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4.9
| 23 reviews

Kayak and Hike Wild Thailand

9 nights
Easy

Paddle and hike through lush jungle, explore tropical islands and relax on palm-lined beaches along the way

What's Included?

Activities & Certified Guides

All itinerary activities with a local, English-speaking tour leader plus specialist activity guides

All accommodation

Think jungle lodges, floating bungalows and sleeper trains, as well as boutique hotels

Meals

All breakfasts, 8 lunches, 4 dinners

Transfers & Permits

Your airport and local transfers, permits and entry fees are included

Equipment

All your kayaking and cycling equipment, including cycle helmet

Small Like-minded Groups

Solo-friendly by design, join our small n’ sociable groups of up to 12 like-minded, active and outdoorsy people
From

excluding flights
From

excluding flights

What's it like?

4.9
| 23 reviews
Incredible Trip!
December 2024
Sammi L.
Incredible Trip!
December 2024
Sammi L.
Incredible Trip!
December 2024
Sammi L.
Incredible Trip!
December 2024
Sammi L.
If you are planning a
April 2024
Bethan C.
If you are planning a
April 2024
Bethan C.
If you are planning a
April 2024
Bethan C.
If you are planning a
April 2024
Bethan C.
If you are planning a
April 2024
Bethan C.
If you are planning a
April 2024
Bethan C.
Do not miss this amazing adventure!
April 2024
Carina K.
Do not miss this amazing adventure!
April 2024
Carina K.
Do not miss this amazing adventure!
April 2024
Carina K.
Do not miss this amazing adventure!
April 2024
Carina K.
Too many “wow” moments to mention!
December 2023
Melissa L.
Too many “wow” moments to mention!
December 2023
Melissa L.
Too many “wow” moments to mention!
December 2023
Melissa L.
Too many “wow” moments to mention!
December 2023
Melissa L.
Too many “wow” moments to mention!
December 2023
Melissa L.
This was an excellent trip connecting us wi...
February 2023
Eugene
This was an excellent trip connecting us wi...
February 2023
Eugene
This was an excellent trip connecting us wi...
February 2023
Eugene
If you’re wavering about doing this trip, s...
February 2023
Jan
If you’re wavering about doing this trip, s...
February 2023
Jan
If you’re wavering about doing this trip, s...
February 2023
Jan
If you’re wavering about doing this trip, s...
February 2023
Jan
If you’re wavering about doing this trip, s...
February 2023
Jan
Floating bungalows and kayak, Thailand. Photo: Much Better Adventures/Dani Redd

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 1260 steps up to Tiger Cave Temple

Kick back in longtail boats and hang out on white sandy beaches, peepers open for incredible wildlife

Bed down in a jungle lodge, drift off on a floating bungalow, and rest up in idyllic boutique hotels

Key Information

Day 1

Welcome to Bangkok

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 South East Asia. Soak up the vibes as you're collected 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

Cycle Bang Krajao

Cycling Bang Krachao, Thailand. Photo: Much Better Adventures/Dani Redd

Cycling

2-3hrs · 15-20km

Head out of the frenetic 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 cycle 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

Hiking

3-4hrs · 5km · 250m up · 250m down

Wildlife Watching

1hr

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 scenic boat 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. 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

Cycling

2hrs · 20km

Wildlife Watching

2hrs · 4km

After waking up on the water, set off deep into Khao Sok National Park to your next destination, your jungle lodge nestled amidst one of the world's oldest rainforests. Hop on a bike and gently peddle your way along a network of small roads and tracks, passing villages and stopping at a rubber and palm plantation. There'll also be time to stock up on refreshments and snacks from the local store. Chill for the afternoon before exploring the jungle after sunset, alive with the chorus of chirruping 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

Kayaking

3-4hrs · 6-7km

Driving

2.5hrs

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 savour the tranquillity of the location.

Day 6

Krabi

Hiking

3-4hrs · 5km · 600m up · 600m down

It's time to seek inner peace at the Tiger Cave Temple. Limber up and hit the 1260 uneven steps to the top, where you can take in the stunning views over Krabi province, presided 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

Koh Yao Yai beach, Thailand. Photo: Much Better Adventures/Dani Redd

Kayaking

3-4hrs · 4-5km

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 five square kilometres, 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

Hiking

3hrs · 4km · 10m up · 10m down

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

Kayaking

3-4hrs · 10km approx

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 gnarled limestone formations. Head ashore to Koh Yao Noi 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 buzzing streets of Phuket Old Town.

