Experience Overview
The road is laid out before you on this cycling adventure through Southern Thailand. Beginning in Bangkok with an overnight train, the route sweeps south to the deeply green prehistoric scenery that lies across the map – stunning ancient forests and limestone peaks that were formed hundreds of millions of years ago. Pass emerald waters where tiny islands of exquisite pale rock break the surface, cruising along palm-fringed routes lined with friendly locals. Pedal along undulating roads to unforgettable Khao Sok National Park, walk along dirt trails in search of wildlife, and freewheel down the Andaman Coast to relax on its powdered coastline. Ride inland to Phang Nga Bay and finish up in the classic beachside town of Ao Nang. This active nine-day journey gives a unique look at this fascinating part of the country.
Highlights
- Escape the chaotic Bangkok traffic with a cycling tour that gets you behind the tourist mask and into the heart and soul of Thailand's south
- Ride through a sea of greenery as a constant companion, then wind down on the famous sandy shores and azure waters of Thailand’s west coast
- There’s no need for artificial sports drinks here – rehydrate with fresh coconut and fruit juices straight from the plant
- Dive into the nature lover’s paradise of ancient Khao Sok National Park, then fall asleep to the sounds of the jungle in a riverside bungalow
- Witness the towering, pale limestone islands that break the surface of Phang Nga bay with an included boat cruise across these incredible waters
Trip Details
Product Code: 2796
Tour Type: Small Group
Accommodation: Moderate
Transport: Bicycle (e-bike option available,subject to availability),Support vehicle,Train,Boat
Guide Language: English
Tour Operator: Intrepid Travel
Supplier Code: TTXB
Starts: Bangkok, Thailand
Finishes: Krabi/Ao Nang, Thailand
Duration: 9 days
Departures: Guaranteed
Physical Rating: Average
Includes
Meals: Breakfasts (8),Accommodation: Hotel (5 nights),bungalow (2 nights),overnight train (1 night)
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD $1,440 ($160 /day)
Itinerary
Sa-wat dee! Welcome to Thailand. Thailand's bustling capital is famous for its tuk tuks, khlong boats and street vendors serving up delicious Thai food. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm. Please look for a note in the hotel lobby or ask the hotel reception where it will take place, and have your insurance details and next of kin information ready for collection. Bangkok has so much to offer those with time to explore, so perhaps arrive a day or so early and take a riverboat to Chinatown, uncover the magnificent Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, wander down the tourist mecca of Khao San Road, or indulge in some Thai massage. Take a longtail boat down the Chao Phraya River and explore the famous 'khlongs' (canals) – life along these canals seems a world away from the chaotic streets of the capital. After the meeting tonight, perhaps gather your fellow travellers and tuck into some world-famous street food.
Riding distance: none
Included Activities:
- Expert Cycling Guide and Support Vehicle
- 7 day Bicycle hire
Optional Activities:
- Bangkok - Wat Pho (300 THB)
- Bangkok - Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn) (200 THB)
- Bangkok - Grand Palace (500 THB)
- Bangkok - Jim Thompson's House (200 THB)
- Bangkok - Chatuchak Market visit (Entrance) - Free
- Wat Traimit - Temple of Golden Buddha (200 THB)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Take to the streets of Bangkok by bike and explore the backstreets, alleyways and canals on a guided cycling tour. Get away from the tourist areas and into the heart and soul of this lively city. The quietness of these areas often contrasts with the chaos this metropolis is known for. You're sure to see numerous wats along the way, and travelling around by bike allows you to move through the city quite easily and at a relaxed pace. Today’s total distance cycled is around 20 kilometres. After your ride there will be ample time to get cleaned up and shop for any last-minute supplies or souvenirs before boarding an overnight train southbound for Surat Thani (approximately 13 hours).
Notes: Sleeper trains are clean and air-conditioned, and beds are multi-share compartments. Sheets, a pillow and blanket are provided (although some people prefer to bring their own sleeping sheet). Please note that you may be sharing compartments with locals of the same or opposite gender. Your baggage will travel in the carriage with you. There's also a food and drink service available on board.
Included Activities:
- Bangkok Guided cycling tour
Accommodation:
- Overnight sleeper train (Number of Nights: 1)
Arrive in Surat Thani this morning. Avoid the busy traffic by driving 35 kilometres through small villages and palm-tree-lined roads before climbing onto your bike. The real scenic highlight of this area will then come into view – stunning limestone karsts. Formed over 260 million years ago, these karsts were once part of a prehistoric underwater reef that stretched all the way up to Vietnam and will be your constant companion for the next few days. With an average height of 400 metres and rising all the way up to almost a kilometre, they are impossible to ignore. Heading west, cycle through a sea of greenery towards the Ratchaprapha Dam (approximately 40 kilometres). Reminiscent of Guilin in China, and like the freshwater version of Phang Nga’s famous limestone peaks, this is a reservoir where hundreds of tiny islands of exquisite pale rock jut out of emerald water. After lunch on the shores of the dam, we travel by vehicle to Khao Sok National Park, and fall asleep to a chorus of crickets and cicadas as a lullaby.
Included Activities:
- Ratchaprapha Dam guided & vehicle supported cycling
Accommodation:
- Riverside Bungalow (Number of Nights: 1)
Established as Thailand’s 22nd national park in 1980, Khao Sok is home to the oldest evergreen rainforest in the world, deep valleys, the beautiful Cheow Larn Lake, numerous caves, and a significant wild animal population. This nature lover's paradise includes elephants, exotic Hornbills, water-loving Langur Monkeys and even the occasional tiger deep inside the park. The flora is also top-notch, with the rare Rafflesia Kerri, one of the world’s largest flowers, only found here. Here you’ll have free time to walk along the dirt trails that snake through the quiet park, looking out for wildlife as you head for rivers and waterfalls where you might enjoy a cooling dip. If you are feeling like more cycling have a chat to your tour leader about the many options on the local tracks - our cycling experts will be happy to point you in the right direction (or maybe even join you). Spend the night amid the ancient gnarled rainforest trees in a riverside bungalow.
Included Activities:
- Khao Sok National Park
Optional Activities:
- Khao Sok National Park Hiking - Free
- Khao Sok - Cheow Lan Lake tour (1900 THB)
- Khao Sok NP - Canoeing (800 THB)
- Khao Sok National Park – Waterfall Hike - Free
- Khao Sok optional (unguided) cycling - Free
Accommodation:
- Riverside Bungalow (Number of Nights: 1)
Begin the day in the support vehicle, leaving the verdant forests and hills behind with a drive west from Khao Sok to the nearby town of Takua Pa (approximately 40 kilometres). Then jump back on the bike again to begin the day of cycling, travelling across relatively flat terrain through the interior. Pass numerous flowing rivers, palm-fringed roads and smiling local children, then make your way down to the Andaman Coast. Here you’ll run parallel to the sublime Andaman Sea before arriving at your home for the next two nights – the laid-back beach town of Khao Lak (approximately 42 kilometres). Famous for the likes of Memories Beach, Bang Niang Beach and the aptly-named White Sand Beach, Khao Lak is one Thailand’s quieter beach destinations and a great place to unwind after a long but enjoyable day in the saddle.
Included Activities:
- Takua Pa to Khao Lak guided & vehicle supported cycling
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Today is a free day to enjoy the beautiful surrounds of the Andaman Coast. For a sobering insight into the area’s recent history, perhaps visit the International Tsunami Museum, a reminder of the 2004 tragedy. Here there is a memorial to the 3000 people who died in the area. There are numerous beaches to chill out on, waterfalls (like Ton Chong Fa) to swim in, fishing trips to take, and if you're feeling active, bike routes to cycle or underwater worlds to explore by scuba or snorkel. For something different, perhaps hone your culinary skills with a Thai cooking class. There is as much, or as little, to do here as you like.
