Thailand with Anjali

Dates

Nov 30 – Dec 7, 2025

Group Size

8–24 Travelers

Duration

8 days, 7 nights

Activity Level

Exploration

About This Trip

Embark on an immersive 8-day, 7-night expedition through the captivating landscapes of Khao Lak and Phuket, where every moment promises a new adventure. Your itinerary is packed with exciting experiences, from connecting with majestic elephants at the Hidden Forest Elephant Reserve to exploring the stunning beaches and vibrant marine life of Similan Island National Park. Dive into the serene beauty of Cheow Larn Lake and its enchanting Coral Cave before capping off your journey with a thrilling exploration of Phang Nga Bay aboard a private speedboat, uncovering secluded coves, limestone cliffs, and picturesque islands along the way.
$2,050USD
$2,150USD
Nov 30 – Dec 7, 2025
8 days
Trip Closed

Meet Your Host

Anjali Justice
Anjali Justice

Hi I’m Anjali! For the past 5 years I’ve lived in a van and traveled all across North America with my dogs, we have had all kinds of adventures and made amazing memories along the way. I’ve always loved international travel too, and have done most of my trips solo, but I can’t wait to see the world with my soon-to-be life long friends!

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Trip Activities

  • Hidden Forest Elephant Reserve

  • Similan Island Full Day Speedboat

  • Cheow Larn Lake by Long Tailed Boat

  • Coral Cave

  • Phang Nga Bay Speedboat Tour

Included in Your Trip

  • Double occupancy in 4-star hotels (limited single rooms available)

  • Local guide throughout trip

  • All city transfers

Not Included

  • Flights (except as noted)

  • Food & Alcohol (except as noted)

  • Visas & Travel Insurance

  • Airport Transfers

  • Tips & Gratuity

Itinerary

*All durations are approximate

Day 1

Info

Welcome! Please be prepared to meet in the lobby at 5:30pm to depart for your welcome dinner. The dinner reservation time will be finalized closer to your trip date. If you plan on arriving today, we recommend flying into Phuket International Airport (HKT).

dinner

Welcome dinner at a local restaurant is included. Dinner will typically be a set menu shared family style of authentic Thai cuisine with water included. Additional food and beverages at your own expense.

The Nap Patong (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 1/1

Overnight in Phuket.

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Day 2

Info

The day begins with breakfast at the hotel followed by a journey to the Hidden Forest Elephant Reserve. After a private transfer and upon arrival, you are welcomed with refreshments and an educational session about elephant conservation. The highlight of the day is the intimate interaction with the majestic creatures amidst the scenic forest backdrop, including feeding and learning about their history and personalities. Lunch consists of a delicious vegetarian Thai buffet at the reserve. In the afternoon you will be leaving Phuket on a private transfer to Khao Lak. The day concludes with a transfer to a local restaurant for dinner. For today’s activity, wear comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses.

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included. Typical hotel breakfasts are continental full/America, or buffet style. The hotel offers a buffet with a combination of Thai, American, and Intercontinental breakfast. The exact breakfast offered will be determined by your finalized hotel.

Hidden Forest Elephant Reserve

3 Hours

You'll be picked up from the hotel in the morning for a 30 minute private transfer to the Hidden Forest Elephant Reserve. Upon arrival at Hidden Forest, you'll be greeted with complimentary tea, coffee, and delectable Thai snacks. The experience kicks off with an informative presentation and educational video about our elephant conservation efforts and essential safety guidelines. Engage in an unforgettable elephant encounter, where you'll have the opportunity to feed and learn about these majestic creatures, including their history and unique personalities, as you stroll through the scenic forest surroundings. Relax in our Bamboo Observation Huts, offering panoramic views of the forest and a glimpse of Big Buddha in the valley, while the elephants graze, play in the mud, or bathe. There are also an abundance of butterflies and dragonflies, and often see eagles soaring the skies, or egrets fishing in the pond. Conclude your visit with a vegetarian Thai buffet while overlooking the pond, where elephants bathe and graze. Your visit directly contributes to the mission of rescuing and rehabilitating elephants, as well as raising awareness about the plight of the Asian Elephant through ethical and educational experiences. After your visit, take a 30 minute private transfer back to the hotel.

lunch

Vegetarian Thai buffet will be provided at the Hidden Forest Elephant Reserve.

