Youtube Video IconTrip Concierge Instagram IconTwitter IconTrip Concierge Facebook Icon
Talk to a Travel Expert now: 1 (800) 503-8173
< Back to Journeys

Thailand Signature: Elephants & Islands

10
 days from $
3950
 per person
Operated by: 
Kensington Tours
Trip Concierge Telephone Icon
Speak to a Certified Travel Expert
Schedule a Call Now

Bangkok, Krabi, Khao Sok, Phuket

  • Befriend Thailand's beloved national animal at an elephant sanctuary.
  • Explore Bangkok's lively markets and golden temples with a private guide.
  • Escape to a remote jungle paradise in Khao Sok, where thrilling adventure awaits.
  • Swim crystal-clear water and unwind in style on Phuket's tropical beaches.
  • Featuring a curated selection of premier accommodations.
Itinerary at a Glance

DAY 1

  • BANGKOK The Adventure Begins
  • VIP Meet & Greet & Fast Track Airport Service
  • Airport Transfer - Private

DAY 2

  • BANGKOK Get a Lay of the Land
  • Temples & Grand Palace (4 hrs) - Private Tour

DAY 3

  • BANGKOK Live Like a Local
  • Market Hopping (with Lunch, 8 hrs) - Private Tour

DAY 4

  • BANGKOK TO KRABI TO KHAO SOK Close Encounters
  • Airport Transfer - Private
  • Air - Bangkok - Krabi [1 hr 20 mins] - Economy
  • Transfer - Shared - Krabi - Khao Sok [Elephant Hills (3 hrs)] -
  • Welcome to Elephant Hills
  • Sok River Canoe Safari
  • The Amazing Elephant Experience
  • Evening Activities

DAY 5

  • KHAO SOK It's a Jungle Out There
  • Good Morning, Khao Sok!
  • Journey Through Spectacular Cheow-Lan-Lake
  • Evening Activities

DAY 6

  • KHAO SOK TO PHUKET The Journey Continues…
  • Jungle Immersion
  • Transfer - Shared - Khao Sok - Phuket [Elephant Hills (3.5 hrs)] -
  • Anantara Layan Amenities

DAY 7

  • PHUKET Beach Bliss
  • Spa Reservations at Anantara Layan
  • Dining Suggestions at Anantara Layan

DAY 8

  • PHUKET Tastes and Traditions
  • Flavors of the South: Afternoon Peranakan Food Tour (with Breakfast & Lunch, 6 hrs) - Private

DAY 9

  • PHUKET A Dip in the Ocean
  • Anantara Pools & Layan Beach at Leisure

DAY 10

  • PHUKET Safe Travels!
  • Airport Transfer - Private

DAY 1

  • BANGKOK

slide 1 of 1

Riva Surya
  • The Adventure Begins
  • Upon arrival to Bangkok, a representative will greet you after exiting the plane and escort you through special fast track services, avoiding the queues at the immigration counter. Please note: Guests using fast track services should wear appropriate attire and avoid wearing short pants, slippers or similarly casual attire to ensure a smooth process with Thai immigration authorities.
  • A private transfer between the airport and your hotel is provided.

DAY 2

  • BANGKOK

slide 5 of 2

Grand Palace
Grand Palace
Riva Surya
Grand Palace
Grand Palace
Riva Surya
Grand Palace
Grand Palace
Riva Surya
  • Get a Lay of the Land
  • Visit three remarkable historical landmarks of Bangkok during an unforgettable privately guided tour. Following a pick-up from your hotel, your guide and driver will take you to the historic center of the city where your adventure begins. Your first stops are Wat Phra Kaew and the remarkable Grand Palace, situated in the same compound. While Wat Phra Kaew is the most important temple for locals, hosting the revered image of the Emerald Buddha, The Grand Palace is an emblematic example of architectural splendor, combining traditional Thai design and Western style. It is believed that the Emerald Buddha's placement in the palace would have brought luck to the royal family along with prosperity and wealth to the whole country. Next, transfer to Wat Pho, home to more than one thousand Buddha images, as well as the breathtaking perfection that is the renowned Reclining Buddha. Wat Pho is also famous for being the first massage school in Thailand. Once your half-day tour concludes, you will be transferred back to your accommodation.

