Simply Thailand

Thailand - Trip code QTT Discovery
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336Kg of CO²e
Average carbon footprint per person
Carbon Footprint
You deserve to know everything about your holiday, from what is included, what to expect and every kilogram of CO2 emitted on average per person along the way.

We've partnered with ecollective to measure the carbon footprint of this tour based on an average group size. Find out more about how we calculate this and why we think it's important here.

 

Journey from the bustle of Bangkok to the palm-fringed beaches of Krabi on our 12-day adventure through Thailand. From ornate temples to lush national parks and peaceful islands, our itinerary packs in the highlights, as well as some sites off the beaten path.

Why we love this trip
  • Bangkok - Explore the markets and street food stalls of Bangkok's bustling Chinatown.
  • Khao Sam Roi Yot - Take a hike through tropical forest to discover the cave pagoda of Phraya Nakhon.
  • Koh Phangan - Relax among the island's coconut plantations and perfect palm-fringed beaches.
  • Included meals

    Breakfast: 11

  • Trip staff

    Explore Tour Leader

    Driver(s)

    Local Guide(s)

  • Transport

    Bus

    Boat

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    Accommodation

    2 nights comfortable bungalow

    9 nights comfortable hotel

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    Trip pace:

    Moderate

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    Group Size:

    Trip maximum 16
    Explore Average 11

Itinerary

Day 1 - Join trip in Bangkok and street food tour of Chinatown

Our tour starts today in Thailand's capital, Bangkok. Here, old meets new, and the energetic local life - awash with street vendors, locals and tourists - is set against a backdrop of ornate shrines and modern skyscrapers. Sample fragrant street food, haggle in the non-stop markets and take a cruise out on the Chao Phraya River to witness stunning sunsets.

For those arriving on time today, our tour leader plans to meet you in the hotel reception at 6pm for the welcome meeting and to take us on a tour of Bangkok's street food. We'll take the city's metro system before weaving our way through the bustling stalls of Chinatown. Our tour leader will fill us in on the local history while helping us make sense of the wild and colourful sights around us. If you're feeling peckish, there's tons of yummy street food to sample. And for the daring among us, you can even try the local speciality - crispy fried bugs.

If you'd like an airport transfer today, you'll need to arrive into Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK), which is a one-hour drive from our hotel. If you miss the welcome meeting, your tour leader will inform you of any essential information as soon as you catch up on day 2.

Please note that if you'd like to join the street food tour of Chinatown today, you need to arrive at the hotel by 6pm. If you're booking your own flights, we recommend giving yourself at least one hour to clear the airport. From the airport to the hotel is around a one-hour drive, so the latest your flight can arrive is 3pm.

Our itinerary allows us limited time to see the highlights so we highly recommend booking additional nights pre-tour to your trip. Alternatively, you might like to unwind on the beautiful beaches of Thailand with our premium beach extension to Koh Samet.

Accommodation:

Grade: Comfortable Hotel

Single room available

Meals Provided: None

Day 2 - Free day in Bangkok; optional trip to the Grand Palace, Wat Arun and Wat Pho

Today you're free to explore Bangkok at your own pace. If you're not sure where to start, there are several optional excursions you can choose from.

One highlight of Bangkok is the Grand Palace, the city's glittering centrepiece. Constructed in 1782, it was the home of Thai royalty for over 150 years and its carved statues, artwork and gold-gilded architecture are some of the best in the country. The complex also houses the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, one of the most sacred temples in the country. Next door to the palace is Wat Pho, otherwise known as the 'Temple of Reclining Buddha'. The iconic temple houses a huge 46-metre-long golden Buddha and is symbolic of Buddhism in Thailand.

Another popular option is to explore Bangkok's 'klongs' - a narrow network of waterways navigated by long-tail boats and water taxis. Or why not take a cycling tour through Bangkok's backstreets?

