Thailand

Ultimate Wildlife 15-Day EcoTour

Tour:
15 Days
Price From:
$5,598*-$6,298**
Pricing Details
Singles:
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SINGLE SUPPLEMENT
Single travelers staying in a room by themselves will be charged this additional single supplement fee, as all of our regular prices are otherwise based on double occupancy.

SINGLE SHARE OPTIONS (if available)
If you are traveling alone and wish to share a room, we will make every effort to find you a roommate of the same gender, in which case you will not have to pay the single supplement fee. The single supplement will be charged until we are able to confirm a roommate for you. If we are able to match you with a roommate, the single supplement will be refunded. In the event that we cannot find a share for you, you will be required to pay the single supplement fee.

New: Click the Singles Find a Share' icon below or check our "Community" page to connect with other single travelers looking to share.

Rating:
Easy to Moderate

Thailand

Ultimate Wildlife 15-Day EcoTour

Destinations

  • Bangkok
  • Kaeng Krachan National Park
  • Kui Buri National Park
  • Ko Talu Island
  • Khao Sam Roi Yot
  • Chiang Mai
  • Chiang Rai
  • Bokeo Nature Preserve

Highlights

  • Wildlife Viewing in over 5 National Parks and Wildlife Preserves - including Kaeng Krachan, the largest and least visited national park in Thailand.
  • Interact with Elephants
  • Islands, Beaches and Snorkeling
  • Exotic Thai Culture - Grand Palace, Buddhist temples, floating markets, cooking school and more
  • Remote Rainforest Treehouses accessed by Ziplines
  • Expert naturalist guides and trackers
  • Choice of lodge-based or lodge + 2 nights camping, and much more!

Itinerary at a Glance

Additional extensions available

  • DAY 1 Bangkok Floating Market
  • DAY 2-3 Kaeng Krachan National Park Safari by 4WD Jeep & Foot
  • DAY 4 Kui Buri National Park Wild Elephant Tracking
  • DAY 5-6 Ko Talu Island Islands, Snorkeling & Beaches
  • DAY 7 Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park Wildlife Safari, Cave with Buddhist Pagoda
  • DAY 8 Bangkok Grand Palace, Temple of the Emerald Buddha 
  • DAY 9 Chiang Mai Elephant Camp, Night Bazaar
  • DAY 10 Chiang Mai Doi Inthanon Cloudforest, Khantok Dinner
  • DAY 11 Chiang Mai Cooking School / Chiang Klong - Laos
  • DAY 12-13 Gibbon Experience Treehouses & Ziplines
  • DAY 14 Chiang Rai Thai Spa for Thai Massage
  • DAY 15 Bangkok

Ultimate Wildlife 15-Day EcoTour

Our most popular itinerary emphasizing wildlife and bird-watching off the beaten path. This is our signature wildlife adventure, with many of Wild Planet's special touches, including:

More value than any other professional wildlife tour, including Bird & Wildlife Viewing in over 4 National Parks and Wildlife Preserves, Snorkeling on the Islands, Elephant Camp, Singing Gibbons, Remote Rainforest Treehouses accessed by a Network of Ziplines, Chiang Mai Old City, Cooking School, Buddhist Temple visit, Thai Massage, Beaches and much more!

  • Expert Local Naturalist Guides Even biologists sometimes.
  • Authentic Thai Boutique Hotels, Spas and Rainforest Lodges as well as a special choice in Kaeng Krachan of 2 nights deep-jungle camping, or an all lodge-based option!
  • Specifically designed to optimize the chances of seeing more wildlife by visiting a variety of different eco-systems, including some of Thailand's most remote and least visited national parks.

Detailed Itinerary

DAY 1: Bangkok
Arrive Bangkok airport, meet our staff and transfer straight to your hotel. Our staff will brief you about all the activities. Dinner on your own. Option for dinner cruise on Chao Phraya River, depending on arrival time.

On the following morning before your transfer to Kaeng Krachan, visit the Bangkok Floating Market, a colorful market which reflects the traditional Thai lifestyle of days gone by.

DAY 2 Kaeng Krachan National Park
After lunch transfer to Kaeng Krachan National Park, the largest and least-visited national park in Thailand, located in Phetchburi province. Enjoy wildlife viewing by 4WD until sunset. Visit a salt lick to see wild animals and tracks.

Highlights: Hiking, Wildlife Viewing, Birdwatching, Night Drive. Camping or Lodging Option.

Wildlife: Over 40 mammal species including elephant, tiger, clouded leopard, Malayan sun bear, Asiatic black bear, slow loris, binturong, serow, barking deer, mouse deer, tapir, Malayan pangolin, and 3 species of primates - gibbons, dusky langurs and long-tailed macaques. Local hill tribes also claim there are Sumatran rhinoceros by the border with Burma, but this is doubtful. The park is also home to more than 250 species of birds including five species of hornbills.

Wild Planet Adventures Exclusive!

DEEP JUNGLE CAMPING OPTION: Our base camp is the ideal spot to see langurs, serows and other wildlife. Each day we'll choose from a variety of hikes, including the road to Mt. Pakarang, a trail to the beautiful Hanuman cave, a spectacular waterfall, and a salt lick basin, a hot spot for wild elephants. Animal tracks are everywhere! We've even spotted wild tiger tracks and "sandboxes"! We'll also hike to a calm, secluded stream, where wild animals come to drink. Gibbons, Langurs, Macaques, Bears, Gaurs, Civets, Giant Squirrels, Porcupine, Flying Fox, and 6 species of hornbills are often seen here. Enjoy delicious Thai meals deep in the forest at the end of your exciting day. (We provide camping gear - no need to carry it!)

LODGING OPTION: If you'd prefer not to camp, lodging options are available about a 40-minute drive away, and include transfers to and from the wildlife viewing each day. Note that there is an additional charge for this option.

DAY 3 Kaeng Krachan National Park
Enjoy wildlife and bird watching by foot and 4WD jeep on the Pha-nean Thung route. Hike to a beautiful waterfall deep in the rainforest. After dinner enjoy a night safari for nocturnal animals such as jackals, civet cats, Malayan porcupine, or possibly even a rare black leopard (yes, we’ve really seen them!). Overnight camping or lodging.

DAY 4 Kui Buri National Park
Enjoy wildlife at Kui Buri National Park which is rich in flora and fauna such as tiger, elephant, gaur, deer, porcupine, monkey, wild boar and an incredible number of bird species. Kui Buri is known to be the best elephant and gaur sighting area in Thailand. It is almost a certainty that visitors will see elephants on any day. The forest consists of dry and moist evergreen forests with trees such as Dipterocarpus tuberculatus, Hopea odorata, Terminalia chebula and different species of palms.

The national park is home to one of biggest population of gaurs in Thailand with an estimated count of around 100 individuals and around 320 elephants. Wild mammals such as gaurs, elephants, golden jackals, leopards, deers, bantengs, langurs are common in the national park.
Overnight: Vartikar Reso Hotel Kui Buri or similar.

DAY 5 Ko Talu Island - Kayaking, Karst & Beaches
Depart Kui Buri in the morning and transfer to Koh Talu Island. Lunch on the island, then enjoy free Kayaking or sailing for 1 hour. Overnight at Koh Talu Island Resort.

Highlights: Snorkeling, Sea-Kayaking & Brilliant White-Sand Beaches.

Boat to beautiful Ko Talu Island for snorkeling, kayaking and relaxing on the beach. Thailand's famous shallow turquoise waters are perfect to explore the kaleidoscope of colorful coral reefs.

DAY 6 Ko Talu Island - Snorkeling
Explore the kaleidoscope of colorful coral reefs by snorkeling in the morning and afternoon, or choose to go hiking on the island in the afternoon. Overnight at Koh Talu Island Resort.

DAY 7 Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park
Depart Koh Talu in the morning and transfer to Khao Sam Roi Yod National Park. This small park contains a diverse array of habitats: ten distinctive habitat zones in all, including high steep limestone mountains, fine sandy beaches, spectacular caves, forest trails, estuarine and mangrove habitats. Lunch upon arrival, then visit the famous Praya Nakorn Cave where King Rama 5 visited in 1890 had a Buddhist pavilion built in the cave, called "Phra Thi Nang Khuha Kharuhad". It is said that when sunlight shines through on opening in the ceiling and lights the pavilion it is the most beautiful cave in Thailand. Overnight at Privacy Beach Resort or similar.

DAY 8 Bangkok - Grand Palace - Chiang Mai
This morning transfer to Bangkok. After lunch visit The Grand Palace and Temple of the Emerald Buddha. The breathtaking Grand Palace was built in 1782 and was the residence of the kings for 150 years. Next door is the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, a wonderland of golden towers and grand buildings decorated with glittering mosaics, widely regarded as the most important Buddhist temple in Thailand. Then transfer to the airport for your flight to Chiang Mai and transfer to hotel. Overnight at Lanna Mantra Ping River Hotel or similar.

DAY 9 Chiang Mai - Elephant Nature Park, Night Bazaar
Highlights: Shop at a famous Thai night bazaar.

After breakfast transfer to Elephant Nature Park and spend an amazing day interacting with elephants at an eco-responsible elephant camp. Feed them, bathe them in the river, and learn how the Mahouts communicate with them. Then explore Chiang Mai Night Bazaar, famous for handmade items and Thai silks. Overnight at Lanna Mantra Ping River Hotel or similar.

DAY 10 Doi Inthanon National Park, Khantok Dinner
Highlights: Explore the birds of a Thai Cloudforest.

Wildlife: Sunbirds.