Day 10

Phuket

After breakfast, say your final goodbyes. You'll be transferred to the airport in time for your flight home.

The Area

map

Logistics

Starts

Suvarnabhumi Airport (Bangkok International Airport)

Any time on Day 1

Ends

Phuket International Airport

Any time on Day 10

Transfers

Your host will meet you on arrival at Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok and transfer you to your hotel in vibrant Chinatown. At the end of the tour, your host will transfer you to Phuket International Airport in time for your onward flight.

Airport transfers are included in the main price no matter what time or day you arrive/depart, provided you have supplied your flight details in advance.

Travel options

There are direct international flights to Bangkok from the UK and major European hubs, although the return flight from Phuket may be indirect. Indirect international flight options from the UK and various hubs in Europe usually transit via Amman, Paris, Amsterdam, Helsinki, Doha, Singapore or Hong Kong. From the US, there are indirect flights from various major hubs which transit via Seoul, Haneda, Narita, Manila, Istanbul, Zurich, Doha or Dubai, dependent on whether you are flying west or east.

For those arriving early or wanting to stay on, extra nights (and transfers) can be arranged with your host at an additional cost. Please see Optional Extras for more information.

Day 1

Hotel · Twin share

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

Day 2

Train Carriage · Mixed dorm

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

Day 3

Rafthouse · Twin share

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

Day 4

Rainforest Lodge · Twin share

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

Day 5

Hotel · Twin share

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

Day 6 – Day 8

Hotel · Twin share

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

Day 9

Hotel · Twin share

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

Day 10

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

What is the food like?

Thai lunch. Photo: Much Better Adventures/Dani Redd

Thai food is one of the world’s most well-loved cuisines, known for balancing sweet, sour, salty and spicy flavours with aromatic herbs and spices like Thai basil and lemongrass. On this trip you’ll have a chance to sample everything from street food to elevated restaurant cuisine. Breakfasts in hotels will cater for all tastes, with Western options such as eggs, toast and cereal alongside Thai options such as noodles, rice porridge and tropical fruit. Lunch and dinner tends to include a curry or soup – such as tom yum – alongside rice, vegetables such as zingy green papaya salad (som tam), and meat dishes such as crispy belly pork. However, on Koh Yao Yai island 90% of the population are Muslim, so pork dishes will rarely be found.

Vegetarians, vegans and those with other dietary requirements or allergies can be catered for – please just request this on your passenger info form.

What is the accommodation like?

Bangkok

Your first night in Thailand will be spent at the Asai Hotel, Chinatown. This stylish, boutique, 3-star hotel is close to the heart of the action and within easy reach of the MRT - Bangkok's subway system. You'll stay in twin-share rooms with en-suite bathrooms.

Overnight Train

A journey aboard a sleeper train is an essential experience of travelling in Thailand! You'll be travelling south from Bangkok to Surat Thani overnight, in a standard two-person shared berth. With one bunk above and one below, you'll be provided with sheets, a blanket and a pillow. Relax, explore or get to know your fellow passengers. There is also a food and drink service available on board.

Floating Bungalow, Khao Sok National Park

Located in a quiet corner of Khao Sok Lake, you'll be gently swayed to sleep in your floating bungalow upon the glassy waters. The Phupa Waree bungalows are mostly off-grid, but with electricity at night. Enjoy the remote jungle surroundings in comfort and take in the superb scenery from your own porch. Your bungalow stay will be on a twin-share basis with an en-suite bathroom.

Jungle Lodge, Khao Sok National Park

Depending on the season, you'll either stay at Anurak Community Lodge or the Cliff & River Jungle Resort.

Surrounded by rainforest, Anurak Community Lodge lodge is set in six hectares of lush tropical gardens right on the boundary of Khao Sok National Park, with bungalow rooms nestled beneath a canopy of trees. You’ll stay in a Deluxe Eco room on a twin share basis, with an en suite bathroom, air-conditioning, ceiling fans, mosquito netting above each bed and a large balcony, affording you a panoramic view of the jungle scenery.

The Cliff & River Jungle Resort is comprised of simple bungalow-style accommodation. The riverside setting is spectacular - think tropical gardens surrounded by rainforest and towering limestone karsts. You'll stay in twin-share rooms with air-conditioning, en suite bathrooms and mosquito netting above each bed.

