Bamboo Rafting, Waterfall & Sea Turtle Centre Half-Day Tour Khao Lak

Bamboo rafting near Wang Kiang Koo Waterfall

The tour begins about 30 minutes from Khao Lak on a quiet river near Wang Kiang Koo Waterfall. Your raft is made of long bamboo poles lashed together, and a local paddler stands at the back steering with a pole while you sit and enjoy the scenery. The ride lasts around 50 minutes, gliding under overhanging trees and past thick green banks.

Bamboo rafting in Khao Lak is gentle and suits all ages, but you may get a little wet, so wear quick-dry clothes and bring a change. Keep your eyes open for long-tailed macaques in the trees and kingfishers flashing over the water. In the dry season, roughly February to May, the water is lower and the route or launch point may be adjusted.

The sea turtle conservation centre

Next you visit a sea turtle conservation centre on the coast near Khao Lak, where turtle eggs and hatchlings are cared for until the young turtles are strong enough to be released into the Andaman Sea. In shallow seawater pools you see turtles at different ages, from small juveniles to larger turtles, and learn why these ancient animals need protection.

Your guide explains the life cycle of the green and hawksbill turtles that nest on this coast and the threats they face. The entrance fee is included in your tour. To keep the turtles calm and healthy, do not touch them and do not use flash photography. Several beaches along this coast are known nesting sites, and every turtle raised here helps keep the population healthy.

Ton Pling Waterfall

The last stop is Ton Pling Waterfall, where water spills over smooth granite boulders into clear natural pools surrounded by rainforest. It is a lovely spot for a refreshing swim after the morning or afternoon heat, and for photos of the jungle setting.

Bring swimwear, a towel and a change of clothes. The waterfall depends on rainfall, so during the dry season, approximately February to May, the flow can be much reduced or absent, while from June to November it is at its fullest. The rocks around the pools can be slippery, so wear sandals with good grip, and enjoy some time to relax before the short drive back to your hotel.

Khao Lak, between rainforest and sea

Khao Lak is a stretch of coast in Phang Nga province, north of Phuket, known for long quiet beaches backed by forested hills. Just inland lie rivers, waterfalls and protected rainforest, which makes the area ideal for short nature trips like this one between beach days.

If you are looking for things to do in Khao Lak with children or a relaxed half-day away from the beach, this tour is a good choice: the drives are short, the activities are gentle, and you are back at your hotel in time for lunch or the sunset. The region is also known for its national parks, including Khao Lak-Lam Ru on the coast and Khao Sok further inland.