Truly Thailand
Boat trips, beach days, jungle exploration, floating bungalows, authentic cooking class, and riverside glamping.
This 11 night / 12 day itinerary that takes you through Thailand is designed for travellers looking to explore bustling cities, kayak across misty lakes, learn to cook authentic Thai and snorkel on some of the best beaches Thailand has to offer.
Start in Bangkok where you’ll dive into the bustling markets and discover rich history in the temples. Catch the Death Railway out to the misty mountains of Kanchanaburi to explore beautiful waterfalls and cave temples. Then journey south to the magical Khao Sok to switch off from the world, staying in a floating bungalow. Finally, unwind on the serene beaches of Krabi and explore the stunning islands of Phi Phi. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, this Thailand trip offers an unforgettable escape.
Unforgettable Experiences
Watch the sunset from Golden Mount
Catch the death railway to Kanchanaburi
Stay in a floating bungalow in Khao Sok
Snorkel on the iconic Phi Phi Island
Explore waterfalls in Erewan National Park
Learn to cook authentic Thai in Krabi
Itinerary
Day 1 A Warm Thai Welcome
You've arrived in the bustling city of Bangkok! Head into your hotel, we’d recommend one in Chinatown so you’re in the middle of the action. Get settled in your hotel and then it’s time to kick things off! For your first taste of authentic Thai cuisine, head off to a local rooftop overlooking Wat Arun for dinner.
Day 2 Ancient temples & lively markets
Take the morning to yourself to relax and sleep off any jetlag you may have or explore the town on your own. In the afternoon take a long tail boat to visit Wat Arun temple and Golden Mount to watch the sunset. Then embark on a gastronomic adventure through the lively local street food scene. Be ready to indulge in mouthwatering delicacies that will leave your taste buds dancing.
Day 3 Ride the Death Railway
Leave the bustling Bangkok to catch the local train out west to the misty mountains and meandering river of Kanchanaburi. This train trip uses part of the Death Railway, built during World War II by allied prisoners to connect Thailand and Burma. Once you arrive either explore on your own or join in a visit to the Hellfire Pass Interpretive Centre and Memorial Walking Trail where you can learn more about the history of the Death Railway. We recommend glamping tents by the river so use your free time to enjoy the spring pools by the river or a campfire by the tents.
Day 4 Chase waterfalls and explore temples
TLC told us not to but this morning we’re chasing waterfalls in Erewan National Park, home to the 7-tiered Erawan Falls with emerald green ponds. Then head to visit the Tiger Cave Temple (Wat Tham Sua) and watch the sunset over the countryside around it. Once again the evening is yours to enjoy this slice of paradise by the river.
Day 5 Chill out & overnight train
Take the morning spend some extra time by the pool or explore the local area before checking out and heading back to Bangkok via local train. Tonight take the overnight sleeper train to Surat Thani on your way to Khao Sok. The train is quite the experience as you’ll be sleeping on bunk beds and we recommend packing an eye mask and earplugs but don’t worry you do have the luxury of air-con.
Day 6 Explore jungles & hidden caves
Arrive into Khao Sok for an overnight adventure in this beautiful national park. Expect an off the grid experience where you’ll explore the lake by longtail boat, spend the evening looking at the stars and sleeping in a floating bungalow. In the afternoon, explore the nearby caves and jungle with a bamboo raft. This isn’t luxury accommodation in the traditional sense but there’s something about being a place so few people get to stay, surrounded by the quietness by nature, feels pretty luxe.
Day 7 Misty morning by long boat
Wake up this morning on the lake in your own floating bungalow. Take in the tranquility before heading off to explore the lake on a long tail boat. With the morning mist still hanging over the lake, this is the best time to see gibbons, macaques, and dusky leaf monkeys. Then head to Krabi where you’ll get settled into your clifftop accommodation and maybe take a dip in the pool. Then it’s time to have a taste of authentic Thai food and learn how to make curry paste from scratch with a local cooking class. Eat your delicious creations for dinner.
Day 8 Unwind and Sunset Serenity
The morning is yours to choose how you spend it. If you’re in the mood to do a whole lot of nothing, you could relax by the hilltop pool or head out to get a Thai massage at a local spa. In the afternoon, board a luxury catamaran for a sunset cruise around the bay with dinner included. Put your feet up, have a drink and watch the sun go down over the water.
Day 9 Island dreams and breathtaking views
This morning take a fast ferry to the iconic islands of Phi Phi, famous for their stunning colourful corals and marine life. Check into a beachfront hotel, relax by the pool and start to explore the islands. In the evening, take a walk up to the famous viewpoint on the island. After quite a few stairs, you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking view of the two bays. What a spot to watch the sun go down.
Day 10 Explore the islands by boat
Today, set sail on an all-day adventure around the Phi Phi archipelago. Uncover the hidden gems and secret spots of these paradisiacal islands. Spend your day exploring various island bays, swimming, and snorkelling, all while enjoying a delicious lunch to keep you energised.
Day 11 Final hurrah
Reluctantly bid farewell to the enchanting Phi Phi islands and hop on a ferry to Phuket, a destination known for its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and rich cultural experiences. While the nightlife beckons for those feeling adventurous, there's also the option to explore Old Phuket Town with its heritage architecture or venture to Phang Nga Bay with its dramatic limestone outcrops and crystal-clear waters.
Day 12 Farewell Thailand
This is the final day on the itinerary but hopefully you’ll be leaving Thailand with incredible memories and a desire to continue to see more of the world. Maybe it’s not a farewell at all, but a see you later!
“Gleaming temples and golden Buddhas frame the landscapes in Thailand, serving as a stunning backdrop for tours of Bangkok noodle shacks and adventures along the luxurious coastline.”
Lonely Planet
Recommended Hotels
Hintock River Camp - Kanchanaburi
Phi Phi Erawan Resort - Phi Phi
Cha-Da Resort - Krabi
Thailand is all about the...
Hidden beaches.
Temples.
Lively street markets.
Authentic Pad Thai.
Friendly people.
Crystal blue water.
Relaxation.
Thailand FAQs
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This trip suits someone that wants to see a different side of Thailand, not just the nightclubs and partying of Phuket. You like to get out and about in your travels and see the sights but also wouldn’t mind some downtime by the pool. If you like Thai food, nature, iconic beaches, cheap drinks and good company, its right up your alley.
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The trip starts in Bangkok where we’ll pick you up from the airport and finishes the last night in Krabi but we’ll drop you off at Phuket Airport for an easy journey home.
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You will need to fly into Suvarnabhumi (BKK) which is the main international airport and we’ll finish at Phuket International Airport (HKT).