Accommodation:

Grade: Comfortable Hotel

Single room available

Meals Provided: Breakfast

Day 3 - Discover Kanchanaburi and the River Kwai

This morning, we bid farewell to Bangkok and head to Kanchanaburi (a three-hour journey). Upon arrival, we'll pay a visit to the Kanchanaburi War Cemetery and take a walk across the iconic bridge over the River Kwai, learning about the significance of this historic site.

After our visit, we'll board the Burma Railway (otherwise referred to as the \ Death Railway'), for a journey through Thailand's beautiful countryside. The railway was constructed by prisoners of war during World War II, offering us a glimpse into the country's darker past.

We'll break for lunch, after which, we have a short drive to the Hellfire Pass Museum, a poignant memorial dedicated to the POW and local labourers who were forced to work on the infamous railway. The museum overlooks Hellfire Pass, a man-made pass in the solid rock, which was excavated by hand.

We'd like to point out that some visitors may find today's sites moving - they serve as an important reminder of a crucial part of Thailand's history.

Accommodation:

Grade: Comfortable Hotel

Single room available

Meals Provided: Breakfast

Day 4 - Morning visit of Erawan Waterfall; optional bamboo rafting in the afternoon

After breakfast this morning, we'll visit Erawan Waterfalls. The falls draw visitors from around the world thanks to its emerald-green waters and multi-tiered cascades. We'll take time to trek along the waterfall's nature trail and take a dip in the refreshing natural pools.

Our afternoon is free to relax or explore the area some more. There's the option to go bamboo rafting on the River Kwai. As you glide down the river, you can soak in stunning views of the tranquil surroundings, which showcase the region's unparalleled natural beauty. The excursion lasts around one hour and there'll be plenty of opportunities to swim.

Accommodation:

Grade: Comfortable Hotel

Single room available

Meals Provided: Breakfast

Day 5 - Drive to Khao Sam Roi Yot and walk through a mangrove reserve

This morning, we depart Kanchanaburi and head south towards Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park (a journey of just over five hours). Upon arrival, we'll set off on a hike through the mangroves, taking a route along a network of boardwalks. These freshwater marshes are an important breeding ground for various rare bird species, including the Oriental Hobby and Spoon-billed Sandpiper, which we might be lucky enough to spot.

Later, we'll make our way to the Phraya Nakhon Cave, a hidden treasure that's famous for its stalactites and royal pavilion that stands beneath an open ceiling, illuminated by sunlight. Please note that the cave is rocky and steep with some uneven stone steps.

Today's hike is short but strenuous, uphill through tropical, forested hills with some shaded areas. We expect it to take around 30-45 minutes, depending on pace, with an elevation of 130 metres/426 feet.

If you don't want to join the hike, there's the option to relax and explore the scenic Laem Sala Beach instead.

We finish up the day with a short drive to the Dolphin Bay Resort, our accommodation for the night.

Accommodation:

Grade: Comfortable Hotel

Single room available

Swimming pool available

Meals Provided: Breakfast

Day 6 - Board the train and travel to Khao Sok National Park

This morning, we leave the Prachuap Khiri Khan province behind and head to Pranburi train station to catch the train south (a six-hour journey). After arriving in Surat Thani, we'll travel by private bus towards Khao Sok National Park, arriving at our hotel around sunset.

This evening, we stay in an eco-friendly lodge - a tranquil retreat surrounded by nature. Tonight, you can take the evening to relax in the peaceful atmosphere in preparation for tomorrow's adventure.

While we spend the bulk of today travelling, it's a great opportunity to soak in the sights and sounds of local life as we pass through it - it's an unforgettable experience.

Accommodation:

Grade: Comfortable Bungalow

Single room available

Meals Provided: Breakfast

Day 7 - Free day in Khao Sok National Park; optional walks and kayaking

This morning is free to relax or explore the surroundings.

This afternoon, there's the option to head out on a guided walk through the surrounding jungle - keep your eyes peeled for monkeys playing in the canopy above and watch for colourful hornbills and kingfishers as they dart amongst the trees. The park is a haven for a variety of exotic plants, including bamboo, fig, palms and the carnivorous pitcher plant.

