23 best Phuket excursions

Review of the best according to the editorial board. On the selection criteria. This material is subjective and does not constitute advertising and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before buying, you need to consult with a specialist.

Phuket is a slice of Thai tropical paradise with endless sandy beaches and non-stop nightlife. But on some tenth day of vacation, even these earthly benefits begin to bore. And then it's time to go on an excursion, since Phuket is a very large island and there are more than enough interesting places on it.

For those who are going to spend a vacation in Thailand and want to bring from there not only souvenirs, but also vivid memories, we have compiled a rating of the 23 best Phuket excursions – sea, active rest, sightseeing and others.

Rating of the best excursions in Phuket

The best sea excursions in Phuket

Similan islands

Rating: 4.9

Why her: One of the best excursions for tropical nature and snorkeling enthusiasts.

Tourists who travel to Thailand to explore the amazing and diverse tropical nature are highly recommended to visit the Similan Islands. This is a small group of nine tiny islets located not far from Phuket itself. This territory is marked by UNESCO – and therefore the Thai authorities are in no hurry to make it a 'tourist mecca', leaving the tropical nature of the islands untouched.

Excursions to the Similan Islands can be one-day or two-day. But regardless of the duration, they include relaxing on a tropical beach lined with white and soft coral sand, as well as snorkeling. And the last is the most interesting. After all, snorkeling takes place in the habitat of sea turtles and whale sharks, which you can quite meet in one of the swims. The islands themselves are covered with tropical forests, which are also rich in flora and fauna.

It is worth considering that the Similan Islands do not have a tourist infrastructure (there are simply no hotels and other bungalows). Therefore, during two-day excursions, you will have to spend the night in a specially prepared and equipped tent – fortunately, the organizers install them themselves.

Advantages

• Snorkeling on coral reefs;
• Possibility of a beach holiday in a remote, sparsely populated, secluded place;
• Amazing nature and relief of the tropical islands.

disadvantages

• An uneven program of two-day excursions (three islands are visited on the first day, the second day is completely spent on the fourth);
• Lack of tourist infrastructure on the islands;
• It takes an hour and a half to get to the islands, and the same amount is to sail from them.

Surin group of islands

Rating: 4.9

Why her: Meet the sea gypsies and snorkel on the coral reefs.

Surin is a small group of islands located 150 kilometers south of Phuket. The main feature of this tiny archipelago is its population. The Surin Islands are home to the 'Moken' ('Sea Gypsy') tribe, a tiny Thai people with a rather unusual lifestyle.

Like many other tropical island tribes, the Moken do not seek the benefits of civilization. They live a simple, unpretentious life, they are in contact with the 'mainland' only during the pearl trade, but at the same time they are very friendly and welcoming towards tourists.

However, it is worth going on an excursion to the Surin Islands not only to get acquainted with the Moken. On this territory there is a protected natural park, which preserves authentic tropical flora and fauna. While snorkeling (snorkeling) it is quite possible to meet a manta ray, sea turtle, giant whale shark or some other unusual inhabitants of the southern ocean reefs.

Excursions to these islands are one-day and two-day. In the second case, the overnight stay is done in tents or bungalows, since the tourist infrastructure is minimal.

Advantages

• Acquaintance with the life and customs of one of the unusual tropical peoples;
• Snorkeling in tropical lagoons, which are protected by the state as a national park;
• Untouched, amazing nature.

disadvantages

• Lack of tourist infrastructure;
• Seasonal nature of the excursion, in some periods it will not work to go to these islands;
• Too different excursion programs from different travel agencies, it is worth checking on the spot.

Tachai Island

Rating: 4.8

Why her: An excursion for lovers of a secluded beach holiday.

It is worth going to Tachai Island if you are tired of the busy tourist life of Phuket, its many guests and visitors from all over the world, day and night noisy entertainment … This place has a completely different atmosphere. It is quiet, not crowded and truly secluded.

An excursion to Tachai island will not give you vivid impressions. There are no special places here, like their predecessors in the ranking. Only long, endless beaches, strewn with snow-white coral sand, along which nimble hermit crabs run every now and then. Only dense, almost impassable jungle, in the center of which there is an observation deck overlooking the blue and boundless ocean. Only silence, calmness and solitude. Therefore, this excursion can be highly recommended to young couples – here they can enjoy each other's company and the atmosphere of the tropics.