Krabi

The serene Elements Krabi is a 4-star hotel set within abundant, tropical grounds beside Klong Muang beach. You'll stay in twin-share rooms with en-suite bathrooms, tastefully designed to be in tune with nature. The hotel gardens are inspired by the beautiful Emerald Pond of Krabi, featuring turquoise pools with glittering waterways for you to relax in.

Hotel in Koh Yao Yai, Thailand. Photo: Much Better Adventures/Dani Redd
Koh Yao Yai Island

Relax into island life from your southern Thai-style bungalow at the 4-star Royal Yao Yai Beach Resort overlooking the white sand beach of Loh Pa-Red. You'll be staying in traditional style air-conditioned twin-share rooms with a balcony and en-suite bathroom (complete with rainfall shower). Make footprints in the powdery white sand, take a dip in the beachfront pool or swim in the warm waters of the Andaman Sea.

Phuket

The hotel in Phuket may vary depending on availability but all options offer comparable quality and are located in or close to the old town. You'll usually stay at Ratri Boutique Hotel, inspired by Sino-Portuguese architecture and modern geometrical design. The pool and poolside restaurant are great spaces to cool down and relax. You'll be staying in twin-share rooms with en-suite bathrooms.

Upgrades

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.

This trip has been rated as Easy

Whilst no prior experience is needed, a reasonable level of general fitness is required - you'll be cycling, hiking and kayaking at different points across the itinerary between 2 and 4 hours in duration and using different muscle groups. The cycling in Bangkok will be relaxed and makes a good acclimatisation activity. The hiking within the itinerary will be through jungle and tropical foliage, and although not at high altitude or on difficult terrain, the heat, humidity and possible rain will mean you need to be prepared. The 1237 steps up to the Golden Buddha and Tiger Cave Temple are no mean feat. Kayaking on inland waters will be gentle, although on tidal waters amid mangroves or when sea kayaking, the paddling will be a little more challenging.

What will I need to carry?

Your main luggage will be transported for you. You'll need a small day rucksack to carry personal items, snacks and water during each day of activity/exploration.

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 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 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 region of 26°C / 79°F to 32°C / 90°F, and down to around 23°C / 73°F at night. From March to May, the heat and humidity rises with temperatures generally in the region of 30°C / 86°F to 36°C / 97°F in the daytime, and down to around 25°C / 77°F at night. From late May it’s 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 a short, heavy downpours, most likely in the afternoons. Temperatures are generally in the region of 35°C / 95°F to 40°C / 104°F in the daytime and down to around 27°C / 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 40°C / 104°F.

David W.(December 2024)
I had a brilliant time

I had a brilliant time and I really enjoyed it, and our leader Seen (the king of Thailand) made the trip x100 better as well. The places we stayed was out of this world the food was delicious and the activities was so much fun.

Judith B.(December 2024)
Kayak and Hike Wild Thailand

This was an excellent eight days with like minded people. I thoroughly enjoyed the experience and our guide Seen was very informative and always up for a laugh. In short he was outstanding. The use of local community guides in different locations, gave us the opportunity to give something back to the locals. It was classed as ‘Easy’- some of the days exercises needed to be a little longer to stretch us a bit more. It would be part of the development for MBA to do an intermediate course within these locations as well. The food and accommodation was something else too. I would thoroughly recommend this adventure to anyone!

Matthew C.(December 2024)
Whirlwind tour of Southern Thailand

This is a really great way of seeing different parts of southern Thailand in a pretty short amount of time. It's well thought out in terms of balancing the amount of traveling you do for the reward in terms of activities and new places.

Accommodation is of a high standard throughout, you get fed very well and there's a few quieter days in there where you can catch your breath as well.

My first MBA trip and I had a great time - we had a really diverse group in terms of ages and backgrounds and it made the trip that much more enjoyable.

Huge credit has to go to our guide Issy who absolutely made the trip - she worked really hard every day to make sure we got the most out of all the activities and places we visited and was a great laugh as well.

janet s.(December 2024)
Very much enjoyed this trip.

Very much enjoyed this trip. The leader Issy was amazineg with so much energy and passion and hard working. . The trip had good variety with walks, kayaking and cycling. Beautiful national parks. . Amazing thai food.

Sammi L.(December 2024)
Incredible Trip!
Incredible Trip!
Incredible Trip!
Incredible Trip!
Incredible Trip!

