From Krabi: 2-Day Cheow Lan Lake with Overnight Raft Stay

If you’re looking to escape the busy beaches of Krabi and venture into Thailand’s lush wilderness, a 2-day tour of Cheow Lan Lake might be just what you need. This experience promises a mix of scenic boat rides, wildlife spotting, cave adventures, and the novelty of sleeping on a floating raft house. Based on reviews and detailed itineraries, it offers plenty of authentic moments that appeal to nature lovers and curious travelers alike.

What we really love about this tour is the variety of activities—from canoeing and lake swims to a guided cave exploration. The overnight stay in a simple raft house adds a unique touch, letting you sleep right on the water with peaceful views of the surrounding jungle. We also appreciate the opportunity to relax and enjoy nature without the usual tourist crowds, especially with a knowledgeable guide to enhance the experience.

One possible consideration is the basic nature of accommodations and facilities; if you prefer luxury or high-end amenities, this might feel a bit rustic. Also, the schedule is quite packed, so if you’re looking for lots of leisure time, you might find the itinerary a little tight.

This tour suits travelers who want a balance of adventure and authentic Thai nature, especially those eager to see jungle scenery, caves, and wildlife in a small group setting.

Key Points

• Authentic overnight experience in a floating raft house on Cheow Lan Lake.
• Diverse activities like canoeing, swimming, and exploring caves.
• Expert guides who share local insights, making the trip educational and engaging.
• Beautiful scenery with opportunities for photography, wildlife spotting, and relaxing in nature.
• All-inclusive day program with meals, transfers, and activities.
• Rustic accommodations may not suit luxury seekers but add to the adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Introduction to the Experience

This 2-day tour from Krabi offers a chance to see Thailand’s Khao Sok National Park from a different perspective—on the water, surrounded by jungle, and in a simple yet charming raft house. You get to leave behind the crowds and learn about some of the country’s most stunning natural landscapes, with a mix of guided activities and free time to soak in the peaceful environment.

We liked that it’s a small-group experience (limited to 9 people), which tends to mean more personalized attention and a less hurried pace. The tour’s highlights include a scenic boat ride into Cheow Lan Lake, a night in a floating raft, and an exciting journey into Pra Kay Petch Cave. All these elements combine to make a well-rounded adventure perfect for those seeking genuine encounters with nature.

A word of warning: this trip involves basic accommodations, including shared bathrooms and simple fan rooms. If you’ve got high expectations for luxury, this could be a drawback. Still, for many, the authentic, rustic charm outweighs the inconvenience.

Deep Dive into the Itinerary

Day 1: From Krabi to Cheow Lan Lake

The journey begins with a pickup from your hotel in Krabi—whether you’re in Ao Nang, Khlong Muang, or Krabi Town. The minivan ride is about 4 hours and takes you through scenic parts of Phang Nga Province, where you’ll pass rubber plantations, limestone hills, and local villages. The stop at Tha Pom Klong Song Nam is a highlight—here, you walk along a natural trail beside a freshwater stream, giving you a taste of the region’s lush environment.

Next, you’ll visit the scenic suspension bridge of Khao Theppithak, offering panoramic views of the river and mountains. This stop is perfect for snapping photos and stretching your legs. After a traditional Thai lunch at a jungle hut near the Khao Sok River, the adventure continues with a boat trip from Ratchaprapha Dam to your floating accommodations on Cheow Lan Lake.

Arriving at the Lake

The boat cruise to the raft houses takes about 45 minutes, during which you’ll admire spectacular vistas of limestone formations and dense jungle. Once you arrive, you’ll have time to swim in the lake and explore the surroundings by canoe, observing the forest and birdlife. The reviews highlight the opportunity for wildlife encounters, with hornbills and other birds often seen around the water’s edge.

