2 Days Cheow Lan Lake Raft House from Krabi

Imagine spending a night floating on a peaceful lake, surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and dense jungle. For travelers craving a genuine Thai adventure away from the crowds, this two-day tour from Krabi to Khao Sok National Park delivers just that. Priced at around $328 per person, it offers a blend of scenic boat rides, rustic accommodations, wildlife encounters, and cultural eats—an immersion into Thailand’s less-trodden natural beauty.

What we love about this tour is the chance to stay in a floating bungalow — it’s not your typical hotel room, but a simple, airy raft house that places you directly in nature. Plus, the guide’s knowledge shines through, making the whole experience feel more personal and insightful. On the flip side, the basic facilities might not suit everyone’s comfort level, so it’s best for those comfortable with simple accommodations and outdoor adventures. If you’re someone who loves eco-friendly trips, wildlife, and authentic scenery, this tour hits many of the right notes.

This experience is perfect for travelers who want more than just sightseeing—they seek genuine connection with nature and local culture, all wrapped into a manageable two-day escape from Krabi. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with friends, this trip offers a balanced mix of adventure, relaxation, and discovery.

Key Points

• Unique Floating Stay: Sleep overnight in a simple but charming raft house directly on Cheow Lan Lake.
• Wildlife and Nature: Expect opportunities to spot elephants, hornbills, and other jungle creatures, especially during evening safaris.
• Cultural and Scenic Stops: Includes visits to limestone hills, rubber plantations, and scenic viewpoints, enriching the journey.
• Authentic Thai Cuisine: Enjoy traditional Thai meals prepared for you along the way.
• All-Inclusive Comfort: Meals, transportation, and guided activities are included, making it a hassle-free experience.
• Limited Group Size: Small groups (max 9 travelers) ensure a personal touch and more interaction.

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins with an early pickup from your hotel in Krabi, usually at 9:00am, giving you a head start to beat the crowds. From there, you’ll travel by shared minivan through stunning Phang Nga province—think limestone karsts, rubber plantations, and charming villages—setting a scenic tone for your adventure. The drive takes about an hour to reach the first stops, which are designed to introduce you to Thailand’s lush countryside.

This shared transportation is practical and keeps costs reasonable, but it means you’ll be on a fairly tight schedule, so packing light and being ready on time helps keep the day flowing smoothly.

Exploring Thapom Klong Song Nam

The first notable stop is Thapom Klong Song Nam, where you walk along a natural trail beside a clear freshwater stream. This short trek (about an hour) offers a peaceful introduction and a chance to stretch your legs amid nature. The highlight here is the lush scenery and the calm waters, perfect for snapping photos or just soaking in the tranquility.

Reviewers often mention how much they appreciated this quiet moment to connect with nature early on. It’s a simple stop, but one that sets the tone for the rest of the trip.

Khao Teppitak Suspension Bridge and Viewpoints

Next, you’ll cross the suspension bridge of Khao Teppitak—a scenic spot with sweeping views of the surrounding mountains and the river below. It’s a brief stop, but the photos and the fresh mountain air make it worthwhile. The bridge is a good chance to take in some panoramic vistas and get a feel for Thailand’s rugged landscape.

Traditional Thai Lunch and Relaxation

After a morning of light walking, a traditional Thai lunch awaits at a local restaurant near the Khao Sok River. Expect hearty, locally prepared dishes that balance spice, herbs, and fresh ingredients. This meal is included, and many travelers enjoy the taste of authentic flavors in a relaxed setting.

Crusing to Cheow Lan Lake and the Raft House

Post-lunch, the journey continues to the Rajjaprabha Dam, where you’ll hop onto a longtail boat to cruise across Cheow Lan Lake—an emerald-green waterway flanked by towering limestone cliffs. The boat ride lasts about 45 minutes and offers fantastic views of the lake’s still surface and dramatic rock formations.

Arriving at the Phutawan Raft House, you’ll check into your floating bungalow. These simple, fan-cooled rooms with shared bathrooms are rustic but charming. Many reviews mention how peaceful and unique it is to sleep directly on the water, with the sounds of the jungle softly lapping against the raft.