Early morning wildlife viewing and birdwatching at Doi Inthanon National Park, home to the largest number of bird species in Thailand, including the endemic Green-tailed Sunbird. Beautiful Asian orchids adorn its cloudforest and Gibbons, deer and Siamese Hares are sometimes seen. Visit nearby waterfalls.Tonight we’ll enjoy a traditional northern Khantok dinner dance show. Overnight at Lanna Mantra Ping River Hotel or similar.

DAY 11 Cooking Class - Chiang Khong - Laos - Huay Xai
Enjoy a phenomenal cooking class led by a world-renewed professional Thai chef who will teach you to prepare tasty Thai dishes.

In the afternoon, make the appprox. 4 hour overland transfer to the Thai Border town of Chiang Khong. Cross the border to Huay Xai and transfer to hotel. Evening free at leisure. Overnight at B2 Monethong Hotel.

DAY 12 Gibbon Experience - One of the worlds most unique eco-tourism projects!
Highlights: Traverse a unique system of zip line cables that end in magnificent rustic treehouses, affording panoramic views of the rainforest. With luck, you'll have front row seats to see the gibbons, a small ape that sings duets with its mate each morning as the mist burns off the rainforest.

Wildlife: Gibbons, macaques, asiatic bear, barking deer, giant squirrels, and over 300 species of exotic tropical birds.

After breakfast transfer from hotel to Gibbon Experience’s office before 8.00 am by hotel’s shuttle bus. Here you'll meet with their staff and begin your 4WD journey to Bokeo Nature Preserve. This is a very poor road, but a long stretch is in the process of being paved. After a break for lunch in a small Laotian village, you'll continue your journey through rivers and over dirt roads to a small native village. Here you'll leave your 4WD behind and walk about 1-2 hours with your bag (assistance available from your guides upon request), up to the Gibbon Experience. (Note that in the event of heavy rain, the 4WD truck may not be able to make it all the way to the village, and additional walking may be required.)

Upon arrival, you'll meet your local Laotian guides, who will provide a short orientation and safety instructions. They will fit a rock-climbing harness to you, show you how it works, (including an innovative cable breaking system), and help you zip to the first tree house. From their your guides will accompany you on a series of zip lines and short hikes to the tree house where you'll be spending the night. The guides will bring your hot, delicious Lao meals, prepared with incredible taste and packed ingeniously to travel with them on the zip lines. Overnight in one of the magnificent treehouses.

DAY 13 Gibbon Experience
Early this morning your Laotian guide will guide you as you explore the network of ziplines and treehouses. You'll have all day to explore the rainforest with your guides. One of the great benefits of the treehouse/zipline network is that it allows wildlife lovers to be up in the canopy at dawn, dusk, and at night...the best times for wildlife observation. We know of no other eco-tourism effort that caters so specifically to wildlife observation, especially with such conscious attention on serving the local community and conserving the rainforest and wildlife. Overnight in one of the magnificent treehouses.

DAY 14 Gibbon Experience / Phowadol Spa
Around mid-morning you will begin the hike back to the last village and wait for your 4WD transportation back to Houayxay. Once you've crossed the Me Kong River again, you'll check in at the Thai border crossing to get your passport stamped, then transfer by vehicle to Phowadol Spa, ready for a relaxing afternoon of pampering yourself after your jungle adventure.

This gorgeous, peaceful Thai spa is very special. It has been designed to compliment their uniquely beautiful environment. Emphasis is given to the landscape, and the elements of water, wood, and earth are rich and nurturing with trees and and colorful tropical flowers abounding. In addition to the very best in traditional Thai massage, there are extensive choices of health and beauty packages comprising proven treatments from Thailand and around the world. The spa utilizes a whole host of herbal preparations, fresh ingredients, and professional aroma therapy-based skin care to provide a tantalizing range of one hundred percent natural scrubs wraps and skin treatments.

Overnight Phowadol Resort and Spa.

DAY 15 Chiang Rai - Phowadol Spa / Bangkok
Choose to spend the morning at the spa and leave for Bangkok in the afternoon, or enjoy another night at the spa at additional cost (recommended, in case you don't make it across the border in time). Transfer to the Chiang Rai airport for your flight to Bangkok, in time to make your international flight home.

Note: Due to the logistics required in order to travel to and from the Gibbon Experience, flexibility is required of all passengers. To make it easier for you, we cross the border into Laos on the arrival day and spend the night at a hotel near the Gibbon Experience office. The evening after crossing back into Thailand will be spent at a beautiful spa near Chiang Rai. In the event your transportation does not make the border crossings back into Thailand as scheduled, you may need to spend the night in Huay Xai in Laos instead, at minimal extra cost.

Additional nights are available at the Gibbon Experience's more remote treehouses. Please contact us for more details.