Transfer from Phuket to Khao Lak

2 Hours

You'll be picked up from the hotel in the afternoon for a private transfer to Khao Lak. Bathroom breaks will be made as needed.

dinner

Take a 20 minute private transfer to an included dinner at a local restaurant. Dinner will typically be a set menu shared family style of Thai cuisine with water included. Additional food and beverages at your own expense.

Apsara Beachfront Resort (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 1/4

Overnight in Khao Lak.

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Day 3

Info

The day kicks off with breakfast followed by a private transfer to Tab Lamu Pier, where you’ll board a shared speedboat for a full-day adventure to the picturesque Similan Islands. Snorkeling in the pristine waters reveals a vibrant underwater world teeming with colorful marine life and corals. After a beach break at Koh Miang with a lunch box set provided, the tour continues with more snorkeling at Koh Ba Ngu, famed for its stunning coral reefs. The tour finishes with a visit to the iconic Sailing Rock at Koh Similan, offering relaxation, swimming, and scenic viewpoints. You are then transferred back to the hotel, concluding the day's memorable island excursion. For today’s activity, be prepared with a swimsuit, sandals, a hat, sunscreen, sunglasses and a light towel.

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included. Typical hotel breakfasts are continental full/America, or buffet style. The hotel offers a buffet with a combination of Thai, American, and Intercontinental breakfast. The exact breakfast offered will be determined by your finalized hotel.

Transfer to Tab Lamu Pier

58 Mins

You'll be picked up at the hotel in the morning for a private transfer to Tab Lamu Pier to board the speedboat.

Similan Island Full Day Speedboat

8 Hours

Embark on a shared speedboat tour to the stunning Similan Islands, where your adventure begins with snorkeling, marveling at the vibrant marine life and colorful corals beneath the crystal-clear waters. Next, head to Koh Miang, also known as Princess Bay, for a relaxing beach experience. Enjoy a lunch box set on Koh Miang around noon. In the afternoon, journey to Koh Ba Ngu for more snorkeling at Christmas Point or Namchai Bay, renowned for their stunning coral reefs and diverse marine species. Conclude your tour with a visit to the iconic Sailing Rock at Koh Similan, offering opportunities for relaxation, swimming, photography, and even a climb to a scenic viewpoint atop the rock. A snorkel, mask, and life jacket (as needed) will be provided.

lunch

A lunch box set with water is included as during the Similan Island Tour.

Transfer to hotel

45 Mins

You'll be picked up at Tab Lamu pier for a private transfer back to the hotel.

Apsara Beachfront Resort (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 2/4

Overnight in Khao Lak.

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Day 4

Info

The day begins with breakfast, followed by a free day at leisure to explore the charming surroundings of Khao Lak at your own pace. Whether you choose to relax by the beach, indulge in local cuisine, or embark on an adventure, the day is yours to enjoy. In the evening, a private transfer will take you to an included dinner at a local restaurant.

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included. Typical hotel breakfasts are continental full/America, or buffet style. The hotel offers a buffet with a combination of Thai, American, and Intercontinental breakfast. The exact breakfast offered will be determined by your finalized hotel.

dinner

Take a 20 minute private transfer to an included dinner at a local restaurant. Dinner will typically be a set menu shared family style of Thai cuisine with water included. Additional food and beverages at your own expense.

Apsara Beachfront Resort (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 3/4

Overnight in Khao Lak.