Optional Activities:
- Khao Lak - Lam Ru National Park & Ton Chong Fa WaterFall (200 THB)
- Khao Lak - Pa-Kin-Na-Ka Thai Cooking Class (2000 THB)
- Khao Lak optional (unguided) cycling - Free
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Leave the coast and head inland today, cycling eastwards through rolling hills past forests orchards, and rubber plantations to Phang Nga. This town sits at the end of the tributaries that empty into the bay of the same name (approximately 52 kilometres). Known for its relaxed atmosphere, cheap and authentic food, and some spectacular sights, Phang Nga is the perfect place to taste Southern Thailand. As reflected in the local food, Phang Nga has a diverse culture, with Buddhist temples, mosques, and Taoist Chinese shrines all found within walking distance of one another. After a relaxing lunch you’ll take a boat on the Phang-Nga Bay, where limestone rocks famously erupt out of the water, creating what is, for many, the iconic image of Thailand. You’ll stop by the famous James Bond Island, immortalised in the movie 'The Man With the Golden Gun', and Koh Panyee, an extraordinary Muslim fishing village built over water on stilts, with its own mosque and even a floating football pitch.
Included Activities:
- Phang Nga - Longtail Boat to James Bond Island
- Phang Nga National Marine Park
- Khao Lak to Phang Nga guided & vehicle supported cycling
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
The final day on the bike begins with a 45-kilometre transfer in the support vehicle. Then it’s on to your two-wheeled friend for a 50-kilometre ride through beautiful inland landscapes and down the coast to the classic Thai beachside town of Ao Nang. After so much time spent moving at a slow pace, Ao Nang comes as a welcome change, with its lively atmosphere, shops that light up the sidewalk, and an enormous selection of food and drink on every corner. While the front beach here is good, the spectacular nearby shores of Tonsai, Railay, Ko Hong, Ko Poda and Ko Gai are true highlights and easily reachable as a day trip. Further afield there’s easy boat access to the islands of Ko Phi Phi and Phuket. If you’ve had enough of the beach, perhaps go rock climbing. Whether you're a novice or a pro, looking down on the jungle and ocean from a limestone cliff face is unforgettable. Meet up again in the evening to say goodbye to your biking crew, then perhaps enjoy a final night dinner with the group.
Included Activities:
- Phang Nga to Ao Nang (Krabi) guided & vehicle supported cycling
Optional Activities:
- Tharn Bokoranee National Park (300 THB)
- Ao Nang - Thai Massage (300 THB)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Your cycling adventure comes to an end today. There are no activities planned and you are free to leave at any time, or perhaps extend our stay in this idyllic beachside town.
Optional Activities:
- Ao Nang - Hot springs & Emerald lagoon tour (1600 THB)
- Ao Nang - Cooking class (1200 THB)
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Tour Operator
Intrepid Travel
Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.
In Business Since 1989
Reviews
Percy - Traveled, March 2024
Our tour leader turned this trip into an amazing trip. Issy and her crew took great care of us. The sites were wonderful.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/29/2024
Mandy - Traveled, March 2024
This trip was an amazing. Our tour leader Issy was brilliant. If you like rolling hills this is the trip for you. A good insight to southern Thailand with a mix of cycling and days off.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/05/2024
Erin - Traveled, March 2024
This was my first Intrepid trip and I loved it. Our guide was an awesome pocket-rocket who made the trip an excellent experience.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/25/2024
Molly - Traveled, March 2024
The Cycle Southern Thailand is a perfect way to see the rainforest and beaches of this beautiful country at a relaxed pace. With plenty of stops along the way you will have plenty of time for easy pedalling to make the most of the sights, smells & sounds around you.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/26/2024
Gary - Traveled, March 2024
Never been east before so loved this trip meeting great people and Intrepid staff and fell in love with Thai people before leaving Bangkok to start the journey.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/08/2024
Aoife - Traveled, February 2024
This was the first of what I hope to be many future intrepid trips. Fabulous guide, excellent accommodation, beautiful scenic routes, lovely group. 5 stars
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/07/2024
Mark - Traveled, February 2023
This trip had more inclusions and better accommodation and I had anticipated and as the temperatures were so warm, the 50 km max per day was perfect for the overall group. Accommodation, rest stops, snacks and leadership was excellent.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/07/2024
Anne - Traveled, February 2024
If you are a bicycle rider with an average fitness level this is a great way to see some of Southern Thailand beaches and National Parks. Transport, itinerary, accommodation, overnight train and included meals exceeded expectations. Our Leader Rit, the bike mechanic & vehicle drivers were outstanding- looked after us so well and did extra little things for us. Highly recommend ( we had a group of 16 people who got on extremely well and made the trip even more enjoyable)
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/05/2024
Angela - Traveled, February 2024
My husband, and I thoroughly enjoyed the Intrepid cycling trip in southern Thailand. The length of the daily cycle rides was perfect, considering the daily temperatures. The other excursions to waterfalls and waterholes were perfect, particularly to cool off in the heat. We would thoroughly recommend this trip, or any other Intrepid trips, as we have done two previous trips with this company, which were equally good.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/07/2024
Carrie - Traveled, December 2023
It was a fantastic, safe and very well organized bike trip in Southern Thailand. Loved it.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/04/2024
Angela - Traveled, December 2023
The cycle Southern Thailand tour was excellent. It was incredibly well organised and the cycling distances and difficulty level would be achievable for most people. Our guide Seen made the tour a lot of fun whilst being patient and thoughtful throughout the experience.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/21/2023
Dave - Traveled, December 2023
A beautiful experience of Thailand! Our brilliant tour leader shared local insights about the places we visited, the food and generally life in Thailand. The cycling was organised masterfully, ensuring safety and facilitating smooth transitions at both ends of each ride. Accomodation was very comfortable and the food incredible!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/21/2023
Lindel - Traveled, December 2023
I so enjoyed this trip - an authentic and exciting experience in every way. I saw so many facets of beautiful Thailand and Thai culture, always secure in the knowledge that our guide and support team had my back!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/21/2023
Mantas - Traveled, December 2023
Intrepid is great place to book your holidays, if you would like it to be well planned, safe, educating and exciting. Thailand Southern Cycling trip is recommended to everyone. All ages and all fitness level. They do great job making sure everyone fits in.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/21/2023
Gemma - Traveled, December 2023
Loved the Thailand cycling trip. Our guide was amazing, the scenery stunning, the cycling itinerary was fun & not too taxing in the tropical heat, leaving us with plenty of time to go swimming, eat fab Thai food & have massages . Blissful
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/29/2023
Michael and Sally - Traveled, November 2023
The Intrepid Southern Thailand Bike Trip is a must-do for anyone seeking a unique and memorable travel experience. Whether you're an avid cyclist or novice like we were and just looking for a different way to explore the beauty of Southern Thailand, this trip offered a perfect mix of adventure, culture, and fun. We can wholeheartedly say that it was an enriching journey that left us with lasting memories, international friendships and a deep appreciation for the wonders of this stunning region.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/02/2023
Timothy - Traveled, December 2022
Excellent guide. Delicious food. Lovely country. Fun trip
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/17/2023
Hana - Traveled, December 2022
One of the best holidays of my life! The trip was exciting and well organized. Leader Nut Subkhet was informative, knowledgeable and fun. The whole team was taking care of us to an extend that far exceeded our expectations. We felt safe and well taken care off while given space to discover our surroundings on our own. The itinerary was well balanced and exciting. Amazing food, amazing people! I would highly recommend this trip and similar ones to anyone. I will definitely continue discovering new destinations with Intrepid!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/24/2022
Malcolm - Traveled, August 2022
This is a fantastic way to see and experience Thailand.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/03/2022
Jill - Traveled, August 2022
We have just returned from Cycling Southern Thailand. It was an amazing trip. Rit and the team made sure that we experienced the real Thailand: food, drink, culture, etc. at every opportunity. The adventure included cycling the back streets of Bangkok, an overnight train journey and trips through the jungle. Intrepid travelling for sure.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/03/2022
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