This day out is particularly suitable for smaller children and for adults looking for a relaxing way to see the jungle. Visitors can choose a full day trip which includes both the elephant trekking and the river canoeing, or a half day trip that includes either activity. Pickup is from Khao Sok Visitor’s Centre is at 9am, or from Khao Lak is at 8am. This combined elephant trek and canoeing daytrip is one about which we get extremely good feedback and is highly recommended. It is not only suitable for small children, many adults too will enjoy this trip.
Morning - Elephant Trekking
Elephant trekking in Khao Sok National Park is, along with elephant trekking in Phanom Bencha National Park near Ao Nang, the best ele trekking in southern Thailand, due to the pristine nature of the rainforest there. In most other destinations, elephant treks follow courses through rubber plantations, but here at Khao Sok, you get to see the primeval, virgin jungle.
Experiencing the rainforest from on high, from atop one of the world’s largest but most gentle animals, is one of the best ways to see it, and one which children in particular absolutely love. The elephant camp is a 15 minutes car ride away from Khao Sok. The elephant takes an hour to trek to the waterfall, where you can swim and relax before returning to Khao Sok. On the return car journey we stop at Mae Yai (‘mother-in-law’) waterfall and at the Khao Sok viewpoint.
Afternoon - Canoeing on the Sok River
Canoeing along Khao Sok River is a very relaxing way to see a different side of the ecology of the region. Our experienced English-speaking guide takes you on a canoe safari along the Sok River. Breathtakingly beautiful limestone karsts form the backdrop for the evergreen virgin rainforest we paddle through.
Canoeing is an ideal way to spot exotic birds such as the hornbill, and many snakes can be seen curled around the branches on trees along the Sok River. Early in the morning or late in the afternoon long tail macaque monkeys will be seen playing, bathing and begging - we don’t encourage our guests to feed them. If you would like to have a go at canoeing yourself, our guide will only be to pleased to let you do so.
Prices
In all cases, pickup and drop off at Khao Sok included. Pickup and drop off at Khao Lak THB 2,500 each way extra (per taxi).
1) Elephant Trekking
Half day's elephant trekking - THB 1,100, children less than 12 years old THB 800.
2) Canoeing
Half day's canoeing - THB 1,000, children less than 12 years old THB 800.
3) Elephant Trekking & Caneoing
Full day elephant trekking & canoeing - THB 2,100, children less than 12 years oldTHB 1,600.