Explore Southern Thailand: Krabi Island Hopping Adventure - 7 Days

Highlights

• Spend your days hopping between some of Thailand's most beautiful islands
• Kayak through a mangrove forest and swim in hidden lagoons
• Ride an elephant through lush rainforest and get close to the native wildlife
• Sit back and relax while cruising along the coastline of the Andaman Sea

Brief Itinerary

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Phuket, Transfer to Krabi, Optional Activities

Welcome to Thailand! Upon arrival in Phuket, you'll be greeted by your driver and transferred to the stunning seaside resort of Krabi, about a 2.5-hour drive along mainland Thailand's west coast. After checking in, the day is yours to explore. Visit Railay Beach with its tooth-like limestone rocks jutting up at the end of the golden crescent of sand. While Railay is only accessible by boat, it's easy to reach by water shuttle from Krabi. In the heart of town, Ao Nang Beach is another excellent sandy stretch with even more dramatic cliffs, making a perfect backdrop for your vacation photos.

Not surprisingly, with limestone cliffs in every direction, Krabi is also a hotspot for rock climbing, and local outfitters can organize climbs for all skill and experience levels. After your day's adventures, catch the sunset from one of Krabi's many waterfront restaurants and bars. Later in the evening, you can stroll around the energetic Ao Nang Landmark Night Market, which has street food vendors, clothing and souvenir shops, and live entertainment.

Day 2: Four Islands Krabi Tour by Boat

Day 3: Half-Day Kayaking in Ao Thalane & Sa Kaew Lagoon

Your morning is free, so why not visit Wat Kaew, a temple in the middle of Krabi? Inside you'll discover beautiful blue Buddhist wall drawings and a giant golden Buddha. In the afternoon, transfer from Ao Nang Beach to Ao Thalane, a fishing village north of Krabi. Kayak along mangrove forests, mountains, narrow canyons, and limestone caves. As you glide through the lush forest, discover flora and fauna indigenous to the region.

Paddling into Crocodile Cave, with its stalagmites and stalactites, you'll feel like you're floating into a crocodile's mouth. Continue to the emerald waters of Sa Kaew Lagoon to spot birds, monkeys, and other animals in their natural habitat. Enjoy a swim or simply relax on this peaceful beach as you watch the sunset before returning to your hotel in the evening.

Day 4: Half-Day Elephant Riding & Bathing Tour 

Get ready to explore the rainforest from new heights! In the morning, your guide will be waiting to transfer you to an elephant camp, where you'll learn about these extraordinary animals and their preservation. Once familiar with your designated elephant, set out an hour-long trek along the river through dense jungle, where you'll see exotic birds, flowers, and even the occasional monkey up close.

After trekking, return to the camp to bathe and scrub your pachyderm as a reward for their strenuous efforts. The elephants will love you for it. You'll have lunch before enjoying a free afternoon, with plenty of time to squeeze in a bit of beach time.

Day 5: Afternoon Krabi Luxury Cruise 

Today you'll have the morning free to explore at your own pace. In Krabi, you can rent a boat with or without a driver to discover a few of the roughly 200 islands just off the coastline. You could also visit Thung Teao Forest Natural Park, home to the Crystal Lagoon. Go for a swim in its clear blue waters and enjoy the nearby waterfall surrounded by forests.

This afternoon, your driver will take you to the port, where you'll climb aboard a catamaran. Take in the sights as you pass Krabi Downtown Canal, mangrove forests, and Khanarb Nam Mountain. With Koh Kai Island, Poda Island, Talay Waek, and Tub Island in full view, swim or snorkel in warm waters filled with coral reefs and marine life. Later, as you survey the spectacular scenery with a cocktail in hand, a traditional Thai dinner will be served with an incredible sunset over the Andaman Sea.

Day 6: Tiger Cave Temple & Krabi City Tour

Spend your penultimate day in Thailand day touring the Tiger Cave Temple, the most important temple in the province. Explore the ground-level caves that take you into the heart of the mountain before climbing the 1,272 steps up the limestone tower to reach this Buddhist sanctuary. Check out the fantastic panoramic views over the surrounding countryside and the stunning coastline of the Andaman Sea.

Next, proceed to Khao Khanap Nam, regarded as the city's most recognizable symbol; these two prominent mountains jut out of the water 328 feet (100 m) above the Krabi River. While you're there, don't forget to take a picture in front of the Crab Monument, an important landmark of Krabi representing the city's abundance of natural resources. Finally, don't miss shopping at the nearby food market before returning to your hotel.

Day 7: Krabi to Phuket, Depart Phuket

It's time to say goodbye and laew ja maa mai krab/ka (I'll be back). Spend your last morning relaxing on the beach before being transported to the airport for your onward flight. Safe travels!

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