Show DetailsHide Details
Day 5

Info

The day begins with breakfast at the hotel before heading to Ratchaprapa Dam Pier in Khao Sok National Park. There, you'll embark on a scenic journey across Cheow Larn Lake aboard a traditional long-tailed boat, surrounded by breathtaking limestone cliffs and lush greenery. Lunch awaits at the floating raft houses, where you can also enjoy some free time to go swimming and kayaking (additional cost). Afterward, explore Coral Cave, accessible by a short trek through the jungle and a bamboo raft ride. Inside, marvel at the stunning formations of stalactites and stalagmites resembling coral reefs. Finally, return to the pier by long-tailed boat. Your last quick stop will be at the viewpoint of the dam for some sightseeing before and transferring back to your hotel in Khao Lak.

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included. Typical hotel breakfasts are continental full/America, or buffet style. The hotel offers a buffet with a combination of Thai, American, and Intercontinental breakfast. The exact breakfast offered will be determined by your finalized hotel.

Transfer Cheow Larn Lake (Ratchaprapa Dam)

2 Hours 30 Mins

You'll be picked up from the hotel in the morning for a private transfer to Ratchaprapa Dam Pier (in Khao Sok National Park). Bathroom breaks will be made as needed.

Cheow Larn Lake by Long Tailed Boat

1 Hour 29 Mins

Embark on a journey to discover the stunning vistas and panoramic beauty of Cheow Larn Lake aboard a traditional long-tailed boat. As you navigate through the waters, you'll witness the natural splendor of the lake's surroundings firsthand. Towering limestone cliffs and lush greenery provide a picturesque backdrop, offering glimpses of the region's unspoiled wilderness. You’ll arrive at the raft houses where you will enjoy lunch as well as have some free time for swimming, kayaking (at your own expense - bring cash), or relaxing.

lunch

Lunch at the Floating Raft is included. Lunch is typically a set menu shared family style with water included. Additional food and beverage are at your own expense.

Coral Cave

2 Hours 30 Mins

After lunch, continue your exploration of Cheow Larn Lake via a long-tailed boat as you head towards Coral Cave. After docking, a 20-minute trek through the jungle awaits before reaching the pier, where you'll be transported by a bamboo raft for approximately 15 minutes to reach Coral Cave. Inside the cave, marvel at the formations of stalactites and stalagmites resembling coral reefs. Concluding your visit to Coral Cave, you'll depart for Ratchaprapa Dam pier aboard a long-tailed boat, concluding this leg of your adventure on the serene waters of Cheow Larn Lake. To leave Coral Cave, you’ll head back the same way and hop back on the long tail boat towards Ratchaprapa Dam Pier. Upon arrival, you'll be transferred to the scenic 'Viewpoint' of the Dam for sightseeing before returning to your hotel.Note that this activity is part of Cheow Larn Lake by Long Tailed Boat and cannot be removed.

Transfer to hotel

2 Hours 29 Mins

You'll be picked up at Ratchaprapa Dam Pier in the late afternoon for a private transfer back to the hotel in Khao Lak. Bathroom breaks will be made as needed.

Apsara Beachfront Resort (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 4/4

Overnight in Khao Lak.

Show DetailsHide Details
Day 6

Info

Today begins with breakfast, followed by a leisurely morning. At around noon you’ll be picked up from the hotel in Khao Lak for a private transfer as you make your way back to Phuket. Upon arrival, the remainder of the day remains free for relaxation and exploration in Phuket.

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included. Typical hotel breakfasts are continental full/America, or buffet style. The hotel offers a buffet with a combination of Thai, American, and Intercontinental breakfast. The exact breakfast offered will be determined by your finalized hotel.

Transfer from Khao Lak to Phuket

2 Hours 30 Mins

You'll be picked up from the hotel in Khao Lak around noon for a private transfer to Phuket. Bathroom breaks will be made as needed.

The Nap Patong (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 1/2

Overnight in Phuket.

