5 Day Itinerary for Exploring Thailand's Natural Beauty

  • Day 1: Discovering Mu Ko Ang Thong National Marine Park
    Approximately 30 km (19 miles) from Koh Samui

    Located close to Koh Samui, Mu Ko Ang Thong National Marine Park is a must-visit natural wonder of Thailand. The park boasts over 40 islands, limestone cliffs, and crystal-clear turquoise waters ideal for snorkeling, kayaking or relaxing on a charming beach. Make sure to climb up to the 500m high viewpoint to enjoy an unrivaled panoramic view!

  • Day 2: Trekking to Erawan Falls
    Approximately 200 km (124 miles) from Mu Ko Ang Thong

    Start your day early with a drive to Erawan Falls, located in the Kanachanaburi province. Known for its seven-tier cascading waterfalls and natural emerald-green swimming pools, Erawan Falls is an ideal spot to hike, picnic, swim, and unwind in nature.

  • Day 3: Exploring Khao Sok National Park
    Approximately 293 km (182 miles) from Erawan Falls

    Khao Sok National park is an unmissable jungle experience in southern Thailand. Take a guided tour to explore the lush flora and fauna or explore the park's attractions independently. The park, home to a variety of endangered wildlife, offers several activities, such as tubing down the Sok River, bamboo rafting or exploring the mangrove forest.

  • Day 4: Visiting Chiang Mai Old City
    Approximately 216 km (134 miles) from Khao Sok National Park

    Take a flight to Chiang Mai to immerse yourself in the city's traditional charm. Set up in ancient ramparts and moats and surrounded by temples and shops, the Old City is the place to be. Take your time to stroll through its vibrant streets, visit the historic temples or taste the famous Khao Soi dish at a street-side eatery.

  • Day 5: Exploring Pai's Countryside
    Approximately 135 km (83 miles) from Chiang Mai Old City

    Set off on a morning drive to reach the charming town of Pai, nestled in the picturesque valley of the Pai River. The countryside is serene and scenic, with waterfalls, hot springs, caves, and elephant camps. Rent a motorbike to soak in the natural splendor or visit Pai's landmark temple, Wat Phra That Mae Yen for a stunning sunset view.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Mu Ko Ang Thong National Marine Park (1 full day, 1000 THB)
  • Erawan Falls (1 full day, 500 THB)
  • Khao Sok National Park (2 days, 2500 THB)
  • Chiang Mai Old City (1 full day, 1500 THB)
  • Pai (1 full day, 800 THB)

  • Total Estimated Costs: 6300 THB

Transportation

Travelers can use domestic flights to get from one destination to the other. Alternatively, busses are available at a lower price, but the journey time will be longer. Another option is to rent a car or motorbike for easy and flexible transportation around the destinations visited. Make sure to have international licenses and drive safely.

Approximate Domestic travel costs: Flights- 3000-4000 THB, Bus- 750-1500 THB, Car Rental – 1500-2500 THB per day, Motorbike Rental- 200-400 THB per day.

Useful Tips

For those who have more time, other activities/attractions can be added to the itinerary based on personal preferences. Some suggestions are white-water rafting in the Pai River, spending time at the beach at Krabi, visiting the Doi Suthep temple in Chiang Mai, or relaxing in the hot springs of Pai.

If you have less time, you can skip some of the activities or shorten the stay in one of the destinations. Domestic flights are available to cut travel time, but at an increased cost.

Airports

Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK), located 30 km (18.6 miles) from Bangkok, is Thailand's primary international airport. Don Mueang International Airport (DMK), located 25 km (15.5 miles) north of central Bangkok, primarily serves low-cost airlines. Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX) is the main gateway to Northern Thailand, with domestic and international flights. Koh Samui airport (USM) connects several destinations in Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore.

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