Southern Thailand Adventure
Chumphon & Surat Thani Thailand
Season: December–February
Price: 2500 AUD / person
An 8-day journey through Southern Thailand’s quieter coastlines and ancient rainforests, this adventure blends local life, island snorkeling, jungle rivers, and the dramatic limestone landscapes of Cheow Lan Lake.
From squid fishing with villagers in Chumphon to misty mornings on emerald-green lakes in Khao Sok, this trip is designed for travelers who want depth over speed — authentic experiences, unspoiled nature, and a pace that allows you to truly feel each place.
Expect warm community stays, vibrant marine life, floating bungalows, and moments of stillness surrounded by rainforest and water. This is Southern Thailand beyond the crowds — raw, peaceful, and deeply memorable.
Trip Overview
Duration: 8 Days / 7 Nights
Difficulty: Easy to moderate adventure with light physical activities
Activity style:
• Snorkeling & boat excursions
• Short jungle walks
• Kayaking & swimming
• No trekking or technical skills requiredAccommodation: Homestays, beachfront resorts, mountain-view hotels & floating raft houses
Season: April – October
What Makes This Trek Special
Squid fishing & bioluminescent plankton with local fishermen
Untouched snorkeling spots in Chumphon’s lesser-known islands
Crystal-clear rivers & natural pools in Surat Thani
Floating raft house stay on Cheow Lan Lake
Morning mist, limestone cliffs & rainforest wildlife
Balanced mix of culture, sea, and jungle
Adventure Conditions
This trip involves long days outdoors, early starts, boat travel, and changing weather conditions. Sea state, rain, and wildlife activity may affect the daily flow — flexibility is part of the adventure.
Snorkeling & Water Activities
Snorkeling takes place in open water and around island reefs. Life jackets and safety equipment are provided. Swimming confidence is strongly recommended.
Jungle & Terrain
Jungle walks and cave visits involve uneven ground, humidity, and slippery surfaces. Trails are non-technical but require balance and awareness.
Food
Meals focus on fresh, local ingredients and regional specialties. Expect seafood in coastal areas and comforting Thai dishes in the jungle. Meals are designed to be filling and well-balanced rather than luxurious. Dietary requirements should be advised in advance.
Accommodation Style
This trip combines homestays, local resorts, riverside hotels, and floating bungalows. Rooms are shared twin or double unless otherwise arranged. Floating raft houses are simple but atmospheric, offering a unique experience close to nature.
Activities & Conditions
Snorkeling conditions depend on weather and sea state. Jungle and river activities are gentle and non-technical. Life jackets and safety equipment are provided where needed.
Weather & Season
April–October is Southern Thailand’s green season. Expect lush landscapes, misty mornings at Cheow Lan Lake, occasional rain showers, and fewer tourists. Wildlife activity is often higher during this period.
Trip Itinerary
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Begin along Thailand’s quiet southern coast. After visiting Sairee Beach and the Prince of Chumphon Shrine, settle into a seaside homestay. As night falls, head out with local fishermen for squid fishing — watching the ocean glow with bioluminescent plankton beneath the boat.
Overnight: Ao Kram Homestay
Meals: Lunch, Dinner -
Boat out to Koh Kula and nearby islands for snorkeling in clear waters with coral reefs and marine life. Transfer south to a beachfront base for the next stage of island exploration.
Overnight: Beachfront Resort
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner -
Explore some of the richest coral systems in the Gulf of Thailand. Visit Koh Yor’s Crab Bank before returning to shore for sunset along an undeveloped beach.
Overnight: Beachfront Resort
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner -
A full day of island hopping, snorkeling limestone formations, coral gardens, and deep-water reef systems. Swim through sea caves, spot reef fish, and experience the raw marine beauty of Southern Thailand.
Overnight: Beachfront Resort
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner -
Travel inland toward the rainforest. Stop at Khlong Nam Sai — a crystal-clear jungle pool — for kayaking and swimming before settling into a mountain-view hotel.
Overnight: Takun Mountain View Hotel
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner -
Enter Khao Sok National Park by long-tail boat. Cruise between towering limestone cliffs, visit the iconic “Guilin of Thailand,” and arrive at a floating raft house hidden deep in the lake.
Overnight: Floating Raft House
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner -
Sunrise lake safari followed by free time. Optional adventure includes jungle trekking, bamboo rafting, and exploration of Coral Cave — a 400-million-year-old limestone cavern deep inside the wildlife sanctuary.
Overnight: Floating Raft House
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner -
Cross Cheow Lan Lake in the morning mist, stopping for photos and a temple visit before onward transfer.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Upcoming departure dates
| Departure | Finish |
|---|---|
| 18 March 2026 | 25 March 2026 |
| 22 Apr 2026 | 29 Apr 2026 |
| 13 May 2026 | 20 May 2026 |
| 17 Jun 2026 | 24 Jun 2026 |
| 15 Jul 2026 | 22 Jul 2026 |
| 19 Aug 2026 | 26 Aug 2026 |
| 16 Sep 2026 | 23 Sep 2026 |
| 14 Oct 2026 | 21 Oct 2026 |