DAY 3

  • BANGKOK

slide 5 of 2

Boy at Mae Klong Market
Boy at Mae Klong Market
Riva Surya
Boy at Mae Klong Market
Boy at Mae Klong Market
Riva Surya
Boy at Mae Klong Market
Boy at Mae Klong Market
Riva Surya
  • Live Like a Local
  • Explore lively markets and experience the local way of life in this engaging privately guided immersion. Imagine a trip in a paddle boat drifting along a canal as locals sell their wares from boats. Stepping off the boat, you'll enter a garden where you can try your hand at basketry and see how coconut leaves are transformed into tiny toys. Then, follow the locals to cook some Thai sweets colored by natural ingredients and made with traditional utensils. During the weekend, Tha Kha offers a lively floating market filled with fruit and vegetable vendors. It is less crowded than other floating markets, allowing more time to discover the livelihoods of the locals. At the end of the tour, enjoy the opportunity to visit a traditional wooden house and learn about the old ways of life. Indulge in a tasty traditional lunch typical of the Samut Songkhram region. In the afternoon, continue to Talaad Rom Hoob, better known as the train market in Mae Klong. This market is located along the railway tracks, creating a unique scene when the train passes by within inches of the goods and produce on sale. The train announces its arrival with great blows of the horn, leaving just seconds for the merchants to repack the goods then reinstall them just as quickly once the train has passed. Once your tour concludes, your private driver transfers you back to Bangkok.

DAY 4

  • BANGKOK TO KRABI TO KHAO SOK

slide 3 of 3

Elephant Hills
Canoeing Sok River
Canoeing Sok River
Elephants
Elephants
Elephant Hills
Canoeing Sok River
Canoeing Sok River
  • Close Encounters
  • A private transfer between the airport and your hotel is provided.
  • Board a flight in Bangkok with service to Krabi. The approximate flight duration is one hour and 20 minutes.
  • Sit back and relax on the scenic shared transfer from Krabi to Khao Sok. Total transfer time is approximately 3 hours.
  • Upon arrival to the incredible Elephant Hills Camp, indulge in a delicious buffet lunch featuring a number of Thai delicacies.
  • Unwind during a jungle river canoe trip down the Sok River. Glide the water in comfort and safety, courtesy of the sturdy canoes, provided life jackets, and your expert river guide. Drift along the jungle river passing the steep limestone mountains and cliffs covered with exotic tropical vegetation. Keep alert for potential sightings of hornbill birds that soar overhead or of reptiles basking in the sun on the riverbanks. Immerse yourself in some of the last areas of primary rainforest, a world that has barely changed over thousands of years.
  • Experience an unforgettable excursion to the elephant sanctuary. Here you can see and touch these majestic creatures while learning about their life and the conservation efforts of Elephant Hills. Your guide will also teach you all about the mahout, the elephant caretaker. This is truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to interact with Thailand's beloved national animal. Roll up your sleeves and help prepare their daily meal. Watch these playful pachyderms frolic in their shared mud pool. This incredible experience invites you to observe elephants as they play, interact and graze in their natural environment.
  • In the late afternoon, return to Elephant Hills for dinner and an overnight in your luxury tent. Opt to visit the jungle bar to exchange stories of the day’s experiences with fellow adventurers. Watch an evening film, a dance performance, or a cooking demonstration. There's plenty of entertainment to keep you busy until dinner. Enjoy an evening of sweet dreams as you're lulled to sleep by the background symphony of soothing jungle sounds.

DAY 5

  • KHAO SOK

slide 5 of 2

Sailing Cheow Lan-Lake
Sailing Cheow Lan-Lake
Elephant Hills
Sailing Cheow Lan-Lake
Sailing Cheow Lan-Lake
Elephant Hills
Sailing Cheow Lan-Lake
Sailing Cheow Lan-Lake
Elephant Hills
  • It's a Jungle Out There
  • Wake up to the sounds of nature and bird song. As the sun rises over the rainforest-covered mountains, the call of the gibbons echoes down the valley. Tea and coffee making facilities are available in your tent for early risers while breakfast is available at your leisure.
  • Embark on an exploration of spectacular Cheow-Lan-Lake, a little known wonder nestled in southern Thailand. Cruise along emerald waters en-route to the "The Guilin of Thailand". Cheow-Lan-Lake is a nature lover's paradise, offering an oasis for a variety of creatures big and small. Wild elephants, the rare Asian ox, various monkey species, amphibians, reptiles and even tigers and leopards call this area home. The lake's assortment of wildlife hidden in the rainforest-covered hills make it one of the most unique and important areas of rainforest in South East Asia. Marvel at the majestic mountains as they appear to rise out of the water, a showcase of nature at its best. Soak in the scene from a local long-tail boat and make a splash in the lake's emerald water. Be sure to bring your swimwear; towels will be provided at the local raft house, where you'll stop over for lunch and relaxation.
  • As the sun begins to set, a variety of evening activities await your discovery. Choose to watch a movie, be enthralled by a dance performance, or learn to cook a delicious Thai dish with a local cooking demonstration. Perhaps just opt to cool down in the pool's inviting waters, or lounge in a hammock with your favorite book. Enjoy a final evening meal and perhaps a post-dinner cocktail or two before returning to your luxury tent.

