Arriving in Khao Sok: The Journey into the Jungle

We flew into Surat Thani airport, where we were met by our Elephant Hills transfer. The journey to camp was around an hour, and it was a genuinely enjoyable way to ease into the adventure. The deeper we drove into Khao Sok National Park, the more dramatic the landscape became: dense green rainforest, limestone cliffs and hints of mist hanging in the valleys. With every kilometre the excitement just grew.

On arrival at camp our luggage was whisked away and we were welcomed by a guide who took us through our programme for the next three days. It was all very smooth and reassuringly well organised, ideal if you like everything clearly explained but still want to feel the thrill of being somewhere truly wild.

Glamping in the Rainforest

Our tent was already prepared, so we had an hour or so to settle into our new home. This is very much “comfort in the jungle” rather than roughing it.

We were surrounded by luscious rainforest and could hear the sounds of nature all around us: birds calling, insects humming and the occasional rustle from the trees. Inside, our tent had a large, comfortable bed, a fan to keep things cool, a spacious bathroom and a big terrace complete with a hammock. It felt cosy, atmospheric and surprisingly roomy.

Before our first activity we headed to the main dining area for lunch. Meals are buffet-style with a wide selection of Thai and Western dishes, and they are very good at catering for dietary requirements. It is not fine dining, but the food is tasty, plentiful and exactly what you want after travelling and before heading out on activities.

Canoeing the River: A Perfect Introduction

After lunch we met our guide and the rest of our small group, around fifteen of us in total: an older couple, a honeymoon couple and a few families. It felt like a lovely mix of ages and backgrounds, and the atmosphere was relaxed and friendly.

We climbed into jeeps and drove down to the riverbank for our first adventure: a canoe trip along the river. The scenery was simply incredible. We drifted quietly along the river, surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and dense jungle. Along the way we spotted monkeys, snakes and various birdlife. It was such a peaceful, absorbing way to start our stay at Elephant Hills and really made us feel we had arrived somewhere special.

The Elephant Experience & Welfare

That afternoon we took part in the Elephant Experience, where we learned about the elephants cared for at Elephant Hills. This is an educational, observation-based activity, designed to give you insight into their lives and history.

There is no riding or bathing with the elephants.

When we visited in December, part of the programme involved preparing food and then feeding the elephants. Elephant Hills have since updated their welfare policies and, from 1 May 2026, guests no longer directly feed the elephants. Food preparation remains part of the experience, but feeding is now handled by the team, ensuring that the elephants’ welfare stays the absolute top priority.

I really value this commitment to animal welfare. As attitudes and best practices evolve, it is reassuring to see that Elephant Hills are willing to adapt and continually improve how they care for the elephants in their sanctuary.

Evenings at Camp: Simple Pleasures

Our first night was spent at the main camp. Evenings here have a wonderfully laid-back feel. After a day of activities we enjoyed dinner, a glass of wine and a few games of Rummikub. Your stay at Elephant Hills is on a full-board basis, so all meals are included and you simply pay for your drinks while you are there.

Drinks are cash only, so it is worth having some Thai baht with you. I found the prices very reasonable, particularly considering you are in the middle of the jungle with a completely “captive audience”.

Day Two: Cheow Larn Lake & Floating Camp

The next morning we were up early, enjoying coffee and soaking in the stillness of the surroundings before breakfast. Then it was time to head to one of the real highlights of the trip: Cheow Larn Lake.

The drive takes around an hour. From there you board a traditional long-tail boat and skim across the water, surrounded by incredible scenery. Cheow Larn Lake is honestly one of the most beautiful places I have ever visited: emerald green waters, sheer limestone karsts rising straight up from the lake and rainforest hugging every shoreline. It feels otherworldly.

By midday we arrived at Elephant Hills’ lake camp. On longer packages you have the option to spend a night here in floating tents, which would be amazing if you have the time. For our itinerary it was a full day excursion, with lunch at the lake camp followed by time to swim, kayak, paddle board and simply enjoy the peace. We also kept our eyes peeled for wildlife in the surrounding trees.

It was one of those days that will stay with me forever.

In the late afternoon we returned by boat and road to the main camp and rounded off the day with a relaxed dinner and a couple of drinks, before an early night ready for our final morning adventure.

Day Three: Jungle Trek & Rainforest BBQ

Our last morning started with a jungle trek. We set off from camp and rafted across the river before heading into the rainforest on foot with our guides. The walk itself is not technical, but you are very much in the jungle, so expect uneven terrain, roots and a bit of mud depending on the season. It is a fantastic way to experience the forest up close and learn more about the plants, trees and wildlife.

After a couple of hours we arrived at a simple BBQ area in the middle of the rainforest, where our guides prepared a delicious outdoor feast. Eating a barbecue in the heart of the jungle, surrounded by nothing but nature, was a very special way to end our time at Elephant Hills.

Who Is Elephant Hills For?

Our 3 day / 2 night Jungle Safari at Elephant Hills was an unforgettable blend of comfort, soft adventure and meaningful wildlife encounters.

I would particularly recommend it for: Couples and honeymooners who want something more immersive than a standard beach stay. Families with older children and teens who enjoy outdoor activities and wildlife. Anyone who wants to experience Thailand’s rainforest in comfort, without full-on “roughing it”. You will need to be comfortable with early starts, set programme times and a bit of mud and heat, but you are rewarded with incredible scenery, thoughtful guiding and a real sense of connection to nature.

If you would like to add a stay at Elephant Hills to your Thailand itinerary, or are curious how it could work alongside beach time in Khao Lak, Phuket or Krabi, I would love to help you design the perfect trip. Contact me today to start planning your own Khao Sok adventure!