The Ao Luek Hidden Safari promises an unforgettable adventure in southern Thailand’s stunning landscapes. This 8-hour tour combines thrilling activities like bamboo rafting and exploring the Tha Pom Mangrove Area with a visit to an elephant sanctuary. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply seeking an immersive experience, this excursion offers a unique opportunity to connect with the region’s remarkable wildlife and natural beauty. With delicious Thai cuisine and an English-speaking guide, the Ao Luek Hidden Safari is a must-consider for your upcoming travel plans.
Key Points
- An 8-hour adventure exploring southern Thailand’s natural landscapes, including bamboo rafting, mangrove exploration, and an elephant sanctuary experience.
- Priced from $103.07 per person with a maximum of 8 participants, and includes lunch, transfers, an English-speaking guide, and insurance.
- Highlights include 40 minutes of bamboo rafting, 40 minutes of exploration at the Tha Pom Mangrove Area, and an immersive experience at an elephant sanctuary.
- Participants can enjoy a mud spa and bathing with elephants, as well as observe their behavior and learn about conservation efforts.
- Not suitable for individuals with back problems, non-swimmers, or those over 95 years old.
Tour Overview
The Ao Luek Hidden Safari is an 8-hour adventure that takes visitors on a journey through the stunning natural landscapes of southern Thailand.
Enjoy the stunning natural landscapes of southern Thailand with an 8-hour adventure through the Ao Luek Hidden Safari.
Priced from $103.07 per person, the tour is limited to just 8 participants, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.
Highlights include 40 minutes of bamboo rafting, a visit to the Tha Pom Mangrove Area, and an elephant sanctuary experience with a mud spa and bathing.
Lunch featuring Thai cuisine is included, as well as round-trip transfers, an English-speaking guide, and insurance.
The tour isn’t suitable for those with back problems, non-swimmers, or individuals over 95 years old.
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Itinerary Highlights
After pickup from either Ao Nang Beach or McDonald’s, the tour begins with 40 minutes of bamboo rafting on the crystal-clear waters.
Guests then visit the Tha Pom Mangrove Area for 40 minutes of scenic boardwalk exploration.
The highlight is the elephant sanctuary, where participants can connect with the elephants and enjoy a mud spa and bathing experience.
Lunch, featuring Thai cuisine and refreshments, is served for 45 minutes.
The tour ends with drop-off at either McDonald’s or Ao Nang Beach.
Bamboo Rafting Experience
Guests embark on a 40-minute bamboo rafting adventure, gliding along the crystal-clear waters in this serene and intimate setting.
The gentle current carries the raft through the lush mangrove forests, where they can observe the diverse flora and fauna. The experienced guide shares insights about the local ecosystem and points out interesting wildlife.
Guests have the opportunity to fully enjoy the tranquil atmosphere, disconnecting from the outside world.
This peaceful bamboo rafting experience allows visitors to witness the natural beauty of the Tha Pom mangrove area up close.
Tha Pom Mangrove Exploration
Following the bamboo rafting adventure, visitors explore the captivating Tha Pom mangrove area. They marvel at the lush, verdant landscape and the crystal-clear waters that wind through the boardwalk.
Guides point out the diverse flora and fauna, from towering mangrove trees to vibrant bird species. Guests have 40 minutes to wander, snap photos, and enjoy the serene natural setting.
The boardwalk offers easy access, allowing visitors to experience the mangroves safely and comfortably. This tranquil interlude provides a welcome respite before the next exciting activity – the elephant sanctuary visit.
More Great Tours NearbyElephant Sanctuary Visit
Next, visitors are treated to an immersive experience at a local elephant sanctuary. Here, they can:
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Participate in the elephants’ bathing ritual, scrubbing their massive bodies with bamboo brushes
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Indulge in a relaxing mud spa, coating the elephants in therapeutic clay
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Observe the gentle giants up close, learning about their behavior and conservation efforts
The elephant visit offers a chance to connect with these magnificent creatures and appreciate the importance of protecting their habitats.
It’s a memorable highlight of the Ao Luek Hidden Safari tour.
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Lunch and Refreshments
After exploring the elephant sanctuary, visitors are served a delightful Thai-style lunch. The meal includes a variety of local dishes and refreshments. Guests can enjoy the flavors of Thailand while taking a break from the day’s activities.
| Dish | Description | Beverage |
| — | — | — |
| Pad Thai | Stir-fried rice noodles with shrimp, peanuts, and vegetables | Chilled bottled water |
| Massaman Curry | Creamy coconut curry with potatoes, onions, and tender chicken | Freshly brewed Thai iced tea |
| Sticky Rice with Mango | Sweet sticky rice topped with fresh mango and coconut milk | Pineapple juice |
This nourishing lunch provides the energy needed to continue exploring the natural wonders of the Ao Luek region.
Inclusions and Exclusions
The Ao Luek Hidden Safari tour includes a comprehensive package that covers round-trip transfers, an English-speaking guide, a Thai-style lunch, insurance, fresh fruit and drinks, as well as all necessary entrance fees.
However, the tour excludes:
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Personal expenses
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Activities not mentioned in the itinerary
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Individuals with back problems, non-swimmers, or those over 95 years
It’s important to come prepared with the right attire and equipment, and to follow the rules regarding smoking, alcohol, drugs, and littering during the tour.
Important Considerations
Three important considerations for the Ao Luek Hidden Safari tour are the necessary preparations, rules and regulations, and guide coordination.
Participants should pack appropriate attire like a hat, swimwear, and comfortable clothes. Sunscreen, insect repellent, and a towel are also recommended.
Pack appropriate attire like a hat, swimwear, and comfortable clothes. Sunscreen, insect repellent, and a towel are also recommended.
No smoking, alcohol, or littering is allowed during the tour.
To ensure smooth coordination, guests are advised to provide their contact information for the guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Book the Tour for a Private Group?
Yes, you can book the Ao Luek Hidden Safari tour for a private group. The tour operator allows for private group bookings, with a maximum group size of 8 participants, providing a more personalized and exclusive experience.
Is There Any Age Restriction for the Elephant Sanctuary Visit?
The tour isn’t suitable for individuals over 95 years old. There’s no specific age restriction for the elephant sanctuary visit, but the activity may not be appropriate for very young children or those with mobility issues.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
There’s no option to extend the tour duration, which is fixed at 8 hours. The tour’s itinerary and inclusions are designed as is, so the duration can’t be lengthened. Participants should plan accordingly based on the provided schedule.
Can I Customize the Itinerary Based on My Preferences?
Yes, the tour can be customized based on the traveler’s preferences. Customers can discuss any special requests or changes to the standard itinerary with the tour operator. Flexibility is offered to ensure a personalized experience.
Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment for the Bamboo Rafting?
No special equipment is needed for the bamboo rafting activity. Participants should wear comfortable, water-friendly clothing and bring a towel. The tour operator will provide all necessary gear and safety equipment for the rafting portion of the excursion.
The Sum Up
The Ao Luek Hidden Safari offers an exceptional opportunity to take in the stunning landscapes of southern Thailand. This 8-hour adventure combines thrilling activities like bamboo rafting and wildlife encounters at an elephant sanctuary, providing a unique and memorable experience for nature enthusiasts. With round-trip transfers, a delicious Thai lunch, and an English-speaking guide included, this tour is a well-rounded and value-packed excursion.
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