Of course, as in other sea excursions in the rating, on a trip to Tachai Island, a stop will be made for snorkeling (swimming with a snorkel). Tourists in it will be able to meet small colorful fish that inhabit the ocean waters heated by the sun.

Advantages

• Quiet, secluded atmosphere, a great place for a romantic pastime or just a break from the noisy Phuket;
• Long, clean and beautiful beaches;
• Amazing views of the island.

disadvantages

• Not suitable for those who like a busy holiday;
• Few events and unusual places;
• Not very interesting snorkeling.

Khai Islands

Rating: 4.8

Why her: The perfect excursion for snorkelers and beach lovers.

Khai is a group of tiny sandy islands near Phuket. And this 'archipelago' is perfect for tourists heading to Thailand for a beach holiday. The Khai Islands are, in fact, mounds of white and soft coral sand on which it is so pleasant to relax.

Moreover, they are also equipped! Almost every island has sun loungers, umbrellas, bungalows, small bars and other 'infrastructure'. In general, like in Phuket … just not so crowded. On these islands, you can relax and unwind in peace and comfort – not in the noise of the Thai tourist coast.

The Khai Islands will also appeal to fans of snorkeling in the company of tropical fish. Due to the fact that the sun warms the water here very deeply, the marine fauna here is also extremely diverse. Fish even swim to the beaches!

The excursion involves visiting one or two snorkeling bays. While snorkeling, you can meet a huge variety of oceanic inhabitants – from tiny tropical fish to manta rays and occasionally visiting this archipelago sea turtles.

Advantages

• Well equipped islands for a beach holiday;
• Lots of tropical fish that even swim to the beaches;
• Stops at snorkeling bays.

disadvantages

• In some seasons, the islands cease to be secluded due to the huge influx of tourists;
• High cost of additional local infrastructure services;
• Low saturation of rest (this is, in fact, a 'excursion to the beach').

Phi Phi Islands

Rating: 4.7

Why it is: An archipelago with many interesting places and an inhabited island with a tourist infrastructure.

It is worth going on an excursion to the Phi Phi Islands in order to get the most out of tropical Thailand in one or two days. This archipelago has both uninhabited 'pieces of land' with long and unusual beaches, and quite inhabited ones – with a well-developed tourist infrastructure. In addition, Phi Phi Islands are often chosen by diving enthusiasts due to their beautiful lagoons with unusual bottom relief.

A trip to this archipelago includes visits to many interesting places. In addition to lagoons for snorkeling (this is Thailand, all sea excursions in the ranking include snorkelling), tourists will visit the beautiful Mayan Bay, surrounded by sheer limestone cliffs; Monkey Beach, where wild monkeys live; Viking Cave and many other interesting places.

Finally, it is worth noting that the largest island of the archipelago, Phi Phi Don, offers a very good tourist infrastructure. There are restaurants, a hotel, and even trendy boutiques, as well as well-equipped beaches and regular nightlife. And the two-day excursions offer an overnight stay on it.

Advantages

• Very varied and rich rest;
• Visiting many beautiful and unusual places;
• Well suited for swimming and snorkeling lovers.

disadvantages

• Excursion 'shock pace';
• The excursion programs vary greatly for different carriers, it is worth checking in advance before departure;
• One-day excursions are short and uninteresting, it is recommended to take a two-day one.

Coral island

Rating: 4.7

Why her: Long-term one-day excursion for beach lovers and snorkelers.

Coral Island is a good place for lovers of relaxed beach holidays, snorkelling on live coral reefs with a variety of, but certainly playful and fun fish, as well as walking in the tropical jungle. In general, it is similar to Similan, Surin and Phi Phi, however, it is located in close proximity to Phuket.

The proximity of Coral Island to Phuket adds two advantages to this excursion. Firstly, it lasts longer than most of the 'competitors' in the rating – sailing from the pier to the destination is not an hour and a half, but about 20-30 minutes, and the saved time can be spent just admiring the underwater world. Secondly, it is trite cheaper than analogs.

However, it should be noted that Coral Island is very popular with tourists from all over the world. Therefore, it is constantly noisy and crowded here. Not like in Phuket itself, of course, but it is very far from the peace and comfort of Tachai Island. But there is a tourist infrastructure on Koralovoye – equipped beaches, bars and restaurants, sea activities are also available.

