Phuket Giant Water Lilies & Temple Tour – Private & All-Inclusive

Experience the Best of Phuket’s Water Lilies and Temples in One Private Tour

This all-inclusive, five-hour journey takes you to some of Phuket’s most captivating sights: the extraordinary Victoria Amazonia lilies at Ma Doo Bua, and a selection of revered temples including Wat Phra Thong, Wat Sri Sunthon, and Wat Phra Nang Sang. Led by knowledgeable guides in private, air-conditioned vehicles, it’s a smooth, comfortable way to explore the spiritual and natural highlights of Phuket.

What we love about this experience? First, the chance to stand on some of the largest water lilies in the world—a surreal moment that makes for unforgettable photos. Second, the inclusion of drone shots and professional photography — it’s perfect for capturing memories from a different perspective.

A potential drawback? The temples are public sites, and as some reviews mention, they can be less pristine than expected, with bird droppings and crowds, which might impact your photo opportunities.

This tour is ideal for travelers who appreciate a mix of nature, culture, and photo opportunities in a relaxed, private setting. If you’re eager to learn about Phuket’s religious sites while enjoying some striking natural scenery, this trip offers both in one package.

Key Points

• Private, all-inclusive experience offering convenience and comfort.
• Unique opportunity to walk on giant water lilies and take drone photos.
• Visits to historic temples rich in Thai and Chinese influences.
• Guided by friendly, knowledgeable guides who enhance your understanding.
• Includes transportation, water, and all fees, making it hassle-free.
• Some reviews highlight excellent photography and cultural insights, while a few mention environmental issues at temples.

Exploring Phuket’s Water Lilies and Temples: An In-Depth Review

The Core Experience: Water Lilies and Temple Visits in One Day

This private tour costs around $118 per person and lasts approximately five hours—a manageable chunk of your day to see some of Phuket’s most photogenic and historic sights. Starting at Ma Doo Bua, you’ll be transported in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle—a nice perk considering Phuket’s tropical heat.

The highlight here is the Victoria Amazonica lilies, renowned for their enormous size and impressive appearance. We loved the way guides often emphasize their status as some of the largest lily pads in the world, adding a sense of rarity to the experience. The chance to stand on a lily pad or take drone shots in the middle of the pond makes for truly memorable photographs, as several reviews point out. One guest exclaimed, “Spectacular drone photos at the lily pads,” capturing how great the visual aspect is.

Following that, the tour visits three different temples, each with its own story and atmosphere. The Wat Phra Thong houses a half-buried golden Buddha that dates back over a century, with some reviewers noting its historical significance, like being visited by King Rama VI. The Wat Sri Sunthon features a 29-meter-long Sleeping Buddha and other smaller Buddhas, creating a peaceful, contemplative atmosphere. Lastly, Wat Phra Nang Sang is over 200 years old and reveals a blend of Thai and Chinese influences, with some travelers mentioning the scars of its wartime history.

The Water Lily Experience: Unique and Photogenic

The Ma Doo Bua stop is designed for photographs and fun. The guided walk allows you to stand on the Lilly pads—a surreal moment that feels like a scene from a fantasy film. Guides often help with drone shots, ensuring you get those perfect wide-angle pictures. It’s the kind of experience you’ll want to share on social media, and the reviews reflect this enthusiasm. As one guest put it, “The water lilies are a ‘chef’s kiss’,” highlighting just how special this part of the tour is.

Temples and Cultural Insights

Each temple visit includes admission tickets, so no surprises there. Guides typically share interesting facts about Thai and Chinese mythology and the significance of each site. Several reviews mention how guides like Aom, Patty, and Nick do a great job explaining the cultural and religious background, making the experience both educational and respectful.

While some reviews mention that temples can be a bit dirty or crowded, the overall consensus is that they are well worth visiting for their history and architecture. One reviewer noted, “The temples are beautiful and peaceful, perfect for photography, especially when they are less crowded.”