Alternatively, you might like to head out on an excursion across the emerald waters of Cheow Lan Lake, where towering limestone cliffs, hidden caves, and lush rainforests create a serene and otherworldly landscape.

Accommodation:

Grade: Comfortable Bungalow

Single room available

Meals Provided: Breakfast

Day 8 - Travel to the laid-back island of Koh Lanta

Today, we swap the lush landscapes of Khao Sok for the breathtaking shores of Koh Lanta. After breakfast, we'll drive through picturesque countryside (around a four-hour journey) and then take a short ferry ride to the island.

Upon arrival in Koh Lanta, we'll be welcomed by stunning beaches and a relaxed atmosphere. After we check-in, the rest of the afternoon is yours to enjoy. You might like to relax by the beach, explore the island's charming culture or simply soak up the tranquillity of your coastal surroundings.

Accommodation:

Grade: Comfortable Hotel

Single room available

Meals Provided: Breakfast

Day 9 - Free day on Koh Lanta; optional forest walk with elephants

Today is free to enjoy Koh Lanta. Unwind on its pristine beaches, take a dip in the crystal-clear waters or explore the island's interior. Whether you choose to visit the local markets, discover hidden coves or simply relax by the sea, the island offers the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.

One of the highlights of the island is its ethical elephant sanctuary. The 'Following Giants' experience allows visitors to observe and interact with rescued elephants in a natural, compassionate environment. Instead of riding or exploiting the elephants, guests can walk alongside these majestic creatures, learn about their behaviour, and see their rehabilitation in a setting that prioritizes their well-being and freedom.

Accommodation:

Grade: Comfortable Hotel

Single room available

Meals Provided: Breakfast

Day 10 - Another free day on Koh Lanta

We have another free day on Koh Lanta today. You might like to enjoy the beachfront hotel's facilities or take part in one of the many activities on offer.

You could also kayak the mangroves of the island and paddle along tranquil waterways, spotting monkeys, birds and other creatures in their natural habitat. Take part in a cooking class and learn how to prepare authentic dishes using fresh, local ingredients, guided by expert chefs who share the secrets of Thailand's rich culinary traditions. Or join a boat tour to explore nearby islands, swim in crystal-clear waters, snorkel vibrant coral reefs and discover hidden beaches and caves.

Accommodation:

Grade: Comfortable Hotel

Single room available

Meals Provided: Breakfast

Day 11 - Travel to Krabi

After a relaxing morning, we'll wave goodbye to Koh Lanta and travel to Krabi for our final night. The journey takes around three to four hours, by ferry and bus.

After we check in to our hotel, the late afternoon is free to relax or explore the area. This evening, we'll have the opportunity to join the group for dinner at a local restaurant to celebrate our last night together.

Accommodation:

Grade: Comfortable Hotel

Single room available

Swimming pool available

Meals Provided: Breakfast

Day 12 - Trip ends in Krabi

The trip ends after breakfast at our hotel in Krabi.

There are no activities planned today, so you're free to depart from Krabi at any time. If your flight is departing later in the day, luggage storage facilities are available at our hotel. If you'd like an airport transfer today, you'll need to depart from Krabi Airport (KBV), which is a 40-minute drive from our hotel.

There are so many amazing places to discover around Krabi - it's the perfect jumping-off point for exploring the other local islands. If you'd like more time in Krabi, we strongly recommend booking additional nights post-tour. Contact us to arrange accommodation.

Meals Provided: Breakfast

Trip information

Climate and country information

Thailand

Climate

Generally hot with high humidity. There is some rainfall from April to September with most days being hot (around 33 Degrees) and a light breeze on the islands. If it does rain, it will be more of a heavy tropical downpour that lasts a few hours.