I am so pleased I booked this trip, it was a great way to see so much of Thailand. We covered a lot of different places over these 9 nights and it never felt rushed. Our tour guide Issy made this trip even better, she was absolutely amazing! Nothing was ever too much trouble and she always ensured we had everything we needed and certainly kept us very well fed! All of the restaurant choices were phenomenal, a lot of which were nestled in the quieter and more local areas which gave you the 'real feel' of Thailand and how the local communities live. The accommodation was a good mix, I particularly enjoyed the Floating Bungalow and Jungle Raft house. The sleeper train was a great experience also! The activities planned each day were just right and not too strenuous, the Tiger Cave Temple was definitely a challenge for me being quite steep in areas and the waterfall climb allowed me to channel my inner mountain goat! I would class these two as slightly more on the moderate rating than easy. Overall, an absolutely cracking trip, very well executed and made even better by Issy. Couldn't have asked for more, I'm already looking to book my next trip via MBA!! Thanks all.

Darren D.(December 2024)
Great Trip

I’ve been to Thailand before but not like this. Most of it really is off the beaten track. Saw a new side to the real country, met new friends. Would I do again? YES! activity level varied from gentle walks? Bike rides and kayaking to a couple of tough climbs. The Tiger temple climb is tough! But it’s optional but our whole group completed it! Mixed group of 11, aging 19 to 60 ish. Mostly brits plus 2 Europeans and 2 Canadians. Superb mix, worked really well. Food was amazing (and so so much! You’ll never go hungry) and varied, tried lots of new things. The guide Issy is a legend, couldn’t do enough ♥️

Tracey(December 2024)
Fantastic way to see Thailand

What a fantastic way to experience Thailand for the first time. Our guide Issy made the whole trip run so smoothly, was always available for questions, giving us an authentic experience throughout. Food was plentiful and delicious from all locations & accomodation was great throughout. Activities were both challenging & fun, highlights for me were the wildlife hikes and kayaking. If you want a fun and sustainable option to meet others, spend time with locals & see some top sights in Thailand, book this!

Kate M.(November 2024)
Many WOW moments

This trip was made extra amazing by our lovely guide Issy, nothing was too much trouble and she helped us experience the real Thai life. The water bungalows were fantastic and I personally would have liked to have stayed 2 nights here. We saw wild elephant, monkeys and the whole trip was a fabulous way of seeing the best bits of Thailand.

Phoebe(November 2024)
Amazing!!

I have just finished this trip and I can’t wait to book the next!

The activities were full of variety and well organised. They were by no means strenuous but left you suitably tired each day.

Our guide Issy was incredible, she was so accommodating and caring. She was a great laugh and she felt more like part of the group. We couldn’t have asked for a better guide.

I have no complaints at all about this trip, it was amazing from start to finish and I highly recommend to anyone looking to adventure Thailand😊

Tania R.(November 2024)
Trip of a lifetime

The trip was amazing from start to finish, each day when you thought it couldn’t get better, it just did! We had so many amazing experiences packed into the trip. Made new memories and new friends for life.

Rachel(October 2024)
This was a great way

This was a great way to see some less touristy parts of Thailand. The kayaking in particular was really special. So many wow moments and our guide, Issy, was fantastic and really made the trip.

Bethan C.(April 2024)
If you are planning a
If you are planning a
If you are planning a
If you are planning a
If you are planning a
If you are planning a
If you are planning a

If you are planning a trip to Thailand, look no further. I can’t think of any other way you can experience so much of a country in 10 days: from the lights and clamour of Bangkok, to the tranquil waters of Khao Sok National Park, and the bustling night market of Old Phuket.

A real highlight for me was the floating bungalows and jungle lodge around Khao Sok, where we were lucky enough to see and hear wild gibbons. Their territorial cries are something you’ll never forget. Neither are the sounds of the jungle, loud, but also peaceful and far from the hustle and bustle of people.

That said, this isn’t a relaxing holiday. The days can get intense, especially with 37-degree C heat and high humidity. Most days we were up for breakfast by 7am and out by 8am, ready for a full day of activity which didn’t stop until late afternoon/early evening, and usually involved packing bags and travelling 100 or so miles. This and the intense heat made the activity level on this trip a challenge. Walking 5km uphill in near 40-degree heat is not easy.

Echoing the comments below, the food was fantastic, and our guide made sure all dietary requirements were well catered for. With our guide, Rit, and other local guides to help us, I also felt we saw so much more of Thailand than we could’ve achieved alone, and certainly much more if you stick to the tourist spots.