Advantages

• Low price (on average, a one-day excursion will cost about 1000 baht);
• A lot of time is spent on the island, and not on the way to or from it;
• Live coral snorkeling reef.

disadvantages

• An excursion for lovers of snorkeling, swimming and beach recreation. For lovers of other entertainments and amusements, it will seem boring;
• High demand among tourists, the island is always crowded.

Myton

Rating: 4.7

Why it is: A place for secluded relaxation in an atmosphere of luxury.

An excursion to Maiton Island is a great way to plunge into the most real luxury, paying just over 2000 baht for it. The fact is that this territory was private for a long time and therefore closed to tourists. Only the richest and most famous people went to the island, presidents and princes, prime ministers and celebrities met here. Only recently it was opened to tourists – but, again, with some reservations.

In particular, only a few operators organize excursions to Maiton Island. In addition, no more than 200 people can visit this area per day. So regardless of the season, Maiton Island will be able to take a break from the noise and crowds of tourists, of which there are more than enough in Phuket.

The main feature of Maiton is its luxurious tourist infrastructure. A huge outdoor swimming pool overlooking the ocean and fresh water, pristine white beaches, stone gazebos for relaxation, comfortable viewing platforms … All this is imbued with an atmosphere of luxury and wonderful tropical relaxation, which was previously available only to the elite.

Advantages

• A rare, unusual place;
• Not crowded even during tourist seasons;
• Good for beach holidays and snorkeling.

disadvantages

• Low saturation of the excursion, there is practically no interactive or any unusual places;
• High cost of services on the island itself (such as rent of sun loungers and others);
• There are many Chinese and Korean tourists with noisy behavior.

James Bond Island

Rating: 4.6

Why it is: Amazing relief and nature of the tropical island.

James Bond Island, aka Ko Tapu, is famous for the film 'The Man with the Golden Gun'. Many scenes of this film were filmed there. And therefore it will be especially interesting to visit for people who are fond of Bondiana.

But not only fans of films about Agent 007 will like this tour. Koh Tapu Island has a very unusual relief. Many grottoes, stone and rock arches, caves and lagoons will amaze the imagination with their majesty, especially if you go swimming between them by canoe. The island is inhabited by huge monitor lizards that are not afraid of people and often go out to tourists.

Some excursion programs also include a visit to Ko Panyi – a village that is built right in the sea. Houses are placed on stilts. Some programs even stop there for lunch.

It is worth noting that this excursion – unlike the others in the ranking – has no snorkeling stops. But this is compensated by other, no less vivid impressions – for example, a canoe trip under the shadow of stone arches with hanging stalactites.

Advantages

• Many very beautiful views;
• Meeting with a small ethnic group with a very unusual and original culture;
• Speleological excursions.

disadvantages

• The excursion program differs for different carriers;
• No snorkeling;
• Quite fast paced – several islands need to be visited in a limited time.

Racha Island (Raya)

Rating: 4.6

Why her: Great place for diving and snorkeling.

Located not far from Phuket, Racha (Raya) island is one of the favorite tourist spots for diving and snorkeling. The cozy Bungalu Bay, where he meets visitors, is distinguished by an amazingly beautiful coral bottom and almost always beautiful weather. Waves, shallows and other negative phenomena for diving and snorkeling fans are extremely rare here.

This excursion will also appeal to beach lovers. The island of Racha (Raya) is distinguished by a long coastline dotted with white sand – soft and devoid of sharp stones. Therefore, you can relax here even without a lounger, enjoying the warm tide caressing your body.

Excursions to this island can be one-day or two-day. In the second case, tourists are invited to live in local bungalows, which are also equipped with air conditioning for comfortable accommodation. The island has a well-developed tourist infrastructure, there is everything you need for a pleasant and carefree vacation.

Advantages

• Great place for diving and snorkeling;
• Low price for the excursion itself;
• Well-developed tourist infrastructure of the island.

disadvantages

• The high cost of tourist services on the island itself;
• Very crowded – the island is loved by tourists;
• Low saturation of the program (this is an excursion for beach lovers).

The best excursions in Phuket with active rest

Hanuman's flight

Rating: 4.9

Why her: Excursion to a huge rope park in the tropical jungle.

An excursion to the huge rope park Flying Hanuman ('Flight of Hanuman'), located directly in the tropical jungle, will help the tourist to test the strength of his nerves. The visitor is expected to descend along the ropes stretched between the branches, crossings on rope bridges, rolls on wooden carts and much, much more. The Flight of Hanuman Park is huge and offers many unusual attractions.