Time difference to GMT

+7

Plugs

2 Pin Round

Religion

Buddhism

Language

Thai

Budgeting and packing

Optional activities

The following excursions and/or activities are usually available and may be arranged locally. Estimated costs are provided below for guidance only, are on a per person basis unless shown otherwise, and may depend on the number of participants. Prices quoted are correct as of the date these tour notes were originally issued but may change at any time due to currency fluctuations. Please note: These activities are booked and paid for locally and do not form part of your Explore holiday contract.


Please note prices stated are a guide and may vary up or down depending on the number of participants. Some activities will be on share basis depending on the number of participants.

Bangkok:
Thonburi Klongs discovery by longtail boat - 1520 THB per person (min. 4)
Bangkok bicycle tour - 1570 TBH per person (min. 4)

Kanchanaburi:
Bamboo rafting - from 2000 TBH per raft per hour (max. 4-5 persons)

Khao Sok:
Half Day jungle hike - 2040 TBH per person
Trip to Cheow Lan Lake - 2040 TBH per person
River bamboo raft adventure - 720 TBH per person

Koh Lanta:
Following Giants - 2750 TBH per person
Phi Phi island by speedboat - 2200 TBH per person
Full Day Kayak expedition - 1400 TBH per person


Clothing

Pack essentially for hot weather. Bear in mind that the region is tropical (humid) and that days can be very hot. Lightweight rainwear or an umbrella is advisable all year. Casual clothes are the most practical (something with long sleeves, and long trousers for evenings), and tight fitting garments should be avoided. Laundry facilities are available on the islands. A swimming costume is a must.

Footwear

Comfortable shoes and sandals. Flip-flops or Thongs are useful when hopping on and off boats.

Luggage

20kg

Luggage: On tour

One main piece of baggage and a daypack.

Equipment

A small torch, water bottle and insect repellent. As Khao Sam Roi Yot is a large wetland area, it is particular known for mosquitos so bring a good DEET-based repellent of atleast 50% strength. Bring a beach towel and high factor sunscreen. If you intend to do a lot of snorkelling we recommend you bring your own mask and snorkel, as local equipment is not always top quality. A disposable waterproof camera can be useful whilst snorkelling.

We strongly recommend that if you intend to take part in the optional bike ride on this tour, you bring your own cycling helmet with you. Cycling helmets will be available to hire locally from a reputable supplier, but we cannot guarantee the structural integrity of local equipment. Most insurance providers require helmets to be worn whilst cycling, so in the event of an accident, it is likely that any insurance claim will be invalidated if you are not wearing a helmet.

Tipping

Explore leader
Tipping isn't compulsory, and we work hard to ensure that our leaders all receive a fair wage. You may however, want to recognise a leader that's done a great job or really added to your trip by giving them a tip. We're often asked about the recommended amount. It's a tricky one, and down to personal preference, but we'd recommend between £30 to £45 per person as a guideline. .
Local crew
In this region, tipping is a recognised part of life across the service industry. Local staff will look to members of the group for personal recognition of particular services provided.

To assist with this your Explore Leader may organise a group tips kitty for included activities and meals, they will then account for kitty use throughout the tour.

For this we suggest £20 per person.

For all non-included services and meals on your trip please tip independently at your discretion.

Thailand

Food and drink

The costs for meals may vary depending upon location, type of restaurant and number of courses eaten and so the prices given are an average guide. Local restaurants located off the beaten track may be less expensive, whereas an upmarket restaurant located in the centre of a major city may charge more.


Dinner price
£4.00 - 8.00
Beer price
£1.5
Foreign Exchange
Local currency
Thai Baht
Recommended Currency For Exchange
We recommend that you bring your money in GBP or US$.
Where To Exchange
Most major towns and on the islands - your Tour Leader will advise you on arrival.
ATM Availability
ATMs are available in Bangkok but are limited on the islands.
Credit Card Acceptance
Major stores and restaurants.
Transport, Accommodation, Food & Drink

Transport Information

Bus, Boat

Accommodation notes

During our tour of Thailand, we stay in comfortable-grade accommodation. In general, comfortable-grade hotels will have good amenities including en-suite rooms, air-conditioning and WiFi. Occasionally they will have additional facilities such as a pool or restaurant.