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The Night on the Raft House

Sleeping on a raft house is a distinctive feature—simple and functional, with fans and shared bathrooms. The experience is about being close to nature, listening to the sounds of the jungle at night, and waking up to misty mornings on the lake. Reviewers mention that the guides are knowledgeable, sharing stories about the local flora and fauna, enhancing the authenticity of the stay.

Evening Safari & Wildlife Watching

As night falls, a longtail boat safari offers a chance to spot nocturnal creatures and enjoy the tranquil evening ambiance. Many travelers report seeing hornbills and other bird species during these excursions. Dinner is served at the raft house’s restaurant, typically featuring local flavors.

The Next Day: Cave Exploration & Return Journey

Early Morning Lake Tour

The next morning, you’ll wake early to experience the lake in calm early light—an ideal moment for peaceful photos and appreciating the silence. After breakfast, the real adventure kicks off with a visit to Pra Kay Petch Cave (Diamond Cave). The guide explains the area’s ecological and cultural significance, adding depth to the experience.

Cave Hiking & Water Adventure

Prepare to get wet—this part involves navigating through water-filled passages. The tour includes a walk through the cave, pointing out stalagmites and stalactites, and a river swim if conditions allow. Reviewers particularly enjoyed this part, noting how cool and different it feels to explore inside the mountain.

The Sum Up with Lunch & Return

After the cave exploration, you’ll enjoy a hearty lunch before heading back by boat and road to Krabi. The transfer takes approximately 4-5 hours, with a drop-off around 5 p.m., wrapping up the adventure.

Transportation & Group Size

The entire experience is conducted in a shared minivan, ensuring comfort without the crowds of larger tours. Small-group size (up to 9 participants) helps create a more intimate and relaxed atmosphere, allowing guides to focus on individual needs and questions.

Value for Money & Practical Tips

Considering the included activities—boat rides, cave exploration, canoeing, overnight stay, meals, and transfers—the tour offers a solid value for those wanting an immersive experience. It’s especially suitable for travelers who prioritize authentic encounters over luxury comfort.

What to bring? Pack comfortable shoes, a sun hat, insect repellent, a towel, camera, and cash for extras. Note that facilities are basic, and accommodations are simple but clean.

A tip: The guide’s insights are a highlight—many reviewers praise their knowledge, making the trip both fun and educational. Be prepared for a rustic experience and a schedule that’s packed but rewarding.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This tour delivers a genuine look at Thailand’s wild side, perfect for nature enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and those eager for a break from the beach scene. The overnight raft stay adds a layer of authenticity and tranquility that’s hard to find elsewhere. It’s a chance to connect with nature, see incredible landscapes, and learn about local ecology from passionate guides.

If you’re after a cost-effective, adventurous, and authentic experience with a mix of activities and cultural insights, this tour will serve you well. The small group size and varied activities make it a memorable and personalized adventure.

However, if luxury accommodations or a slow-paced trip are your priorities, you might want to look for other options. Still, for most, the charm of Cheow Lan Lake combined with the knowledgeable guides and natural beauty makes this tour a standout.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
The tour covers transportation from your hotel, all activities like boat trips, cave visits, canoeing, meals, and the overnight stay in the raft house.

How rustic are the accommodations?
The raft houses are simple, with fans and shared bathrooms. They’re designed for an authentic experience rather than luxury comfort.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 3 years, pregnant women, or individuals with certain health issues like back problems or insect allergies, due to the rustic nature and activities involved.

How physically demanding is the cave exploration?
The exploration may involve getting wet and walking through water-filled passages, so a moderate level of mobility and comfort with water is helpful.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, insect repellent, towels, camera, and cash are advisable. Insect repellent is especially useful.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility to plan your trip.

In summary, this 2-day Cheow Lan Lake tour offers a wonderful blend of adventure, nature, and cultural insight, all wrapped up in an authentic setting. It’s an ideal choice for travelers eager to see a different side of Thailand—peaceful, wild, and full of surprises.

You can check availability for your dates here: