
Kayak and Hike Wild Thailand
- Thailand
- 9 nights
Paddle and hike through lush jungle, explore tropical islands, and relax on palm-lined beaches along the way
What's Included?
- Activities & Certified GuidesAll itinerary activities with a local, English-speaking tour leader plus specialist activity guides
- All Lodging6 nights in boutique hotels, 1 night in a floating bungalow, 1 night in a sleeper train & 1 night in a jungle lodge
- MealsAll breakfasts, 8 lunches, 4 dinners
- TransfersYour airport and local transfers, permits, and entry fees are included
- GearAll your kayaking and biking gear, including bike helmet
- Maximum group size: 12Join small n’ sociable groups of like-minded, active and outdoorsy people – designed to be solo-friendly
From…excluding flights
Highlights
Kayak the otherworldly Khao Sok Lake and circumnavigate the mangrove-fringed Ao Phang Nga National Park
Hike the jungle trails of Khao Sok National Park and Kao Yao Yai Island, and tackle the 1,260 steps up to Tiger Cave Temple
Kick back in longtail boats, hang out on white-sand beaches spotting wildlife, then bed down in jungle lodges, floating bungalows and idyllic boutique hotels
Want to see another side of Thailand? Wander northern temples, trek off-grid jungles and finish with island escapes on our Ultimate Thailand Adventure (opens in new tab)
Itinerary
Day 1
Welcome to Bangkok
HotelTwin shareShow Day 1 detailHide detail
Touch down in Bangkok, the city with the world's longest name. It thrums with the pulse of old and new and is home to arguably some of the best street food in Southeast Asia. Soak up the vibes as you're picked up by your host at the airport and transferred to your hotel in bustling Chinatown. Depending on when you arrive, head out to explore – Yaowarat Road, the main artery of Chinatown, is moments from your doorstep. Hit sights like the Grand Palace and its Emerald Buddha, or sample that fabled street food.
Day 2
Bike Bang Krajao
Cycling2-3hrs · 9miTrain CarriageMixed dormAll meals includedShow Day 2 detailHide detail
Head out of the bustling streets of Bangkok as you are driven to Bang Krajao, where you'll hop on two wheels to explore winding trails. A lush haven known as the 'Green Lung of Bangkok', where nature thrives and languid canals cool the air; a leisurely bike ride here is a tonic. Stop to sample food at the local market, and for a delicious lunch, before being driven back to the city to board your sleeper train. Roll out of Bangkok heading south to Surat Thani, where the adventure really begins.
Day 3
Khao Sok National Park
Hiking3-4hrs · 3mi · 820ft up · 820ft downWildlife Watching1hrRafthouseTwin shareAll meals includedShow Day 3 detailHide detail
Rolling into Surat Thani, grab your bag and fill up on breakfast. Hit the road by minibus to the sublime Khao Sok National Park, which conserves the largest area of virgin forest in southern Thailand and is teeming with native species. You’ll catch a boat for a scenic ride into the heart of Cheow Lan, a vast lake where karst islands jut out of turquoise waters. You’ll trek through the jungle on one of these islands to an amazing viewpoint of the lake (during the rainy season the hike to the viewpoint will be replaced with an alternative route or activity). At sunset, keep your eyes peeled for wildlife aboard a longtail boat, before bedding down on the lake in your tranquil floating bungalow.
Day 4
Khao Sok National Park
Cycling2hrs · 12miWildlife Watching2hrs · 2miRainforest LodgeTwin shareAll meals includedShow Day 4 detailHide detail
After waking up on the water, set off deep into Khao Sok National Park to your next location, your jungle lodge nestled amidst one of the world's oldest rainforests. Hop on a bike and gently pedal your way along a network of small roads and tracks, passing villages and stopping at Wat Tham Pla ("Fish Cave") as well as a rubber and palm plantation. There'll also be time to stock up on refreshments and snacks from the local store. Relax for the afternoon before exploring the jungle after sunset, alive with the chorus of chirping insects – an expert local guide will lead you on a nocturnal hike to discover wildlife. Later, drift off to the sounds of the forest symphony in your bungalow.
Day 5
Than Bok Khorani National Park
Kayaking3-4hrs · 4miDriving2.5hrsHotelTwin shareBreakfast and lunch includedShow Day 5 detailHide detail
Head south to the small village of Bothor, on the coast of Phong Nha Bay, and into Than Bok Khorani National Park. Hop into a kayak and fully immerse yourself in this enigmatic place. Paddling through dense mangroves, you'll enter caves adorned with stalagmites, stalactites, and ancient paintings. Glide across shallow aquamarine lagoons until you reach the ethereal blue pool of Tham Lord. Hit the beach or relax by the hotel pool for some late afternoon downtime, and savor the tranquility of the location.