Transportation, Timing, and Comfort

Since the tour is private, your group enjoys the flexibility to move at your own pace. The air-conditioned vehicle is particularly appreciated after a hot morning outdoors. The drive times between stops are manageable—about 45 minutes to temple sites and around 2 hours to Ma Doo Bua—making sure you’re not spending too much time in transit.

Photography and Personal Moments

Many reviewers rave about the photography service, with guides often being described as ‘excellent’ at capturing moments. Guests appreciate the option to buy videos and the professional drone shots, emphasizing how those visuals elevate the entire experience. Guests like Rochelle, who celebrated her birthday with a mango cake brought by the guide, highlight the personal touch that guides like Patty and Natty bring to the tour.

Food, Tips, and Extras

While the tour price includes all fees, taxes, bottled water, and private transportation, it does not include tips or drone videos at extra cost. The tours run smoothly without additional purchases, but reviews suggest that extra videos and tips are customary for good service.

Authenticity and Value

Several reviews underscore the value of this tour: the private transport and all-inclusiveness mean no surprises or rushing, and the photography makes it worth the price for many. However, some guests mention that the temples can be a little neglected or crowded, so if pristine conditions are a priority, you might find some drawbacks.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re a photography enthusiast, a culture lover, or just someone who wants a relaxed, all-in-one experience with knowledgeable guides, this is a solid choice. The private nature means you can tailor the experience slightly and avoid the crowds often associated with group tours.

Who Might Not Enjoy It?

Those expecting perfectly maintained temple grounds or seeking an in-depth historical tour might find some of the environmental or crowd-related issues a turnoff. Also, if your priority is adventure or outdoor activities, this tour leans more toward cultural and scenic stops.

Final Thoughts

This Phuket tour offers a well-rounded mix of natural wonder and cultural insight. The giant water lilies are the star attraction, providing fantastic photo opportunities that are both fun and surreal. The temples, steeped in history and mythology, offer a peaceful counterpoint—especially for those interested in understanding Thai spiritual life.

The private transportation, friendly guides, and included photos make it a convenient way to see multiple sights without hassle, especially if you prefer a personalized experience. It’s clear from reviews that the professional guides play a big role in elevating the experience, sharing stories and tips that you won’t find in a guidebook.

While environmental issues at temples and some crowding issues do exist, they seem to be minor inconveniences compared to the overall value. For travelers who want a beautiful, photo-friendly, culturally enriching day out, this tour hits all the right notes—and then some.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, many reviews mention family groups and highlight how guides help capture photos of all ages. The experience is flexible and private, making it family-friendly.

How much time is spent at each stop?
You’ll spend around 2 hours at Ma Doo Bua and about 45 minutes at each temple, with some extra time in transit. The overall duration is about five hours.

Are photos included in the tour?
Guides help take professional photos and drone shots, which can be purchased as videos at an extra charge. Many guests find these photos worth the investment.

Is the tour physically demanding?
Not particularly. The tour involves short walks and standing on lily pads, but it’s generally accessible for most travelers.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for the heat and humidity. Some guests advise dressing more stylishly if you want to maximize the photo shoot potential, though comfort is key.

Are tips expected?
Tips are not included but are appreciated if guides exceed expectations. Many reviews praise guides like Patty, Natty, and Nick for their kindness and professionalism.

What if I have a delayed flight or arrive late?
The tour is private, which offers some flexibility. It’s best to communicate with the provider ahead of time to accommodate delays.

To sum it up, this Phuket Giant Water Lilies & Temple Tour delivers a memorable blend of natural beauty and spiritual heritage in a convenient, private setting. It’s perfect for those who want to capture stunning photos, learn about Thai culture, and enjoy a relaxed, guided day. While it might not be for those seeking pristine temple conditions or intense adventure, it offers excellent value and authentic experiences for most travelers eager to explore Phuket’s unique sights.