 

Thailand Lodging

Our Ultimate Wildlife itinerary specializes in small, one-of-a-kind boutique hotels, spas and nature lodges, particularly those which offer a very authentic Thai atmosphere, decor, style and service. Great care has gone into our selection of lodging partners, with particular emphasis on lodges that offer outstanding wildlife viewing opportunities. These breathtaking lodges offer all the comforts of home, including hot & cold water, flush toilets, tastefully decorated beds, and delicious Thai cooked meals, sometimes extravagant, always healthy, and catering to special dietary needs.

 

Note that a choice of 2 days lodging or deep jungle camping is offered in Kaeng Krachan (your first stop on the itinerary). Toward the end of the trip, the Laos Gibbon Experience features incredibly unique rustic treehouses high up in the rainforest canopy, with specially designed mattresses, mosquito canopies, kitchen, sink, shower and toilet.

BANGKOK

AriyasomVilla (Upgrade)

Step back in time to a more leisurely lifestyle. The Villa was built in 1942 and is still in the hands of the original family who built it. With 25 beautifully appointed Rooms and Suites, "Na Aroon" Restaurant, Room Service, Swimming Pool, Spa, Meeting Room, Library, Meditation Hall and underground Car Parking we are well equipped to really look after you during your stay in the "City of Angels". Conveniently located in the heart of Central Bangkok.

Raweekanlaya Wellness and Cuisine Resort (Alternate)

The Raweekanlaya Bangkok was originally built in the late 1800’s as the residence of the royal governess of His Majesty King Vajiravudh or Rama VI, the sixth monarch of Siam under the house of Chakri, considered the father of Thai nationalism. The residence is also remnant of Thewet Palace, which used to be located in the area.

Featuring 38 guest rooms carefully designed to reflect the heritage of Old-Siam with contemporary touches. It is a true urban resort with over 900 square meters of lush greenery, ​​​highlighted by a 120 years old Banyan tree.​ Located next to the swimming pool is the pool bar, where fruit juices and cold fare can be enjoyed during the day, which turn into artisan cocktails with the fall.

All this, while relaxing on our chaise lounge sofas, amidst calming sights of foliage and chirping of birds.

Listen to the sound of nature, bask under the rays of sunshine or relax beneath the canopy of trees, all in middle of Bangkok city.

Praya Palazzo (Upgrade)

Praya Palazzo is a stylish 17-room mansion recently renovated into a luxury Bangkok boutique hotel. Praya Palazzo has a rich historical background that offers a unique experience for the discerning travelers. Dating back to the ancient kingdom of Siam, the mansion is situated in the heart of Bangkok on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, one of the most significant rivers in Thailand.

Ideal for travelers who want to relax while enjoying city life in the oldest part of Bangkok and staying in a unique boutique hotel, Praya Palazzo is in walking distance to many historical sites and attractions such as The Grand Palace, The Temple of the Emerald Buddha, Wat Arun (The Temple of Dawn), Chinatown, The National Museum, and Kao San Road just to name a few. Praya Palazzo brings back the sense and lifestyle of the King Rama V period, conveying authentic Thai culture through vision, taste, scent, rhyme and touch.

Best Western Premier Amaranth Suvarnbhumi Airport

A quick drive from the airport, the upscale Best Western Premier hotel offers a refined atmosphere and style, deluxe features, amenities, and superior service – allowing your stay to be truly relaxing after a long day of travel. The hotle offers spacious and comfortable rooms decorated in Thai contemporary style and include a choice of either King or twin beds. All rooms are centrally air conditioned, provide an IDD telephone, complementary WIFI internet access, separate Bathroom with bath or shower, LCD TV, in-room safe, in-room tea/coffee making facility, hair dryer, and minibar with complimentary bottled drinking water (2 bottles/day).

Arun Residence (Alternate Lodge)

Arun Residence is a recently renovated historic Sino-Portuguese river house nestled alongside the vibrant life of the Chao Phraya River, and set against an exotic vista of seventeenth century classic Thai architecture. Arun Residence has six air-conditioned bedrooms with en suite bathrooms, all tastefully decorated in the "Bangkok Period" style.

From the bed of every room, our guests see the majestic silhouette of Wat Arun across the water and all present an unfolding panorama of one of Asia's finest views, the Rattanakosin skyline. Rooms are also decorated to provide a traditional Thai living atmosphere.

Sala Arun (Alternate Lodge)

SalaArun is at Rattanakosin Island, the cultural center of Bangkok, close to Thailand's most important historic sites, including: SalaArun Viewpoint; The Grand Palace and Temple of Emerald Buddha; The Temple of Dawn; The Temple of Reclining Bhudda (Wat Po); The Chaophraya River; Rattanakosin Island; Sanam Luang kite festival; The Bhudda Lane at Wat Mahathat; The Flower Market, Pak Klong Talad; Making iron rice bowl at Ban Baat; The iron-roofed temple, Wat Ratchanadda<; Kao San Road; Watering Lady statue; Pom Pra Kan; San Lak Muang; Bangkok Noi Floating Market; Museum Siam; the orchards along the small canals of Bangkok.