DAY 6

  • KHAO SOK TO PHUKET

slide 3 of 3

Anantara Layan Phuket
Jungle Trek
Jungle Trek
Pool Table
Pool Table
Anantara Layan Phuket
Jungle Trek
Jungle Trek
  • The Journey Continues…
  • Start the day with a wholesome breakfast before venturing into the heart of the jungle. Explore the ecology of one of the world’s oldest rainforests and keep alert for a variety of impressive flora and fauna. Discover exotic plants, tropical hardwood trees with huge roots, orchids, palms, ferns, bamboos, and sprawling moss. Birds such as the hornbill live high up above and gibbons can often be heard calling to their mates. Spot a macaque or a leaf monkey swinging through the branches, and keep alert for the beautiful butterflies that buzz around. A walk through this natural playground shows how a variety of lifeforms can co-exist together. Look, learn, listen, and unearth some of the secrets of the rainforest. After your morning adventure, it's time to return to the Elephant Camp where for one last delicious Thai buffet.
  • Sit back and relax on the scenic shared transfer from Khao Sok to Phuket. Total transfer time is approximately 3.5 hours.
  • Anantara Layan invites you to explore pristine islands, crystal-clear waters and lush jungles. Enjoy time at leisure to indulge in the resort's abundance of amenities. Immerse yourself in the rich traditions of the kingdom, from martial arts to cuisine to Thai massage. Spend sunny days by the pool, the sound of waterfalls and a hint of ocean in the air. Take in exceptional bay views with an exquisite cocktail in hand. Get your daily workout with a friendly game of tennis, or perfect your serve under the guidance of a professional tennis coach. Salute the sun with early morning meditation and gentle stretches on the beach, or learn to master Qi Gong, an ancient art consisting of visualization, breathing, and movement.

DAY 7

  • PHUKET

slide 3 of 3

Anantara Layan Phuket
Spa Treatment Room
Spa Treatment Room
Dee Plee Restaurant
Dee Plee Restaurant
Anantara Layan Phuket
Spa Treatment Room
Spa Treatment Room
  • Beach Bliss
  • Unwind with a personalized spa treatment at Anantara Layan. Enter an oasis of tranquility surrounded by lotus ponds. Indulge in spa rituals inspired by nature – an orchid bath for two followed by a coconut oil massage with heated seashells or bamboo sticks, or a private tea service during a milky bath soak. Savor the healing benefits from the ancient therapies of herbal compresses, traditional Thai massage, and Chinese meridian philosophy. Spa facilities include seven treatment suites, steam rooms, a relaxation area, and a mani-pedi room. Please note: Your treatment is not included and will be paid for on location. Reservations are confirmed at the time of booking and are subject to availability.
  • Anantara Layan invites you to savor flavors from around the world. Indulge in fine dining at Dee Ple where you can relish layers of spice from across Thailand. Here you can share dishes the traditional Thai way and enjoy crispy appetizers, fresh seafood, creamy curries, and zesty salads. Visit Age for a culinary journey featuring exquisite meats and fresh seafood, paired with your selection from sixty premium vintage and new world labels. Enjoy modern Japanese izakaya fare at Zuma, featuring signature dishes such as sliced yellowtail with chili relish, ponzu and pickled garlic, or beef tenderloin with sesame, red chili and sweet soy. Stop by Breeze for all-day imbibing and snacking poolside, or savor a candlelit feast in the privacy of your villa.

DAY 8

  • PHUKET

slide 5 of 2

Food Stall
Food Stall
Anantara Layan Phuket
Food Stall
Food Stall
Anantara Layan Phuket
Food Stall
Food Stall
Anantara Layan Phuket
  • Tastes and Traditions
  • Aside from its glorious beaches, Phuket is also known for its up-and-coming food scene. The island’s UNESCO designation as the one of the world’s leading destinations for gastronomy says it all. Embark on a culinary journey and taste some of the local favorites in a privately guided tour. Your experience begins with a full epicurean discovery of Phuket Town, featuring dim sum, vermicelli, as well as southern-style curries and vegetables. Your delicious immersion continues with samples of famous traditional charcoal-fried roti Baba/Nyonya spring rolls and pork. As you make your way across town, note the elegant streets of Sino-Portuguese dotted with shop-houses embodying the Peranakan heritage. The final stop of your culinary tour features a tasty dessert served with a panoramic view over Phuket Town.

DAY 9

  • PHUKET

slide 5 of 2

Hillside Pool
Hillside Pool
Anantara Layan Phuket
Hillside Pool
Hillside Pool
Anantara Layan Phuket
Hillside Pool
Hillside Pool
Anantara Layan Phuket
  • A Dip in the Ocean
  • Unwind poolside at Anantara Layan, taking in your picturesque surrounds. Make a splash in the inviting waters, or lounge in style with a cocktail in hand. Opt to instead spend the day on the unspoiled white sands of Layan Beach. This beautiful but little-known bay offers an idyllic setting for a morning or afternoon under the tropical sun. Experience an unforgettable retreat in Phuket as azure waters stretch out to greet you on powdery soft sands.

DAY 10

  • PHUKET
  • Safe Travels!
  • A private transfer between the airport and your Phuket accommodation is provided.

Riva Surya

Elephant Hills

Anantara Layan Phuket

Other Journeys You May Be Interested In