Please see your final documentation for the confirmed hotels for your departure.


Thailand

Food and drink

Can you drink the water? 
The water quality is poor and therefore it is recommended to avoid drinking tap water during your trip. 

 

Essential Information

Government Travel Safety Advice

We strongly recommend that you check your government's travel advisory for up-to-date information and advice about your destination's safety and security, entry requirements, health, local laws and customs. Relevant government website links for UK, US, Canadian, Australian and New Zealand citizens are available on our Travel Safety page.

If you'd like some inital information on country-specific entry requirements, such as visas or any health declaration forms, please refer to our Entry Requirements page.  The services and information on this page are provided by a third party, and so we will still recommend that you cross check this against your government website for the latest advice.
 

Under 18 immigration guidance

Please note that some countries require proof of parental consent when travelling overseas with under 18s. Please check requirements with the relevant embassy or consular office well in advance of travel if this applies to your party.

Price Guarantee

Once your booking has been confirmed we guarantee the price will not increase, whatever the circumstances. However, please note that if you voluntarily make any changes to your booking including changing your trip or departure date, any additional costs or charges incurred will not be covered. Before booking please ensure you have read our important tour pricing information.Booking Conditions
 

Visa and Passport Information

Thailand: Visas are not required by UK, Australian, New Zealand, US and Canadian citizens for a stay of less than 30 days. All passports must have at least 6 months validity remaining on entry to Thailand. Other nationalities should consult their local embassy or consular office.

Starting May 2025, all non-Thai nationals entering Thailand by air, land, or sea must complete the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) online before arrival. You should submit your arrival card information 3 days in advance before arriving in Thailand, including the date of arrival here https://tdac.immigration.go.th


If you do require assistance in obtaining a visa then you may be able to apply through Explore's recommended visa service in the UK, Travcour. See www.travcour.com to download the relevant visa application for your trip, if applicable (UK citizens only), along with details of how to apply for your visa through Travcour. The Team at Travcour will be happy to answer specific questions relating to visa applications, please call them directly on 0208 5431846.

It is your responsibility to ensure that you are in possession of a full passport, with the correct validity for your chosen destination.
 

Booking conditions

Before booking your Explore trip, please ensure that you read both our Essential Information and Booking Conditions.
 

Minimum age restrictions

For our group tours, the minimum age is 16. The minimum age on Family trips varies between 7 and 11 - please check the 'Family information' section of the trip page for more information. 


Your safety and enjoyment on tour

We want everyone to have a safe and enjoyable holiday, so we ask you to confirm when booking this trip that you are fit and able to fully participate in all elements of the itinerary. If you have any concerns about your fitness or ability to complete any of the activities, please get in touch with our Customer Relations team at cr@explore.co.uk as soon as possible. Our tour leaders are trained and experienced in managing differing abilities within a group, but if they have concerns about a group member’s ability to safely participate in any element of the itinerary or believe someone’s presence could affect the safety or enjoyment of the holiday for others, in accordance with our Booking Conditions our tour leaders have the authority to ask an individual to miss an activity or activities. This decision would never be taken lightly, but on the rare occasions our tour leaders ask someone to sit out part of the tour, refunds will not be offered and individuals may be liable for additional costs incurred. 
 

Your Tour Leader

All tours aside from extensions, Galapagos cruises and polar expeditions will be led by one of our experienced Tour Leaders. We believe that our Tour Leaders are the key to the success of our tours; they are local experts who are bursting with first-hand knowledge which they love to share, and their unique insights will bring the destination to life. Your Tour Leader will be on hand throughout your tour to make sure arrangements run smoothly, to organise all the local logistics and to keep you safe. Your Tour Leader should be your first point of contact if you encounter any difficulties or disappointments in country – please raise any concerns, however small, with your Tour Leader as they are best placed to assist you.

