Elephant Hills, Khao Sok, Thailand
We opted for a 3-day, 2-night stay at Elephant Hills and have enjoyed an experience that will stay with us forever. In addition to bathing and feeding this intelligent and encapsulating animals, we enjoyed jungle treks, wildlife river journeys, kayaking and lake swims in the most breath-taking surroundings.
The time with the elephants is informative, fun, not at all rushed and a phenomenal experience of being so close to nature. You spend time washing them and watching them play, preparing food for them which you then feed to them yourselves and generally being in awe of being so up close and personal. The staff are brilliant and love to share their knowledge and understanding of the elephants. Such is their relationships with the animals, you should leave with no questions unanswered.
It's tough to top that, but it can be equalled by moving to Elephant Hills lake camp.
After an exciting long tail boat journey across Cheow Lan Lake you reach the Rainforest camp, one of few floating tented camps worldwide and it's setting is simply beautiful. There are only 20 tents, all with en suite facilities but this is basic and stunning at the same time, as the experience is all about the location and being at one with nature and the outdoors. You must have your camera charged for this part of the trip as from sunrise to sunset there are some stunning photo opportunities. You can take a jungle trek with an experienced and informative guide, swim, kayak and just enjoy sitting back and drink in the view, away from the stresses and noises of everyday life and enjoy the sound of silence. Entertainment here is the view and catching up with your fellow guests.
It was by far the highlight of the holiday and if it is not already on yours, then please add it add it to you 'book-it' list.