You’ll have time to explore the surroundings by canoe or simply relax before your evening lake safari. This boat tour is a favorite part of the experience—your guide will likely point out hornbills, wild elephants, and other wildlife, often spotted in the old-growth trees bordering the lake.

Wildlife Spotting and Sunset Views

During the lake safari, expect to marvel at the natural beauty and maybe catch glimpses of elephants or hornbills, which are commonly seen in this area. As one reviewer states, “Our guide Pradet was very friendly and enthusiastic,” helping us spot wildlife and share stories.

Staying overnight in the raft house means falling asleep to the sounds of wilderness, a rare treat for city slickers.

The Next Morning: Early Rise and Cave Adventure

Waking up early, you’ll take a longtail boat across the lake to enjoy the misty dawn over the water—a quietly spectacular sight.

Breakfast follows at the raft house, fueling you for the adventurous hike into Pra Kay Petch Cave (Diamond Cave). Your guide explains the region’s significance and points out wildlife and insects along the trail. The highlight is the water cave—expect to get a little wet, as you navigate through a dark, winding tunnel. This part of the trip is a real highlight for those who enjoy physical activity and want to see a different side of the jungle.

The cave exploration provides a glimpse into the nocturnal creatures that inhabit this underground world and offers a cool respite from the daytime heat.

Return and Reflection

After the cave adventure, you’ll enjoy a lunch before heading back to the pier by boat. The return trip offers more scenic vistas and a chance to reflect on the trip’s highlights.

The journey ends with a private ride back to Krabi, arriving in the late afternoon or early evening, with a feeling of having truly escaped into nature.

For those who appreciate authentic jungle environments, simple accommodations, and the chance to see wildlife up close, this tour offers a genuine experience. The small group size (max 9 travelers) makes it feel intimate and personalized, with knowledgeable guides like Pradet enriching the journey.

The value lies in accessibility—everything from transportation, meals, and activities are included. You get the chance to sleep in a floating bungalow, explore caves, and witness wildlife — all in just two days. The modest facilities may not suit comfort-seekers, but for adventurers willing to embrace rustic simplicity and natural beauty, it’s a memorable escape.

The reviews highlight how stunning vistas and guide expertise make this tour a special highlight—”Our visit to Khao Sok National Park was by far the highlight of our trip,” one reviewer notes. It’s also perfect for those wanting an off-the-beaten-path side of Thailand, away from packed beaches and tourist hotspots.

If you’re looking for a genuine outdoor adventure with wildlife, scenic boat rides, and the experience of sleeping on the water, this tour is a great choice. It’s ideal for nature lovers, eco-conscious travelers, and adventurers who don’t mind basic facilities but want authentic landscapes and local culture.

The tour’s small group format and guided observations make it especially enriching for those who love learning about their surroundings and spotting animals in their natural habitat. However, if you prefer luxury accommodations or a more relaxed pace, this might not be the best fit.

This trip offers a rare chance to connect with Thailand’s wild side, enjoy stunning views, and create memorable stories—an authentic journey beyond the typical tourist trail.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the entire tour?
The tour lasts approximately two days, starting at 9:00am and returning in the late afternoon or early evening of the second day.

Is pickup included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off at your hotel in Krabi or nearby areas are included, making the start and end convenient.

What should I expect in terms of accommodation?
You’ll sleep in a simple raft house on Cheow Lan Lake. The rooms are basic, with fans and shared bathroom facilities, but the setting is quite special.

Are meals included?
Yes, includes breakfast, lunch (two meals), and dinner, featuring traditional Thai cuisine.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to three days in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than three days before the tour aren’t refunded.

Is the tour suitable for children or families?
Most travelers can participate, but the basic nature of the accommodations and outdoor activities may appeal more to adventurous adults and older children.

What wildlife might I see?
Common sightings include hornbills, elephants, and various jungle birds and insects, especially during the evening safari and cave exploration.

How flexible is the itinerary?
The program can change due to weather, but the core experiences—lake cruises, cave hikes, and wildlife spotting—are usually consistent.

This tour offers a genuine glimpse into Thailand’s wilderness, perfect for those who want to see beyond the beaches and bustling towns. It’s a well-balanced mix of adventure, relaxation, and culture—a memorable way to connect with nature in one of Thailand’s most stunning national parks.