Show DetailsHide Details
Day 7

Info

The day starts with breakfast before embarking on an exciting Phang Nga Bay Speedboat Tour. You’ll be picked up from the hotel in the morning for a 40-minute private transfer to Boat Lagoon Pier. Boarding a shared speedboat, the adventure begins with a visit to Panak Island to explore hidden caves surrounded by mangroves. Next, you'll head to Koh Kudu Yai to admire the crystal-clear turquoise waters of its lagoon. Lunch is served on the charming island community of Koh Panyee, known for its unique floating structures including a football pitch. Following lunch, you'll journey to James Bond Island, with views from Koh Ping Ghan due to protected regulations. Sea canoeing follows, with 1-2 stops guided by local boatmen. The day concludes with a return to Boat Lagoon Pier for a transfer back to the hotel, allowing time to prepare for the farewell dinner. For today's activity, you'll want to wear/prepare a swimsuit, sandals, a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses.

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included. Typical hotel breakfasts are continental full/America, or buffet style. The hotel offers a buffet with a combination of Thai, American, and Intercontinental breakfast. The exact breakfast offered will be determined by your finalized hotel.

Phang Nga Bay Speedboat Tour

6 Hours

The day begins with a morning pick up from the hotel for a 40 minute private transfer to Boat Lagoon Pier. You’ll board a shared speedboat and the adventure kicks off with a visit to Panak Island, where you can float along gently inside one of the hidden caves surrounded by mangroves. Then, it's off to Koh Kudu Yai to marvel at the breathtaking beauty of the clear turquoise waters in its stunning lagoon. Next stop is lunchtime on the quaint island community of Koh Panyee, where houses, huts, and restaurants perch on stilts above the water. Don't forget to check out their unique floating football pitch! After lunch, it's time to channel your inner Bond as you head to James Bond Island (Khao Phing Kan). While boats aren't allowed too close due to its protected status, you can still enjoy the iconic sight from Koh Ping Ghan, where a towering leaning rock and small caves await exploration. Afterward, continue the adventure with some sea canoeing where the canoe guide will take you to 1-2 stops around the island. Each canoe accommodates 2 passengers with a local boatman. Finally, you’ll journey back to Boat Lagoon Pier for a 40 minute transfer back to the hotel for some time to get ready for the farewell dinner. Note: Estimation, timing will reconfirm by guide upon operate.

lunch

Lunch is included on Koh Panyee (part of Phang Nga Bay Speedboat Tour). Lunch is typically a set menu of Thai cuisine served family style with water included. Additional food and beverages at your own expense.

dinner

You’ll be picked up from the hotel for a 10 minute transfer to a local restaurant for the farewell dinner. Dinner is typically a set menu of Thai cuisine shared family style with water included. Additional food and beverages at your own expense.

The Nap Patong (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 2/2

Overnight in Phuket.

Show DetailsHide Details
Day 8

Info

All good things must come to an end, but only until your next adventure! Enjoy a final breakfast and then make your own way onward. If departing directly from the hotel, we recommend flying out of Phuket International Airport (HKT).

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included. Typical hotel breakfasts are continental full/America, or buffet style. The hotel offers a buffet with a combination of Thai, American, and Intercontinental breakfast. The exact breakfast offered will be determined by your finalized hotel.

Show DetailsHide Details

Physical Activity Level:Exploration

These trips require some movement, but slow and steady is the name of the game. Maybe a mid-length walking tour or at-your-pace sightseeing. No rush.

Cancellation Policy

We get it—life happens. Here's how cancellations work depending on where you're at in the process:

Spot Pending

100% refundable
Not confirmed yet? No worries. You can cancel at any time for a full refund.

Spot Confirmed With 91 or More Days Before Your Trip

Partially refundable + credit towards a future trip
You'll receive a future trip credit for the amount of your down payment (minus a $100 cancellation fee per Traveler). This trip credit is valid for one year from the date it is issued. Additionally, any payments made beyond the original 25% down payment will be refunded to your original form of payment.

