Nature and Beaches - 10 Day Southern Thailand Group Trip

Day 1 - Airport Pickup & Sunset Welcome Dinner: Upon your arrival at the airport, a pickup will be arranged to transfer you to your accommodation in Patong. After checking in and having some downtime to rest and recover from your long flight, the trip will kick off with a Sunset Welcome Dinner. This dinner will provide an opportunity for you to get to know your fellow trip mates and your trip leader while enjoying a stunning sunset view. After dinner, you'll have the chance to explore the famous party street in Patong and experience the vibrant nightlife. Day 2 - Cultural Exploration: Immerse yourself in Thai culture and spirituality by visiting two significant temples in Phuket. Start your day by visiting Wat Chalong, one of the most revered Buddhist temples on the island. Explore the temple grounds, admire the intricate architecture, and perhaps offer a prayer or participate in a meditation session. Next, head to Wat Phrayai, also known as the Big Buddha Temple. Marvel at the imposing 45-meter-tall statue of Buddha and enjoy panoramic views of Phuket from the hilltop location. Afterward, venture into Phuket Old Town, known for its charming 18th-century Sino-Portuguese buildings. Take a leisurely stroll through the historic streets, visit local shops, and learn about the island's rich history and heritage. Day 3 - Free Day & Optional Activities: Today marks your first free day in Phuket, and your trip leader will organize various optional activities for you to choose from. One popular option is to embark on a sea excursion to Phang Nga Bay, known for its stunning natural beauty. Explore the dramatic limestone cliffs, emerald-green waters, and picturesque islands, including the famous James Bond Island. You can take a boat tour, kayak through hidden lagoons, or simply relax on the pristine beaches. Alternatively, you can opt for other activities such as visiting nearby islands, snorkeling, or indulging in a spa and wellness experience. Enjoy the freedom to tailor your day according to your preferences and make the most of your time in Phuket.

Day 4 - Khao Sok National Park In the morning, you'll leave Phuket and head north to Khao Sok National Park, one of the most popular destinations in Southern Thailand. The park offers a fantastic vacation experience only accessible via boat. Enjoy swimming in the refreshing waters of the park's rivers and lakes, as well as kayaking to explore the stunning surroundings. The highlight of the day is the Wildlife Safari by traditional longtail boat. This unique experience will take you deep into the heart of the national park, where you can marvel at the diverse and beautiful wildlife. Khao Sok National Park is home to an array of incredible animals, including 48 mammal species, over 300 species of birds, various reptiles, insects, and more. Keep your eyes peeled for sightings of exotic creatures as you navigate through the park's rivers and admire the lush greenery. For accommodation, you'll be staying on a house raft surrounded by nature. This unique setting allows you to immerse yourself in the serene environment and enjoy the tranquility of your surroundings. In the evening, the group can enjoy a variety of locally sourced, traditional Thai food while getting to know each other a little better under the beauty of the night sky. Day 5 - Travel to Krabi & Aonang Street Food Safari: This morning you will have a second chance to experience the wildlife safari, and then it's time to pack up and head to your next destination, Krabi. As you travel from Khao Sok to Krabi, keep your eyes open for the stunning limestone scenery that the region is famous for. Once you arrive in Krabi and check in to your accommodation, take some time to relax and unwind. In the evening, enjoy tasting an array of local food at the street food market in Aonang. Savor traditional dishes, and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere. It's a great opportunity to try various Thai flavors and enjoy the culinary delights of the region.

Day 6 - Railay Beach Excursion: On this day, you'll embark on an excursion to Railay Beach, a must-visit destination on many backpackers' bucket lists. Railay Beach is known for its stunning limestone cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant atmosphere. Spend the day exploring the beautiful beaches, soaking up the sun, and enjoying various water activities such as swimming, snorkeling, or even rock climbing. In the evening, you can relax and grab some cold drinks while watching the mesmerizing fire show during sunset, creating a memorable end to the day. Day 7 - Tiger Cave Temple & Emerald Pool: Start your day with a visit to the Tiger Cave Temple (No Tigers), known for its impressive mountain and breathtaking views. The mountain at Tiger Cave Temple reaches a height of 309 meters, and to reach the summit, you'll need to conquer 1,260 steps. It's a challenging climb, but the rewarding panoramic views at the top make it worthwhile. Take your time to explore the temple complex and admire the cultural and religious significance of this site. Afterward, you'll head to the Emerald Pool, a natural hot spring located in the heart of the jungle. Take a refreshing dip in the emerald-colored waters and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. The Emerald Pool is known for its therapeutic properties, providing a soothing and relaxing experience for visitors. Day 8-9 - Free Days in Krabi: These two days are dedicated to enjoying your free time in Krabi. Your trip leader will provide you with a range of activities to choose from. You can opt for sea excursions to popular nearby islands such as Koh Phi Phi or Hong Island, where you can enjoy snorkeling, swimming, and sunbathing on pristine beaches. Alternatively, you can go on a sunset cruise, where you'll indulge in a farewell dinner while cruising along the picturesque coastline of Krabi, enjoying the breathtaking views. Take advantage of these free days to relax on the beach, explore the local markets, try out water sports, or simply unwind and enjoy the beauty of Krabi at your own pace. Day 10 - Departure: It's time to say goodbye to your Nature to Beaches trip. Your trip leader will assist in arranging transportation to the airport or provide any necessary support if you're continuing on to your next destination. Take with you memories of the beautiful nature, stunning beaches, and cultural experiences you've enjoyed during your trip, and of course, the amazing new trip friends who shared it all with you.