For example, the longest flight between trees is about 400 meters. The rope track stretches at a height of up to 40 meters. So bright, rich and unusual experiences are guaranteed.

The ride is exciting but safe. Each tourist, before going to the rope park, undergoes appropriate instructions. Also, on all sections of the route, the visitor is insured in two ways. Thus, the risk of falling off the rope course is minimal.

Like some other attractions in the rating, there are several restrictions in the 'Flight of Hanuman' park. They apply to the tourist's weight (up to 120 kg), height (from 130 cm) and his equipment (special comfortable shoes, such as sneakers, are required).

Advantages

• No special training or special skills required;
• High safety of the attraction;
• Vivid, unusual impressions, including those from flying between trees on a rope track.

disadvantages

• Minor restrictions on the height, weight and training of the tourist;
• The excursion program largely depends on the organizer, it is worth clarifying before booking;
• Not suitable for families with children.

Rafting

Rating: 4.9

Why it is: An impressive excursion in its richness, which includes not only rafting on a mountain river.

Thailand is a country that is diverse not only culturally, but also climatically. It also has endless beaches with soft and white coral sand; and impassable tropical jungle with amazing inhabitants; and high mountains with turbulent rivers, one of which is offered to raft in the company of professional instructors. Actually, this is exactly what a tourist who goes on a rafting excursion has to do.

The main advantage of this excursion is its amazingly rich program. It includes not only rafting itself, but also some other entertainment, depending on the organizer. So, some travel providers offer rafting, bungee flights, ATV trips in the jungle, swimming in a mountain waterfall, elephant trekking and much, much more.

The tour is suitable for tourists who are inexperienced in such types of recreation. There are no special requirements for the physical training of the visitor, the rafting is led by experienced and professional instructors, so there is no danger even for people who find themselves in an inflatable boat for the first time.

Advantages

• A rich excursion with a varied program;
• Suitable for beginners, amateurs and simply untrained tourists;
• Quite an unusual type of vacation for Phuket.

disadvantages

• May seem dull to experienced rafters
• Long drive, as you need to travel far from Phuket;
• Very crowded.

ATVs

Rating: 4.8

Why her: Many interesting places away from the 'tourist Phuket'.

A sightseeing tour on ATVs in Phuket is an opportunity to see Thailand as it is practically not shown to tourists. There are no crowded beaches, noisy markets and numerous nightclubs. The route, along which it is proposed to ride an ATV, lies away from populated areas and goes into the mountains.

In terms of saturation, this excursion can hardly be compared with others in the rating. But if you want to see Thailand the way the locals see it, then you should definitely set aside a day and go on a trip. The route runs past a Buddhist temple, through tropical, almost impassable jungles, mango forests, numerous local villages, pineapple plantations and plants from which natural rubber is extracted. And it ends at a high-altitude observation platform, from where you can see the whole of Phuket at a glance.

The tour may also include other recreational activities, depending on the provider. For example, some tour operators also offer elephant trekking and monkey shows.

Advantages

• Visiting very beautiful and unusual places;
• Acquaintance with the authentic culture of Phuket and Thailand;
• Comparatively low price of the excursion.

disadvantages

• Poorly suitable for families with children;
• Short duration of the excursion;
• Far from Phuket (travel can take 1-2 hours).

Diving

Rating: 4.8

Why her: One of the most popular activities in Phuket, suitable for beginners.

Going to Thailand and not diving would be an oversight. Almost all the beauties of this tropical country are hidden deep under the water, where nature triumphs in the ocean heated to the very bottom. Coral reefs are home to amazing, unusual, amazing fish, mollusks and other animals. And they are not at all afraid of people, swimming not just at arm's length – they often have to stretch their arms in order to gently push away some particularly curious underwater inhabitant.

And the best part is that you don't need relevant skills and certificates to explore the underwater world of Phuket. The excursion is suitable for beginners as the dive is conducted with professional and experienced instructors. In addition, the depth to which tourists descend is quite safe and is up to 12 meters near the island of Racha (Raya).

However, this excursion will also appeal to experienced divers with appropriate certificates. Only for them, a trip to the Phi Phi Islands or the world famous Similan Islands, with extremely unusual tropical underwater fauna, is offered.

Advantages

• Separate programs for beginners and professionals;
• One of the most popular excursions in Phuket (and ranking);
• Simple and fast training.

disadvantages

• Relatively high price;
• Relatively short duration of the excursion;
• Detailed adherence to instructor's instructions is required.

