Essential Southern Thailand 9 Days

Today, you'll visit some of Bangkok's iconic landmarks. Join your group for an included tour of Wat Pho, home to the famous 46-meter-long Reclining Buddha – he definitely looks relaxed! To reach Wat Pho, you’ll travel by MRT subway from Wat Mangkorn station to Sanam Chai station, which is not only close to Wat Pho but also beautifully designed like a royal state room. The afternoon is yours to explore more of the city, whether that’s the Grand Palace, Jim Thompson House, or sampling more delicious street food. In the evening, prepare for an overnight train journey south to Surat Thani.

Arriving in Surat Thani this morning, you’ll embark on a roughly 4-hour journey via public bus and ferry to reach Ko Samui. A popular destination for tourists, Ko Samui offers plenty of activities. You can swim, snorkel, or unwind by the waterfalls at Na Muang. Join your group for an island tour, stopping by the impressive 15-meter-tall Big Buddha at Wat Phra Yai. In the evening, enjoy a group dinner featuring a flavorful curry, and then immerse yourself in the lively nightlife that Ko Samui is known for.

Enjoy a completely free day to spend as you wish – whether that’s swimming, sunbathing, or exploring more of Ko Samui. Consider taking an optional day trip to Ang Thong Marine National Park, accessible by slow boat or speedboat. This stunning park consists of more than 40 islands, boasting untouched beaches, dense jungles, mangroves, and limestone cliffs. You can swim at the well-known Ko Mae island and visit Thale Nai, the beautiful saltwater lagoon also called the Emerald Lake. Alternatively, for a quieter atmosphere and excellent snorkeling, explore the nearby islands of Ko Tao and Ko Nang Yuan. If you're an animal lover, you might also enjoy a visit to the local elephant sanctuary, where you can watch these majestic creatures bathe, roam freely, and interact in a safe, caring environment.

This morning, leave Ko Samui behind and make your way to Khao Sok National Park. Start by taking a songtaew and catching an early ferry from Samui Pier for a 1.5-hour ride to Don Sak Pier. From there, hop into a private vehicle for a 2-hour drive to Chiew Larn Lake, followed by a serene 1-hour journey on a traditional longtail boat to your floating rafthouse. Khao Sok National Park, known for being Thailand’s wettest region, is home to one of the world’s oldest rainforests. As you take in the stunning limestone cliffs, you might even spot playful monkeys. After lunch, embark on a hike through the jungle, where you’ll either explore cascading waterfalls or climb to a panoramic viewpoint, depending on the season. In the evening, venture deeper into the jungle on a safari via longtail boat, keeping a lookout for wildlife as dusk is when they’re most active.

You’re in for a treat with a morning spent in the world’s oldest evergreen rainforest. Your incredible jungle rafthouse is nestled right within the park, giving you the perfect opportunity to watch the mist glide over the lake as you venture on a longtail boat in search of wildlife. Nature lovers will find this place to be paradise, and if luck is on your side, you might spot elephants, exotic Hornbills, or even water-loving Langur Monkeys. After some free time to soak it all in, enjoy an included lunch before bidding farewell to the rafthouse. Another peaceful longtail boat ride will take you back to the pier, where you’ll hop into a private vehicle bound for Ao Nang, located along the stunning Andaman Sea coast. Welcome to your new seaside escape!

Ao Nang Beach, located on Thailand's southern coast, offers a perfect mix of white sandy shores and a relaxed atmosphere. Nearby Railay Beach is a must-visit, though it’s a bit unique to reach. Despite being part of the mainland, towering limestone cliffs make land access nearly impossible. Instead, hop on a longtail boat for a short ride, and you’ll soon arrive on its stunning, unspoiled shores. Spend some time swimming or simply unwinding on the beach. This place is truly a slice of paradise.

Today promises to be as tranquil as the emerald waters surrounding Ao Nang. You have a free day to relax on the beach or take part in various optional activities. Maybe indulge in a soothing massage or join a Thai cooking class to learn some culinary skills. For a more adventurous day, explore Krabi’s natural wonders, such as the crystal-clear pools and hot springs, where you can swim in the refreshing waters of the Emerald Lagoon while tiny fish playfully nibble at your feet. Alternatively, consider visiting the serene island of Ko Hong for snorkeling in shallow reefs and kayaking through cliffs to a hidden saltwater lagoon. The day is yours to enjoy at your own pace!

There are no scheduled activities for today, so you're free to check out of your accommodation at your convenience. However, your Thailand adventure doesn't have to end just yet! Stretch out a towel on Ao Nang beach, soak up some sun, and enjoy a well-deserved day of relaxation.