Spot Confirmed With 90 or Fewer Days Before Your Trip

Non-refundable
At this point, all payments are non-refundable because your experience is already in motion behind the scenes. By this time, our operating partners will be working with local businesses to secure your accommodations and finalize your activities.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED: Protect Your Adventure-Invest in Peace of Mind

We strongly encourage purchasing travel insurance with trip cancellation coverage to safeguard your investment. With travel insurance, you're covered in case of unexpected events—from illness to emergencies—that could affect your plans. Life is unpredictable, but your dream trip doesn't have to be.

After booking, you'll receive a personalized recommendation for coverage tailored to your trip. For full details on our cancellation policy, please refer to our Terms & Conditions.

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FAQ

Traveling with TrovaTrip

What's it like to travel on a Trova Trip?

Trova Trips are curated group travel experiences designed to help you see the world, meet new people, and connect over shared interests. Each trip is hosted by a community leader you know and trust, and run by professional local Operators who handle the logistics. Expect meaningful experiences, authentic activities, and a like-minded group to share it all with.

What's the difference between the Host, the Operator, and Trova?

Great question! Each plays a key role in bringing your experience to life:

  • The Host is your community leader who brings the group together, fosters connection, and perhaps leads a workshop or two. They're there to bring the vibes, not the logistics. That's the Tour Operator's job.
  • The Operator is the professional travel company that runs the trip on the ground. They handle it all—accommodations, local Guides, activities, and safety. Every Operator we partner with is licensed, insured, and vetted to deliver high-quality group travel.
  • TrovaTrip is the platform who connects it all. We help design the trips, partner with Hosts with Operators, and support you before and during your journey to ensure everything runs smoothly.

In short: The Host brings the vibe, the Operator runs the trip, and we make it all happen. Read more about who does what here.

I'm nervous to book. How can I feel more confident?

First, let us say—it's totally understandable, and you're not alone! Travel can feel intimidating, but we built Trova to take the guesswork out of group travel and earn your trust every step of the way:

    • Every trip is run by licensed Tour Operators with vetted local Guides.
    • Hosts are there to foster connection, meaning you'll arrive solo but never feel alone.
    • Itineraries are clearly outlined so you know what to expect, including activity level, example accommodations, and what's included.
    • Our team is available to support you pre-departure, and Operators—plus your local Guide—are on the ground to assist during the trip. And rest assured, all our Operating partners are trained in crisis management.
    • We always recommend travel insurance for extra peace of mind, whether you're traveling with Trova or solo. It can cover medical issues, lost luggage, or even cancellations.

We know it takes trust to book a trip with new people, and we're here to make sure you feel ready, supported, and excited!”

Can I book solo?

Absolutely! As of 2025, almost 84% of TrovaTrip Travelers go solo. (And yes, we may be a little biased, but we think group travel is one of the best ways to meet new people!) You'll have your own bed and the option to book a private room on most trips. Plus you'll be traveling with others who are just as excited to explore and connect.

What if I need to cancel?

We understand that life happens. Our cancellation policy is designed to provide flexibility while balancing the logistics of group travel:

  • Spot pending100% refundable. Not confirmed yet? No worries. You can cancel at any time for a full refund.
  • Spot confirmed with 91 or more days before your tripPartially refundable + credit towards a future trip. You'll receive a future trip credit for the amount of your down payment (minus a $100 cancellation fee per Traveler). This trip credit is valid for one year from the date it is issued. Additionally, any payments made beyond the original 25% down payment will be refunded to your original form of payment. 
  • Spot confirmed with 90 days or fewer before your tripNon-refundable. At this point, all payments are non-refundable because your experience is already in motion behind the scenes. By this time, our operating partners will be working with local businesses to secure your accommodations and finalize your activities.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED: Protect Your Adventure–Invest in Peace of Mind
We strongly encourage purchasing travel insurance with trip cancellation coverage to safeguard your investment. With travel insurance, you're covered in case of unexpected events–from illness to emergencies–that could affect your plans. Life is unpredictable, but your dream trip doesn't have to be.