Safari

Rating: 4.8

Why her: Acquaintance with Thai life and culture.

This excursion is the best in the rating for those who go to Phuket not only to relax on white sandy beaches, but also to get acquainted with the culture, peculiarities and life of this unusual Asian country. And 'Safari' immerses you in the atmosphere of Thailand deeper than any other entertainment program.

The program of this excursion is very rich. It includes elephant rides, entertainment shows for elephants and monkeys, a visit to the rice field with a fascinating story about the cultivation of this plant, meeting Thai peasants and farmers, kayaking on a tiny canal in the mangrove, a visit to the 'fish SPA' and much, much other.

Especially 'Safari' will appeal to lovers of elephants. In addition to riding these amazing, majestic animals, you can take part in their bathing! Also, especially courageous tourists will be able to try an elephant massage – unexpectedly pleasant and absolutely safe.

It is also worth noting that all entertainment programs take place far from civilization, so, regardless of the richness of the excursion, acquaintance with the life of Thais is ensured.

Advantages

• Great for kids;
• High saturation of the excursion itself – many entertainment programs and shows;
• Fast transfer.

disadvantages

• In fact, the excursion is a 'set of activities', so there will be no separate guides telling about certain places – except for visiting the rice field;
• Various programs, details of the excursion should be checked with the travel provider.

Tarzanka

Rating: 4.7

Why is she: An incredible feeling of flying from a height of 60 meters above a lake in a tropical forest.

Bungee jumping – or 'Tarzanka' – is one of the most extreme excursions in Phuket. Tourists who dare to go to this attraction are invited to jump from a height of 60 meters! And a split second before touching the surface of the water (the 'Tarzanka' is located above a lake in a tropical forest), a safety elastic will work.

Those who want more extreme sports can talk to the staff of the attraction – and touch the surface of the water with their hands, or even plunge into it up to their waist. But just jumping off the bungee jumping area requires serious courage. After all, this is sixty meters of free fall! In addition, after talking with the staff of the attraction, you can try the 'bottom-up' jump.

The flight time is about three seconds. But this is enough to get the most vivid, unusual and memorable emotions!

As is usually the case for extreme rides, there are minor restrictions on tourists on the 'Tarzank' (bungee jumping). So, visitors weighing from 40 to 140 kilograms are allowed. The same rule applies to tandem jumps. The total weight of both tourists must not exceed 140 kg.

Advantages

• Very bright and unusual sensations;
• The attraction is located in Phuket, so the transfer will take a minimum of time;
• The opportunity to try different types of jumps.

disadvantages

• There are small restrictions related to the weight of tourists;
• A short, not very busy excursion;
• Quite expensive related services, including flight filming (even with your own equipment).

Splash Jungle Water Park

Rating: 4.7

Why her: An excursion to a huge water park with many themed zones.

There is only one water park in Phuket, but what a! Splash Jungle entertainment center is known all over the world and invariably attracts tourists. An excursion to this water park is an opportunity to spend the whole day in the atmosphere of water fun, as well as extreme and carefree relaxation!

The water park is divided into several thematic zones, which are designed in the style of all world continents. Each of them has unique water attractions. So, on the territory of the water park, there are 15 different attractions (including such unusual ones as Superbowl or Boomerango) and a huge number of pipes, slides, pools, artificial rivers and other fun places. Of course, there is also a children's area for the youngest visitors, as well as several cafes and bars for those who are hungry or just want to get some rest.

Splash Jungle Waterpark is one of the best family-friendly excursions in the ranking. However, the place will appeal to both young couples and just single tourists. It has rides for people of all ages.

Advantages

• Suitable for families with children;
• There are quite a few attractions, you can spend the whole day – and try not all of the slides presented;
• No prior registration is required for the excursion.

disadvantages

• Expensive food on the territory of the water park;
• Few 'cool' or 'extreme' rides;
• Far from Phuket, long transfer.

Underwater motorcycles

Rating: 4.6

Why her: New scuba diving experiences.

Diving is an attraction for tourists looking for a completely new diving experience. Moreover, it requires minimal ocean skills to use it. Even a diver certification is not required. The special design of the underwater motorcycle allows you to get rid of decompression sickness, since the tourist's head is in an air cushion with a suitable atmospheric pressure.

