Nature Lover's 7-day Itinerary for Thailand in September 2023

1. Day 1: Khao Yai National Park
   2 hours 19 minutes (99 miles) from Bangkok

   Begin your nature adventure with a guided wildlife tour at Khao Yai National Park. Spend your afternoon exploring the Haew Suwat Waterfall, and end your day with a sunset hike to the top of Nong Pak Chee.

2. Day 2: Doi Inthanon National Park
   1 hour 50 minutes (41 miles) from Chiang Mai

   Marvel at the picturesque views of the highest peak in Thailand at Doi Inthanon National Park. Enjoy the morning wandering through the stunning rice paddies, and visit the stunning Wachirathan Waterfall during the afternoon. End your day by watching the sunset at Mae Ya Waterfall.

3. Day 3: Erawan National Park
   2 hours 57 minutes (132 miles) from Doi Inthanon National Park

   Start your day with a refreshing swim in the turquoise waters of Erawan Falls. After lunch, hike to the top of the seven-tiered waterfall and witness the scenic view of the surrounding forest. End your day with a boat ride on the Khwae Yai River surrounded by lush greenery.

4. Day 4: Khao Sok National Park
   4 hours 5 minutes (142 miles) from Erawan National Park

   Explore the Cheow Lan Lake by boat and witness breathtaking limestone cliffs and emerald water. In the afternoon, trek through the Khao Sok National Park, home to wild elephants, tigers, and gibbons, while enjoying the stunning views of the majestic limestone mountains. End your day with a relaxing dip in the hot springs of Ratchaprapa Dam.

5. Day 5: Koh Phi Phi Don
   2 hours 13 minutes (45 miles) from Khao Sok National Park

   Take a speedboat to Koh Phi Phi Don, an idyllic island filled with stunning beaches, crystal clear water and cliffs. Begin your day with snorkeling on Maya Bay, where Leonardo DiCaprio's 'The Beach' was filmed. In the afternoon, hike to the viewpoint for a mesmerizing bird's eye view of the island. End your day with a sunset dinner on the beach.

6. Day 6: Koh Samui
   1 hour 10 minutes (32 miles) from Koh Phi Phi Don

   Visit the Ang Thong National Marine Park, a gorgeous archipelago of 42 islands in the Gulf of Thailand. Snorkel in the clear blue waters or hike to the top of the island for a spectacular view of the surrounding islands. In the evening, witness the stunning Samui Sunset at the stunning Secret Buddha Garden.

7. Day 7: Khao Lak
   1 hour 43 minutes (48 miles) from Koh Samui

   End your nature adventure with a visit to the Lam Ru National Park in Khao Lak, home to the stunning Ton Chong Fa Waterfall. After a morning dip, head to White Sand Beach which is known for its fine sand and crystal clear waters. In the evening, relax and unwind at the Khao Lak-Lam Ru National Park, where you can witness Thailand's amazing bio-diversity.

Recommendations

For an off-the-beaten-path experience, try the Khlong Saeng Wildlife Sanctuary. Consider taking a day trip to the Sukhothai Historical Park or the Chiang Rai for a cultural experience. Don't forget to try the local cuisine and street food, and consider booking a Thai massage to relax after your nature-filled days.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Khao Yai National Park entrance fee (1 day, ฿400)
• Doi Inthanon National Park entrance fee (1 day, ฿300)
• Erawan National Park entrance fee (1 day, ฿300)
• Khao Sok National Park entrance fee (1 day, ฿300)
• Speedboat to Koh Phi Phi Don (1 day, ฿1,500)
• Ang Thong National Marine Park entrance fee (1 day, ฿300)
• Lam Ru National Park entrance fee (1 day, ฿200)
• Total Estimated Costs (per person): ฿3,500

For hotel and flight prices, you can check here.