Day 6
Krabi
Hiking3-4hrs · 3mi · 1969ft up · 1969ft downHotelTwin shareBreakfast and lunch includedShow Day 6 detailHide detail
It's time to seek inner peace at the Tiger Cave Temple. Limber up and tackle the 1260 uneven steps to the top, where you can take in the breathtaking views over Krabi province, watched over by the ever-watchful golden Buddha statue. Wander past sacred trees and the monks' sanctuary to the Tiger Cave itself. Afterwards, refresh yourself at Huay Toh, a glistening tiered waterfall at the base of Phanom Bencha mountain – the perfect place for a cooling dip. Relax at the hotel before catching a shuttle to lively Ao Nang for cocktails at sunset and a trip to the night market.
Day 7
Koh Yao Yai Island
Kayaking3-4hrs · 2miHotelTwin shareBreakfast and lunch includedShow Day 7 detailHide detail
Leaving the mainland, travel to Koh Yao Yai by speedboat. The island sits within Ao Phang Nga National Park which is famous for its limestone cliffs and islets skirted by forest. Jump into a kayak to paddle quietly through unspoiled mangroves, watching fiddler crabs scuttle away from hungry macaques. The mangroves near Ban Ya Mi village cover an area of approximately two square miles, and are a critical part of the island ecosystem. After your paddle, enjoy a delicious lunch before relaxing into island life on the white sands and catching the sunset.
Day 8
Koh Yao Yai Island
Hiking3hrs · 2mi · 33ft up · 33ft downHotelTwin shareBreakfast and lunch includedShow Day 8 detailHide detail
Lace up your boots for a hike around Koh Yao Yai Island. Encircled by the clear coastal waters of Phang Nga Bay, soak up the charm of this peaceful location, away from the hustle and bustle. Head through lush jungle, on a hike led by a knowledgeable local villager. You’ll pass rubber and coconut plantations, spotting tropical birdlife hiding amid the foliage, and learn about their sustainable rubber tree oil extraction process. Enjoy lunch by a peaceful stream before heading on to the bustling vibes of Old Town Phuket, where you can explore at your own pace.
Day 9
Island-hopping by sea kayak
Kayaking3-4hrs · 6miHotelTwin shareAll meals includedShow Day 9 detailHide detail
Your final day features an epic sea kayaking adventure, visiting some of the most spectacular parts of Phang Nga Bay. Head to Ao Por pier to meet your local guide and be briefed on the day's activities, which will be tailored to the tides. Out on the water, you'll use a large longtail boat as a floating base. Circumnavigate tropical islands, discover hidden beaches and take in the rugged limestone formations. Head ashore for a spot of lunch before a final paddle and to snorkel in the clear warm sea. Once back on dry land, have one final dinner with your fellow adventurers in the lively streets of Phuket Old Town.
Day 10
Phuket
Breakfast includedShow Day 10 detailHide detail
After breakfast, say your final goodbyes. You'll be transferred to the airport in time for your flight home.
Getting There
- Fly into
- Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK)
- Fly out of
- Phuket International Airport (HKT)
- Pick up
- Suvarnabhumi Airport (Bangkok International Airport)
Any time on Day 1 - Drop off
- Phuket International Airport
Any time on Day 10
What is and isn't Included?
What's included
- Guided bike ride around Bang Krajao
- Guided hike in the Khao Sok National Park
- 1hr longtail boat ride to spot wildlife
- Guided bike ride in the Khao Sok National Park
- Short night hike to spot nocturnal wildlife
- Guided kayaking through the mangroves and caves of Than Bok Khorani National Park
- Guided hike to Tiger Cave Temple and Huay Toh waterfall
- Guided kayaking in the Ao Phang Nga National Park
- Guided hike around around Koh Yao Yai Island
- Guided kayaking in Phang Nga Bay
- A local, English-speaking tour leader
- Specialist guides for activities
- 1 night in a stylish hotel in Bangkok's Chinatown
- 1 night on a sleeper train from Bangkok to Surat Thani
- 1 night in a tranquil floating bungalow on Cheow Lan Lake
- 1 night in a jungle lodge in the Khao Sok National Park
- 2 nights in a 4-star hotel in Krabi
- 1 night in a beachfront resort on Koh Yao Yai island
- 2 nights in a boutique hotel in Phuket Old Town
- All (9) tasty breakfasts
- 8 delicious lunches
- 4 Thai dinners
- Transfer from Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi Airport at any time on Day 1
- Transfer to Phuket Airport at any time on Day 10
- All transfers during the trip, including the sleeper train from Bangkok to Surat Thani
All your kayaking and biking equipment, including bike helmet
All permits, tickets, and entry fees
What's not included
Our trips do not include flights, trains or other travel to the start point and back from the end point.