The excursion is similar to Maiton Island. During the dive, you can see the inhabitants of the local coral reef, including living starfish, numerous tropical fish, and other fauna of the ocean floor.

The attraction is controlled by Russian-speaking guides who will help even novice tourists feel free to feel in the water column. The excursion program includes not only a swim on underwater motorcycles, but also other sea activities. Thus, tourists – depending on the organizer – will be able to try themselves in snorkeling, ride a banana, and also have fun at a party that takes place right on the boat.

However, the specific program of the excursion is determined by the organizer.

Advantages

• A very unusual attraction;
• Rich excursion program;
• No special training required.

disadvantages

• Does not always work (seasonal attraction, which largely depends on weather conditions);
• The relatively high price of the excursion;
• The tour takes all day and ends very late.

Horseback riding

Rating: 4.5

Why her: The long duration of the ride, interesting places to ride.

There is a huge equestrian club in Phuket, which is always glad to tourists and visitors. More than 60 horses of various breeds are ready to go for a ride with a rider who wants to admire the coastline from such an unusual angle.

The main advantage of the excursion is that it takes place on the coastline. During the entire ride, the rider and his horse will roam along the sandy beach, enjoying the unique atmosphere of the attraction. In addition, it is very long lasting (one of the longest in the rating) and at the same time relatively inexpensive.

So, for 1200 baht, you can go on a horse ride along Bang Tao beach, which will last an hour. Moreover, departure both in the morning and at sunset. And for 2,200 baht, the duration of the walk increases to two hours, while the geography of the route expands noticeably – it just starts at Bang Tao Beach and ends in Layan National Park. The two-hour excursion can be recommended for horse lovers, as it ends with a swim with a horse in the sea.

Advantages

• Well-groomed, well-mannered horses of various breeds, which are well trained to work with beginners;
• Constant control of instructors and accompanying persons;
• Beautiful and unusual places where the routes pass.

disadvantages

• Low saturation of the excursion;
• Will not be interesting for people who are indifferent to horses and equestrian sports;
• The equestrian club does not offer training sessions or programs.

Rope park

Rating: 4.4

Why her: Unusual sensations from trails in the crowns of tropical trees.

There are several rope parks operating in Phuket, including the famous Flying Hanuman (from the first excursion in the ranking). However, some of them are not so interesting for tourists, since they do not offer an attraction with a flight between trees, or it is not so impressive. But they also have something to do.

These are Tarzan Adventure and Xtrem Adventures rope parks. The first one is huge in size. Its route consists of 42 sites of various types, including flights, descents, ascents and so on. Many of them offer ocean views. It will take about two hours to complete the route, but the instructors understand that there are few such hardy tourists in Phuket and they are allowed to leave the route at any time.

The Xtrem Adventures Rope Park is suitable for family lovers. There are several routes in it, which are allowed for children from three years old. So, even the smallest lovers of wandering along rope trails in the crowns of tropical trees will be satisfied.

Prices and duration of excursions differ depending on the rope park. It is worth checking before buying a ticket.

Advantages

• An interesting and exciting outdoor activity;
• There are many parks in Phuket itself, various routes and attractions;
• There are options for families.

disadvantages

• Duration, price and the presented attractions differ depending on the rope park and the organizer of the excursion itself;
• Minimum physical fitness is required;
• Parks can express restrictions on the weight, height or age of the tourist.

The most popular excursions in Phuket

Khao Lak

Rating: 4.9

Why her: A trip to the pristine, untouched by civilization Thai jungle.

The Khao Lak excursion is a journey into the depths of the unexplored, pristine Thai jungle. The route runs through rough rivers with clear water, through impressive piedmont waterfalls, through difficult forest thickets, past rice and rubber plantations from farms of Thai peasants, through mysterious caves, an ancient Buddhist temple and a fruit market, hidden from tourists – and therefore characterized by low , 'local' prices. A Russian-speaking guide will tell you about the life of monks, about the inhabitants of the jungle. And tourists will enjoy the beauty and scale of tropical nature, a riot of colors, colors and shapes.

The 'pearl' of the excursion is an elephant ride. These animals, despite their impressive size, are very calm and friendly. They not only gladly ride tourists, but also incredibly gracefully move through the rainforest, and also know how to dance – which they will gladly demonstrate.

The excursion also includes rafting on a river hidden in the jungle. It is relaxing as the current is calm and the boat is driven by a local Thai.