Things I couldn’t live without on this trip were: mosquito spray/repellent, walking boots, loose fitting tops and shorts which covered shoulders and knees (helpful for sun and mosquito protection as well as temples), waterproof phone case.

I also highly recommend staying an extra night in Bangkok and Old Town Phuket. There's so much to explore!

Amy R.(April 2024)
Trip of a Lifetime

This was my first trip to Asia from the US and I thought it was the trip of a lifetime. Our main guide, Rit, and each of our local guides in each city were enthusiastic, welcoming, knowledgeable, and highly communicative. Every single day we saw and did things that were unique and mind blowing. The trip was rated "easy" but due to the very hot weather some of the activities seemed very strenuous. Luckily, everyone was patient with each other, and on kayaking days our guides would offer to do most of the paddling for us so we could lay back and enjoy the scenery.

I think as long as people go into the trip with realistic expectations about roughing it in remote tropical places they will be very pleased. The hotel accommodations were mostly top notch, however, the overnight train, the floating bungalows, and the jungle bungalows are not what many Westerners are used to. If you can overlook having bugs or salamanders in your room for a few nights and relish in the beauty of where you are, you will enjoy the trip.

The food was outstanding everywhere we went and even on our free nights our guide, Rit, was kind enough to organize dinner for anyone who wanted to join so no one ever had to dine alone. The spreads that showed up at each meal were jaw dropping and delicious.

In our 50% US and 50% UK group we had a few solo travelers, a couple, and mother/son duo, which led to a balanced and interesting group. I have hundreds of photos of this trip (and the meals) that I will treasure for years to come.

Carina K.(April 2024)
Do not miss this amazing adventure!
Do not miss this amazing adventure!
Do not miss this amazing adventure!
Do not miss this amazing adventure!
Do not miss this amazing adventure!

Had an absolutely wonderful time on this journey. The itinerary is perfectly mixed with adventure and time for relaxation. Initially concerned about being just four people on this trip, but we quickly formed a close bond. With only the four of us, we felt a sense of exclusivity every day. I is amazing how you can feel so secluded and serene in this popular turist destination. loved avery minute. Our guide, Ritt, was amazing. No other words are needed.

Melissa L.(December 2023)
Too many “wow” moments to mention!
Too many “wow” moments to mention!
Too many “wow” moments to mention!
Too many “wow” moments to mention!
Too many “wow” moments to mention!
Too many “wow” moments to mention!

Brilliant trip with a super group of likeminded people. Loved exploring forests, mangroves, islands and caves before falling asleep to the sounds of the jungle in wonderfully comfortable accommodation. Although the trip is rated “easy”, there was enough physical action to ensure we were nicely tired at the end of each day. Delicious, plentiful and authentic Thai food. Vegetarian/vegan very well catered for; lots of choice with sharing-style dishes. Our wonderful guide Rit went above and beyond to make sure everyone was looked after (thank you!). TIP: Pack a pair of binoculars if you’re into wildlife spotting (get up for a dawn kayak from the floating bungalow), and highly recommend an extra day or two in Phuket to explore the Old Town or chill at the beach.

Stana(December 2023)
This is a fun trip

This is a fun trip with beautiful scenery and amazing food. All the accommodation was varied and excellent. Great mix of activities, we were on the go every day. The kayaking and hiking activities were a bit on the easy side, they were more like tourist excursions rather than actual hiking and kayaking. There was a lot of time spent travelling from place to place. Ko Yao Yai was fabulous, I'd love to have spent more time there. The Krabi hotel location was disappointing as there's nothing to do in the vicinity. This trip gives you a fabulous taste of Thailand!

Claire(November 2023)

Amazing trip, would definitely recommend!

Philippa(November 2023)
Highly recommend this trip! The

Highly recommend this trip! The activities were well rounded and manageable for most individuals and still gave a reasonable time for relaxing! Nai, our guide, was great and really attentive and the food was great throughout! The accommodation was also wonderful throughout! Staying on the floating huts on Khao sok lake was magical and also the kayaking exploring the islands off of Phuket was fantastic despite not the best weather Already looking to book my next adventure

Beth(November 2023)
Great trip with great people!

