hong Islands with stops at Hong Beach, Hong Lagoon, Phak Bia, and Lading Island with an included lunch. Enjoy the calm waters and colorful aquatic life as you soak up the sun. In the evening enjoy some of the beautiful scenic views that have made southern Thailand so famous. Grab a cocktail and relax at the pool. Your National Geographic Expedition Leader will fill you in on all the other interesting options that are available in the area. This is the perfect place to get active or simply chill out and relax.
Our resort is located at Aonang Beach and only a short distance by Tuk -Tuk to Noppharat Thara Beach. End the day in paradise with a stroll along the beachfront.
Days 8-7: Krabi/Bangkok
This morning, return to Bangkok, where your trip concludes. The tour ends at Suvarnabhumi Airport (Bangkok Airport). Please note: your flight must not depart earlier than 15:00 on this day.
Prices & Availability
Please select the number of adults and children to see start dates and prices
What's Included
Meals
Breakfasts: 7, Lunches: 2, Dinners: 1Vegetarian options are available on all meals throughout the adventure.Vegetarian options available
Local Guide
GuidedThis adventure is led by a local guide throughout. The main language of this adventure is English. Please contact us for other languages available.
Airport Transfers
Arrival OnlyAn airport transfer to the start of the tour is included. Please contact our team if you require a quote for a return transfer.
Wifi
Wifi is available during the adventure. In some areas and / or accommodation / transport Wifi may be free.
Essential trip information
Our Important Notes and Packing List cover all essentials, from necessary equipment to inclusions, ensuring you're fully equipped and informed for this extraordinary adventure and more.
Itinerary Notes
There are new Health & Safety Protocols for National Geographic Journeys tours. Please see <a href="https://www.gadventures.com/health-safety-journeys/">here</a> for full details and up-to-date requirements as they may change.
Important Notes
1. DEPARTURE FLIGHTThis trip ends at the Bangkok airport mid-to-late afternoon on Day 8. Flight times can vary and are always based on availability. Please do not book any flights from Bangkok until after 3PM to ensure you have enough time to catch your forward flight. We also can arrange post-night accommodation in Bangkok - please speak to your agent for details.2. COMBO TRIPPlease note that this trip is part of a combination of multiple tours. As such, the CEO, staff and/or particular vehicles operating your tour may change between tour segments. You may also expect some group members to join or leave the tour, between tour segments.3. ACCOMMODATION NOTE:Please be aware that properties we stay in with only two stories may not have elevators installed and climbing the stairs with your luggage will be necessary.
Departure Tax
Departure Tax is Included in all International and Domestic tickets.
A Word of Warning
Please do not buy gems in Bangkok unless you know what you are doing. Even if genuine you should not expect to be able to sell them at home. If you fall victim to a gem scam, we are unable to assist you.
Checklist
Conservative Dress: • Modest clothing that covers knees and shoulders (Long pants, long skirts, shirts that cover shoulders) • Shawl or scarf (for temple visits) Documents: • Flight info (required) (Printouts of e-tickets may be required at the border) • Insurance info (required) (With photocopies) • Passport (required) (With photocopies) • Required visas or vaccination certificates (required) (With photocopies) • Vouchers and pre-departure information (required) Essentials: • Binoculars (optional) • Camera (With extra memory cards and batteries) • Cash, credit and debit cards • Day pack (Used for daily excursions or short overnights) • Ear plugs • First-aid kit (should contain lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, whistle, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, bandaids/plasters, tape, anti-histamines, antibacterial gel/wipes, antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra prescription drugs you may be taking) • Flashlight/torch (Headlamps are ideal) • Fleece top/sweater • Footwear • Hat • Locks for bags • Long pants/jeans • Moneybelt • Outlet adapter • Personal entertainment (Reading and writing materials, cards, music player, etc.) • Reusable water bottle • Shirts/t-shirts • Sleepwear • Small travel towel • Sunglasses • Toiletries (Preferably biodegradable) • Watch and alarm clock • Waterproof backpack cover • Windproof rain jacket Smart Dress: • Smart outfit (For evenings out) Warm Weather: • Sandals/flip-flops • Shorts/skirts (Longer shorts/skirts are recommended) • Sun hat/bandana • Swimwear
Packing List
Conservative Dress: • Modest clothing that covers knees and shoulders (Long pants, long skirts, shirts that cover shoulders) • Shawl or scarf (for temple visits) Documents: • Flight info (required) (Printouts of e-tickets may be required at the border) • Insurance info (required) (With photocopies) • Passport (required) (With photocopies) • Vouchers and pre-departure information (required) • Visas or vaccination certificates (With photocopies) Essentials: • Toiletries (required) (Shampoo, bodywash, soap, etc.) • Binoculars (optional) • Camera (With extra memory cards and batteries) • Cash, credit and debit cards • Day pack (Used for daily excursions or short overnights) • Ear plugs • First-aid kit (should contain lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, whistle, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, bandaids/plasters, tape, anti-histamines, antibacterial gel/wipes, antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra prescription drugs you may be taking) • Flashlight/torch (Headlamps are ideal) • Fleece top/sweater • Footwear • Hat • Headphones (Noice-cancelling recommended) • Locks for bags • Long pants/jeans • Moneybelt • Outlet adapter • Personal entertainment (Reading and writing materials, cards, music player, etc.) • Reusable water bottle • Shirts/t-shirts • Sleepwear • Small travel towel • Sunglasses • Swimwear • Watch and alarm clock • Waterproof backpack cover • Windproof rain jacket Health & Safety: • Face masks (Clients will be only be required to wear a face mask where it is mandated by local regulations.) • Hand sanitizer • Pen (Please bring your own pen for filling out documents.) Smart Dress: • Smart outfit (For evenings out) Warm Weather: • Sandals/flip-flops • Shorts/skirts (Longer shorts/skirts are recommended) • Sturdy water shoes/sandals • Sun hat/bandana • Swimwear
What to Take
What you need to bring depends on the trip you have chosen and the countries or regions you are planning to visit. We suggest that you pack as lightly as possible as your are expected to carry your own luggage. As a rule we try not to have to walk more than 15-20 minutes with your bags which is why we recommend keeping the weight of your bags between 15kg/30lb. We recommended for the tour operator trips a backpack or rolling bag of small to medium size (no XXL ones please!). You will also need a day pack/bag to carry water, cameras and other electronics like ipods and mobile phones.