Two weeks in Thailand: an elephant adventure
Embrace the spirit of the "Land of Smiles" with this 12-night odyssey, curated for the discerning traveler seeking both luxury and purpose. Your journey commences amidst the vibrant energy of Bangkok before ascending to the cultural highlands of Chiang Mai. Here, you will enjoy a three-night stay at an ethical sanctuary, immersing yourself in the life of a mahout alongside majestic rescued elephants.
Transition to the sublime cliffs of Krabi and the iconic shores of Railay Beach before escaping to the secluded, pristine sands of Koh Mook. This is more than a holiday; it is a profound connection to Thailand’s heritage, wildlife, and most breathtaking coastal treasures.
Services
Included:
- 12 nights accommodation in comfort hotels
- 11 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 8 dinners
- In-depth, pre-arrival information packet
- Private transfers in an air-conditioned car
- 2 domestic flights
- English-speaking guide on excursions
- Activities & admission fees to sites as per the itinerary
Excluded:
- International flights
- Visa fees
- Travel insurance
- Any meals & drinks not mentioned in the itinerary
Optional:
- Speak to your local expert if there's an experience that you'd really love to include in your trip
Itinerary at a Glance
Bangkok
Welcome to Bangkok
Bangkok
Explore Bangkok
Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai
Mae Wang
Meet the elephants
Mae Wang
Mae Wang Elephant Sanctuary
Mae Wang
Farewell to the elephants
Krabi
The beaches of Krabi
Railay Beach
Down the coast to Railay Beach
Railay Beach
Adventure around Railay Beach
Koh Mook
Welcome to Koh Mook
Koh Mook
Koh Mook
Bangkok
Back to Bangkok
Bangkok
Farewell to Thailand
Detailed Itinerary
Bangkok
Day 1: Welcome to Bangkok
Welcome to Bangkok - a bustling metropolis that is a kaleidoscope of colours, sounds and smells. This ancient capital is stepped in history and has a vibrant culture like nowhere else.
We will collect you to the airport and transfer you to your accommodation in Chinatown to relax and recharge after your journey.
Bangkok
Day 2: Explore Bangkok
During your time here, your guide will show you all the must-see sights: discover where the locals go, eat as the locals do and surrounding yourselves in their culture and customs. Temples, markets, canals, street food - you'll leave Bangkok with a true understanding of how Thailand operates.
Your guided tour of the city will take in the lesser-known and fascinating back streets of Chinatown to experience the 'real' Bangkok. You'll see stunning temples, the newly reinvigorated canal area, the River of Kings, small street markets and so much more. Revel in the bustling street atmosphere perfumed by the sweet and sour smells pouring from the vendors' stalls and soak in this frenetic way of life.
Chiang Mai
Day 3: Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai is a genuine highlight of Thailand.
The city's quaint coffee-shop culture, tree-lined avenues, and laid-back lifestyle draws millions of travellers each year. Today, we show you around the walled old town, stop at Doi Suthep Mountain, and introduce elements of the unique mixture of Thai, Laotian and Burmese culture that intermingle here.
In the evening, we head to the Night Bazaar for dinner and to visit the local artisans who display their unique and handmade crafts for sale.
Mae Wang
Day 4: Meet the elephants
After taking the overnight train in luxurious double bunk comfort that is its own experience, you will arrive to Mae Wang where rehabilitated elephants can live in safety and sustainable environments.
Mae Wang is a beautiful sanctuary and you will want to relax and get situated so you have full energy to meet your soon-to-be new friends.
Mae Wang
Day 5: Mae Wang Elephant Sanctuary
Today you will have the chance to get to know the true stars of Thailand - the elephants.
The rescued and rehabilitated elephants of Mae Wang are carefully looked after, so you can join the daily on-site activities safely in the knowledge that our interractions are ethical and humane. We do not in any way support elephant riding or the forcing of elephants to "put on a show" for visitors. However you will have the opportunity to get up close to these wonderful animals in a safe and responsible way - for both you and the elephants.
Mae Wang
Day 6: Farewell to the elephants
Today is your last day at the elephant sanctuary so make the most of your time here.
Our team have worked with captive and rescued elephants for almost two decades. We are considered amongst the top operators of interactions with these wonderful animals, so please know that your time here has nothing but a positive impace on the lives and futures of the elephants.
Krabi
Day 7: The beaches of Krabi
Are you ready for fun and sun on the gorgeous coastal town of Krabi? Today, we catch a short flight south to the stunning seaside where a private pickup will transfer us from the airport to the luxurious Ao Nang Dugong Hotel. After checking in at the hotel, the afternoon is yours to spend as you please with plenty to explore, experience and enjoy.
Ao Nang Beach, just a short walk from the hotel, is a postcard worthy paradise and perfect for a stroll under the palm tree lined boardwalk. The boardwalk is also lined with lovely shops, restaurants, and cafes to explore - plus, fabulous spa selections for some R&R.
Railay Beach
Day 8: Down the coast to Railay Beach
After your evening in Krabi, we head just down the coast to remarkable Railay Beach.
Here, you will be surrounded by teal green water, pristine beaches, and towering limestone peaks. As Railay Beach is located on a peninsula, this stunning area is only accessible by boat - further adding to the allure!
For your first day here, enjoy a guided tour of Railay Beach and the surrounding beachside jungle.
Railay Beach
Day 9: Adventure around Railay Beach
Today is a day of adventure.
For half the day, you will enjoy a rock climbing trip before you enjoy a guided kayak tour along the Andaman coast in the afternoon.
finish off this incredible day by watching the sunset with a cold drink from the beautiful Avatar Railay Hotel.
Koh Mook
Day 10: Welcome to Koh Mook
From the tourism-centric island of Phuket, we head further south to the quiet and hugely underdeveloped island of Koh Mook. Here, the fishing and farming industries play the most important role as these are the two main sources of income for the local community.
Tourism has yet to make a big impact on Koh Mook. The way of life is very relaxed, the people are genuinely inquisitive of visitors, and warmly welcoming.
During our time here, you'll learn about the lives of the locals, which is an amiable and fascinating mixture of Buddhist and Muslim cultures.
Koh Mook
Day 11: Koh Mook
During your two days at Koh Mook you can enjoy activities alongside just relaxing and taking in the area.
These include a cooking lesson on how to whip up the local delicacies, and also a boat trip to visit the magical Emerald Cave where you can soak in the teal green seas and take in the stunning views.
The only way on and off Koh Mook is by ferry, adding to the mystique of this tropical paradise. There are no cars here, only motorcycles with side cars and bicycles. Many liken the area to destinations such as Koh Samui and Phuket around 30 years ago - something to be treasured before too many travellers get wind of this picture perfect spot!
Bangkok
Day 12: Back to Bangkok
From Koh Mook, we head back north to where it all began in bustling Bangkok. The flight from Trang to Bangkok takes around 2 hours with a quick transfer back to the W22 hotel in Chinatown.
Once checked-in, you can freshen up before heading out for a final feast in a very popular local restaurant. Here you can reminisce on your adventure through Thailand, and if you wish to carry on the night, your guide will be happy to show you a few popular bars, pubs and markets where you can dance the night away.
Bangkok
Day 13: Farewell to Thailand
Sadly it's time to say goodbye to Thailand. We will collect you from your hotel and transfer you to the airport, or wherever you need to be for your onward travels. We hope to welcome you back soon!