Great trip with great people! Would recommend it for anyone looking to do what normal tourists don’t get to do

Jenny(November 2023)
Really great trip, happy we

Really great trip, happy we saw so much of the real Thailand, away from lots of tourists. Our guide Nai was great. Khao sok floating hotel was a real highlight! Plenty of delicious food

Victoria(March 2023)

The areas visited were all fantastic. Krabi and the location of the hotel was the one weak link

Eugene(February 2023)
This was an excellent trip connecting us wi...
This was an excellent trip connecting us wi...
This was an excellent trip connecting us wi...

This was an excellent trip connecting us with the beautiful natural environment of Thailand through outdoor adventure. It’s amazing how we managed to experience so many things in ten days - hiking to scenic lookouts, kayaking through mangroves and caves, walking on white sandy beaches, and immersing ourselves into the culture of the local communities. Our guide Rit did an amazing job to make sure we were seamlessly moved along and he always ensured the food arrived piping hot just as we sat down. I can only imagine how much work Rit and the organisers put in to create such an unforgettable and mind blowing experience for all of us. You’ll be missing out if you haven’t already signed up for this trip!

Jan(February 2023)
If you’re wavering about doing this trip, s...
If you’re wavering about doing this trip, s...
If you’re wavering about doing this trip, s...
If you’re wavering about doing this trip, s...
If you’re wavering about doing this trip, s...

If you’re wavering about doing this trip, stop now and book it! You’ll see and experience so much. From start to finish we had the best time, amazing experiences, fantastic people, wonderful food, scenery which will make you sit silent in wonder. The organisation was seamless and it’s difficult to think how our guides could possibly have been any better; they were so enthusiastic and went out of their way to make sure we had an extraordinary time. The accommodation was really comfortable and exciting - floating bungalows/jungle tree house/top notch hotel - just smashing from start to finish, one of the very best holidays we’ve ever had.

Guides

Local, English-speaking tour leader, plus specialist guides for activities

Accommodation

Think jungle lodges, floating bungalows and sleeper trains, as well as boutique hotels

Meals

All breakfasts, 8 lunches, 4 dinners

Transfers

Airport transfers and everything in between

Equipment

All your kayaking and cycling equipment, including cycle helmet

Permits

All permits, tickets and entry fees

Our trips are hassle-free by design. We include all the activities and equipment, as well as many of the meals, so you can simply rock up with your rucksack and share the adventure with your new pals.

Travel to and from the trip

Our trips do not include flights, trains or other travel to the start point and back from the end point.

Tips

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

Travel insurance is compulsory for all of our adventures and you are required to provide your policy information before departing. Your insurance should include adequate protection for overseas medical treatment, evacuation/repatriation, your baggage and equipment and the specific activities involved on your adventure. We also strongly recommend it includes cancellation and curtailment insurance, should you be unable to join your trip for specific reasons such as illness. Our recommended travel insurance provider is Campbell Irvine, as their insurance offers all of the above.

Visas

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.

Personal Expenses

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.

Enjoy 12.5% Off Outdoor Gear

In need of a few more items? All bookings receive a 12.5% discount to use at Cotswold Outdoor, Snow + Rock and Runner's Need.

What's included?

  • All canoeing and kayaking gear for sea and inland waterways
  • Bike and cycle helmet

What do I need to bring?

BAGS

  • Soft overnight duffel bag or rucksack
  • Daypack (20 litre minimum)
  • Waterproof liner for daypack

CLOTHES

  • Lightweight waterproof jacket
  • Lightweight waterproof trousers
  • Thin jacket or similar
  • Buff or neckscarf/sarong
  • Lightweight trousers/shorts/skirts (cover knees in temples and villages)
  • T-shirts (cover shoulders in temples and villages)
  • Underwear and socks
  • Swimwear
  • Sunglasses
  • Sunhat
  • Something to sleep in
  • Hiking shoes/boots (worn-in)
  • Sandals

SLEEPING

  • Clean bedding is provided on the overnight train, but if you prefer to bring your own that's fine too
  • Cotton or silk sleeping bag liner (optional)
  • Travel pillow or pillowcase (optional)

OTHER

  • Universal travel plug adapter
  • Power bank or solar charger
  • Passports (and visas)
  • Travel insurance documents
  • Ear plugs
  • Insect repellent
  • Suncream (reef friendly only)
  • Personal first-aid kit (inc. blister treatment)
  • Personal items (biodegradable toiletries, sanitary wear etc)
  • Quick-dry towel
  • Alcohol hand-gel
  • Headtorch or torch (with spare batteries)
  • Luggage padlock
  • Reusable water bottle x1 litre
  • Biodegradable wet-wipes
  • Energy bars and snacks - read our article on Best Hiking Snacks
*Requests for optional extras can be made after booking on your “My Bookings” page