Transfers

Find out more about Trip Transfer Terms and Conditions before you book.

Booking a land only package with Explore

Customers who have chosen to book on the ‘Land Only’ arrangements of our tour, please ensure that you have checked your tour specific ‘Joining Instructions’ prior to booking your own travel arrangements. Your joining instructions can be found below in the dates and prices information. 

You may also be eligible for the Free Explore Transfer.


Joining Tour Abroad

Customers booked on the ‘Land Only’ arrangements will receive a Free Transfer, provided you arrive and depart on the tour only itinerary start and end dates. The complimentary transfers will be arranged from the Explore designated airport or train station to your trips joining point, and then back from the ending point to the designated airport or train station. Generally the airport or station that Explore have selected will be the one that is closest to the town or city where the trip starts, or the one nearest to the joining point. It will be either an airport or train station but not both.

The exception to this rule is customers who are booked on a tour where the joining and ending point is at the designated airport or train station.  

Free transfers are not available for Polar customers.

If you are not eligible for the Free Transfer then you will need to make your own way through to the joining and ending point. On a majority of our tours Explore will be able to provide a private transfer at an additional cost. Please ask for a quote at the time of booking.  

For more information regarding the Explore Free Transfer click here

Insurance

It is a condition of booking with Explore that you have adequate valid travel insurance. It is your responsibility to arrange appropriate travel insurance and ensure you have read and understood the full terms and conditions of your travel insurance policy to ensure that you are covered for all activities you intend to undertake whilst on the tour, including all optional activities. Your Insurance Policy must fully cover you for medical expenses and emergency repatriation to your home country. Please ensure your policy includes medical emergency helicopter evacuation in the event of illness or injury and covers the entire duration of your holiday. If you are trekking at altitude please ensure that there is no upper altitude limit which may limit or exclude cover for your trip. The cost of many of our Polar Voyages will exceed the capped amount covered by standard insurance premiums and you will be required to pay an additional premium to cover the full value of your trip. Please ensure that you are covered for the full amount of your holiday cost, as insufficient cover could invalidate a claim under the policy. Medical and repatriation insurance cover is not mandatory for UK residents who are travelling on trips within the United Kingdom.
Read more information about what travel insurance is required.

Flight information

Explore can arrange your flights for you, to make joining and leaving our trips easy. Read more about them here.


Flight Information

You are able to book this tour on a 'land only' basis or as a ‘flight inclusive’ package. Your flight inclusive package will be fully protected by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) ATOL protection scheme.

 

Booking a flight inclusive package with Explore

We have a good selection of flights not only from London but from many regional airports around the UK allowing us to compare fares between scheduled carriers as well as low cost and charter airlines. Our dedicated flights team will match the best flight options to your arrival and departure airport.

On our website we display the price of the tour only. Please call us or select the flight option during the online checkout to receive a quote for a flight inclusive package. To avoid paying supplements or to secure your preferred flight option, we recommend booking as early as possible, especially for peak travel dates.

Thailand

Vaccinations

Nothing compulsory, we recommend protection against malaria, typhoid, tetanus, diphtheria, polio and infectious hepatitis. Although not compulsory, travellers may also wish to immunise themselves against Japanese encephalitis. Consult your travel clinic for latest advice on Dengue, Malaria and Zika Virus. Please take preventative measures to avoid mosquito bites - these include mosquito repellent as well as long trousers and long sleeve shirts to cover up when necessary. Please check the latest requirements with your travel clinic or doctor prior to departure. The above is not an exhaustive list. Information regarding vaccinations and travel health advice can be found by on the NaTHNaC website and from your local healthcare provider. Visa and vaccination requirements are subject to change and should be confirmed by you before travelling.

Discovery information
Award Winning Explore Leaders
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Price Guarantee Promise
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Airport Transfers
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Print Trip Notes

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