Part of the appeal of Thailand is that it caters to such a large cross-section of travellers. If you just want to chill out on a beach for a couple of weeks and the only work you want to do is on your tan, then destinations like Krabi and Phuket in southern Thailand have got you covered. But if you want to do something more active and explore some of the natural landscapes around you, those same destinations provide some excellent excursions. Wherever you choose to stay in Thailand, there are adventure tours available that can be enjoyed by people of all ages.
The following adventure tours are all bookable online with TourChoice.com
Sea Canoeing in Phang Nga Bay, near Phuket
A kayak is a wonderful way to discover some of the beautiful coastlines and little-known locations around Phuket that most tourists don’t get the opportunity to see. One of the leading companies that arranges kayaking in southern Thailand is John Gray Sea Canoes. With their slogan of “natural history by sea kayak”, their trips cover the beautiful seascape area of Phang Nga Bay close to Phuket. Paddling in a sea kayak is arguably the best way to get up close to the limestone karsts and explore the secret lagoons and hideaway beaches of this beautiful part of Thailand.
Similan Islands scuba diving live-aboard
The natural beauty of the Andaman Coast of Thailand extends to life below the waves. Often listed amongst the best dive sites in the world, the Similan Islands are a haven for dive enthusiasts. To get the most time out of your scuba diving adventure, you could opt for a live-aboard on a vessel like the MV Deep Andaman Queen which has weekly departures from Phuket.
Andaman sailing cruise Phuket to Phi Phi
For a leisurely sea adventure, a ‘sabai sabai’ four day cruise aboard a junk-rigged schooner lets you enjoy the beautiful islands around Phuket, Phang Nga and Krabi. With plenty of time on the itinerary for kayaking, snorkelling and swimming, this tour is ideal for those who want adventure with a personal touch. The cruise includes stops at a local sea gypsy village, James Bond Island and Maya Bay on Phi Phi.
River Kwai and historic Kanchanaburi
If you want to disconnect from the world and rid yourself of outside distractions, take a look at the unique River Kwai Jungle Rafts 3-day experience. Staying at this floating accommodation on the River Kwai allows visitors to fully appreciate the serene beauty of the Kanchanaburi countryside. Accommodation at the River Kwai Jungle Rafts is rustic, but comfortable. If you really can’t do without your creature comforts, more luxurious accommodation is available a ten-minute boat ride away at the The Float House River Kwai. Staying at either of these floating hotels is a great base to experience the stunning Kanchanaburi countryside and also enables you to explore the wartime history of the province.
During World War II, the Japanese military used a combination of Allied POWs (prisoners of war) and forced labour from Asian countries to construct the infamous Thailand to Burma Railway. The men working on what would become known as the ‘Death Railway’ endured brutal conditions and inhumane treatment with more than 100,000 men killed during construction. Many died from diseases including cholera, dysentery and malaria, but starvation and exhaustion also claimed thousands of lives.
The railway is still in action today running passenger trains between Bangkok and Nam Tok at the end of the line. A trip on the train, which travels over the Bridge on the River Kwai, can easily be combined with tours of Hellfire Pass and the war cemeteries to provide a poignant reminder of the ultimate sacrifice made by so many.
Experience hill-tribe culture near Chiang Mai
Originating from Tibet, the Lisu people first arrived in Thailand almost one hundred years ago settling in the mountainous regions around Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai and Mae Hong Son. The Lisu have their own unique culture and way of life and that can be experienced by visitors staying at Lisu Lodge. The lodge is fully integrated into the local community and has won awards for sustainable tourism.
Accommodation here is simple, but clean and comfortable. Lisu Lodge supports various aid projects and plays an active role in the local community. Staffed mainly by villagers, staying at Lisu Lodge provides tourists with a unique chance to experience hill-tribe culture in this scenic part of northern Thailand. Take a bicycle ride through the countryside, learn how to cook local food or just sit back in a hammock and unwind.
