One Day Tour Khao Sok Cheow Lan Lake from Krabi

Traveling to Thailand and craving a taste of untouched nature? The One Day Tour to Khao Sok’s Cheow Lan Lake offers an enticing mix of stunning scenery, adventure, and relaxation, all wrapped into a manageable day trip from Krabi. While we haven’t personally taken this tour, reviews and detailed itineraries give us enough insight to paint a vivid picture of what to expect.

What we love about this experience is the chance to see dramatic limestone pinnacles rising from emerald waters, the relaxed vibe of floating restaurants amid lush jungles, and the opportunity to kayak, swim, or hike in pristine surroundings. Plus, the door-to-door service and guided insight make it easier for travelers to enjoy without hassle. On the flip side, some note the long drive—around 2+ hours each way—which might not be ideal for those seeking a quick escape.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want to experience Thailand’s natural beauty without the stress of planning logistics or navigating independently. Families with kids over 4, adventure seekers, and nature lovers will find plenty to enjoy here, especially if they’re prepared for a full, active day.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: Expect awe-inspiring limestone formations and lush jungle scenery.
• All-Inclusive Convenience: Hotel pickup, meals, and park fees included, making it easy to relax.
• Diverse Activities: Boat rides, kayaking, hiking, and cave exploring offer a mix of adventure and tranquility.
• Authentic Thai Lunch: Enjoy a meal at a floating restaurant right on the lake.
• Long Day, Rich Rewards: The 9-10 hour itinerary offers a comprehensive look at Khao Sok but requires stamina.
• Guide Expertise: Well-reviewed guides like Tuk Tuk bring depth and personality to the trip.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary — What to Expect

Pickup and Journey to Khao Sok

The day begins early, with hotel pickups from Krabi, including Ao Nang, Klong Muang, and Tub Kaek. The transfer by air-conditioned van is approximately 2 hours each way, so be prepared for a bit of a journey. As some reviewers have pointed out, the timing can be slightly flexible — some travelers noted the pickup was delayed by about half an hour, so a little patience helps.

The drive itself is a scenic one, especially as you cross into Surat Thani Province, passing by rubber plantations, palm trees, and local villages. You’ll get a glimpse into the local lifestyle, which adds a cultural layer to this nature-focused trip.

Arriving at Cheow Lan Pier and the Longtail Boat Cruise

Once at Cheow Lan Pier, the adventure kicks off with a longtail boat cruise on the lake. This is a real highlight, with reviewers praising the breathtaking limestone pinnacles and the emerald-green waters. The boat ride is the perfect way to soak in the scenery, and it’s often described as surreal and majestic.

One of the key photo spots is Khao Sam Kloe, a limestone formation that makes for a memorable picture. Many travelers mention that this is a must-visit stop to record your visit.

Lunch at a Floating Restaurant

Lunchtime takes place at a floating raft house restaurant, such as Phupha Waree or Praiwan Raft House. The atmosphere is naturally relaxing, with views of the lake all around. The food is described as authentic Thai cuisine, and some reviews highlight it as being surprisingly good, especially considering the remote setting.

During the break, you can swim or kayak around the raft, enjoying a peaceful respite before more exploration. The availability of kayaking and swimming allows you to unwind and connect with the surroundings in your own way.

Hike and Cave Exploration

After lunch, the tour continues with a hike into the jungle, leading to a hidden cave — often called Coral Cave or Nam Ta Lu Cave. This part is a real treat for nature lovers and those interested in geology, as you’ll see gorgeous coral rock formations protruding from the ground and ceiling.

The hike lasts about an hour and is rated accessible for most, though reviewers mention that the trail can be rough and require sturdy walking shoes. The experience of discovering a majestic cave amid lush greenery is something many find rewarding, especially with an informative guide.

Final Lake Cruise and Photo Opportunities

The trip concludes with a boat ride back to the pier, giving you one last chance to admire the spectacular limestone formations and take photos. Some reviews mention that the boat rides can last about 2 hours in total, and that they’re the highlight for many passengers.

Return to Krabi

From the pier, your driver will ensure a comfortable ride back to your hotel, with most travelers arriving around 8-9 pm. While the full day demands stamina, the views and experiences are often described as well worth the effort.