 

KAENG KRACHAN NATIONAL PARK

Petchvarin Resort and Spa (Lodging Upgrade)

Petchvarin Resort and Spa is located in Thayang – just outside Kaeng Krachan National Park. The resort provides wooden Thai style houses to accommodate and comfort you like your own home. With the blend of nature, you will feel free and relax among abundant tropical forest surrounded by magnificent green hills and the Petchvarin River. Among the many services available is an on-site spa.

The Boathouse Paradise Resort

All in one place with a luxury house at an affordable price, surrounded by a natural atmosphere, simulating living on a boat in style.
Whether it's a sitting zone to receive the wind by the lake and by the pool, surrounded by various trees or even in front of your accommodation, this is a great place to relax. Photography lovers will particularly enjoy staying here.

Baan Maka Chalets (Lodging Upgrade Alternative)

This lodge is located about a 45 minute drive from Kaeng Krachan campground, just outside the park entrance. The rooms are spacious and come with air conditioning, tiled floors and en-suite bathrooms. The cozy outdoors restaurant and scenic lakeside grounds which teem with birds add to the ambiance.

Deep Jungle Camping (Default Option)

We provide camping gear, no need to carry it! Our campsite is the ideal spot to see wildlife at the absolute best times of day. We've had a black leopard come around the campsite, as well as wild elephant, flying fox, rare slow loris and more! The camp commissary serves delicious food, and clean bathrooms and shower facilities are on-site. This is our recommended option for your visit to Kaeng Krachan.

KUI BURI NATIONAL PARK

Dhevan Dara Resort (Upgrade)

With distinctive architecture and lush tropical gardens, Dhevan Dara Beach Villa - Kuiburi is a resort hotel in Polynesian style. Guests at our hotel can enjoy a wide range of 5 star facilities in our studios , deluxe suites and villas,Relax on the Beach or The Bubble Pool Lounge. Our hotel also has the spa "DARA LUXE"– a traditional Polynesian style spa offering rejuvenating massages and treatments.

The resort boasts a number of amenities such as Free Wireless Internet Access: Wi-Fi, Complimentary welcome drink / fruit platter upon arrival, Room Service, Gym, Swimming Pool – Main Pool, DVD Player Lending – Free, 24 hour front desk, Bubble Pool Lounge, sala on the beach, The Terrace Restaurant at Beach Front, and DARA LUXE SPA.

Vartika Resovilla Kuiburi

Located along Bonok Beach, the boutique-style Vartika Resovilla Kuiburi features rooms and villas, 20-minute drive from tourist attractions such as Phraya Nakhon Cave and 45-minute drive from Kuiburi National Park; with Bangkok approximately a 3.5 hour ride away.

Vartika Resovilla ‘s air conditioned rooms and villas come equipped with a minibar and tea/coffee maker. A safe is provided in rooms. Private bathrooms come with toiletries and a hairdryer. Some rooms offer sea views.

Guests can enjoy a relaxing massage treatment or relax in the sauna. Alternatively, the Traveler’s Restaurant offers international and Thai dishes prepared using organic and high-quality ingredients.

X2 Kui Buri Resort (Upgrade)

X2 Kui Buri is located on a peaceful stretch of prestine beachfront land covering over 4 acres. The 23 semi private villas each have their own terrace, garden, and most with private pools.

X2 Kui Buri by X2 Resorts, has been awarded numerous awards and accolades during recent years. The design hotel was awarded a prestigious gold medal for architecture by the ARCASIA design awards and the resort was awarded 1st place in Asia's Top 5 Design Hotels by Now Travel Asia in a public vote conducted by the magazine’s readers. In 2014 the X2 was awarded a Certificate of Excellence by TripAdvisor for the consistent top ratings and reviews from the resort’s guests.

KO TALU

Ko Talu Island Resort

Ko Talu is a private island in the Gulf of Thailand; only two beautiful resorts inhabit its unspoiled beaches. Coconut palms and verdant green tropical rainforest cover most of the island. The white sand beaches and shallow clear turquoise waters are teeming with marine life, making it the perfect choice for our time on the islands. A healthy coral reef encircles the island, ideal for snorkeling, diving, kayaking, sailing, trekking or just relaxing.

CHIANG MAI

Khum Praya Resort and Spa (Upgrade)

The design of this atmospheric and tranquil resort reflects the kingdom’s heritage. Khum Phaya Resort & Spa has 85 spacious rooms and villas, with the option of direct pool access or your own plunge pool, and each with a Jacuzzi thus adding a holistic touch to your Chiang Mai holiday.

Outside of your private world, you’ll also find wellbeing facilities including a Spa Cenvaree and fitness centre, superb grounds and a lagoon-shaped swimming pool surrounded by century-old trees and meandering canals.

Siripanna Villa Resort and Spa

Featuring spacious rooms set within serene, landscaped grounds, Siripanna Resort offers beautiful Thai-style interiors and attentive service. The resort features an outdoor pool, fitness facilities, spa, open-aired lobby, library, and three dining options. Each room opens up to different vistas such as a rice field, an old rice barn, the Thai house, a terrace under an old longan tree, or the mountain range in the distance.
Siripanna Villa Resort & Spa is a frequent winner of TripAdvisor’s “Travelers Choice” award for consistently earning great reviews from its guests and for ranking within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.

Tamarind Village (Upgrade)

Tamarind Village is a unique and charming boutique property that nestles in the heart of historic Chiang Mai. Surrounded by ancient temples and quaint shopping streets, it takes its name from magnificent 200 years old tamarind tree that shelters the hotel in a shady embrace. Set around a series of garden courtyards, the 42 guest rooms and 3 suites reflect the rich ethnic diversity of northern Thailand by using fabrics and patterns drawn from various tribes of the region. Intimate, serene and relaxing, Tamarind Village is an oasis of calm and tranquility, the perfect base for exploring Chiang Mai and beyond.

Yaang Come Village (Alternate Lodge)

Boutique hotel in the heart of Chiang Mai. A cultural oasis in the middle of a bustling city.

HUAY XAI

B2 Monethong Hotel

The hotel is located in Ban Huay Xai, set in beautiful natural forest surroundings. Guests will enjoy a peaceful environment and calm atmosphere of this border area of Laos and it is for many visitors their first introduction to Laos, lying across the river from Chiang Khong – a historically an important market town on the Thai side for local hill tribes and for trade with Northern Thailand and Laos, with the Mekong River in-between.

BOKEO NATURE PRESERVE

Gibbon Experience Treehouses

Five tree houses are spread out over a vast expanse, linked by a unique network of cables - each up to 400 meters long and several hundred meters high. Each day you'll hike the rainforest and observe the wildlife as you visit the other tree houses using the zip lines. This system allows for low-impact travel deep into the preserve, while the tree houses afford unparalleled wildlife observation during dawn, dusk, and other peak hours of wildlife activity. The comfortable, well-designed tree houses are securely anchored and even have water, toilets and showers!

CHIANG RAI

Phowadol Spa

Phowadol Resort and Spa is a unique 5-star hotel perfect for those in search of unspoiled peace and relaxation. With its roots stemming from the sacred Bodhi tree that spreads widely to offer rest and peace of mind, Phowadol Resort and Spa offers an ideal holiday hideaway with a perfect blend of relaxation and indulgence.

 

Urbanized Lanna decor combines traditional Lanna lifestyle with all the necessities and amenities of the urban globetrotter. Phowadol encompasses a spacious 16 acres of unspoiled nature, containing 159 ornately furnished rooms and all the facilities of a 5-star hotel, including air conditioning, a terrace, satellite television, and private bathrooms. Not to mention an exquisite dining experience at the Baipho Restaurant, serving refined Thai and international cuisine prepared by the Phowadol chefs; in addition to an assortment of spas and treatments available on the premises, guests may wish to sunbathe or take a refreshing swim at the fitness center, or take a walk amongst serene and secluded scenery while taking in the luscious views of undisturbed rice paddies and farmland.

SAM ROI YOD

Privacy Beach Resort

Tucked away on tranquil Dolphin Bay, Privacy Beach Resort & Spa is a perfect luxury hideaway. The resort is set right on a beautiful beach, from where you can spot Nom Sao and Kho Lam islands in the distance. The secluded location of the Privacy Beach Resort & Spa ensures complete relaxation away from the hustle and bustle of city life and is perfect for a romantic getaway.

The villas at Privacy Beach Resort each feature sea or garden views, bright windows and white linens. Rooms are air-conditioned and equipped with a tiled en suite bathroom. Water activities can be arranged directly with Privacy Resort and include beach bicycling and kayaking. Seven different golf courses are located within 30 km of the resort. Guests can enjoy traditional Thai and international cuisine at the onsite restaurant. Cocktails and fresh pastries are also available.

 

Thailand Activities

At a Glance

We know you've chosen to travel with us for our wildlife emphasis, so we've included a wide variety of adventure activities designed to educate, inspire, and bring out the wonder in you. Then we add all of the cultural activities that Thailand is known for, from visits to Buddhist temples, to cooking schools, famous Thai spas and much more. All of our activities are flexibly designed to accommodate different skill levels and interests, while exposing you to a variety of unique eco-systems in order to see the most amount of wildlife. And did we mention fun?

Adventure activities in over 4 distinct regions of Thailand expose you to more natural wonder, more ecosystems - and more wildlife - than any other conventional tour.

  • Deep Jungle Camping in Kaeng Krachan
  • Play with friendly elephants and bathe them in a river
  • Hiking, birdwatching and wildlife viewing in 4 national parks
  • Island snorkeling in crystal-clear azure blue water
  • Buddhist temples, floating markets, Thai cooking school and more
  • Gibbon Experience - Zip line cables, treehouses and apes!

 

Exclusive Wildlife Activities

Deep Jungle Camping in Kaeng Krachan

Our base camp is the ideal spot to see langurs, serows and other wildlife. Each day we'll choose from a variety of hikes, including the road to Mt. Pakarang, a trail to the beautiful Hanuman cave, a spectacular waterfall, and a salt lick basin, a hot spot for wild elephants. Animal tracks are everywhere! We've even spotted wild tiger tracks and "sandboxes"! We'll also hike to a calm, secluded stream, where wild animals come to drink.

Gibbon Experience - Zip Line Cables, Treehouses & Apes!

Simply one of the most unique and exciting eco-tourism projects in the world. Traverse a unique system of zip line cables that end in magnificent rustic treehouses, affording panoramic views of the rainforest. With luck, you'll have front row seats to see the gibbons, a small ape that sings duets with its mate each morning as the mist burns off the rainforest.

Other Activities

Play with Friendly Elephants & Bathe Them in a River

Spend an amazing day feeding, bathing and learning about elephants at an eco-responsible elephant camp. Play with them in the river and then float downstream on a bamboo raft. You will not believe how much fun this experience is, and how much it will open your heart to learn about these incredibly social animals!

Hiking, Birdwatching & Wildlife Viewing in 4 National Parks

Our hiking philosophy is simple: "The slower you go, the more wildlife you see." Most of our hikes last anywhere from 2 to 4 hours and the pace is a relaxed meander with frequent stops to observe nature and wildlife. We may even spend intimate time with a troop of wild monkeys, especially if we observe exciting behaviors such as teaching a newborn to walk, a conflict involving an alpha male, or anything else that has what we call a high "wow" factor.

Island Snorkeling in Crystal-Clear Azure Blue Water

Boat to beautiful Ko Talu Island for snorkeling, kayaking and relaxing on the beach. Thailand's famous shallow turquoise waters are perfect to explore the kaleidoscope of colorful coral reefs.

Floating Market

Visit the Damnoen Saduak floating market, one of Thailand's most exotic and colorful spectacles. Hundreds of longboats laden with an astonishing variety of fruits, vegetables, sweets and meats navigate the canal.

Buddhist Temples

Visit the Temple of the Emerald Buddha in Bangkok, a wonderland of golden towers and grand buildings decorated with glittering mosaics, widely regarded as the most important Buddhist temple in Thailand. Later, in Chiang Mai, visit Doi Suthep, a Buddhist temple that is a landmark of Chiang Mai.

Cooking School

Enjoy a phenomenal cooking class, led by a world-renowned professional Thai chef who will teach you to prepare tasty Thai dishes.

 

Thailand Wildlife

Likely Sightings

Wild Planet's wildlife eco-tours are designed for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. All our eco-adventures are specially designed for maximum wildlife viewing. We take care to seek out wildlife that is rare, off the beaten path, and in greater numbers than you will see on conventional tours.

Our expert naturalist guides will educate you in the field so your experience is intimate and unparalleled. Still, wildlife viewing can unpredictable and requires patience and sensory awareness. A partial list of some of the animals you are likely to see is below:

Primates: Up to 13 species of primates including: Gibbons (3 species), Langurs (2 species), Macaques (5 species), Leaf Monkeys (4 species)
Other Mammals: Elephants, Civets, Barking Deer, Sambar Deer
Reptiles: Monitor Lizards
Birds: Hornbills, Crested Serpent Eagles, Indian Rollers, Minivets, Kingfishers

Rare or Endangered Possible Sightings

Cats: Tiger, Clouded Leopard
Other Mammals: Gaur, Serow, Malaysian Sun Bear, Asiatic Bear, Flying Fox, Giant Porcupine
Weird & Wonderful: Slow Loris, Draco Lizard (Flying)

 

Thailand Guides

Thailand Guides

Thailand Guides

Your guide is your gateway to the world of the tropics; you'll laugh, you'll cry, and you'll learn things. Wild Planet Adventures' guides are naturalists, biologists or leaders in their field. As wildlife specialists, we know that your guide is the difference between a good trip and a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Our guides have been specially chosen both for their personality and interpersonal skills as well as their extensive naturalist knowledge and exceptional abilities to spot wildlife.

 

Thailand FAQ

Thailand Facts for Visitors

Ultimate Wildlife 15-Day EcoTour

Government

His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej is the longest reigning monarch in the world, having celebrated his 67th year of reign in 2013. He and the rest of the Royal Family are greatly revered by the Thai people.

