All day Krabi Jungle Tour (Hot Spring Water, Emerald Pool, Tiger Cave Temple)

All Day Krabi Jungle Tour (Hot Spring Water, Emerald Pool, Tiger Cave Temple): A Complete Guide

When you’re visiting Krabi, Thailand, and craving a full day of natural beauty and cultural sights, this All Day Jungle Tour offers a compelling experience. For around $69.25 per person, you get to explore some of the region’s most iconic spots—hot springs, the Emerald Pool, and the Tiger Cave Temple—with a small group, making it more personal and flexible than larger bus trips. The tour lasts about 9 hours, starting at 8:00am, with round-trip transfers from Ao Nang, Krabi Town, and Klong Muang.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how well it balances adventure and relaxation. We love the chance to soak in the hot springs early in the morning before it gets crowded, and the opportunity for a leisurely swim in the emerald waters of the pool—perfect for cooling off after a humid trek. Plus, the small group size ensures you’re not just another face in a crowd, and your guides seem genuinely committed to making your day memorable.

One thing to consider before booking: the climb up Tiger Cave Temple involves over 1200 steps, which can be physically demanding, especially in the heat. Travelers with mobility issues or those not keen on strenuous hikes might find this part challenging. This tour best suits active travelers who want a diverse taste of Krabi’s natural and spiritual sites, and who enjoy guided experiences with a personal touch.

Key Points

• Full-day itinerary covering hot springs, Emerald Pool, and Tiger Cave Temple
• Small group size (max 20), offering a more intimate experience
• Includes lunch and all entrance fees, adding value and convenience
• Round-trip transfers from key locations in Krabi
• Professional, knowledgeable guides enhance the experience
• Physical activity involved, especially during the climb at Tiger Cave Temple

A Deep Dive Into the Experience

The Morning Starts with the Hot Springs Waterfall

Arriving early at Khlong Thom’s Hot Spring Waterfall gives you the advantage of enjoying the thermal waters with fewer crowds. Many reviews, including one from Yee_V, describe the hot springs as “incredible, like sitting in a hot bath in the middle of the jungle.” It’s a natural thermal spring with mineral-rich water, perfect for relaxing tired muscles and soaking in the lush surroundings. The admission is included, so you can linger without extra costs.

Be prepared — the experience can be quite soothing, but also a bit slippery if you’re not careful. We like that this stop is relatively short (about an hour), making it a great way to kick off the day without losing momentum.

The Emerald Pool: A Refreshing Swim in the Jungle

Next, your group heads to the Emerald Pool (Sa Morakot), a natural freshwater pond that’s a highlight for many travelers. The walk to the pool involves a pleasant rainforest stroll, with some reviews mentioning how the trail allows for a good dose of nature without being overly strenuous. The water is crystal clear and perfect for a swim, which is a relief on a hot day.

According to one reviewer, “the pools are stunning,” and another commented that they enjoyed “soaking in the mineral water.” The pool can get busy later in the day, so arriving early offers a more peaceful experience. The admission fee is included, and you’ll have about 1 hour and 30 minutes here, allowing plenty of time for swimming, relaxing, or snapping photos of the lush surroundings.

Lunch and a Cultural Stop at Tiger Cave Temple

After refreshing at the Emerald Pool, your journey continues with a delicious Thai lunch. Many reviews highlight the quality and timing of this meal—served in a canteen-style setting next to a stream, with options that are generally described as tasty and satisfying. One traveler noted, “the lunch was excellent,” and appreciated the well-paced timing that let them enjoy the meal without feeling rushed.

Post-lunch, the tour visits the Tiger Cave Temple (Wat Tham Suea), perched atop a hill. The temple is famous for its 1260 steps leading up to panoramic views and a meditative atmosphere. As one reviewer put it, “the climb is challenging but worth it,” with some describing it as a “strenuous trek,” especially under the sun.

The top offers sweeping views of Krabi and the surrounding jungle, and the temple complex itself includes interesting caves and a large golden Buddha. Be aware that Kneepads or sturdy shoes are recommended, and modest dress is required—covering shoulders and knees. The area at the top can get crowded, and some travelers, like Gemma_P, felt that the temple could be a bit worn out and that the donation boxes give a slightly neglected impression.