Tips are not included in the trip cost. These are entirely at your discretion and not customary in Thailand, but if you wish to tip, we suggest the below as a guideline:
- 70 THB-135 THB (US$2-US$4) per person, per day
Please avoid tipping with coins, very small denomination notes, or dirty and ripped notes – culturally, this is regarded as an insult. Of course, you are free to tip more or less, and the amount should be reflective of your perception of service and quality - a tip is not compulsory and should only be given when you receive excellent service.
Travel insurance is compulsory for all of our adventures, and you'll need to provide your policy details before departure. Your insurance should offer adequate cover for overseas medical treatment, evacuation/repatriation, your baggage and equipment, and the specific activities involved in your adventure. We also recommend ensuring your policy includes cancellation and curtailment cover, in case you're unable to join your trip due to unforeseen circumstances such as illness.
Standard travel insurance may not cover all the activities included in your adventure, so it's essential to check the details carefully. There are adventure-specific providers that many travelers have used in the past, such as True Traveller (opens in new tab) (for those based in the UK or Europe), or Rise + Shield (opens in new tab), both of which offer cover for a wide range of adventurous activities.
Please make sure your chosen policy meets your individual needs and covers all aspects of your trip.
Visa requirements often change, and you are responsible for obtaining any required visas for this trip. Please check with your nearest embassy or consulate for up-to-date advice.
You know your own spending habits best, so please budget an appropriate amount for things like optional meals and drinks, shopping, optional activities, and laundry.
Where You'll Stay
Looking for a private room? See Optional Extras for details and pricing.
What You'll Eat
Thai food is one of the world’s most well-loved cuisines, known for balancing sweet, sour, salty and spicy flavors with aromatic herbs and spices like Thai basil and lemongrass. On this trip you’ll have a chance to sample everything from street food…
Optional Extras
Pre/Post Trip Accommodation
- Pre-trip accommodation in Bangkok (Single, Twin or Double)
- …
- Post trip accommodation in Phuket (Single, Twin or Double)
- …
Upgrades
- Optional Private Room Upgrade (excludes Days 2 & 3)
- …
For solo travellers looking for their own space, an optional private room can be booked for an extra charge, see Optional Extras for the price. Please request this at the time of booking (this is subject to availability). Please note, it is not possible to have a private room on the overnight train.
To request any extras, message your host via your Much Better Adventures account once you have booked your trip.
All extras must be paid before your trip starts.
This Trip is Graded Level 2
Ratings & Reviews
- 2 stars (0)
- 1 star (0)
Category rating
- Food
- 5.0
- Guides & crew
- 5.0
- Accommodation
- 5.0
- Itinerary
- 4.0
Latest Reviews
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Departure dates
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Got a Group of 6 or More?
What to Pack

Know before you go! Some stuff we'll provide, other things you'll need to bring.
FAQs
What should I do about drinking water?
Tap water in Thailand is not safe to drink. Clean drinking water will be provided throughout. Please pack your own reusable bottle, it will be well used. There will be a large drinking water container provided on the vehicles for you to refill you bottle.
Will the tropical climate or seasons affect the itinerary?
The trip dates are scheduled across southern Thailand’s dry months as well as some of the wet months, as both seasons are great times to experience the varied locations and activities in this trip. However, due to weather and local conditions at the time of travel, minor changes to the route, order or timing of the activities may be necessary once you’re on the trip. Your host will ensure any changes, if necessary, are kept to a minimum, and your guide will keep you in the loop as the trip progresses to ensure that you have an awesome time.
Can I leave my excess luggage somewhere?
Due to the point-to-point nature of this trip, your luggage will be transported with you throughout the journey. During the overnight train journey, please ensure your luggage is locked and stowed beneath the berth seats.
What type of kayaks/canoes are used?
The kayaks used will be sit-on-top kayaks, all of which will be doubles. Sit-on-top kayaks are very stable and easy to paddle for everyone, from new paddlers through to experienced paddlers. Sit-on-top kayaks can be used on the ocean, estuaries, rivers, lakes, and canals.
What is the size/weight limit of the kayak?
The sit-on-top kayaks are made from a plastic and polystyrene composite, are for two people and have an average weight limit of 375 lbs.
Can I book on my own?
Sure can! Over 70% of our travellers travel solo, it’s a great way to meet like-minded people.
Who is running the trip?
Our team of Adventure Hunters co-create exclusive adventures which are run by highly vetted, specialist hosts. The trip is run by our trusted host partner in the destination. We only work with independent, local, in-destination experts who know the very best places to explore and how to stay safe. Read more information about the local teams we partner with. You’ll be introduced to the host straight after making a booking via the Much Better Adventures platform.