Religion

Thailand is one of the most strongly Buddhist countries in the world with more than 90% of Thais practicing Theravada Buddhism. There are many other faiths in Thailand, all of which are allowed full freedom of expression. The temple (wat) is very important in Thai society and is the heart of social and religious life. Monks are highly revered.

Population

Thailand has a growing population of about 55 million and 10% is flooded in the capital of Bangkok. It is basically an agricultural country and about 75% of the people work in the fields. Those living near the coastal zones are engaged in commercial fishing and marine farming from fish and prawns to oysters. The other 25% work in the cities. Assimilation of other races from Burma, Cambodia, Laos and Vietnam in the early past was inevitable, being sandwiched in the middle of these countries. It is the tolerant nature of the Thais, which largely account for the large groups from neighboring countries who have now become Thai citizens. Besides its neighbors early immigrants come from as far as India, China, Malaysia and even European countries. These groups thus account for 20% of the population amongst 80% of ethnic Thais. The ethnic composition is as diverse as Thailand's attractions, especially so among tourist belts and coastal regions. The hill-tribes form a very interesting group in the northern highlands. History links them as far as China and Mongolia and some of them have fair skin and slanted light brown eyes. There are about 400,000 hill tribes living in the north, with their own language and culture - truly an enriching experience when visiting their homesteads. They are the Karen, Lahus, Yao, Akha, Lisu and Meo. The last hill tribes are more exposed to the commercial world and could be seen even in Bangkok and other provinces selling their handicraft. (Handicrafts purchased at their villages have a better chance to be authentic, as duplicates have been manufactured.)

Language

Thai is the official and national language in Thailand used at all levels of administration in government and other commercial offices. However, English is the second language and is widely used in the cities and tourist related industry. Other European languages are used in hotels or restaurants where a particular group is predominant.

Currency

The unit of currency is the Thai baht. 1 baht is divided into 100 satang. At the time of writing, in the previous three years there were approximately 30-34 baht to the dollar. Please check the current exchange rate. Notes are in denominations of 1000 (brown), 500 (purple), 100 (red), 20 (green) and 10 (brown) baht. Coins come as 25 satang, 50 satang, 1 baht, 5 baht and 10 baht. Major currency bills and travelers checks can be cashed easily at hotels, tourist shops, banks and money-changers.

Voltage & Outlets

Electricity can vary by location in Thailand but is usually 220 volts, 50 cycles/sec, with Type A or Type C outlets. You will need to bring a converter for any appliances you plan to use that can't handle the higher voltage. Additionally, you will need a plug adapter that fit the specific plug types mentioned above. Please note that power points installed in bathrooms are meant for shavers only.

Climate

Most places in Thailand are humid and warm as it is in the tropics, except for the highlands in northern regions. As a general guideline, the hot season is from late March to June, rainy months being July to October and February. For Chiang Mai and further north, bring along windbreakers and pullovers as the evening temperatures drop quite a bit.

This Trip's Exclusive Wildlife Features:

Choose Your Thailand Travel Style! Any of our wildlife adventures are also available as fully customizable private trips, honeymoons or family wildlife adventures.
CONTACT US | EMAIL US | CHAT NOW | RESERVE A TRIP | 1-800-990-4376
We're Wild for Wildlife...
  • Exciting Treehouses Accessible Only by Zip-Lines - One of the only places in the world where you can stay up in the rainforest canopy during dawn, dusk, and at night - the best time for wildlife observation!
  • Remote & Non-Commercial Destinations - Authentic wildlife excursion deep into Kaeng Krachan & Bokeo Preserve in Laos.
  • Specialized Wildlife Knowledge - Hike deep in the forest to salt licks, secret watering holes, and little-known wildlife hot-spots.
  • Authentic Tracking, Expert Wildlife Guides - Our expert guides rely on advanced tracking skills, not radios, to track wildlife. Listen for warning cries, identify paw prints, look for residue of feeding, and experience the excitement of real wildlife tracking.
  • Night Safaris for Nocturnal Animals - Jeep safaris at night in Kaeng Krachan for nocturnal wildlife.
We're Wild for Wildlife...
  • Exciting Treehouses Accessible Only by Zip-Lines - One of the only places in the world where you can stay up in the rainforest canopy during dawn, dusk, and at night - the best time for wildlife observation!
  • Remote & Non-Commercial Destinations - Authentic wildlife excursion deep into Kaeng Krachan & Bokeo Preserve in Laos.
  • Specialized Wildlife Knowledge - Hike deep in the forest to salt licks, secret watering holes, and little-known wildlife hot-spots.
  • Authentic Tracking, Expert Wildlife Guides - Our expert guides rely on advanced tracking skills, not radios, to track wildlife. Listen for warning cries, identify paw prints, look for residue of feeding, and experience the excitement of real wildlife tracking.
  • Night Safaris for Nocturnal Animals - Jeep safaris at night in Kaeng Krachan for nocturnal wildlife.
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