After booking, you'll receive a personalized recommendation for coverage tailored to your trip. For full details on our cancellation policy, please refer to our Terms & Conditions.

What's included in the trip cost?

Most trips include accommodations, daily activities, ground transportation, some meals, and a dedicated local Guide. Because Travelers are coming from all around the world, flights to and from your destination are not included. Each trip page breaks it all down for you.

Will I have free time?

Yes! While we pack in incredible experiences, most itineraries include built-in free time so you can relax, wander, or check out personal must-sees.

What do the activity levels mean?

Every trip has a physical Activity Level from 1 to 5 so you can find the right fit for your travel style:

  • Level 1 – Relax + Unwind: Minimal movement (spa days, beach lounging, local markets)
  • Level 2 – Low-Key Movement: Light, easy-paced activity (snorkeling, boat tours, gentle hikes)
  • Level 3 – Moderate Activity: Ready to move (multi-day hikes, skiing, camping)
  • Level 4 – Get Your Heart Rate Up: More intense movement (long hikes, biking, active days)
  • Level 5 – Extreme Adventure: High-adrenaline travel (challenging hikes, dives, technical climbs – experience may be required)

You'll find the Activity Level clearly listed on each trip page, and a more in-depth explanation of each level here.

Who can I contact with more questions?

Our support team is here to help! Visit trovatrip.com/company/contact-us to reach out. You can expect to hear back within 2 business days, but probably sooner—our Trova elves are pretty speedy!

Accommodations

What does "or similar" mean next to the accommodations?

When we say “or similar,” it means the hotel listed is an example of what you can expect—not always the exact spot you'll be staying. Sometimes Operators adjust accommodations due to seasonal availability or group size. But rest assured: the quality and comfort will match what's shown.

Why would the accommodations change from time of booking?

Flexibility allows Operators to choose the best-fit accommodations closer to your trip—based on availability, logistics, and what works best for the group (like the number of Travelers and room configurations). This ensures a smooth experience without sacrificing comfort or quality.

Finalized hotel info is typically shared about 30 days before departure in your Traveler Portal, along with your final itinerary.

Trip Operations & Compliance

Who actually runs my trip, and how does Trova keep things safe?

Your trip is operated by licensed, certified Tour Operators who manage all trip logistics and safety—from accommodations and local Guides and day-to-day logistics. All trips comply with local legal and regulatory standards. We vet each Operating partner carefully so you can travel with confidence.

Who do I talk to if I have questions about safety or compliance?

If you have any questions about safety protocols or trip compliance, reach out to us at safety@trovatrip.com. We're here to help.

General Travel Questions

Do I need any documentation to travel?

It depends on where you're headed. Though it is not a universal requirement, many countries require that your passport be valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date. This ensures Travelers have sufficient time to return home even if their visas are extended or if unexpected circumstances arise. 

Some destinations may also require a visa. Check our visa page to consult your country's travel resources.

Do I need any vaccines?

It's always best to check with your healthcare provider or a travel doctor before your trip. You can also visit the CDC website (or your local government's travel health resource) for destination-specific vaccine guidance. Health and safety first!

Are flights included in the trip cost?

Because our Hosts and Travelers are coming from all around the world, flights to and from your destination are not included. Some trips include internal flights (like a short domestic hop), and those details will always be listed on the trip page if applicable.

Can you accommodate my dietary needs?

We’ll do our very best! Our Operators aim to accommodate dietary restrictions, though availability varies by destination. For example, some places offer plenty of vegan and vegetarian choices, while others might be quite limited. The earlier you let us know—through your trip form or by contacting our support team—the better we can prepare. Once you arrive, be sure to remind your local Guide about any allergies or restrictions so they can help you enjoy your meals safely and comfortably.