Southern Thailand Uncovered

Sa-wat dee! Welcome to Thailand.
Your adventure begins in the vibrant capital of Bangkok, where you'll meet your local leader and fellow travellers for a welcome meeting at 6 pm. If you arrive early, take the opportunity to explore the city's lively markets, sample delicious street food or unwind with a traditional Thai massage before the journey begins.

This evening, gather with your group for dinner and get to know your travel companions over authentic Thai cuisine. Afterwards, if you're keen to experience Bangkok after dark, your leader can point you towards the city's best bars, rooftop venues and nightlife hotspots for the perfect introduction to Thailand.

Please make every effort to attend the welcome meeting, as your leader will collect important information, including your travel insurance details and emergency contact information. If you expect to arrive late, please inform your booking agent or the hotel reception as soon as possible. Upon arrival, check with reception or look for a notice in the hotel lobby for details of the meeting time and location.

Today, discover some of Bangkok's most iconic landmarks. Begin with a visit to Wat Pho, home to the magnificent 46-metre-long Reclining Buddha and one of Thailand's oldest and most revered temple complexes. Afterwards, wander through a colourful nearby flower market, where fragrant blooms and vibrant displays offer a glimpse into local daily life.

The remainder of the afternoon is yours to explore the city at your own pace. You may choose to visit the magnificent Grand Palace or discover the fascinating history of Jim Thompson House, among the many attractions Bangkok has to offer.
This evening, board an overnight train bound for Surat Thani, beginning your journey towards the tropical landscapes of southern Thailand.

Today's overnight train journey takes approximately 13 hours, offering a comfortable and authentic way to travel through Thailand.

You'll travel in air-conditioned soft sleeper class, with shared compartments featuring bunk beds complete with fresh bedding and pillows. Your luggage stays with you in the carriage throughout the journey, and onboard food and drink services are available should you wish to purchase meals or refreshments along the way.

Arrive in Surat Thani this morning before continuing your journey by bus and ferry to the tropical island of Ko Samui. Over the next few days, you'll have plenty of opportunities to embrace island life with swimming, snorkelling, waterfall adventures and time to unwind on beautiful beaches.

After arriving on Ko Samui, the rest of the day is yours to enjoy at your own pace. Famous for its palm-lined coastline, crystal-clear waters and lush coconut plantations, the island is the perfect place to explore hidden beaches, discover scenic viewpoints or simply relax beneath the tropical sun.
This evening, why not gather with your fellow travellers for dinner? Your local leader will be happy to recommend some of the island's best restaurants, where you can sample fresh seafood and authentic southern Thai cuisine.

Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.

vToday, set out with your local leader and fellow travellers on a half-day tour of Ko Samui, discovering the island's most celebrated landmarks. Along the way, visit the iconic Wat Phra Yai, where the magnificent 15-metre Golden Big Buddha overlooks the surrounding coastline.

Blessed with pristine beaches, tropical forests and spectacular scenery, Ko Samui has become one of Thailand's most beloved island destinations. This afternoon is yours to enjoy, perhaps taking a refreshing dip beneath the cascading waters of Na Muang Waterfalls or simply relaxing in the island's peaceful natural surroundings.

This evening, savour the rich flavours of an authentic Thai curry before immersing yourself in Ko Samui's vibrant nightlife, where lively beach bars, music and a fun social atmosphere provide the perfect way to end the day.

Today is yours to enjoy at your own pace on the tropical island of Ko Samui. Whether you prefer relaxing on the beach, swimming in crystal-clear waters or setting off to explore, there's plenty to make the most of your free day.

For those seeking adventure, consider an optional excursion to Mu Ko Ang Thong National Marine Park by speedboat or traditional boat. This breathtaking archipelago of more than 40 islands is renowned for its white-sand beaches, emerald lagoons, dense rainforest and dramatic limestone cliffs rising from the Gulf of Thailand. Visit Ko Mae Ko and admire the stunning saltwater lagoon of Emerald Lake (Thale Nai), or spend time swimming and relaxing in idyllic surroundings.