The Experience: What Works Well

Value for Money

At $113.56 per person, this tour includes hotel transfers, lunch, park entrance fees, and guided commentary. Many travelers feel that the inclusions make the price reasonable, especially considering the professional guiding and well-maintained equipment.

Guided Insights

Guides like Tuk Tuk and others are often praised for their knowledge and friendliness. They add personality and local flavor, making the journey more engaging. For those new to Khao Sok, this is a significant plus — you gain context about the lake’s formation and ecological importance.

Scenic Diversity

The tour seamlessly combines boat cruises, hiking, and leisure activities, offering a well-rounded experience. Travelers love the chance to kayak, swim, and explore caves, which breaks up the day and caters to different interests.

Authentic Thai Food

Many reviews mention the delicious lunch at the floating restaurant. It’s a highlight for those who appreciate genuine local cuisine amid stunning surroundings.

What Could Be Better

Travel Time and Long Day

A common concern is the long drive — around 2 hours each way. This can feel tiring, especially for young children or less energetic travelers. Some note the trip could be quite tiring, particularly if they’re not used to long bus rides.

Group Size and Atmosphere

While most reviews praise the guides, a few mention the large group sizes (up to 25 people) can make the experience feel a tad crowded or less intimate. If you prefer a more personalized outing, this might be a consideration.

Clarity and Communication

A few travelers found the initial schedule and details about the day’s activities somewhat unclear. Clearer communication about timings and the itinerary could improve overall satisfaction.

Water Access and Safety

Some reviews pointed out that the ladders into the lake can be mossy and poorly designed, making entry into the water tricky or unsafe. If swimming is a priority, bringing a dry towel and being cautious is advisable.

Is This Tour Worth It?

Absolutely, if you’re after a comprehensive day’s adventure in Khao Sok’s stunning landscape. It’s particularly valuable for those who want to avoid the hassle of self-driving or navigating public transport. The combination of boat rides, a jungle hike, cave exploration, and a relaxing Thai lunch makes for a richly varied day.

However, be prepared for a long day in transit and some potential crowds. The experience offers great value for money given the inclusions, and many travelers feel they walk away with unforgettable memories. For families with children over 4, the activities are generally manageable, but the hikes can be challenging for very young kids.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for nature enthusiasts, adventure-seekers, and those wanting a stress-free day trip. It’s suited for travelers who don’t mind a full day on the road and are happy to be part of a larger group. If you’re looking for authentic scenery, good food, and guided insights, this tour ticks those boxes.

That said, if speed or intimacy is your priority, or if you prefer more personalized, small-group adventures, you might want to consider other options.

FAQs

How long is the drive from Krabi to Khao Sok?
The transfer typically takes about 2 hours each way, making it a bit of a long journey but one that’s usually scenic and comfortable in air-conditioned vans.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, free hotel pickup is offered from Krabi town, Ao Nang, Klong Muang, and Tub Kaek.

What should I bring for the tour?
Bring swimwear, a dry T-shirt for after hiking, mosquito repellent, sunscreen, a small backpack for water bottles and personal items, and sturdy shoes suitable for rough trails.

Are children allowed on this tour?
Yes, children aged 4 and up can participate, but the hikes may be challenging for very young children.

What activities are included?
Expect boat cruises, kayaking, swimming, hiking to a cave, and plenty of photo opportunities.

Is lunch provided?
Yes, a Thai meal is included at the floating restaurant, along with fruits, drinks, and coffee.

How long does the entire tour last?
The tour runs for approximately 9 to 10 hours, starting at 7 am and returning around 6-7 pm.

What about the group size?
The tour accommodates up to 25 travelers, which can be lively but may feel crowded for some.

To sum it up, this guided day trip offers a fantastic way to experience the spectacular scenery and natural wonders of Khao Sok with minimal hassle. It’s an ideal choice if you’re after a well-organized, activity-packed day with a knowledgeable guide, authentic Thai food, and plenty of photo-worthy moments. While the long drive and group size might be considerations, most find the trip’s rewards far outweigh these minor drawbacks, especially given the stunning landscapes and diverse experiences on offer.