Pre-trip accommodation in Bangkok (Single, Twin or Double)

Payable Before Departure

Pre-trip accommodation in Bangkok (Single, Twin or Double)

Post trip accommodation in Phuket (Single, Twin or Double)

Payable Before Departure

Post trip accommodation in Phuket (Single, Twin or Double)

Optional Private Room Upgrade

Payable Before Departure

Optional Private Room Upgrade

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.

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 1000miles/1609km would be approx. 281kg of CO2 in an average car (or 140.5kg per person if there was 2 of you in it).
  • A return economy class flight London - New York would be approx. 1,619kg (1.66 tonnes) per person.
  • 10 trees in a temperate forest are estimated to remove approx. 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.

Tips are not included in the trip cost. These are entirely at your discretion and not customary in Thailand, but if you wish to, your guide will help with advice, however we suggest the below as a guideline per person:

70 THB-135 THB / US$2-US$4, per person, per day can be used. (Please don't tip 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.

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.

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.

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 underneath the berth seats.

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 sea, estuaries, rivers, lakes and canals.

The sit-on-top kayaks are made from a plastic and polystyrene composite, are for two persons and have an average weight limit of 170kg.

This trip visits locations where daytime temperatures can be extremely high during the times of year when this trip operates. High humidity and limited access to shade can also be factors, and warm temperatures can continue into the nighttime, which additionally influence the body’s ability to cool down. Personal care should be taken to keep cool as best possible in the conditions, such as wearing appropriate clothing and proper hydration. Very high temperatures can impair an individual’s physical abilities to perform an activity that they may otherwise be able to do competently at cooler temperatures. People may experience symptoms associated with dehydration and Heat Stroke. Your guide(s) are trained to mitigate the risks associated with high temperatures, by carefully managing the intensity of the activity, and to provide the appropriate support response should someone feel ill during the trip. Should you experience health issues during your trip you should inform your guide immediately so the proper care can be provided.

Sure can! Over 70% of our travellers travel solo, it’s a great way to meet like-minded people.

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.

Much Better Adventures refer to the UK Government’s official travel advice when designing trips and monitoring trip operations. We recommend that all customers are familiar with the practical information provided on the Government’s FCDO website, where current travel advice can be found by searching for the applicable destination(s).

For customers joining this trip from other international destinations – please also read the official travel advice applicable to your country of residence/origin, as this may differ.

We recommend checking out the country-specific information and also talking to a travel nurse.

We automatically convert prices from the local currency that a host receives to your chosen currency. We update our exchange rates on a daily basis so this does mean that 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.

All of our group adventures are specially designed for adults to enjoy (18+) as we want these adventures to bring together outdoorsy people who are truly like-minded. Children can be accommodated on some private departures.

You're always in good company on one of our adventures.

Our trips are typically made up of a mixture of solo travellers 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.

Interested in a more exclusive experience? Opt for a 'Private Group' through the dates and prices tab to book this adventure for just you and your chosen companions.

We've got your back

Guaranteed to run

All Much Better Adventures trips are now guaranteed to run. Once you’ve booked your spot you can immediately make your travel arrangements, no uncertainty, no hanging about (excludes 'request to book' departures). Full details

Flexible payments

Secure your spot with the minimum deposit and pay off the remaining balance in as many instalments as you like, with no interest or fees. Full details

Happiness Guarantee

We’re so confident you’ll have an amazing time we’ll put our money on it. Full details

Full financial protection

To give you complete peace of mind Much Better Adventures is backed by ABTOT, ABTA and ATOL memberships. Full details

Tried & Trusted

Much Better Adventures is rated ‘Excellent’ on Trustpilot with over 1000 verified trip reviews averaging 4.8/5.

Connect before you go

You'll be invited to join a WhatsApp group to get to know each other before your big adventure together. Full details

DEPARTURE DATES

January 2025

Saturday 25th January 2025

to Monday 3rd February 2025
Guaranteed to run
Fully Booked
Illustration of a group of people kayaking

Go private and split the bill with ease.

Forget complex logistics, we've taken care of all the details to ensure a hassle-free get together. All of the adventure, none of the faff.

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