Background
Koh Tarutao, a national park on the south west coast of Thailand is home to a striking array of marine and coastal wildlife. With its tropical evergreen forests, sandy beaches and extensive mangroves, Tarutao island offers a wealth of opportunity for the inquisitive traveler. The islands´ forests hold numerous species of mammals, birds and reptiles which may be seen on either a nature trek or a kayaking trip. During high season, four species of sea turtle nest within the park, and macaques, langur, kingfishers, hornbills, pythons and water monitors are all fairly common residents (however, sightings cannot be predicted). In contrast to its natural beauty, Koh Tarutao was once a prison for hundreds of Thailand´s political prisoners.
Itinerary
Each day changes according to the tides, but this is a typical itinerary.
Day 1
You will be picked up at your hotel for the departure by public ferry for Tarutao (1.5hr trip). Lunch at National Park restaurant. Paddle along the west coast of the island.
Overnight in the national park. Meals included : Lunch & Dinner
Day 2
After breakfast, you will start a kayak trip in some of the islands dense mangrove swamps and have the chance to explore a number of caves. It is highly likely that you will see a range of wildlife here, but no guarantees. After a packed lunch, you continue paddling until sunset, when you return to the park HQ.
Overnight in the national park.Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 3
Set out on an early morning nature walk before departing for coastal paddling and snorkeling on a reef at Koh Lepe. After a sunset paddle, its time for dinner
Overnight in Koh Lepe. Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 4
Today, you take a motorboat to Koh Rawi for more coastal paddling and clear water reef snorkeling. After a packed lunch, continue the paddle and depart for Koh Lepe where you will have dinner.
Overnight in Koh Lepe. Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 5
After breakfast, depart for coastal paddling and snorkeling at Koh Adang. After lunch, more paddling before returning to Koh Lepe for overnight.
Overnight in Koh Lepe. Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 6
Depart to Pak Bara. If you have time, you will paddle in fresh water caves. Transfer back to Had Yai airport or Trang airport or come back to Phuket with your kayak guide by road.
Meals included: Breakfast & Lunch
Price Includes
- Expert English-speaking kayaking guide
- All kayaking equipment
- Meals as indicated
- Transfer as listed on the itinerary including fuel
- Park entrance fees
- Travel Insurance
Price Excludes
- Personal Expenses
- Tips
- Internet access
- Alcoholics
Things to bring
- Light walking boots or sports shoes
- Camera and binoculars
- Long trousers and long-sleeved shirt for walking in the forest
- Mosquito repellent, Sun hat and Sun cream
- Notes
- The tour is on private basis( No other participants will join you)
- Can be arranged on any of your requested date (Flexible departure)
- Children of 4-12 yrs old go at 50% discount , Children under 4 yrs free-of-charge
- This is a sample itinerary, and the routes and timing may change according to local conditions, but the general content of the trip will remain the same