If snorkelling is high on your list, the nearby islands of Ko Tao and Ko Nang Yuan offer vibrant coral reefs and colourful marine life in calmer waters.
Alternatively, visit an ethical elephant sanctuary on Ko Samui, where you can observe rescued elephants roaming freely, bathing and interacting naturally in a safe and peaceful environment dedicated to their wellbeing.

This morning, leave Ko Samui behind and journey to the breathtaking wilderness of Khao Sok National Park — and don't forget your camera. Begin with an early ferry from Samui Pier to Don Sak Pier before continuing by private vehicle to the spectacular Cheow Lan Lake.

From the lake, board a traditional longtail boat and cruise across its emerald waters towards your floating raft house. Along the way, keep watch for native wildlife, including wild elephants, gibbons and dusky leaf monkeys, while towering limestone cliffs and one of the world's oldest rainforests create an unforgettable backdrop.
As evening approaches, set out on an exciting wildlife safari by longtail boat, venturing deeper into the rainforest in search of nocturnal animals while listening to the sounds of the jungle coming to life after sunset.

Later, settle into your unique floating accommodation and enjoy a home-cooked southern Thai dinner prepared by your local hosts. Share stories, learn about their way of life and unwind in the peaceful surroundings before drifting off to sleep to the soothing sounds of the rainforest.

Today's journey will take approximately 4.5 hours, including ferry, road and boat transfers through southern Thailand's spectacular landscapes.

Your accommodation tonight is a traditional floating raft house set directly on the waters of Cheow Lan Lake. The accommodation is simple yet full of character, with wooden walkways linking the floating cabins to the shoreline. Shared bathroom facilities are located on land. We recommend bringing mosquito repellent, and if you prefer, a mosquito net, along with a spirit of adventure to fully enjoy this unique experience.

Khao Sok National Park experiences two distinct seasons. The dry season typically runs from January to March, while the rainy season lasts from April to December. During the wetter months, hiking trails can become muddy and slippery, and harmless leeches are commonly found throughout the rainforest. In return, you'll experience the park at its most vibrant, with lush vegetation, flowing waterfalls and abundant wildlife. Sturdy waterproof footwear with good grip is strongly recommended.

Wake up surrounded by the ancient rainforest of Khao Sok National Park, where your floating raft house offers a front-row seat to one of the world's oldest evergreen forests. Early this morning, board a traditional longtail boat and glide across the mist-covered waters of Cheow Lan Lake, keeping an eye out for the park's incredible wildlife.
Before lunch, set off on a guided jungle walk through the rainforest.

Depending on the season, you'll either discover cascading waterfalls or hike to a scenic viewpoint overlooking the dramatic limestone landscape. Along the way, you may be fortunate enough to spot wild elephants, hornbills and dusky langur monkeys.
Later, continue your journey to Phuket. En route, pause at the Khao Lak Tsunami Memorial to learn about the devastating 2004 tsunami and honour those affected by the disaster.

Your journey also includes a visit to the Royal Thai Navy Sea Turtle Conservation Center, where you'll discover the inspiring work being done to protect endangered sea turtles. Learn how eggs are rescued from vulnerable beaches, how hatchlings are cared for and released, and how the centre collaborates with local communities, schools and conservation organisations to safeguard Thailand's marine ecosystems.
This evening, enjoy free time in Phuket. Perhaps watch the sun dip below the Andaman Sea, explore the island's lively dining scene or raise a glass with your fellow travellers as you celebrate an unforgettable adventure through southern Thailand.

Your travel time today will be approximately 3.5 hours.

Your adventure comes to an end this morning and with no activities planned, you’re free to leave the accommodation at any time. If you’d like to stay in Thailand for longer (we wouldn’t blame you), just speak to your booking agent ahead of time.