What Travelers Love

Many reviews praise the guides, especially those like Mimi and Aom, for their knowledge, friendliness, and willingness to help take photos. This personal touch especially shines during the trek up Tiger Cave, where guides encourage and support everyone. Travelers also value the early start to beat the crowds, and the diverse landscape—from hot springs to lush rainforest, and hilltop temples.

Possible Drawbacks

The main consideration is the physical demand. The climb up Tiger Cave can be a real challenge, with some reviewers mentioning feeling exhausted or that the area at the top is underwhelming compared to the effort. Also, some found the duration at attractions a bit rushed, especially if you want to linger longer at one spot. The bus ride from Ao Nang can involve traffic and roadworks, adding to travel time.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This experience is ideal for active travelers who enjoy a mix of outdoor adventure, cultural exploration, and relaxation. It suits those who like guided tours where they don’t have to figure out logistics or navigation. If you’re comfortable with climbing stairs and want a well-rounded day exploring Krabi’s natural and spiritual sites, this tour fits the bill perfectly.

Summary: Why Choose This Tour?

Value for Money: With all entrance fees, lunch, and transfers included, you’re getting an enriching day for a reasonable price. The small group format means more personal attention and a chance to ask questions, making it a better experience than larger, more generic tours.

Diverse Highlights: From soaking in thermal waters and swimming in emerald pools to conquering a hilltop temple, this tour packs a wide variety of sights into one day. It offers a good balance of relaxing and adventurous moments, perfect for those who want a taste of everything that Krabi has to offer.

Authentic Experiences: Many reviews praise the knowledgeable guides who make the journey lively and informative. You’ll learn about the local culture, the natural environment, and get tips that enrich your visit.

Perfect for Fit & Curious Travelers: While the trek and climb may be demanding for some, others find it rewarding. It’s a great choice for those who don’t mind a little sweat and want to see Krabi’s hidden gems beyond the beaches.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is pickup offered from my hotel?
Yes, the tour provides round-trip transfers from Ao Nang, Krabi Town, and Klong Muang, making it convenient for most travelers.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately 9 hours, starting at 8:00am and including travel time, activities, and lunch.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all admission tickets to the Hot Spring Waterfall, Emerald Pool, and Tiger Cave Temple are included in the price.

What should I wear?
Comfortable, sensible shoes are recommended—think sturdy sandals or trainers, especially for the climb. Modest clothing covering shoulders and knees is required at the temple.

Is this tour suitable for children or older travelers?
The tour involves considerable walking and climbing stairs, which might be strenuous for very young children or those with mobility issues. It’s best suited for active families or travelers prepared for some physical activity.

Can I spend more time at each stop?
The itinerary is designed for efficiency, but some reviews mention feeling rushed. You might want to arrive early to maximize your experience, especially at the Emerald Pool or Tiger Cave.

What’s the food like?
Lunch is served in a canteen-style setting, with some reviewers describing the Thai food as amazing. Vegetarian options can be arranged if requested beforehand.

Is there any free time during the tour?
Most of the day’s activities are scheduled, but guides are generally flexible within the time limits, and you’ll have opportunities to take photos and explore on your own at each stop.

What’s the main highlight of this tour?
Many travelers find the climb at Tiger Cave Temple to be the most memorable, thanks to its sweeping views and sense of achievement, despite its difficulty.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a well-rounded day in Krabi that combines natural hot springs, refreshing swims, cultural sights, and a challenging climb, this tour delivers. The small group approach and knowledgeable guides help make it both enjoyable and informative. It’s especially suited to travelers who appreciate active pursuits and want to avoid overly commercialized tourist spots.

While you should brace for some physical effort—particularly at Tiger Cave—most find the experience rewarding, especially once they’re at the top enjoying the view. The mix of adventure, relaxation, and cultural insight makes this tour a solid choice for those seeking a comprehensive day outside the beaches.

If you want a taste of Krabi’s wonders beyond the coast, and you’re ready for a bit of a workout, this tour is a practical, engaging, and authentic option that will leave you with plenty of stories—and sore muscles—to tell.