What is the official travel advice?
Much Better Adventures refer to the UK Government’s official travel advice when designing trips and monitoring trip operations. We recommend that all customers review the practical information available on the UK Government’s FCDO website, where you can find up-to-date advice by searching for your destination(s).
If you are based in the United States, you can also check the latest travel advisories from the U.S. Department of State.
For customers joining from other international locations, we recommend checking the official travel advice issued by your country of residence, as guidance may vary.
What vaccinations do I need?
We recommend checking out the country-specific information and also talking to a travel nurse.
How are the trips priced?
We automatically convert prices from the local currency that a host receives to your chosen currency. We update our exchange rates daily, so prices displayed on the site are subject to currency fluctuations, which is why you may see them change over time.
If you wish to change the currency you pay in, head to the bottom of the page.
Why are your adventures only for adults?
All of our group adventures are specially designed for adults to enjoy as we want these adventures to bring together outdoorsy people who are truly like-minded. You must be over 18 to join one of our trips.
Who else will be on my trip?
You're always in good company on one of our adventures.
Our trips typically consist of a mix of solo travelers and small groups of 2 or 3 friends, with most in their 30s-50s.
Our sociable adventures are solo-friendly by design and naturally attract outdoorsy people with a shared mindset; a love for adventure, a desire to push themselves, and meet awesome, like-minded people along the way.
It’s this camaraderie that has so often turned a great adventure into a life-changing one.
Don't just take our word for it:
- 95% of people rate the group dynamics on our trips 5/5
- 90% of people recommend joining a trip to make new friends
- 75% of people have met people on our trips that they would now consider friends
See here for more info about the Much Better Adventures tribe.
What's the weather like?
Thailand's climate is generally hot and humid, with the rain arriving over the middle months of the year. The seasons differ in each region of the country, meaning the weather will vary depending on where you are. Khao Sok National Park can experience rain showers all year round. May to August is a great time to visit the rainforest, which is green and vibrant, and there is a higher chance of spotting wildlife, although there is a higher chance of heavy rain showers and stronger breezes in Phang Nga bay.
Thailand’s south and west regions have three seasons. From November to March, conditions are pleasant with a refreshing breeze reducing humidity, making the daytime a little more comfortable and temperatures generally in the range of 79°F to 90°F, and down to around 73°F at night. From March to May, the heat and humidity rise with temperatures generally in the range of 86°F to 97°F in the daytime, and down to around 77°F at night. From late May, it’s the rainy season, which usually lasts through to October, with peak rainfall usually between mid-September and mid-October. Between June and August, the rain falls in short, heavy downpours, most likely in the afternoons. Temperatures are generally in the range of 95°F to 104°F in the daytime and down to around 81°F at night.
Bangkok’s weather follows the same pattern as described above, with the most pleasant time to visit being between December and February with cooler temperatures. Between March and May, it’s at its hottest with daytime temperatures at around 104°F.
What's the carbon footprint for this trip?
We partner with the World Land Trust to ensure this trip achieves Net-Zero emissions. We also support their Buy an Acre program, helping local communities to buy and protect natural habitats in perpetuity.
What's the number?
It works out on average at 530kg of CO2 emissions per person, including all local transport, accommodation, food, activities, guides, staff and office operations.
The only thing it doesn’t include right now is flights and travel to the destination. We do make an overall estimate across all our customers separately, but as we don’t book flights, have customers from all corners of the world, and no way of reliably knowing their travel plans, we simply can’t include an individual number in the figure on display here. We’ve got a goal to fix that, so that when you book, there is a way to measure and mitigate the carbon emitted by your flight too.
But what does the number mean?
Yep, hard to picture eh? To give you an idea:
- Driving 1000 miles/1609km would be approximately 281kg of CO2 in an average car (or 140.5kg per person, if there were two of you in it).
- A return economy class flight between London and New York would be approximately 1619kg (1.66 tonnes) per person.
- 10 trees in a temperate forest are estimated to remove approximately 250kg of CO2 from the air in a period of 5-10 years.
What are we doing about it?
Our trips are relatively low-carbon by design, and we're working with all our hosts to develop long term carbon reduction plans. We partner with the World Land Trust to ensure this trip achieves Net-Zero emissions. We also support their Buy an Acre programme, helping local communities to buy and protect natural habitats in perpetuity, ensuring the protection of the reserve and its wildlife.
Want to know more?
Amazingly, no international travel company has ever publicly published their carbon measurements before, as far as we know. We believe that must change, quickly. So we’re openly sharing the method we used in the hope that other companies will be able to more easily follow suit and build on what we've done so far. You'll find it all here.
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