Advantages

• Acquaintance with the life of ordinary Thais;
• There is elephant trekking, visiting a Buddhist temple, and simply high saturation;
• Russian-speaking guide and interesting stories about the life and nature of Thailand.

disadvantages

• Quite a lot of tourists choose this excursion, as a result of which there may be discrepancies in the schedule;
• There are practically no attractions;
• Not always good organization.

Khao Sok

Rating: 4.8

Why her: Excursion to a nature park protected by the Thai authorities.

Despite the fact that this excursion also involves a visit to the tropical Thai jungle, it is slightly different from the previous one in the ranking. On this trip, tourists will go to the natural park, which is protected by the local authorities and which has preserved the amazing flora and fauna of the jungle.

So, traveling through the rainforests of the Khao Sok National Natural Park, you can meet wild tigers, various and numerous monkeys, a hornbill, a reticulated python, a king cobra or a flying pangolin. Well, or anyone else – hundreds and thousands of animal species live on the territory of this 'reserve'!

Of course, the tour is not limited to just a walk in the jungle. Tourists can ride elephants – surprisingly friendly and graceful animals, visit the monkey cave and treat these impudent mammals with some delicacy, go canoeing and try the 'Fox Flight' ride right in the jungle.

Some organizers also offer an extended version of this excursion – with an overnight stay at Cheo Lan Lake.

Advantages

• Opportunity to meet amazing animals in their habitat;
• There are various attractions for tourists (elephant trekking, canoeing, 'fox flight' and so on);
• Overnight on the island.

disadvantages

• Relatively low saturation of the excursion;
• High cost of living on the lake;
• Different excursion programs from different organizers, you should pay attention before booking.

Phuket sightseeing tour

Rating: 4.6

Why her: Visit the most beautiful and unusual places in Phuket.

A sightseeing tour of Phuket will take tourists away from their usual places – from long, white beaches, strewn with fashionable hotels and numerous nightclubs – and will show the most beautiful, unusual and interesting 'corners' of the island. Visitors will be invited to the observation platforms, from which the city can be seen as if in the palm of your hand; they will be shown an eerie but fascinating snake show with deadly cobras; they will be told about the rich and mysterious history of the Buddhist temple complex Wat Chalong; they will be invited to the famous Old Town Phuket Town, with narrow streets and cafes serving traditional Thai food. And, of course, you can drop by the fruit market, where the most exotic gifts of tropical nature are sold (and you can even try them).

Like many other excursions in the ranking, this one also offers animal shows. However, they are held depending on the organizer or program. But more often tourists will be able to enjoy the grace of elephants at the corresponding show – and marvel at the agility of the monkeys.

But the specific program of the excursion depends on the organizer, so it is worth clarifying in advance.

Advantages

• Acquaintance with the culture and life of the Thais;
• The opportunity to see the unusual places of Phuket;
• An excellent excursion program for buying souvenirs and memorable photos.

disadvantages

• Excursion programs from different carriers are very different, it is worth checking before booking;
• In some cases, you will have to walk a lot, it is worth taking appropriate shoes and clothes, as well as sunscreen.

Lake Cheow Lan

Rating: 4.5

Why her: A trip to a national conservation park, away from civilization and noise.

Lake Cheow Lan is included in the Khao Sok National Park (where excursions are also led, and they are also presented in our rating). A trip there is an opportunity to break away from the noise and saturation of the coastal part of Phuket, where numerous tourists constantly scurry about. And it is better to go to this lake with an overnight stay.

The local fauna is not at all afraid of people. Tropical birds begin to sing with the first rays of the sun, waking up better than an alarm clock. At breakfast, tourists will be accompanied by local squirrels and lizards, who will not be particularly shy about asking for a piece of yummy. And while walking in the nearby jungle, you can meet a wide variety of birds, snakes and animals.

Visitors will also be offered boat trips on the lake, driven by local Thais. In addition, some excursion programs include a visit to the Temple of King Rama X, which is located near the national park; a visit to the fruit market, where fruits from wild trees are sold; bathing in hot springs and much, much more.

Advantages

• The opportunity to take a break from the hustle and bustle of Phuket;
• True unity with nature;
• Very beautiful views of the tropical jungle.

disadvantages

• Low saturation;
• The specific excursion program may vary depending on the carrier and organizer;
• A two day trip is recommended.

---

Attention! This rating is subjective and does not constitute an advertisement and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before buying, you need to consult with a specialist.